PYP
Since its inception in 1997, the IB Primary Years Programme has left a profound impact on students aged 3–12 and their school communities globally, influencing the trajectory of international education. Grounded in transdisciplinary, inquiry-based, and student-centered approaches with responsible action at its core, the PYP has maintained its reputation as a trusted, timeless, and transformative educational model.
As of January 2024, James B. McPherson Elementary School has achieved authorization as a Primary Years Programme (PYP) school. Aligned with the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy, we are committed to providing high-quality, challenging, and internationally focused education, which we consider essential for the development of our students.
In the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), six transdisciplinary themes provide a framework for students to explore knowledge across subject areas in a meaningful and connected way. These themes include:
In the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), six transdisciplinary themes provide a framework for students to explore knowledge across subject areas in a meaningful and connected way. These themes include:
- Who we are
- How we organize ourselves
- Where we are in place and time
- How the world works
- Sharing the planet
- How we express ourselves.
The themes, guide Units of Inquiry that are built around powerful Central Ideas, promoting conceptual understanding that transcends facts and fosters deeper thinking. Each unit is further developed through Lines of Inquiry, which help students investigate key concepts from multiple perspectives.
The PYP is rooted in the 10 Learner Profile attributes: Reflective, Open-minded, Principled, Inquirer, Caring, Risk taker, Thinker, Knowledgeable, Balanced, and Communicator. This holistic approach ensures that students not only acquire knowledge, but also grow as compassionate, curious, and internationally minded individuals ready to engage with the world around them.
