 International Baccalaureate program might be offered at Gulf
GULF HIGH SCHOOL, June 30, 2004 -- The Pasco County School District is studying the possibility
of offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program at Gulf High School.
The IB diploma program offers high-achieving, high-performing students an opportunity to pursue a rigorous program of studies during their high school years. Students who earn an IB diploma are often awarded advanced standing at universities around the world, and many colleges and universities grant early college credit for IB course work. According to Gulf Principal Tom Imerson, a survey of current seventh and eighth graders in Pasco County who might qualify for the IB program will be completed during September. He said that a decision by the School Board could be made later in the fall. Mr. Imerson is attending a meeting of the Florida League of International Baccalaureate Schools in St. Petersburg this week. The conference is international in nature, with about 20 countries represented. Over 1,150 schools worldwide have been authorized to offer the IB Diploma Program since its foundation in 1968. The program began in Florida in 1983 in three school districts. It is currently offered in Pasco County only at Land o'Lakes High School. According to the IBO web site, students pursuing the IB diploma meet international standards of proficiency in language, mathematics, social studies, experimental sciences, and a required elective. Additionally, to receive the IB diploma, students must satisfactorily complete a 4,000 word extended essay, 150 hours of CAS community service (divided among creative, action, and service activities), a Theory of Knowledge course, and twenty-four credits for high school graduation. |