As an IB World School, Northern Middle School provides competitive IB MYP students with a well-rounded preparation for high school. International Baccalaureate programs represent the gold standard of internationally-recognized, rigorous curriculum. The IB Middle Years Programme is a five year programme, starting in the 6th grade and culminating with the awarding of an IB MYP Credential in the 10th grade. The Middle Years Programme aligns vertically with both North Hagerstown High School’s IB Career-related Programme and their IB Diploma Programme. The IB MYP consists of eight subject groups, which all students take throughout their MYP journey; Language Acquisition (French, Spanish, and German), Language and Literature, Individuals and Societies, Science, Mathematics, Arts, Physical and Health Education, and Design. Inquiry is used in all subject areas to expand student knowledge and understanding of the world around them. The student centered framework, which is built around the ten traits of the IB Learner Profile, enhances the WCPS Essential Curriculum by building critical thinking skills in an internationally minded classroom. All of our students are expected to participate and contribute to our Service in Action initiative. Additionally, students complete a compacted math curriculum that would permit them to take Algebra I in Grade 7 and Geometry in Grade 8.