IB World School & Policies - International Academy

IB World School | International Academy

IB Policies

As an authorized IB World School, the IA offers the Middle Years Program and Diploma Program to all students in grades nine through twelve. The IA provides a unique blend of rigorous academic standards, student-centered learning, and an emphasis on global citizenship. The IA has been ranked by Newsweek magazine as one of the top public high schools in America since 2003. Additionally, US News and World Report has ranked the IA the number one high school in Michigan for college readiness, the number one IB high school in the nation and the number one high school with an open admissions policy nationally. In 2018, 68 International Academy students achieved National Merit status representing 18% of the senior class. Nationally, less than 1% of students qualify for this honor.

The IB curriculum at the International Academy prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century. Through the dynamic MYP and DP courses, students utilize interdisciplinary connections and apply knowledge to new situations to solve issues of local and global concerns.Please select “Curriculum” to learn more about the engaging courses offered at the International Academy.

It is the policy of the International Academy that no discriminatory practices based on gender, race, religion, color, age, national origin, disability, height, weight, or any other status covered by federal, state, or local law be allowed in providing instructional opportunities, programs, services, job placement assistance, employment or in policies governing student conduct or attendance. Any person suspecting a discriminatory practice should contact Lynne Gibson, principal, International Academy at lgibson@bloomfield.org or (248) 341-5900.

Students with disabilities are welcome to apply. IA will ensure, in collaboration with the resident district, that students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) while attending the IA and are provided all regular or special education and related aids and services set forth in the student's IEP or Section 504 Plan.

How The IB Was Founded

Founded 1996

Founded 1996

The International Academy was founded in 1996 and is the first all International Baccalaureate Diploma Program public high school in North America.

It is a magnet school that has expanded to three campuses within Oakland County, with thirteen member school districts. Commencing with ninth grade, it provides a unique blend of rigorous academic standards, practical and career-related learning as well as personal development opportunities. The IA is the second largest IB Diploma granting high school in the world and our Diploma Program acquisition results remain exceptional with 370 graduating seniors in 2019. The IB's Middle Years Program in ninth and tenth grades help build the skills necessary to be successful in later years.

Because students come to the IA from so many different districts, the richness of our diversity and perspectives are woven into classroom discussions as well in the many events throughout the school year. We continue to build our capacity as a community that cultivates a global culture encouraging acceptance and inclusion.

We also foster an environment of service learning where students contribute and engage with the local and global community in meaningful ways. Our service learning program begins in the ninth grade and helps students to reflect upon and seek extension activities relating to their identity and how to meaningfully pursue Creativity, Activity and Service experiences. Service learning combined with the IB Learner Profile engages students in the IB’s mission to "create a better and more peaceful world."