International Baccalaureate Programs

Through comprehensive and balanced curricula coupled with challenging assessments, the International Baccalaureate Organization aims to assist schools in their endeavors to develop the individual talents of young people and teach them to relate the experience of the classroom to the realities of the world outside. Beyond intellectual rigor and high academic standards, strong emphasis is placed on the ideals of international understanding and responsible citizenship, to the end that IB students may become critical and compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners, and informed participants in local and world affairs, conscious of the shared humanity that binds all people together while respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that makes for richness of life.

The IB benefits Greenville County’s children in the following ways:

• Nurtures students’ awareness of their membership in a global community
• Raises academic expectations and achievement
• Enrolls them in an international community of scholars
• Provides student-centered inquiry and instruction
• Provides a learning partnership with professionally trained IB teachers
• Provides students with skills and attitudes which encourage lifelong learning
• Encourages creativity and critical thinking at all levels
• Develops a broad base of knowledge across all subject areas

Additional information about the IB Organization and different program levels can be found on the IB web site, www.ibo.org

With the exception of Southside High, all other IB schools primarily serve their home-based populations. Students who do not live in an IB school’s attendance area and want to participate in the IB program at that school may complete a Request for Change in Student Assignment Form, which can be obtained from any school and submitted to the IB school the student wishes to attend. However, not all schools are able to accept such requests every year and at every grade level. Parents should check with the IB school in which they are interested to see if the school accepts students from outside the attendance area. Because Southside High is a magnet academy, interested students who do not reside in Southside's attendance area must apply and be approved to attend. Online applications are available through parent backpack or by contacting Southside High School.

Kelly Nalley, Academic Specialist, World Languages and Academic Programs
knalley@greenville.k12.sc.us | (864) 355-4817
Greenville County Schools
301 E. Camperdown Way • P.O. Box 2848
Greenville, SC 29602

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (PYP) is designed for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. The Primary Years Program is a uniquely international program that focuses on the total growth of the child, encompassing social, physical, emotional, and cultural needs in addition to academics.  Program highlights include:

• Relates students’ world in the United States to a larger world community
• Explores themes of global significance from multiple perspectives through inquiry-based learning
• Applies higher-level skills to real-world problems
• Incorporates study of a second language

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (DP) is a comprehensive, rigorous, international curriculum, leading to examinations, for students in grades 11 & 12. Students who successfully complete the requirements for this program earn the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma. In the US, the IB is valued as an honors program which leads to advanced standing and university credits.  Program Highlights include:

• Emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and exposure to multiple points of view.
• Includes coursework in six different subject areas reflecting a blend of breadth and depth.
• Incorporates Theory of Knowledge philosophy course
• Requires 150 hours of community service