South Lakes high school is known for its IB program but what really is it? Starting in Switzerland, IB stands for international baccalaureate, and is a challenging two-year program that prepares students  from ages 16-19 for university/college. Students have to take six different subjects from six different groups, such as language and literature, maths, individuals and societies, and sciences. These subjects can be taken at a high level, or Stanford level. Additionally, they have to meet three core requirements to get the diploma. The requirements are:

Theory of knowledge- A course on the nature of knowledge.

Extended essay- A 4,000 word research essay, on a topic of the students choice.

Creativity, Activity, and Service- A requirement that gets students involved in a range of activities and reflects on them.

Basically these are mini “projects” the students have to do to get the diploma. Another requirement for the IB diploma is the IB exams. Students must take exams in the six subjects, with three taking at a High level and three taking at Stanford level. The people grading the exams are a mix of teachers, and scholars outside of their school. 

A lot of work right, but is it worth it? In the words of Chris Vaquerno, a Senior here at South lakes, “IB helps me gain a better understatement of how the topics I enjoy connect to the world around me.” From IB, students develop essential skills like time management, critical thinking, and the ability to work independently. The IB diploma is recognized internationally, meaning that an IB diploma can get you into college anywhere and gives students a smoother transition into higher education. South lakes is more than happy to have IB and will continue to help mold young scholars into the best version of themselves.