Lincoln Public Schools Focus Programs are a customized high school experience rooted in connection and opportunities.
Lincoln High junior Sophia knew she wanted to challenge herself more in the classroom and explore her passions in depth to uncover her future. Her curiosity led her to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program.
Read more about Sophia’s IB experience in this Q&A as one of our featured Focus Program Scholars.
Name: Sophia
Home High School: Lincoln High
Grade: 11
Focus Program: International Baccalaureate (IB)
Why did you choose the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program?
I chose the IB program because I wanted a greater academic challenge after middle school. I have always loved learning. I knew that the IB program would give me an opportunity to challenge my own beliefs and skills.
What do you like most about the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program?
The one thing I love the most about the IB program is the people you get to connect with and build relationships with. The community of IB students is tight-knit, and you get to know everyone in your classes so well. In addition, I’ve had so many amazing teachers that have made a difference in my life.
What makes the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program different?
The IB program is different in that it helps students explore a multitude of perspectives within a topic area. Instead of just skimming the surface, an idea is presented in a way that explains the “Why” and “How” of it. We get to hone in on specific information, which I love.
How do you get to explore your passions or interests at the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program?
I am very passionate about so many subject areas and IB allows me the freedom to grow in every single subject. Spanish, math, and psychology are some of my favorite classes. By taking each of my classes at an accelerated pace through IB, I am able to further my learning and learn more about myself through the process.
How has attending the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program empowered you as a student?
The IB program has empowered me as a student because I go to school every day wanting to learn. I love learning new things and allowing myself to challenge my own beliefs. For example, I have really enjoyed going to my IB Psychology class every day because I get to understand why humans act in certain ways and how my cognitive behaviors are similar to my peers.
What are your relationships with other students and staff like within the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program?
My relationships with other students and staff within the IB program build up my support system. Being able to work through challenging material with my IB friends is one of my favorite things to do. The staff within the IB program is so encouraging to all students, and they are so knowledgeable about the information they teach.
How has being a part of an LPS Focus Program added to your high school experience?
Being a part of IB has added to my high school experience because it has allowed me to meet so many new people. Lincoln High wasn’t my home school, but stepping out of my comfort zone and making so many friends has allowed me to be involved in lots of activities at LHS such as orchestra, math team, and Tri-M in addition to IB.
How has the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program prepared you for the future?
The IB program has prepared me for college in more ways than I can count. My time management skills have greatly improved over the last few years, especially after learning to prioritize. In college, I know there will be a lot expected of me, and every day, the IB program has prepared me to focus on what’s most important.
Why are focus programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program important to high school students?
Focus programs are so important to high school students because they allow everybody to forge their own path. Each focus program has its own specialties, and I love that LPS provides so many amazing options, like the IB program, for students.
What is the greatest thing you’ve learned since attending the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program?
The greatest thing I’ve learned since attending the IB program is that there are so many ways to approach learning. There’s not one “right” way. My style of learning is not the same as everyone else’s, and so being able to understand everyone’s differences, within and outside the IB program, has allowed me to become a more well-rounded individual.
Choose your passion. Choose your community. Choose your future with LPS Focus Programs.
Ready to choose your journey and learn more about the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program? Visit IB’s website. Don’t forget to explore our other LPS Focus Programs!