Published: July 27, 2021
In a year when most students experienced learning loss due to COVID, students in Notre Dame Academy's International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program excelled, earning their highest scores of the past two years. 100% received the internationally-recognized IB Diploma and 90% scored four or higher, the score at which most colleges begin giving college credit.
"The NDA IB students really rose to the occasion, showing persistence and grit. Our students' high scores during COVID are a true testament to how NDA's IB program teaches students the lifetime skills needed to succeed irrespective of circumstances," said Notre Dame Academy (NDA) International Baccalaureate Chair and International Student Coordinator, Angie Joseph.
The Notre Dame Academy students' high International Baccalaureate scores translated into impressive college credit. Brooke Seelenbinder '21 will start Michigan State University's pre-veterinary program as sophomore thanks to earning 32 college credits. "Going to Michigan State this year with enough credits to be above sophomore status will not only enable me to double major but will also allow me to dive straight into classes in my major," said Seelenbinder. "I'm beyond grateful that NDA's IB program gave me the knowledge base and skills to be confident and successful in college and beyond."
The secret to why NDA's International Baccalaureate students thrived during COVID is in how IB is structured. IB students take ownership of their own learning allowing them to achieve at their own level and become more independent. Over the two-year-long courses, IB teachers coach students through inquiry, analysis, and reflection. This allows students to learn and practice skills that will assure a smooth transition to college.
Additionally, unlike Advanced Placement courses where a student's college credit eligibility is entirely based on the score of a single test, International Baccalaureate students are evaluated over several assessments. This made it easier for the IB program to quickly adapt to educational changes during COVID. "NDA's IB students are assessed by international standards meaning they take the same classes as students in other International Baccalaureate schools all over the world," explained Joseph.
In contrast to that of NDA's IB students, overall national student performance dropped as students grappled with online learning due to COVID. The Scholastic Testing Service, Inc. reported a 10 point drop in the median composite score of students who took the High School Placement Test in 2020-2021. Notre Dame Academy is northwest Ohio's only International Baccalaureate Diploma World School. Additional information about NDA's International Baccalaureate Program can be found at nda.org. Below Brooke is being interviewed by the local news about the results!
To view coverage from 13ABC go to https://www.13abc.com/2021/07/27/nda-students-thrive-during-pandemic/?fbclid=IwAR1KVB_ohx4SHXMydY_x_pRoCXNw3smiYuwyTz2dNeXEPmNEXlsuW0GHcFQ
By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Use.