21 Mar 2011
International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Will Bring Global Emphasis to Students
DALLAS—The International Baccalaureate Organization announced recently that Woodrow Wilson High School is officially an International Baccalaureate World School.
The announcement came after Woodrow completed an intense, two-year screening process and teacher training by the International Baccalaureate Organization.
"This has been an amazing process and so worthwhile," said Principal Ruth Vail. "Our students will have the opportunity to earn an IB Diploma which will provide them with the skills to compete globally in the 21st Century. Our teachers, students and parents have dedicated an enormous amount of time and effort to ensure that Woodrow Wilson High School was well prepared for this stringent process. I'm grateful to everyone involved including our trustees, alumni association and community foundation."
The IB program is an honors curriculum for juniors and seniors which is used globally and recognized by universities all around the world. The program is designed to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, caring students who help to create a more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
Students enrolled in IB programs take three higher level courses and three standard level courses. Other requirements include: an extended essay (4,000 words) on a topic of the student's choice, creativity, action and service activities that enable students to learn through experiences outside the classroom, and completing an interdisciplinary philosophy course.
Students completing all IB diploma requirements and scoring a four or higher on all exams may earn up to 24 hours of college credit. In addition, IB students may also take AP exams to receive even more college credit in high school.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for our students," said Superintendent of Schools Michael Hinojosa. "International Baccalaureate programs are exceptional in every way. Not only do they challenge students to think with a global outlook, but it prepares them to become critical thinkers so they can have an impact all around the world. Congratulations to the students, staff, parents and the entire Woodrow community for achieving this prestigious honor."
The school will celebrate the announcement with an official IBO flag raising ceremony 8:15 a.m., Wednesday, March 30 at the school located at 100 S. Glasgow.
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