The Newman School is happy to report that its International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, approved by the International Baccalaureate Organization in January 2009, is being greeted by students and faculty with enthusiasm. “Our initial expectation was that seven or eight of our juniors would want to pursue the entire diploma program,” Dean of Studies Daniel Ohman says. “Instead, we have eighteen students enrolled in the seven required courses and initiating their independent essay and community service projects.”

Eileen Woodford teaches the IB History of the Americas course at Newman. “IB studies teach students to write carefully and to defend their arguments with facts and citations,” she says. “Their progress is evident not only in their work, but also in the confidence they develop in their own intellectual capabilities.” Eleventh grade juniors commented that since beginning IB this past September: “I have learned what to look for, to ask the type of questions that will further my learning.” ”Now I examine what I’m reading more closely. I can identify styles and themes behind what I’m reading. Papers, tests and projects no longer faze me as much as they did in the past.” “I am more independent. I don’t look to a teacher to guide me through everything. I think for myself and am coming to a better understanding of how I learn best.” “I am more of a critical thinker; I don’t rush to an answer.” “I have a more creative outlook, rather than just memorizing facts.” “I have become interested in how different subjects overlap and interact with each other.” “I want to learn more, and I pay less attention to what grades I receive, and more attention to how I can improve.” Unanimously, students commented that they have learned to become better organized and more efficient.

Headmaster Harry Lynch notes that the acceptance of Newman as an IB World School has led to an increase in applications and inquiries, both from American students and from students in a broad range of countries, including Nigeria, Australia, Indonesia, Great Britain, France, Kazakhstan, and Italy during the past year. “Geographic diversity is a key part of our identity as an international school. International recognition of the IB Diploma makes the Diploma a very natural extension of our school’s curriculum.”

The Diploma Programme for students aged 16 to 19 is a demanding two-year curriculum leading to final examinations and a qualification that is welcomed by leading universities around the world.

The Newman School, founded in 1945, provides a college-preparatory course of study to young men and women in their secondary school years. The student body is comprised of 270 students, who come from all over greater Boston, and from 17 countries around the world.

Schools that have been authorized by the IBO to offer one or more of its programmes are known as “IB World Schools”.

These schools:

* share the mission and commitment of the IB to quality international education
* play an active and supporting role in the worldwide community of IB schools
* share their knowledge and experience in the development of the IB programmes
* are committed to the professional development of teachers.

Click here for more information about the Newman School International Baccalaureate Program. For more information about International Baccalaureate Organizations and its programmes, please visit the IBO web site.