Section 1.01 Introduction to International Baccalaureate (IB)

The IB Diploma Programme focuses on rigorous curriculum, higher-level thinking, and developing lifelong learners. IB’s integrated approach encourages students to think beyond the boundaries of their communities to engage in a rapidly globalizing world. IB students are highly regarded and well respected throughout the academic community everywhere in the world. 

International High School of New Orleans of New Orleans was awarded IB World School status in March of 2011. We emphasize an educational experience that provides international perspective and international exposure. Our students and staff represent numerous continents and speak several world languages including Arabic, French, Mandarin, Spanish, and Vietnamese. 

Section 1.02 IB Mission Statement

"The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging Programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.

These Programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right."

Section 1.03 IB Learner Profiles

Section 1.04       Characteristics of an IB Student

●        Willingness to develop personal study habits, including self- discipline, self-motivation, and time management;

●        A capacity for thinking critically and creatively;

●        Some fluency in a second language, or willingness to become fluent;

●        An international outlook and genuine concern for others.

 The IB Diploma Programme, while demanding, is open to all students who are committed to the work. It is not an elitist Programme for exceptionally gifted students, but a course of studies, either full diploma or course option. Throughout a candidate’s studies, he or she discovers that effective learners need to be motivated, knowledgeable, strategic in learning, ethical, compassionate, reflective, and socially interactive.

Section 1.05       Ensuring Excellence in IB Studies

 The IB is a demanding Programme of study, well-organized students are able to accomplish success and still find time to pursue other interests, both inside and outside of school.

 A successful IB student:

●        Works consistently throughout the two years of study. One who always has something to do. Diploma students are required to complete a minimum of 18 hours of homework per week, that is, 4 hours/week per HL subjects and 2 hours/week per SL subjects.

●        Is punctual and maintains an excellent attendance record.

●        Makes a study plan for the coming week/month, anticipating deadlines for essays, assignments, etc., and forthcoming sporting and social activities.

●        Works in surroundings conducive to thoughtful study, such as in a library or alone in a quiet, well-lit room.

●        Begins studying sooner rather than later in a sustained fashion, uninterrupted by frequent "refreshment breaks," "emergency," telephone calls, computer games or television viewing; able to study for a set period, take a short break, and then return to study.

●        Follows up recent class notes carefully and checks for clarification with the teacher to ensure he/she understands the instruction provided. Class notes are well organized and tidy.

●        Engages in lively discussion and debate with fellow students and teachers, and demonstrates eagerness to ask questions.

●        Works well with the counselor, teachers and other students.

●        Presents organized assignments that are carefully researched, thoroughly argued and checked for spelling and syntax errors.

●        Displays qualities found in the IB Learner Profile.

●        Commits to all after-school activities, including tutoring, seminars, and any other requests made from the teachers.