Our Curricular Framework
The Academy for Global Citizenship is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) school and a Dual Language school. An IB authorization means we are part of a network of schools around the world implementing a rigorous framework for learning. All AGC students participate in the IB program, including those who matriculate into our optional Dual Language track. Our Dual Language track is a two-way Spanish-English immersion program which develops bilingualism and bi-literacy in both native English and Spanish speakers.
Students in grades K-5 participate in the IB Primary Years Program, while students in grades 6-8 participate in the IB Middle Years Program. is a transdisciplinary program of international education. It focuses on the total growth of the developing child and encompasses social, physical, emotional, and cultural needs in addition to academic development. The PYP draws on research and best practice from a range of international systems with a wealth of knowledge and experience from schools across the globe to create a relevant, engaging, challenging, and significant educational framework for all children.
The PYP framework consists of five essential elements: concepts, skills, attitudes, and action. The knowledge component is developed through inquires into six transdisciplinary themes of global significance, supported and balanced by six subject areas.
- A cycle of inquiry grounded in concept-based central ideas.
- Close collaboration among faculty, staff, and families.
- Research-based methods supported by relevant and ongoing professional development and sharing of practice with teachers in other schools.
- Holding all students accountable to high academic standards.
- Using formative and summative assessment data to drive decision-making.
- A healthy, child-centered environment.
- Curriculum organized into interdisciplinary Units of Inquiry.
- Extended learning day with a balance of time spent on core academic subjects, physical activity, and enrichment.
- A place-based education approach which honors the neighborhood and city in which our school exists.
- A rigorous and robust curriculum which challenges students to thinking deeply about what they are learning.
- Sister school partnerships around the world including schools in Uganda and India.
- Family engagement workshops centered around the school’s mission and vision and a plethora of volunteer opportunities.
- A high school and college student internship program.
- University partnerships including Northwestern, The School of the Art Institute, and University of Chicago.
- The intentional sharing of practices at speaking engagements and conferences in addition to welcoming hundreds of visitors each year.