Students, parents, teachers, and guidance counselors must be aware of the increased rigor and heightened expectations of Pre-IB and IB courses at each grade level during the high school years. The purpose of these classes is to decisively engage each student's intellectual and creative potential. This program provides meaningful preparation for the university experience after high school. The general philosophy of Prince William County and Gar-Field High School is to make the International Baccalaureate Program available to all students who wish to challenge themselves and prepare for college in the best possible way. As such, there are no official entrance exams for Pre-IB or IB courses.
Family support is vital to the student's success.
This may mean giving thoughtful consideration as to which courses are taken in the middle school years and what can and cannot realistically fit into an academic schedule. Students wishing to enter Pre-IB English, for instance, should have received a positive recommendation from their English 8 teacher. Students are encouraged to attend after-school study sessions and seek assistance as needed. Parents are encouraged to provide a structured environment for study. These conditions will most accurately predict a student's success in Pre-IB and IB courses.