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Quabbin to stop offering full IB diploma program after low enrollment; IB courses and AP options to remain available
Summary
District leaders told the committee they will finish current seniors’ IB diploma candidacies but will not run the full IB diploma program going forward because very low enrollment made the full-diploma model unsustainable; individual IB courses and expanded AP options are being considered.
Administrators informed the Quabbin Regional School Committee on April 16 that the district will stop offering the full International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma program moving forward but will support current diploma candidates through completion and continue to offer IB courses where feasible.
Superintendent and staff described how low enrollment in the diploma track — the district expects only two or three diploma candidates in the current cohort — led to the decision. The district will continue to offer individual IB courses and is exploring expanding Advanced Placement (AP) options and other course designs to maintain rigorous opportunities for students.
Committee members asked about cost implications and whether AP courses would fill gaps in students’ schedules. Administrators said the district pays about $20,000 annually for IB membership and curriculum access; they are evaluating whether to maintain selected IB offerings, transition to certificate-level IB courses, and add AP sections in response to student demand.
What this means: Current seniors pursuing full IB diplomas will be supported and allowed to complete requirements, but the district will not run the full-diploma pathway as an ongoing program given persistent low candidate numbers. Students can continue to take IB courses for certificates, and administrators plan active communication and counseling for students during the transition.
Next steps: Guidance counselors will meet with affected students and families, administration will finalize course offerings for next year, and the committee will be updated as decisions about AP expansion and course scheduling are made.
