The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) is five year, world-level educational program encouraging students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world. The IB MYP approach aligns Montessori principles, IB pedagogy, and traditional school subjects. It offers interdisciplinary teaching in the disciplines of Language and Literature (English), Spanish, Mandarin, Individuals and Societies (humanities), Design, Science, Mathematics, Physical Education, and the Arts. Designed for students aged 11 to 16, the MYP allows students and educators to use global contexts to create relevance.

Alcuin Upper School sophomores conclude their MYP experience with a personal project.  As the product of the student’s own initiative, the personal project demonstrates a significant body of work produced over an extended time. Through the personal project, the Alcuin MYP student uses academic skills to address a topic of personal interest and importance. 

Alcuin students’ personal projects have included topics of global significance, such as the plight of refugees, and topics of personal passion, such as creating and providing access to sports clinics for students in Dallas.


The Middle School serves students in seventh and eighth levels in the Middle Years Programme of International Baccalaureate.

Verna Salta is the Head of the Middle School and can be reached at (972) 239-1745, Ext. 251, or at Verna.Salta@alcuinschool.org.

What are the benefits of Middle Years Programme curriculum model?

Research provided by the IB conducted by independent researchers and institutions shows consistent benefits for students participating in the MYP:
  • build confidence in managing their own learning
  • learn by doing, connecting the classroom to the larger world
  • outperform non-IB students in critical academic skills
  • consistently have greater success in IB Diploma Programme examinations
  • thrive because IB MYP creates school cultures with high student engagement and motivation
  • develop an understanding of global challenges and a commitment to act as responsible citizens.
Source:  International Baccalaureate Organization®

Meet the Administrators

List of 2 members.

  • Photo of Kelly Ritchie

    Dr. Kelly Ritchie 

    Alcuin School
    Associate Head of IB
    Austin College - English
    Austin College - Teaching
    University of North Texas - Curriculum and Instruction
    Lamar University - Educational Leadership and Principal Certification
    2022
  • Photo of Verna Salta

    Verna Salta 

    Alcuin School
    Director of Middle School
    FAME in Phillippines - Phil 22
    Ateneo de Manila University - BS
    Syracuse University - MS
    2005
Innovative Thinkers. Passionate Learners.