Frisco ISD launches IB Diploma Programme

Frisco ISD is launching an International Baccerlauterate Diploma Programme starting with the 2020-2021 school year, and Wednesday the district is hosting an informational meeting from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Frisco High.

Weighted the same as Advanced Placement courses for GPA, FISD Managing Director of Academic Programs Dr. Angela Romney sees the program as a holistic approach to high-level classes. 

 “I sometimes refer to the IB Diploma Programme as the ‘combo meal’ of courses and Advanced Placement as the ‘a la carte’ menu of courses,” Dr. Romney said. “The IB Diploma Programme offers a nice, well-rounded package of courses that students take, whereas the AP Program allows students to select courses based on their areas of interest. Along with dual credit,  both IB and AP are great options for students to challenge themselves and potentially earn college credit. I advise students to carefully consider their future goals, research the course options, and select courses that will best help them meet their individual goals.” 

Although IB courses do not begin until junior year, the program admits students to Frisco High as freshmen in order for IB Coordinator and Frisco High assistant principal Jenna Gates to best support student schedules.  

“One of the important aspects of being in IB is to be a part of your community,” Gates said. “Transferring IB students in as ninth graders when classes start in their 11th grade year allows time for students to engage in our FHS community and build peer connections in their cohort.  Being involved on campus and establishing those peer connections are incredibly important to success in the program.” 

Including components such as Creativity, Activity, and Service requirements, as well as the Extended Essay, Dr. Romeny believes the program will prepare students for the future. 

“We want to provide options and opportunities for students that are aligned with College, Career, and Military readiness,” Dr. Romney said. “The IB Diploma Programme is a great option for students who want to challenge themselves academically and value the IB Learner Profile attributes.  We have a very diverse student population and there is high community interest for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Additionally, the IB Diploma Programme is recognized by universities outside of the United States and some of our students may be interested in continuing their education outside of the U.S.” 

With more than 19,000 high school students attending Frisco ISD, Gates sees the program as another way to accommodate for the differing needs of one of the fastest growing cities in the country

“Our community is fortunate to have a district that is always striving to meet the needs of a diverse community to help students build future ready skills,” Gates said. “The IB program adds to the variety of options we have alongside the AP program and CTE programming.”