West Cook News

The Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy (PMSA) said late last week that it has been named an International Baccalaureate World School, and it will begin offering an International Baccalaureate degree starting in August.

The IB is a globally oriented education program designed by a nonprofit of the same name. The program was created in 1968 and is now offered by 4,267 certified schools worldwide

"We wanted to offer our students a more holistic education which will instill in them the skills, knowledge, and outlook to succeed in the 21st century, both in their local community and in the wider world," PMSA Principal Bessie Karvelas said. "At the same time, we wanted to give our teachers the opportunity to be a part of an international network of experts leading the field in education. We are delighted to become an IB World School, and we look forward to reaping the many benefits of the program."

The new program will offer students and staff the opportunity to share resources and co-learn with peers from throughout the IB's international network.

District 209 Superintendent Nettie Collins-Hart said the new program will help PMSA provide students with the dynamic academic preparation that the world beyond high school demands.

"We are in an exciting time in our district, where we are able to offer our students new programs to boost their academic achievement and enrich their education," she said. "With the changing landscape that is occurring in college and career readiness, we need to be able to offer our students new opportunities to grow and to learn, and I believe that the International Baccalaureate is a great way to achieve that goal. I commend the administration and staff at PMSA for earning this designation."