Shepard IB Middle School is a member of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). This organization is recognized the world over as a leader in the field of international education, encouraging students to be active learners, well-rounded individuals and engaged world citizens. Presently, over 2,000 schools in 125 countries offering the three challenging IB programs to over a half-million students aged 3 to 19.

In Durham Public Schools, IB programs are offered at Burton Elementary for the Primary Years Program, Shepard IB Middle School for years 1-3 of the Middle Years Program, and Hillside High School for years 4 and 5 of the Middle Years Program, in addition to, grades 11 and 12 as the Diploma Program. All three programs place strong emphasis on international understanding and responsible citizenship.

The eight IBO required courses of study include: Language A (language arts), Language B (at Shepard, Chinese or Spanish), Physical Education, Science, Arts (art, band, etc.), Mathematics, Technology, Health Science, and Humanities (social studies). Another area of study offered at Shepard IB Middle School is Law and Forensics.

The Middle Years Program (MYP) provides a framework of academic challenge and life skills appropriate to this stage of adolescence. The focus of the MYP is the students’ intellectual and social development. Five ideas known as the Areas of Interaction are at the core of the MYP curriculum. These are not isolated academic subjects, but rather are common themes established within and visible across all specific disciplines.