WAKELAND TAKES BIG STEP TOWARD IB DESIGNATION

(Bradenton, FL. - February 13, 2008) This is a big week for Wakeland Elementary School of International Studies as it strives to become the Manatee District's first and only elementary version of an International Baccalaureate school. An authorization group from the International Baccalaureate Organization will visit the school on Thursday and Friday, February 14-15, 2008 to determine if Wakeland meets the necessary requirements to be designated an IB Primary Years Programme.

Designed for students aged 3 to 12, the IB Primary Years Programme draws on research and best practices from a range of national and international schools to create a relevant, engaging, challenging and significant educational framework for all children, according to the IB web site.

“This is another big step in the total transformation of our school,” said Wakeland Principal Dr. Chuck Fradley. “Our staff, students and parents are all excited and eager to demonstrate the progress we've made toward providing a unique educational environment for the children of Manatee County.”

Fradley became principal at Wakeland three years ago. During his tenure, the school has converted from a traditional elementary school to a school with no defined geographical boundaries. All of the 400-plus students who attend Wakeland attend as a result of school choice. The process to become designated a PYP school is a three-step affair that includes a preliminary feasibility study and a one-year trial implementation period. Wakeland has successfully completed those steps and this week's evaluation will complete the authorization process.

Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. Johnson Middle School in Bradenton is currently working to earn an IB designation as a Middle Years Programme, while nearby Southeast High School has had a successful and highly acclaimed IB programme for 10 years.

For more information on Wakeland or this week's events at the school, please contact Dr. Fradley at 741-3358. Wakeland is located at 1812 27th St. E. You can visit the school's web site at www.Wakelandelementary.info

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