International Baccalaureate Organization at
Evans Elementary School

What is IB?

IBO stands for International Baccalaureate Organization.  The goal for the International Baccalaureate Organization is to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect (IBO, 2002).  IBO's mission is to assist schools in their efforts to develop the individual talents of young people and to teach them using inquiry-based learning.  IBO uses high academic standards and a strong emphasis is placed on the ideals of international understanding and responsible citizens. Students may become "critical, 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 make for the richness of life" (IBO, 2000).

What is PYP?

PYP stands for Primary Year Program. The PYP school is a school which, regardless of the size or location, strives to develop an international person. Students in the Primary Years Program are inquirers, thinkers, communicators, risk-takers, knowledgeable, principled, caring, open-minded, balanced and reflective learners.

What does the curriculum look like?

The curriculum is the same curriculum that Evans is using but focuses on key concepts, such as connection, perspective and responsibility.  The curriculum focuses on transdisciplinary skills of knowledge, which have local and global significance. Students learn an additional language beginning in kindergarten. The curriculum develops essential skills, such as research, communication and social skills. The Primary Years Program fosters positive attitudes such as tolerance, respect and responsibility as well as providing opportunities for meaningful community services.

How will my child be assessed?

The assessments are the same as the assessments that we have used at Evans which include assessments that will take place during and after units of study are taught. Student self-reflection is an essential component of the PYP assessment.

Where are we in the process?

At Evans, we also believe inquiry-based learning increases student engagement and motivation. Our values and beliefs are congruent to those of the IBO as we develop compassionate, knowledgeable, and international minded citizens. As of February 2009, Evans is a fully authorized IB PYP school. We received formal authorization after completing a 3 year application and authorization process.

How can I support my child's learning?

The partnership between student, parent and school is essential.  You can help your child by maintaining regular contact with the school, sharing books with your child, supporting your child's first language (mother tongue), assisting your child with research projects, attending informational meetings at school and conferences and providing an appropriate setting with a structured routine for doing homework.

How can I find out more about the PYP?

There is information about the IBO program at Evans and on our website at www.d49/ees.com. You can get more information about the PYP IBO by visiting the IBO website at www.ibo.org or feel free to contact the school with any questions you might have.