Reasons to Choose an IB School for the

Reasons to Choose an IB School for the Youngest Learners

by Courtney Cairns Pastor, Corbett Preparatory School of IDS

Three-year-olds sit by the Corbett Prep pond to paint the bridge and water lilies in the style of Monet. They sketch self-portraits with mysterious Mona Lisa smiles. They examine Alma Thomas paintings to see how dots and color turn into art and then try to do it themselves.

And when they have completed their studies of master artists, prekindergarten teachers organize all their work into a museum-style gallery for families to explore.

Corbett Prep PreK3 students are proud to show off their Keith Haring silhouettes or Jackson Pollock interpretations, and parents love to see their children’s creativity and enthusiasm about famous artists. But the art is just one aspect of the learning the students gain. The experience teaches them to become inquirers, problem solvers and communicators as they study a broader concept of self-expression.

It’s all part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), a transdisciplinary curriculum framework designed to develop conceptual learning and international mindedness.

Lofty goals for prekindergarten and kindergarten students? Actually, the early primary years are a great time for a program that teaches them how to learn. Researchers from Deakin University in Australia found that children who experience IB in their early years of schooling develop learning skills at higher rates than others.

Three- to 5-year-olds are sponges, soaking up information about the world around them and trying to make sense of what they discover. IB encourages their natural curiosity, creativity and resourcefulness and pushes them to ask questions to drive their own learning. Students “explore their environment and learn about their world through play and relationships with peers, teachers, family and community members,” according to the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).

WHAT IS IB?

Nearly 2 million students in 160 countries are enrolled in IB. An IB education is student-centered and aspires to build intercultural understanding and respect, creating a more peaceful world. Schools are authorized through a nonprofit organization to teach the IB programs.

BUT ISN’T IB FOR BIG KIDS?

It begins with prekindergarten and elementary students in the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and then moves to the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students ages 11-16. Students 16 and older can pursue the diploma programme or the career-related programme. Corbett Prep offers the PYP and MYP to 550 students in PreK3-8th grade.

HOW DOES THE IB WORK IN YOUNGER GRADES?

IB helps students learn to ask challenging questions, think critically and strengthen their knowledge among different subject areas—great habits to develop at an early age. Teachers use conceptual learning to encourage students to see a bigger picture and make connections between their lives and the larger world.

Primary-aged IB students explore six transdisciplinary themes during their school year that are of global significance: Who We Are, Where We Are in Place and Time, How We Express Ourselves, How the World Works, How We Organize Ourselves and Sharing the Planet. The lessons supporting those themes follow central ideas teachers choose and are age-appropriate for each grade level. At Corbett Prep, PreK3 tackles the question of “How We Express Ourselves” through its art unit. By studying different artists and artistic techniques, students learn how art can communicate ideas, help people express themselves and reveal individuality and different perspectives.

In PreK4, students examine the same theme of self-expression through a lens of play, questioning how creativity factors into play, what is real versus imaginary and how ideas evolve through play.

Activities guide students to discoveries about the concepts they study. Kindergarten teachers introduce a central idea that people live, work and play in communities under the theme “Who We Are.” Students put their learning into action by building their own town. They figure out what communities need to thrive and what responsibilities residents have within a community. Is there somewhere for people to work? Who will keep them safe? How will they get from their home to the grocery store? They discuss the businesses and services their town should have and work together to construct an ideal but functional society.

By asking questions, drawing conclusions and spotting links between what teachers tell them and what they uncover themselves, IB’s littlest students form active learning skills. They develop respect for themselves and others and gain an understanding of how they can participate in the world around them.

BOWERS/WHITLEY BUILDING CONSTRUCTION ACADEMY 13609 N. 22nd St., Tampa 33613 813-558-1750; hillsboroughschools.org/buildingtampastomorrow

COMING 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR! The Bowers/Whitley Career Acceleration Academy will be transformed into our new Building Construction Academy for high school students. Students can participate in A/C Refrigeration, Heating Technology (HVAC), Plumbing, and Welding programs. For more details and the latest updates, please visit hillsboroughschools.org/ buildingtampastomorrow.

CALVARY CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL 110 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 33759 727-449-2247; cchs.us

Calvary offers an advanced college preparatory education in an environment where students are taught a Christian worldview with the Word of God being integrated into each subject. Calvary also offers many extra-curricular activities for your child including athletics, fine arts, SGA, clubs, leadership opportunities and more! Come for a visit today!

CAMBRIDGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 6101 N. Habana Ave., Tampa 33614 813-872-6744; ccslancers.com

See why we are the #1 rated Christian school in Tampa! Since 1964 we have equipped students with a college preparatory education taught from a biblical worldview. A partnership with CCS provides students with a strong foundation for life and college from a nationally accredited school committed to educating the whole child.

CARROLLWOOD DAY SCHOOL Main Campus - 1515 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa 33613 Preschool Campus - 12606 Casey Road, Tampa 33618 813-920-2288; cdspatriots.org

Carrollwood Day School is a world class co-ed IB school in Tampa celebrating our 40th anniversary this year. Our mission is to create entrepreneurial thinkers for a global society. We provide strong character-based education emphasizing problem-solving skills and philanthropic understanding. CDS fosters the development of the entire student not only in academics, but also ethically, emotionally and through social experience.

CENTER ACADEMY 6710 86th Ave. N., Pinellas Park 33782 727-541-5716; centeracademy.com

Founded in 1968 and Cognia accredited, Center Academy provides a small, safe setting to help students to focus, organize and learn. We work with students in grades 4-12 with ADHD and learning differences and accept FES, Step Up and Tax Credit Scholarships. Dual enrollment and summer programs are available.

CHANNELSIDE ACADEMY OF MATH & SCIENCE 1029 E. Twiggs St., Tampa 33602 813-579-9649; channelsideacademy.com

Students at this tuition-free, public charter school receive a well-rounded college preparatory education. The challenging and rigorous curriculum includes a special concentration on math and science, a technology-rich atmosphere and a focus on character development preparing students for their secondary education and beyond. Offerings include the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies, Edvantage before and after school program, Tampa Bay’s Grasses in Classes Program and Cognia accreditation.

COMMUNITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL Toddler & Primary Campus, 4930 Webb Road, Tampa 33615; 813-886-2050 Elementary & Middle Campus, 8411 Civic Road, Tampa 33615; 813-886-3969 communitymontessori.org

Community Montessori School provides a prepared environment that responds to the developmental needs of the child and cultivates the unique potential of each individual by adhering to Montessori principles. CMS is a warm, secure community with a high expectation for the quality of thought, work and mastery of content and skill. Enrollment: 150 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 790 Class-Size: 12:1 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: $16,150

Enrollment: 767 Class-Size: 17 Grades: 1 year - grade 12 Tuition: $10,610-$18,062

Enrollment: 1,164 Class-Size: 15-18, ratio 6:1 Grades: ages 2 to grade 12 Tuition: $7,100-$25,500

Enrollment: 90 Class-Size: 18 Grades: 4-12 Tuition: $12,680-$15,180

Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 125 Class-Size: Average 20 Grades: 18 months-15 years Tuition: $7,500-$10,950

CORBETT PREPARATORY SCHOOL OF IDS 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa 33618 813-961-3087; corbettprep.com

Founded 54 years ago, Corbett Prep offers the International Baccalaureate curriculum for all students. Teachers use research-based strategies to create hands-on learning experiences. Visual and performing arts, team sports, and social-emotional learning curriculum align to develop confident, creative, innovative thinkers with character ready to contribute to the world in a meaningful, positive way. Enrollment: 550 Class-Size: Varies by grade level Grades: PreK-grade 8 Tuition: $13,803-$18,470

CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 317 Milwaukee Ave., Dunedin 34698 727-733-1438; cornerstonechristianfl.org

At Cornerstone Christian School, our mission is to provide quality education in a Christ-Centered environment for the children of our community. We believe that every child has value and purpose. Our job is to help students discover their potential through academic, physical, social and spiritual development. Enrollment: 80 Class-Size: Small teacher-student ratio Grades: PreK to grade 8 Tuition: K-8 $8,100

COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 1850 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 33759 727-437-0090; myccacademy.org

Countryside Christian Academy's mission is to provide excellence in Christian education while instilling Biblical principles in students' lives that they might impact their society for Christ. Our program is fully accredited and well-balanced, encouraging the development of the whole child: spirit, soul, (mind) and body. Enrollment: 225 Class-Size: 15 Grades: K5-grade 8 Tuition: $9,500+

D.W. WATERS MEDICAL ACADEMY 2704 N. Highland Ave., Tampa 33602 813-233-2655; hillsboroughschools.org/buildingtampastomorrow

COMING 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR! The D.W. Waters Career Acceleration Academy will undergo an exciting transformation over the next year. It is scheduled to become our high school Medical Academy. Some programs slated to be offered include Medical Laboratory Assisting, Electrocardiograph Technician, and Emergency Medical Responder. For more details and the latest updates, please visit hillsboroughschools.org/buildingtampastomorrow.

DOROTHY C. YORK INNOVATION ACADEMY (K-8 MAGNET SCHOOL)

5995 Covington Garden Drive, Apollo Beach 33572 813-533-2400; hillsboroughschools.org/york

York will open as a Project Lead the Way Robotics and Engineering School, where students will participate in hands-on, project-based learning, STEM, arts, and international studies. The Admirals will collaborate in innovative labs with one-to-one technology accessible to explore their interests and prepare them for high school and beyond. Enrollment: 150 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 1,253 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

DOWDELL MIDDLE MAGNET (ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES)

1208 Wishing Well Way, Tampa 33619 813-744-8322; hillsboroughschools.org/dowdell

We bridge passion for the environment with real world learning. Students can take unique environmental and animal science electives. Students learn outdoors with our salt marsh grass nursery and land lab and experience our hydroponics and aquaponics labs. Our partnerships with the Florida Aquarium and surrounding recycling companies helps strengthen our mission to educate students to understand the environment around them and how to help it.

DUNBAR ELEMENTARY MAGNET (MEDICAL SCIENCE)

1730 Union St., Tampa 33607 813-276-5677; hillsboroughschools.org/dunbar

At Dunbar’s Medical Magnet Program, young scholars experience STEM fields through hands-on curriculum and an interactive House Program. Students explore the human body systems and healthy habits with partners like St. Joseph's Children's Hospital, USF Health and more. NEW! Third Grade Accelerated Math Academy prepares students for high school Math courses. enrollment: 508 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 278 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

ESSRIG MONTESSORI ACADEMY 13131 Lynn Road, Tampa 33624 813-975-7307; hillsboroughschools.org/essrig

A first of its kind Essrig Montessori Academy will open for Hillsborough County Public Schools students 3 years of age through kindergarten. This self-directed and paced learning approach will foster rigorous, self-motivated growth for children in all areas of their development—nurturing their desire for knowledge, understanding and respect.

FERRELL GIRLS PREPARATORY ACADEMY

(A CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL)

4302 24th St., Tampa 33610 813-276-5608; hillsboroughschools.org/ferrell

As a Cambridge International Magnet School and the only girls-only school in the district, we are dedicated to developing confident, dynamic, educated young women. Our technology-rich, interactive learning campus—including our 1:1 technology program—infuses 21st century tech skills into every student’s learning. Mentoring opportunities and community engagement create well-rounded learners.

FRANKLIN BOYS PREPARATORY ACADEMY

(A CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL)

3915 21st Ave., Tampa 33605 813-744-8108; hillsboroughschools.org/franklin

As a Cambridge International Magnet School and the only boys-only school in the district, we are molding young men of distinction who will achieve greatness. We promote academic achievement, professionalism and self-confidence. Our young men prepare for college in a technology-rich environment with a robotics makerspace and Smart Boards and iPads available for every student.

GRECO MIDDLE MAGNET (IB CANDIDATE)

6925 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa 33617 813-987-6926; hillsboroughschools.org/greco

Our school-wide IB candidate program, guided by International Baccalaureate World School principles, works with community partners and the city of Temple Terrace to create a unique IB experience every day. Our school has exceptional programs on campus that allow students to explore their passion, all under the IB program umbrella.

HILLSBOROUGH ACADEMY OF MATH & SCIENCE 9659 W. Waters Ave., Tampa 33635 813-793-6085; hillsboroughacademy.com/admissions

A tuition-free public charter school serving Kindergarten to 8th Grade. Challenging and hands-on curriculum includes a special concentration on math and science, a technology-rich atmosphere and a focus on character development. We are “A” rated offering the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies, extracurricular activities, clubs and Edventure, before & after school program.

HILLSBOROUGH VIRTUAL K-12 2704 N. Highland Ave., Tampa 33602 813-983-7278; hillsboroughschools.org/virtual

Hillsborough Virtual K-12 offers personalized learning in a structured, yet flexible environment. It is a school choice option in which students learn in a digital space using a web-based curriculum with highly-qualified teachers from Hillsborough County. Students can take part in athletics and extracurricular activities at their zoned school.

HILLSDALE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 6201 Ehrlich Road, Tampa 33625 813-884-8250; hcatampa.org

Hillsdale Christian Academy is a school that seeks to minister to families across the Tampa Bay area by reaching students intellectually, physically, spiritually and socially. We combine rigorous curriculum with an educated and loving staff to give your student the best educational experience possible to the end of producing successful students for the glory of God. Enrollment: 63 Grades: ages 3 years - kindergarten Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 470 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

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Enrollment: 1,101 Grades: K-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 178 Class-Size: 11-20 Grades: age 2 - grade 12 Tuition: $180/week - $8,400/year