ANSWER:

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) is a Grades 6 through 10 framework of academic challenge that encourages students to embrace and understand the connections between traditional subjects and the real world, and become critical and reflective thinkers. Costs vary from year-to-year based on the number of staff members requiring professional development and the IB fees charged. Adding a MYP at Sligo Middle School for FY 2016 would cost $101,430, based on an average size middle school. This includes $46,140 for substitutes; professional part-time salaries; travel for professional learning for staff; and dues, registration, and fees. The additional 0.8 teacher position (MYP coordinator) would cost $55,290, including employee benefits.

Other program and cost configurations for adding MYP to the Down County Consortium are indicated in items 2and 3 in the table below. Adding the MYP at a high school for FY 2016 would cost $78,436. This includes $37,782 for substitutes; professional part-time salaries; travel for professional learning; and dues, registration, and fees. The additional 0.6 teacher position in the high school (MYP coordinator) would cost $40,654, including employee benefits. It is expected that middle schools with MYP will provide an option for students to continue the program in Grades 9 and 10.

IB has an application process that typically takes two years to complete. To demonstrate readiness for the program, schools are required to show commitment to the IB philosophy, professional development, curriculum and assessment, and financial support from the school district administration and school board.