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School staff propose ‘right-sizing’ IB program, aiming for a single center and earlier student exposure
Summary
District leaders told the board they plan to 'right-size' Hanover’s International Baccalaureate program to strengthen diploma cohorts, possibly consolidating sites and expanding early exposure to IB in grades 9–10 while maintaining access to advanced coursework across schools.
District staff updated the board on the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and proposed structural changes intended to strengthen the diploma experience for students.
"Our goal for International Baccalaureate is really to right size the program to maximize the student learning experience," said Dr. Herndon, who outlined listening sessions with principals, IB coordinators and teachers. Staff reported 75 diploma candidates divisionwide and said smaller cohorts at some sites have weakened the cohort experience; the proposal would consolidate enrollment to create a more robust cohort and align IB timing with other advanced programs.
Dr. Herndon emphasized the plan is iterative and contingent on enrollment and instructional capacity, and that the district will work to preserve access to IB-related courses such as IB film and visual arts even if the diploma center shifts. Recommendations included introducing IB concepts earlier (9th and 10th grade) and pairing that work with gifted-advisory recommendations to build a seminar for advanced learning.
No final decision was made; staff will continue listening sessions over the summer and revisit timelines if enrollment or budgetary constraints change.
