DPS International Baccalaureate (IB) Expectations: Middle Years & Diploma Programme Contract

The IB School Will...

  • Foster life-long learning skills

  • Provide rigorous & balanced university coursework

  • Focus on internationalism and responsible citizenship

  • Provide excellent preparation for college

  • Receive & maintain authorization from the IB Organization

  • Include inquiry, independent research, interdisciplinary activities, international-mindedness & exposure to a holistic view of knowledge

  • Incorporate IB philosophy, strategies, & assessments with standards, goals, & objectives of NC Standard Course of Study

  • Provide access to IB training for teachers

Hillside IB Middle Years & Diploma Programme Students will…

  • Demonstrate conscientious academic effort & a strong commitment to learning

  • Regularly complete assignments & assigned projects

  • Participate constructively in lesson, activities, etc.

  • Be self-motivated, intellectually curious, independent thinkers, & able writers

  • Have a desire to excel & an interest in community service

  • Display a high standard of personal behavior and responsibility

Requirements and Academic Expectations

Middle Years Programme (MYP – 9th and 10th grade) students should…

  • Meet DPS Promotion standards for previous grade

  • Be assigned to the IB school by the district's lottery process

  • Be on grade level in Reading & Math

  • Complete preferred course prerequisites

  • Maintain adequate academic progress by passing all MYP classes

  • Complete 30 CAS hours each year

  • Complete Personal Project in grade 10 (year 5)  Complete all summer assignments

  • Attend Saturday Academy sessions

  • Follow DPS Code of Conduct and the Hillside Integrity Policy

Diploma Programme (DP – 11th and 12th grade) students should…

  • Attain a final grade of "C" in each IB course

  • Be assigned to the IB school by the district's lottery process

  • Complete preferred course prerequisites

  • Complete the coursework, internal assessments, and examinations for each of the six 2-year IB courses

  • Assume responsibility for cost of 6 exams and registration fee if the IB budget does not cover the cost

  • Complete the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course and essay

  • Complete the Extended Essay (EE) in one of 6 IB subjects

  • Complete & document Creativity, Action, and Service activities

  • Complete all summer assignments

  • Follow DPS Code of Conduct and the Hillside Integrity Policy

Progress will be reviewed at the conclusion of each nine week grading period. Students not making sufficient progress will receive additional academic supports, such as but not limited to, Saturday Academy, tutoring, and specific learning strategies from the IB faculty and staff. At the end of the semester probationary period, students not making progress or not participating in services offered will be exited from the program.