Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School (LVA RCS) stands out as 1 of only 4 schools in the United States to offer all four International Baccalaureate (IB) Programmes — a distinction that places our school among the nation’s most comprehensive and globally-minded learning institutions.
From kindergarten through 12th grade, LVA empowers students to become inquirers, critical thinkers, and compassionate leaders prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Through the IB continuum, students develop the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to navigate life with purpose and confidence.
The IB Continuum at LVA: A Program for Every Stage of Learning
Primary Years Programme (PYP) – Grades K–5
The PYP sets the foundation for lifelong learning by nurturing curiosity and fostering a love for inquiry. Students explore key transdisciplinary themes such as “Who We Are,” “Where We Are in Place and Time,” and “How the World Works.” This approach connects learning across subjects and encourages meaningful exploration of both local and global contexts. LVA PYP students are empowered to take ownership of their learning, reflect on their growth, and develop the tools needed for academic and personal success.
Middle Years Programme (MYP) – Grades 6–10
The MYP provides a framework of academic challenge and life skills through six Global Contexts, including:
- Identities and Relationships
- Personal and Cultural Expression
- Scientific and Technical Innovation
- Globalization and Sustainability
- Orientation in Space and Time
- Fairness and Development
By Year 5, students complete a Personal Project that demonstrates their independent learning and understanding of key concepts. Another cornerstone of the MYP is Service as Action, which allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world community settings and develop a sense of responsibility and global citizenship.
Diploma Programme (DP) – Grades 11–12
Recognized globally for its academic rigor, the DP challenges students through a comprehensive curriculum that includes:
- Literature and Language Studies
- Individuals and Societies (e.g., politics, history, psychology)
- Sciences
- Mathematics
- The Arts
Students must also complete three core components:
- Theory of Knowledge – exploring how knowledge is acquired and understood
- Extended Essay – an independent research paper on a topic of personal interest
- Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) – hands-on experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom
Successful DP students often graduate with college credits and a portfolio of experience that prepares them for university and beyond.
Career-related Programme (CP) – Grades 11–12
The CP blends rigorous academic study with practical, career-related learning. LVA currently offers CP pathways through Project Lead the Way in Biomedical Science and Engineering. All CP students take DP English, a DP language course, and a DP elective of their choice. Math and science requirements are also met through these specialized tracks.
The CP has four core components:
- Personal and Professional Skills – life skills development tailored to career interests
- Language Development – a portfolio-based approach to expanding communication in a second language
- Reflective Project – an ethical investigation related to the student’s career pathway
- Service Learning – meaningful community involvement that enhances personal and professional growth
The IB Learner Profile: Shaping Global Citizens
At the heart of every IB programme is the IB Learner Profile — a set of 10 attributes that reflect the values of the IB community. LVA encourages students to be:
- Inquirers – curious and eager to learn
- Thinkers – applying critical thinking to real-world issues
- Communicators – confident in expressing ideas
- Risk-takers – unafraid of new challenges
- Knowledgeable – exploring a broad and balanced curriculum
- Principled – acting with integrity and fairness
- Caring – showing empathy and respect
- Open-minded – appreciating diverse perspectives
- Balanced – maintaining well-being and perspective
- Reflective – learning from experiences to grow
At Lehigh Valley Academy RCS, the IB continuum is more than a curriculum — it’s a mission to prepare students not only for college and careers but also for life as thoughtful, compassionate global citizens. Whether through inquiry-based learning in kindergarten or service-based projects in high school, our Jaguars are empowered to think critically, act responsibly, and lead with purpose.
Lehigh Valley Academy RCS 