Toledo’s Notre Dame Academy (NDA) initiated The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IB) six years ago by expanding conventional teaching.IB is an academically-rigorous University preparatory program that runs through the junior and senior years of high school. NDA students experience new opportunities to develop new passions, strengthen critical thinking skills, interpret tough problems, and cultivate a more global perspective.
“What makes our IB Program very distinctive is the focus on women’s education and how our students can work toward a Full Diploma or a Subject Certificate. If a young woman has an interest in a particular subject, for example English, she can earn an IB certificate in English, after passing required course work and testing. We have the only IB program in northwest Ohio with over 200 young women interested or working toward IB credit. College credit can be earned too.
“Thirty-five faculty and staff members were trained for the program. Every student benefits from the professional development provided to our IB trained teachers,” said Sr. Mary Ann Culpert, NDA president.
“IB is about the learning experience and learning skills for the 21st century,” said Angela Joseph, IB coordinator.Each year, Ms. Joseph conducts surveys to improve the program. Her best feedback is from IB graduates who have completed their first year of college. Whether they have taken one IB course or were Full Diploma –they always say that IB prepared them even more for college, made the transition to college classes easier, and enhanced their writing and critical thinking skills.
“The average passing rate internationally for a Full Diploma candidate runs around 78%.So far NDA averages 84% which is fantastic,” explained Ms. Joseph.
Following in the long tradition of NDA, today’s students are eager to step out of their comfort zones to be challenged with one of the toughest curriculums to pursue tomorrow’s new opportunities, ideas, and skills.
IB Art student paints during class.
by Dreamhost