Athens Reporter

Jackson County High School has successfully completed its evaluation for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program. This achievement underscores the school's dedication to offering a challenging and globally recognized education since it became an IB World School in 2019.

The IB Diploma Program is known worldwide as an advanced curriculum designed for high school juniors and seniors. It focuses on enhancing critical thinking, research, and interpersonal skills. Students participating in the program can earn college credits through exam scores, and those completing six IB courses along with core requirements such as a 4,000-word independent research essay and a service-learning portfolio may receive the esteemed IB Diploma.

IB World Schools are committed to delivering high-quality education both within IB courses and throughout the school. Since implementing the program, Jackson County High School has seen three cohorts of students graduate from the Diploma Program, with 72% earning their diplomas. The student body has passed over 400 IB exams across various subjects, highlighting the academic strength of the program.

The International Baccalaureate Organization conducts evaluations every five years through a comprehensive self-study followed by an on-site visit. At Jackson County High School, this involved classroom observations and meetings with school leaders, teachers, students, and parents.

Evaluators commended the district's commitment to promoting purposeful teaching in a supportive environment. They also acknowledged the school's development plan that increased access to the program and significantly boosted enrollment in IB courses.

In 2020, there were 64 students enrolled in IB courses at JCHS; next year, more than 200 students are expected to enroll.

"This growth signals the success of the program in including and developing students," stated JCHS principal Melissa Gillespie. "Our successful evaluation is a testament to our tremendous teachers and staff who provide a world-class education in every experience at our school."

During this period, Alex Nichols, the school's IB Coordinator, received news that his proposal to present at the upcoming IB Global Conference was accepted. Nichols will share strategies for inquiry and reflection in English classrooms at this summer's conference in New Orleans.

"I'm proud to be a part of the IB program at JCHS," said Nichols. "I'm excited to share what I've learned from the outstanding students and teachers at JCHS and to bring back ideas that will continue improving the IB experience for our students."

With strong momentum moving forward, Jackson County High School's IB Program looks poised for continued success.