International Baccalaureate (IB) Ralston
Ralston School has been approved as an International Baccalaureate (IB) Candidate School for both the Primary Years Program (PYP) and Middle Years Program (MYP). The school is now in the candidacy phase as it works toward full authorization as an IB World School. As part of this phase, Ralston School will begin implementing the IB approach to teaching and learning for students in Kindergarten through Grade 9, bringing an engaging, inquiry based experience into classrooms.
Preparing Students for the Future
What is an IB Program?
IB is more than a curriculum. It is a way of teaching and learning that encourages students to ask questions, think critically, and understand their role in the world around them. With a focus on curiosity, communication, and global awareness, the program supports students in becoming thoughtful, caring, and capable learners. The IB approach helps students build important lifelong skills, including: ➡️ Independent thinking ➡️ Strong communication ➡️ Confidence in presenting ideas ➡️ Adaptability in new learning environments These skills support a smooth transition into high school and beyond.
A Focus on Inquiry and Communication
At the heart of IB is inquiry based learning. During the candidacy phase, teachers are building this approach into daily classroom experiences. Students are encouraged not only to learn information, but to explore it more deeply by: ➡️ Asking thoughtful questions ➡️ Understanding why learning matters ➡️ Applying knowledge to real world and community situations Communication is also a key part of the program. Students learn how to: ➡️ Share ideas clearly ➡️ Engage in conversations and debates ➡️ Present their thinking with confidence These skills begin in the early years and continue to grow throughout a student’s time at Ralston School.
What Learning Looks Like at Ralston School
Students at Ralston School will continue to learn all core Alberta curriculum subjects, including math, science, literacy, art, and music. These subjects are enhanced through IB’s approach, where learning is often connected through larger questions and real world applications. In the early years, learning is transdisciplinary. This means subjects are taught together through central themes or questions. Classrooms are active and collaborative, with: ➡️ Group work and meaningful discussions ➡️ Hands on, practical learning experiences ➡️ Opportunities to present and share ideas As students move into junior high, they continue with subject specific learning while also exploring interdisciplinary projects that build independence and real world understanding.
Unique Opportunities at Ralston School
In addition to the IB program, Ralston School offers a variety of engaging learning experiences: ➡️ Ag Pro programming with hands on opportunities ➡️ Business and graphic design learning ➡️ Student projects that give back to the community ➡️ A developing farm program with animals such as cows and chickens ➡️ Expanded French programming beginning in September ➡️ Opportunities in drama and visual arts These experiences allow students to explore their interests while connecting learning to real life.
Supporting a Diverse and Mobile Community
Ralston School welcomes families from many different backgrounds, including military and civilian families who move frequently. As an IB Candidate School, Ralston is building a program that provides consistency and continuity, with a focus on skills that transfer across schools and countries. At Ralston School, this approach is part of the experience for all students. Every child benefits from this way of learning.
Supporting Families
Ralston School welcomes students from the community of Ralston, the Village of Suffield, and surrounding areas. Families do not need to live within the immediate district to attend. The school is open to anyone interested in the IB approach to learning. Ralston School offers additional supports to help meet the needs of families: ➡️ Daycare available for children as young as three months during school hours ➡️ Before school care starting at 7:30 a.m. ➡️ After school care available until 4:30 p.m.