Montgomery Public Schools (MPS) is proud to announce the addition of three new International Baccalaureate (IB) schools: MacMillan International Academy for Humanities, Communications, and Technology, Johnnie Carr Middle School, and Park Crossing High School. This prestigious designation brings a world-class curriculum to these schools, providing students with the tools and skills necessary to succeed in an increasingly interconnected global society.
By implementing the IB program, MPS is ensuring that students not only gain critical academic knowledge but also develop essential skills needed for future success, including critical thinking, global awareness, and adaptability. These are the qualities that today’s workforce demands, and MPS is committed to preparing students to meet those demands.
“The addition of the IB program signals a major leap forward in how we prepare our students for a global economy,” said Interim Superintendent Jamie Wilson. “In today’s industry, it’s not just about preparing students for the future, but about preparing them to engage with a global world. Critical thinking and the ability to connect across cultures are crucial skills in today’s workforce.”
Key advantages of the IB program include:
Global Citizenship: Students develop a deep understanding of the world and their responsibilities, inspiring them to be informed, compassionate citizens.
Research-Driven Learning: The IB program is founded on proven teaching strategies, ensuring students benefit from the most effective educational approaches from across the globe.
Accreditation and Quality Standards: Schools offering the IB curriculum undergo a rigorous accreditation process monitored by the International Baccalaureate Organization, guaranteeing they meet high standards of excellence.
Global Recognition: IB programs are respected internationally, making it easier for students to transition seamlessly between schools, a benefit particularly valuable for military families.
Ongoing Teacher Development: IB educators participate in continuous professional development, ensuring they remain aligned with the latest global educational trends and innovations.
“This achievement represents much more than the addition of a new academic program. It’s a bold step forward in how we prepare our students to learn, serve, and thrive in a global society, said Cheryl Fountain, Principal of Park Crossing High School. The IB framework allows students to own their learning journey, which empowers them to develop the confidence and skills needed for an ever-changing world.”
IB World Schools are subject to a rigorous accreditation process, ensuring that they provide a high-quality education. The program is also especially beneficial for military-connected students, offering consistency as families move between duty stations and ensuring that educational transitions are smooth and seamless.
“We’re excited to continue utilizing the IB Middle Years Program framework to foster critical thinking and global awareness, said Sylvia Goshton, Principal of Johnnie Carr Middle School. "Our students will be challenged across various subjects, from physical education to foreign languages and fine arts, ensuring they receive a well-rounded and challenging education.”
The IB program also focuses on professional development for teachers, ensuring that educators remain connected to the latest educational practices and innovations from around the world. This commitment to continuous growth guarantees that our students receive the best possible educational experience.
Rosalyn Brown, Principal of MacMillan International Academy, highlighted, “The IB program develops essential skills like collaboration, adaptability, and critical thinking. We’re encouraging our students to go beyond traditional learning. It’s about fostering independent thought and preparing them for success in a constantly changing world.”
The IB curriculum not only enriches students’ learning experiences but also strengthens the community by attracting business investments and contributing to the long-term growth of the local economy.
“The IB program is a key part of our vision to provide students with an education that prepares them for success in the modern world,” said Superintendent Jamie Wilson. “This is an investment in the future of Montgomery, ensuring that our students are ready for success in college, careers, and beyond. We are committed to providing a quality education for all our students, and the IB program is an important step in that direction.”
As we continue to strengthen our public education system, we encourage the greater community to collaborate, support, and invest in the success of our students.This initiative helps create a pipeline of future leaders who will not only contribute to the growth of Montgomery but also to global advancements.
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