Magnolia ISD is the first public school district in Montgomery County to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, starting with the 2016-17 school year.


Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum Anita Hebert said MISD saw a need for expanding advanced education opportunities.


“We decided to offer the IB program because it is a highly respected program in our state, across the nation and worldwide for its rigorous intellectual work, individual advancement and global perspective,” Hebert said.


The IB program is offered in addition to Advanced Placement courses and a dual-credit program. MISD Director of Communications Denise Meyers said the district prides itself on offering a variety of educational opportunities.


“We want to make sure we give students opportunities that fit within their learning style, so this is just another option for our students who are interested in taking those higher level courses and want to pursue going to an Ivy League school,” Meyers said.




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Students begin the two-year program during their junior year. Hebert said about 90 students from Magnolia and Magnolia West high schools are enrolled in the program for 2016-17.


Hebert said the program is made up of six classes in key subject areas, an independent research project and a community service project.


“The [program] is a multi- faceted program that aims to develop students in their breadth and depth of knowledge while helping them grow and thrive intellectually, emotionally and ethically,” she said.


Students who complete the program are guaranteed to receive up to 24 hours of credit at any Texas public university, Hebert said.


“Students who earn the IB Diploma in Texas are granted almost a full year of college credit at state universities,” she said.


Hebert said the IB curriculum is largely customizable by MISD IB-certified teachers in regard to how and what topics are taught.


“Teachers in Magnolia ISD determine the instructional materials they will use to accomplish the goals of the course,” she said. “The materials are selected according to district standards and are not prescribed by the IB program.”