Shaker Heights Schools  
A community is known by the schools it keeps.  
 

International Baccalaureate Information Center

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Read all about Shaker's coming International Baccalaureate program in the April/May issue of Shaker Life magazine.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is International Baccalaureate?

  • Rigorous curriculum with global perspective
  • Connects the traditional disciplines and adds a global focus
  • Supports 21st century skills and positive behavior
  • Emphasizes community service, hands-on projects, and inquiry-based learning
  • Community service component
  • Provides enrichment for all students in grades K-8 (including students with special needs)
  • Elective (Diploma Program) at high school level

Why is Shaker pursuing International Baccalaureate?

  • It's a good “fit” with District mission
  • Is compatible with, and builds on, Shaker’s existing instructional strengths and courses of study, including Advanced Placement
  • Reinforces strong academics, 21st-century skills, and positive behavior
  • Has been adopted by many of America’s most respected schools
  • Is highly regarded by universities around the world
  • Will help keep Shaker a school district of choice

Will this change everything?

No. Students will continue to learn the traditional subjects, incorporating state academic content standards.
  • The High School will continue to offer a full complement of Advanced Placement courses.
  • The subjects will be more interconnected and will be taught with a global outlook.
  • Students will have more chances to apply what they learn through projects and community service.

When will this happen?

The International Baccalaureate governing organization prescribes a lengthy phase-in to allow for teacher training and curriculum writing. Full implementation will take 3-5 years.
  • Shaker has begun training for the K-4 schools and the High School. Staff training for Woodbury and the Middle School will be under way soon.
  • Visible signs such as flags and “learner attributes” are appearing in the schools.
  • Revised lesson plans will be introduced gradually at the elementary and middle school levels.
  • Assuming approval by the International Baccalaureate organization, the High School will begin offering International Baccalaureate courses in 2010. The first class of International Baccalaureate Diploma candidates will graduate in 2012.

For additional information, please view our International Baccalaureate information sheet or visit the International Baccalaureate Organization's website.

 

 

Site Map  |   June 19, 2009