Academics

Middle School | Levels 7-8



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®

"With more than 10 years of experience providing the IB Middle Years Programme, we are pleased with the personal and educational benefits for our students.  As our students have matriculated, educators have commented on the ‘Alcuin it’ exemplified by academic achievement, confidence and love of learning.”

~ Joanne Chatlos, Director of Curriculum and Instruction

For Your Information

Meet the Administrators

List of 2 members.

  • Photo of Verna Salta

    Ms. Verna Salta 

    Head of Middle School
    AMI Training Center - 3-6
    Ateneo de Manila University - BS
    Syracuse University - MS
    2005
  • Photo of Joanne Chatlos

    Dr. Joanne Chatlos 

    Associate Head of School for Academics; IB MYP Coordinator
    AMI Training Center - 6-12
    University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - M.Ed.
    Toronto Montessori Institute - 3-6; 6-12
    William Jewel College - BA
    1998