Why IB?
The International Baccalaureate program fulfills the requirements outlined by the state of Florida for a high school diploma; however, it goes far beyond the traditional curriculum. The IB stands strong, providing the 21st century student with the intellectual rigor and high academic standards necessary for success at the highest collegiate levels while promoting ideas of global understanding and responsible citizenship. The IB Diploma Programme's challenging pre-university curriculum strives to do more than any other curricula. The IB educates the whole student, focusing on developing the capacity for critical thinking, nurturing inquiry and love of learning, and building research and problem-solving skills. The IB experience also develops essential skills for communication and collaboration which are vital for success in collegiate and corporate environments.
The International Baccalaureate is recognized by universities in more than 140 countries. IB Bartow students have enrolled at some of the most prestigious universities and rigorous academic programs in the United States and around the world. All the Florida universities recognize the IB diploma and offer college credit for IB coursework. Many IB Diploma recipients begin college as sophomores, with 30 or more hours of college credit accumulated from their IB courses taken in high school.
For more information about the Benefits of IB visit https://www.ibo.org/benefits/.
Our History
A Brief History of the International Baccalaureate School at Bartow High School
Led by former School Board member Nancy Simmons, educators and members of the Polk County community began to look for a way to challenge the county's high school students who were looking for alternatives to an AP/Honors Program. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Program was determined to be an option worth considering. In 1993, the School Board approved the IB concept and selected Bartow High School as the site for the new school. With support from the Bartow Chamber of Commerce Education Task Force; John Stewart, Superintendent of Polk County Schools; Robert Helmick, Assistant Superintendent; Dr. Ed Vetter, Gifted Coordinator for Polk County Schools; Ernie Cooper, Bartow High School Principal; the Bartow business community and groups such as P.A.G.E. (Parents for Able-Learner & Gifted Education), the School Board gave final budget approval for the program at its meeting on January 24, 1995.
Under the direction of Dr. Ed Vetter, IB Principal and Dr. Louise Katz, IB School Counselor, the first class of ninth grade Pre-IB students entered the program in August 1995. In July 1996, the school earned approval from the IB Organization (IBO) to offer the IB Diploma Program. IB at Bartow High School graduated its Charter Class in 1999.
The addition of the IB Program added to the already rich heritage of Bartow High School (BHS), which traces its beginnings to the first school in the City of Bartow.