Diploma Programme (Grades 11-12)

Welcome to the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Hilton High School

Students sitting in stairs

IB Mission Statement

The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people through intercultural understanding and respect. 

To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.

These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

Hilton Central School District Mission Statement

The Hilton Central School District is committed to educating each student for success academically, physically, emotionally, and socially.  We develop self-directed, life-long learners who think critically and creatively and function as caring, responsible, productive citizens.  We accomplish this by attracting and inspiring high quality educators, administrators and staff, and involving parents, volunteers and community members.

What is the IB Diploma program?

The IB Diploma program is an international rigorous pre-university course of study designed to engage students in critical and reflective thinking about several academic subjects.  It has high standards of assessments, benefits from a comprehensive, balanced, common curriculum, and places an emphasis on international understanding.

Interested in learning more about IB? Click here ----> International Baccalaureate

How does a student obtain an IB Diploma?

Over two years, the student will take a total of seven classes – three higher level (HL) and three standard level (SL), and the Theory of Knowledge class; complete a set of learning goals around creativity, action, and service, and write an extended essay on a topic chosen by them.

What are the benefits of taking the entire diploma?

IB is a pre-university course of study.  All students who have attempted the IB diploma have recognized its value in helping the with their collegiate coursework load.  Most students have stated that IB helped develop the skills they needed in college and allowed them an easier transition into collegiate life.  As with AP, some colleges will give credit based on students’ scores on their courses.  Some IB students have received minimal credit, while others started college with sophomore standing (28-30 credits).  Admissions counselors look favorably on transcripts with IB classes as they indicate that the student is willing to push themselves academically.