International Baccalaureate

@ James Bowie High School

Cross the Line. Think Deeper. Lead with Purpose.

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BHS IB Video 2024.mp4

IB NEWS

What is IB?

The premiere globally-recognized college preparatory curriculum
A small group, cohort-based program for juniors and seniors that focuses on the whole student—academically and beyond.
Unique and varied assessment: writing, speaking, presenting, and creating instead of multiple choice
Flexible pathway options: take individual courses or join the specialized program through the Foundations Cohort or full Diploma Cohort — the right fit for every student.
Guided by a mission to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring students who work toward a more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect

Why IB?

College-ready confidence: IB students learn how to study, write at length, think critically, become practiced speakers and presenters, and advocate for themselves — so college feels manageable, not overwhelming.
Rigor that stands out: Colleges value the IB. Students show depth, perseverance, and a willingness to take the harder path — even individual IB courses strengthen a transcript.
Skills for life, not just tests: Students develop time management, resilience, and transferable skills— learning to handle hard things without quitting.
Real-world, global learning: Inquiry-based, student-centered learning that connects the classroom to issues of global importance — with reflection, choice, and meaningful global connections built in.
A supportive cohort community: IB is a small academic family within a large high school, where students grow together and receive intentional support from IB Faculty and peers.
Challenge with support: High expectations, strong relationships, and guidance every step of the way.

Who joins IB?

IB students come from all backgrounds and experiences at BHS. They are creative and analytical, athletes and artists, leaders in extracurriculars and students discovering their voice. Some are future valedictorians; others are taking their first advanced class.

What they share isn’t perfection — it’s mindset. IB students enjoy discussing ideas, sharing their thinking, and considering different perspectives — or they want to build those skills. They are caring, thoughtful, and dedicated, with a desire to grow and make a positive impact.

It’s not the easiest path. It’s the path that builds you — and with AVID as a readiness system supporting the IB journey, students are guided every step of the way.

IB Pathways

At BHS, students in the IB Programme choose the pathway that best fits their goals and readiness.

IB Programme (11th-12th)

IB Diploma Cohort: Diploma students complete a full set of IB courses: English, History, Science, Math, a World Language, an IB Elective, and Theory of Knowledge (TOK), a course that connects all subjects and explores how we know what we know.

Diploma Cohort students receive intentional support from IB faculty and the coordinator and may earn the internationally recognized IB Diploma. Students who earn the diploma may qualify for additional college credit or scholarships.

IB @ BHS Foundations Cohort: Foundations students complete at least four IB courses, including three core subjects (English, World Language, History, Math, or Science). This pathway provides depth and rigor within a focused IB experience.
Beyond the Classroom: Both Diploma and Foundations students engage in reflection and planning beyond academics — building leadership, service, and real-world skills that prepare them for college and life beyond high school— in our IB Ambassadors program.
Open Enrollment Options: IB courses are open enrollment, meaning any student may take individual IB classes without joining a cohort while still benefiting from IB curriculum.
Current 10th graders Apply HERE!

IB @ BHS Specialized Programme (9th & 10th)

In preparation for the official IB Programme, 9th & 10th Grade students can enroll in the IB @ BHS Specialized Programme
Freshmen and sophomores in the IB @ BHS Specialized Program take a sequence of advanced core courses designed to build the academic habits, confidence, and skills needed for long-term success. They also participate in the IB @ BHS Ambassadors BBAW Collective. This structured pathway prepares students for a smooth transition into either the Foundations Cohort or the full Diploma Cohort in their junior and senior years. Learn more here.
Current 8th & 9th graders Apply Here!