2 County Schools Named International Baccalaureate World Schools

Two schools in Anne Arundel County have been accredited as International Baccalaureate world schools after beginning the program in 2012.

Frank Hebron-Harman Elementary School in Hanover, and South Shore Elementary School in Crownsville are now “part of a global community of schools committed to developing knowledgeable, caring young people who will be ready to negotiate their futures successfully and make contributions resulting in a more harmonious and peaceful world,” said IB Chief Operating Officer Dr. Siva Kumari in a congratulatory letter to the schools, according to a news release.

To earn the title, both schools completed a three-part process that entails examining the IB philosophy and curriculum, preparing staff to implement it and providing the program for students for at least one year.

“We are thrilled to add to the cadre of IB Primary Years Programme schools,” said Mary Austin, Anne Arundel County Public Schools’ IB District Coordinator, in a news release.

The county engages about 14,000 students in the IB curriculum, Austin said.

“No other school system, locally or nationally, embraces or implements the IB curriculum on such a high level,” Austin said. “This is a testament to the incredible work our educators, unwavering support of our school communities, and the true vision of our leadership to inspire difference makers in our classrooms.”

The IB world schools title upholds a school to these characteristics:

• Commitment to the IB philosophy with a focus on international-mindedness
• A rigorous, comprehensive curriculum encouraging student curiosity and inquiry
• Teachers, leaders and staff trained in the IB Programme and philosophy
• School leadership and administrative structures that serve its mission and support the IB Programme
• A comprehensive plan for implementation and sustainability of the IB Programme

>>Patch file photo.

===========

Have a news tip? Email deb.belt@patch.com. You can also post your own news, events and announcements on Patch by following these directions. Curious about how our new commenting platform, Disqus, works? Learn more about it here and start interacting with your neighbors on Patch.