In January 1997, SMCHS became the first Catholic high school in the Western United States to join the International Baccalaureate Organization (IB) as an IB World School, offering a rigorous curriculum and an opportunity to earn an internationally recognized diploma. The IB’s holistic focus on personal, psychological and academic development aligns well with the SMCHS mission of whole person education. Similarly, in the context of the school charism of Caritas Christi, the IB student learns to approach oneself, others and the planet with responsibility, respect, compassion and empathy.
In addition to these outcomes, the hallmarks of an IB diploma include a Theory of Knowledge seminar course to apply thinking and inquiry across all subject areas, an extended research essay of 4,000 words on a student-enerated inquiry/research question, and independently engaging in creativity, physical activity and service (CAS).
Abigail Jackson '16 of USC Shares "Why IB?"
85%*
historical average marks of 4 or higher versus a world average of 79%
*this figure includes certificate students
33
IB courses offered in a wide variety of subjects
1 of 4
Catholic IB high schools in the state, only Catholic IB school in the county
94%
historical rate of full diploma students earning their diploma versus a U.S. average of 55%
QUESTIONS
Dr. Maria Andrade Johnson, IB Coordinator, at 949-766-6000 ext. 4192