The International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) is a non-profit foundation that offers “a transdisciplinary program of international education designed to foster the development of the whole child.”  Seneca Academy is a candidate for the Primary Years Program (ages 3-12).  The PYP draws on research and best practice from a range of national systems to create relevant, engaging, challenging and significant educational framework for all children.

What is “international education” and why is it important?

International education, as identified by IBO, is defined by several criteria.  Some of those criteria include the following ideas.

• Building and reinforcing students’ sense of identity and cultural awareness
• Providing international content while responding to local requirements and interests
• Encouraging diversity and flexibility in teaching methods
• Equipping students with the skills to learn and acquire knowledge, individuality or collaboratively, and to apply this knowledge accordingly across a broad range of areas

How is the IB/PYP program implemented at Seneca Academy?

Seneca Academy has decided to pursue IB authorization because PYP supports many of our fundamental beliefs regarding children and education, to include: 

• An environment that values curiosity and inquiry.
• A spirit of discovery and an enjoyment of learning.
• The vision for students to become “citizens of the world”.
• A curriculum that supports students as they learn to solve problems, communicate, and collaborate.

The IB/PYP program provides a framework for the teachers at Seneca Academy to deliver our curriculum.  This partnership will enable us to continue providing world-class education for our students.

Complete information about the IB and its programs can be found on their website www.ibo.org.  For more information about how the IB/PYP program is being implemented at Seneca Academy, please call us at (301) 869-3728.