Reflections on the Diploma Programme Exams

The following is an excerpt from the Sept 28 newsletter introduction from Head of School Bob Carignan.

I would like to reflect on our IB Diploma Programme (DP) for students in grades 11-12 and how the program has shaped our school and our students. Last May marked the 10th year that we have administered IB exams. Since 2006, nearly 200 Riverstone students have taken the exams.

Here are some recent IB Diploma Programme stats and averages:

2,200+ schools worldwide currently offer the Diploma Programme

67,000 students worldwide were IB diploma candidates in 2014 (as compared to students who seek individual subject certificates only)

63-66% of United States diploma candidates earned the IB Diploma in recent years

73% of Riverstone diploma candidates over the past 10 years have earned the IB Diploma (these students attended Riverstone 4+ years, including students for whom English is not their first language)

78% of diploma candidates worldwide earned the IB Diploma in recent years

83% of Riverstone diploma candidates earned the IB Diploma in recent years

The International Baccalaureate programs we offer from Preschool through High School are not only excellent preparation for the examinations but also result in much better chances of success at college and university.

According to recent research from a professor at the University of Wisconsin, IB Diploma holders have higher first year retention and better success in college.

39% of all enrolled students graduate from 4 year institutions in 4 years

84% of IB diploma holders graduate from college in 4 years

So what does this all mean in the big picture? It goes back to those alumni that we were talking about. The IB, taught effectively as it is at Riverstone, prepares students well for college.

Our student leave here prepared academically, but also ready to engage with their teachers and classmates (one of the most important factors in college retention). Because of our small class sizes, and inquiry based learning, students connect with mentors and become more involved in their own education – they take this to college with them.

We are very excited by the graduates that we produce and it is a reflection of all of our staff who work hard to provide our students with the best education available.