Two Oak Cliff-area schools recognized as International Baccalaureate Candidates

DALLAS —Dallas ISD is bringing more educational opportunity into Oak Cliff with the announcement that John F. Peeler Elementary School and Hector P. Garcia Middle School have been recognized as International Baccalaureate (IB) Candidacy Schools.

“The International Baccalaureate is a rigorous, globally recognized school model that intentionally develops inquiring, knowledgeable and caring students who actively take part in creating a better world through intercultural understanding and respect,” said Roshelle Andrews, M.Ed,  Dallas ISD’s IB Coordinator. “IB students are empowered to consider how they think and learn, and are challenged to take ownership of their role as global citizens, not just students in a classroom.  In the IB, students connect their learning to other disciplines and apply it to provide solutions within the broader community.  This accomplishment is noteworthy as Peeler and Garcia will be the district pioneers of this model in the Oak Cliff area.”

Peeler Elementary has been selected to be a part of the Primary Years Programme that focuses on the whole child, preparing students to become active, caring, lifelong learners with respect for themselves and others.

“International Baccalaureate will enhance the development of international mindedness for Peeler students, Peeler teachers and our Oak Cliff Community,” said Principal Janie Carballo. “We are ready for this transformative experience!”

Garcia Middle has been selected to be a part of the Middle Years Programme that encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world.

“This was only possible with the support of our teachers, parents, and the Oak Cliff community believing in the potential of the students we serve,” said Principal David Lee. “The IB Programme will allow our students to be more culturally aware and be equipped with the skills to be successful in this rapidly changing world. We at H.P. Garcia are Javelina proud and we are ready for this courageous next step in the future of our students!”

During the candidate phase, Peeler and Garcia will begin trial implementation of the programme and will need to fulfill the International Baccalaureate (IB) requirements for authorization. These schools will be joining Dallas ISD’s nine other IB schools campuses.