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IB Programme

International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme

International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme at Winter Park

Excellence with a Global Edge

Winter Park High School has been home to one of the longest-running International Baccalaureate (IB) Programmes in Florida. Known worldwide for academic rigor and a global perspective, IB challenges Wildcats to think critically, act with integrity, and lead with purpose.

At Winter Park, IB isn’t just a curriculum – it’s a community, a culture, and a pathway to opportunities that reach across the globe.

Learn More About IB

What is IB?

The IB Diploma Programme is a two-year academic program for juniors and seniors that emphasizes inquiry, balance, and international-mindedness.

At Winter Park, IB students:

  • Take advanced courses across six subject areas (English, World Languages, Social Studies, Science, Math, and the Arts).
  • Complete the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, exploring how we know what we know.
  • Conduct original research through the Extended Essay.
  • Engage in creativity, activity, and service (CAS) projects that connect learning to the real world.

Why Winter Park IB Stands Out

We’re not new to this. Our program has a track record that speaks for itself.

Legacy of Excellence: One of the oldest IB Programmes in Florida.

College-Ready Graduates: IB students consistently earn admission to top universities worldwide.

Global Perspective: IB develops internationally minded learners who value inquiry, reflection, and service.

Proven Results: High diploma pass rates and strong AP/IB crossover opportunities give Wildcats a competitive edge.

Wildcat Tradition: Generations of Winter Park IB graduates are leading in every field – from medicine to public service to the arts.

 

IB Contacts

Mr. Andrew Disney
Advanced Studies Coordinator
andrew.disney@ocps.net

Important IB Resources

 

Applying to IB

Winter Park High School is not a magnet school. Applicants are selected based on a variety of criteria, including:

  • Student Must be Zoned for WPHS
  • Review of Middle School Transcript (Final and Current Grades)
  • Successful Completion of Algebra I
  • Review of Standardized Assessment Scores
  • Teacher Recommendations
  • Self-Interview Video
  • IB Diploma Programme Overview

    The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) is a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum designed for juniors and seniors who commit to the full program. Students complete:

    • Six IB courses (with at least three at the Higher Level (HL) and three at the Standard Level (SL))
    • Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
    • Extended Essay (EE)
    • Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS)

     

    Most universities award college credit for IB courses, especially those taken at the HL level.

    Course Levels

    Standard Level (SL)

    • Minimum of 150 instructional hours
    • Covers grade-level content and skills

     

    Higher Level (HL)

    • Minimum of 240 instructional hours
    • Extends beyond grade-level expectations with greater depth and complexity

    IB Assessments & Scoring

    Each IB course includes a combination of internal and external assessments, typically 3-4 per course. These assessments contribute to the final score, which ranges from 1 to 7. A score of 4 or higher is considered passing.

    To earn the IB Diploma, students must:

    • Take three HL exams and three SL exams
    • Accumulate a minimum of 24 points across their six courses
    • HL exams are generally more demanding than SL exams, requiring deeper application of knowledge and critical thinking.
    • TOK
    • Extended Essay
    • CAS 

    Core Components of the IB Diploma

    Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

    TOK encourages students to explore how knowledge is constructed and understood across disciplines and cultures. Through inquiry and discussion, students examine their own assumptions and gain insight into diverse perspectives.

    Extended Essay (EE)

    The EE is a 4,000-word independent research paper on a topic of the student’s choice. It fosters academic writing, critical thinking, and self-directed learning.

    Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS)

    CAS challenges students to grow beyond the classroom through meaningful experiences in the arts, physical activity, and community service. Students also complete a CAS project that they design and lead themselves.

     

  • Join the IB Parents Group at Winter Park High School!

    The IB Parents Group is here to support and celebrate our students throughout their Pre-IB and IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) journey. With over 500 students in our IB programs, we’re proud to be part of a thriving academic community and we know that parent involvement makes all the difference.

    We are a volunteer-led organization dedicated to building community, enriching the IB experience, and adding a little joy to our students’ rigorous academic schedules. Through your tax-deductible donations, membership, and volunteer time, we can provide meaningful support and memorable experiences for our students and teachers.

    Our efforts are funded through:

    • Individual and business donations
    • Fundraising events
    • IB merchandise sales

    We’re excited to work on behalf of all our IB students and we know that with your help, we can make this program even stronger!

    How You Can Help:

    Volunteer Your Time

    We host events and activities throughout the year to support our students and staff. Volunteers are essential to making these moments successful and special.

    Opportunities include:

    • Setting up and handing out snacks at Symposiums held during school hours
    • Chaperoning IB-related activities 
    • Participating in the Planning and Execution of IB Events
    • Assisting with fundraising and social events
    • Securing business and food sponsors
    • Sharing ideas to enhance the IB experience
    • Proctoring IB Exams

    Make a Donation

    Your financial support helps us fund student events, teacher appreciation, and more.

    Ways to give:

    •  Shop IB apparel and merchandise
    • Sponsor a student lunch or event through your business
    • School Cash Donations

    Donate Supplies

    We’re always in need of supplies to support our events.

    Helpful donations include:

    • Paper products (plates, napkins, utensils)
    • Bottled water
    • Individually wrapped snacks (chips, candy, etc.)

    Let’s Build Something Great Together!

    Whether you’re able to give a little time, a donation, or just your enthusiasm, we welcome you to be part of our IB Parents Group. Together, we can make the IB experience at WPHS even more rewarding for our students, our teachers, and our families.

    Click here if you’re interested in learning more about the IB Parents Group at Winter Park!

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