At Intiwasi, our vision has always been clear: to grow alongside our students, expanding from our foundation as a preschool until fifth grade. This growth is integral to our mission, reflecting our deep commitment to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) and its emphasis on holistic development through inquiry-based learning. As we prepare to introduce a second grade next year, we're not just adding a new level; we're fulfilling a key part of our goal, ensuring a continuous and enriching educational journey for our students. This approach strengthens our community, binding students, teachers, and families closer as we all evolve together. Let’s explore how this planned expansion enriches our learning environment and benefits everyone involved.
Embracing the IB PYP Principles
At our school, we embrace the globally respected IB PYP curriculum, known for its comprehensive and challenging approach to education. While it may sound rigorous, we want to assure parents that our focus is not only on academic excellence but also on nurturing each child's personal growth and development. We are committed to integrating the core principles of the IB into every aspect of our curriculum, fostering curious, knowledgeable, and compassionate learners. By instilling qualities such as inquiry, critical thinking, and empathy, we prepare our students to navigate the complexities of the world with confidence and integrity. Through our dedicated approach, we create an environment where students thrive academically and emotionally, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.
A Journey Towards the PYP Exhibition
A pivotal aspect of the IB PYP is the culminating project in Grade 5: the PYP Exhibition. This significant event is not merely an academic milestone; it is a celebration of the students' journey through the PYP, showcasing their ability to conduct in-depth, collaborative inquiry. By growing our school alongside our students, we are laying the groundwork for a cohesive educational experience that builds toward this exhibition. Each year added to our program is a step closer to this comprehensive project, allowing our students to develop the skills, knowledge, and attitudes they will need to succeed.
The Benefits of a Cohesive IB Experience
Extending our program to include a second grade—and, in the future, up to fifth grade—provides numerous benefits aligned with IB principles:
Continuity of Learning:Â A seamless educational journey from early childhood through the end of the PYP ensures that students can fully immerse themselves in the IB's inquiry-based learning model, building upon their knowledge and skills year after year.
Strengthening Relationships:Â Growing with our current cohort fosters deep, lasting relationships among students, teachers, and the community. These connections are the bedrock of a supportive learning environment where every student feels valued and understood.
Preparation for the PYP Exhibition:Â Early introduction to the principles of the IB PYP prepares students for the rigors of the PYP Exhibition, ensuring they have the necessary research, communication, and critical thinking skills to undertake their culminating project with confidence.
Cultivating a Community of Lifelong Learners
Our decision to grow with our current first-grade class is a testament to our belief in the power of the IB PYP and its impact on developing well-rounded, inquisitive, and compassionate individuals. By intentionally expanding, we are not just educating students; we are nurturing a community of lifelong learners who understand the importance of caring for the world and the people in it.
As we look to the future, we are excited by the opportunities this growth presents. Our journey is one of collective ambition, driven by the shared goal of offering an exceptional education that aligns with the highest standards of the IB. Together, we are laying the foundations for a future where our students are empowered to explore, innovate, and lead with integrity and empathy.