Program Description
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program is a two-year comprehensive and rigorous pre-university curriculum leading to an IB diploma. Successful IB candidates are typically granted advanced placement credit at the finest universities and colleges in the nation. Students who participate in the full diploma program are actively engaged in a liberal arts curriculum that includes:
- Critical thinking class
- Minimum of 150 hours of participation in extracurricular activities and community services
- Research paper of 4000 words
The International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), (Outside Source) based in Geneva Switzerland, governs and continuously monitors the academic content of IB Programs. Preparatory programs are offered at the primary and middle schools levels. To support teacher preparedness and student success, the IBO provides a wide range of services to the schools authorized to administer its programs that include:
- Curriculum and assessment development
- Electronic networking
- Online curriculum center
- Other educational services, such as school reports that assist teachers in adjusting their instruction to improve students' performance
- Teacher training and information seminars
Some of these services are available to prospective IB schools as well. There is an application process for schools wishing to become an authorized IB school. See the Diploma Programme in North America (Outside Source) for more information.
Professional Development Funding
California Department of Education (CDE) has provided incentive funding for professional development grants since 1998. Public high schools with an authorized IB Diploma Program are eligible for funding.
In fiscal year 2001-02, legislation extended the availability of these grants to public schools with an authorized IB Middle Years Program. Grant amounts are specified in law with start-up programs eligible for $15,000 (plus cost of living adjustments (COLA)) and full programs eligible for $25,000 (plus COLA.) In the event of a funding shortfall, funding is allocated consistent with the priorities established in law and prorated when necessary. The process is not competitive and there is no Request for Application.
Each year the IBO provides CDE with an updated list of authorized IB Programs in California. CDE sends an application form to all eligible schools on the list. Eligible schools need to complete and return a Request for Grant Award form and agree to annually provide data about the program.
IB Exam Fee Reimbursement Program
Subject to fund availability, the CDE will reimburse districts for specified costs of the IB exam fees paid to the IBO on behalf of eligible students. For more information on the application and eligibility requirements, please contact Marjorie McConnell at 916-323-5830.
