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2 District 9-R schools intensify curriculum

DHS, Miller take global approach

Durango High School and Miller Middle School have qualified as models of global-perspective education.

The term is from the International Baccalaureate World School. It means emphasis is placed on student-led learning of a foreign language from pre-kindergarten through high school, in-depth study of a single aspect of a broad field and the international impact of events.

Three district elementary schools, Needham, Animas Valley and Florida Mesa, already have International Baccalaureate identification.

“This methodology provides students with opportunities to develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills needed to manage complexity and take responsible actions for the future,” a school district news release said.

The International Baccalaureate designation isn’t conferred easily, district spokeswoman Julie Popp said. It required the work of teachers over several years to lay the foundation for a different approach to learning.

The curriculum covers math, science, arts, physical education, technology and health, but studied from a global perspective.

As part of being authorized as an International Baccalaureate school, teachers must regularly take part in a wide variety of professional-development classes to update their knowledge and to share their expertise with colleagues.

At Durango High School, about one-third of freshmen and sophomores will enroll in the International Baccalaureate program. The remainder can choose between the da Vinci model that focuses on science, technology, engineering and math, or the base-camp program that is project-oriented.

DHS Principal Leanne Garcia credited teachers for getting International Baccalaureate status for the school.

“As a result of this work, our students are developing college and career skills as problem-solvers, inquirers, thinkers and communicators,” Garcia said.

Miller Principal Cito Nuhn said: “Through this process, Miller teachers have created a learning environment that aims to place students at the center of the classroom experience. It has increased student levels of critical thinking.”

daler@durangoherald.com

On the Net

The application of the International Baccalaureate approach at Miller Middle School and Needham Elementary School can be viewed at:

Miller Middle: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIDp1yE_v20

Needham Elementary: www.youtube.com/watch?v=owlHRXui_QE

Jan 19, 2016
Durango schools cut International Baccalaureate, Small Community Learning programs


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