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International Baccalaureate Program Educating for Excellence
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Rigor + Relevance + Relationships = Educational Excellence |
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Why IB? The time-tested International Baccalaureate method of teaching and learning has inspired critical thinking, reflective learning and academic excellence in thousands of students across the globe for decades. When C-PP investigated the best programs available for improving student achievement across the board, District officials were impressed with the depth and breadth of learning expected in each subject by all students. The IB programs combine Rigor, Relevance and Relationships — the three core elements of C-PP’s Quantum Leap student achievement initiative— with a focus on developing critical thinking skills (Rigor), understanding the connections between subjects and with the “real world” (Relevance) and collaborating with others (Relationships). The IB program has a 38-year track record of success in schools all around the world and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) has a rich history and philosophy and a strong presence in the United States. In fact, 37% of all IB schools worldwide are located in the U.S. and 91% of those are public schools. Right now, the U.S. government is investing $124 million to increase the number of students in IB programs, with a goal of having 1.5 million enrolled by 2012. Additionally, in May 2007, 42 IB public schools were named to the top 100 of Newsweek’s annual list of “America’s Best High Schools.” IB is fully aligned with the New York State standards. In fact, IB exams are one of only two variances allowed by the NYS Board of Regents. This means students who pass IB exams do not have to take Regents, although most students choose to take both.
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