Oxford, AL – Oxford City Schools proudly introduces the Oxford High School Global Honors Academy, a groundbreaking academic initiative designed to equip students with a college-level curriculum, fostering preparation for both college and career success. A key component of this innovative academy is the International Baccalaureate Program. Applications for the 2024-25 academic year are currently being accepted until February 9, extending consideration to residents and non-residents of the Oxford City Schools’ district.
Superintendent Shannon Stanley expresses enthusiasm about the Global Honors Academy, stating, “Oxford High School’s recognition as a top 25 high school in our state this year sets the stage for the academy to elevate opportunities, empowering our students for future success.”
The Global Honors Academy offers three distinct honors level pathways: International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), and Dual Enrollment (DE). These pathways present academically challenging coursework in English, history, math, science, arts, and foreign language. Oxford High School is currently in the candidacy phase to become an authorized IB World School.
While Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment (DE) are well-known, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program may be less familiar. IB provides an opportunity for college credit similar to AP courses but is governed by an international body, differing from AP courses, which are defined by U.S. educators. IB courses emphasize inquiry-based critical thinking, global-mindedness, and written communication. Taught on campus by IB-credentialed instructors, students may earn internationally recognized college credit over their junior and senior years.
Julia Hill, IB coordinator for the Global Honors Academy, explains, “Adding IB allows us to extend an internationally recognized academic option for our students, expanding their global awareness and exercising their student voice.”
Laura Phillips, IB Head of School for the Global Honors Academy, expresses her excitement, stating, “The IB Program is perhaps the most exciting opportunity I’ve been a part of in my nearly forty years in education. The program inspires students to develop agency, critical-thinking and communication skills, and creativity.”
Oxford High School is currently in the candidacy phase of authorization to become an IB World School. For further information or to request an application, interested individuals can email globalhonors@oxboe.com.
