• MYP Johnson K-8 School of International Studies

      During the summer of 2009, Johnson Middle School was authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization to become the only International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle School in Manatee County.  The authorization process took three years to complete and involved many hours of training, documentation, and implementation.  All students at Johnson K-8 are enrolled in the program. 

      The school that carries out the mission of the IB Organization  is not average.  IB is a rigorous program that is facilitated by highly qualified teachers and carried out by the students. The IB program is different because it stresses a non-lecture classroom in which there is active student participation. The students are taught and encouraged to be inquirers and to be motivated and excited about their own learning. IB is unique because it teaches the critical thinking, problem-solving, and reflection skills that are desired by universities and future employers.

      What is the MYP?

      The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) emphasizes intellectual challenge.   It encourages students aged 11 to 16 to make practical connections between their studies and the real world, preparing them for success in further study and in life.

      What does the MYP offer students?

      The MYP aims to develop active learners and internationally minded young people who can empathize with others and pursue lives of purpose and meaning.

      The programme empowers students to inquire into a wide range of issues and ideas of significance locally, nationally and globally. The result is young people who are creative, critical and reflective thinkers. 

      The Benefits of the MYP

      Research shows that students participating in the MYP:

      • build confidence in managing their own learning;
      • learn by doing, connecting the classroom to the larger world outperform non-IB students in critical academic skills;
      • consistently have greater success in IB Diploma Programme examinations;
      • thrive in positive school cultures where they are engaged and motivated to excel; and
      • develop an understanding of global challenges and a commitment to act as responsible citizens.

      Linking the MYP to other IB Programmes

      The MYP builds on the knowledge, skills and attitudes developed by the IB Primary Years.

      Programme (PYP), and prepares students for the demanding requirements of the IB Diploma Programme (DP) and IB Career-related Programme (CP).