“What exactly is the IB diploma?” That’s the first question many parents and students ask when they hear about the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. After speaking with Ms. Diamond, North Broward’s Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) coordinator, our writers at The Eagle Gazette learned about the program, and the significance of the pinning ceremony.
The IB Diploma Programme is a rigorous and competitive academic opportunity, “Globally recognized as one of the top college-prep programs, with nearly 3,000 schools offering it and over 3,300 universities across 143 countries accepting credit. IB students represent over 200 nationalities, and more than 8,000 trained examiners ensure consistent, high-quality assessment. The program has been preparing students for success in college and beyond since 1970…the IB Diploma requires candidates to take 7 IB rigorous courses their junior and senior years.”
For over 20 years, North Broward has offered students the incredible opportunity to be diploma candidates, considering it to be, “More than just an academic credential, the IB experience builds critical thinking, character, and confidence. It’s a challenging, rewarding journey that demands commitment, curiosity, and resilience.”
In other words, the IB Diploma is not just another set of classes. It is an internationally recognized program that allows students to think critically and learn more about the world around them while developing a sense of purpose, preparing students for their futures. While it does require commitment and dedication, it also opens doors for universities and careers worldwide.
This year, North Broward currently has 53 IB Diploma candidates, 35 seniors and 18 juniors. To honor their academic commitment, North Broward hosted the third annual IB Pinning Ceremony, “Our third annual IB Induction to Candidacy Ceremony at North Broward Preparatory School recognizes first and foremost academic progress of these seniors, but we also celebrate a deeper journey. We applaud our Year Two students for their completion and publication of their Extended Essays and their continuation into Year Two of this prestigious program.”
At the pinning ceremony, students promised to continue working toward the IB Diploma. This means they will complete all their coursework in each class and take the external exams in May.
As these students move forward in their IB journey, the pinning ceremony marks not just academic commitment, but personal growth, resilience, and the start of an experience that will shape their futures. We wish them the best of luck, and cannot wait to see what lies ahead on their academic journeys.
