In the Pipkin Middle School library, Pipkin student International Baccalaureate Ambassadors shared why they chose IB.
“This year and last year, I was in Advanced Robotics here at Pipkin,” said Griffin Piercey, eighth-grader. “Before that, I was in Design Thinking. These classes and the principles I learn in IB, they’re going to help me in the future. Whether I’m an architect or engineer, I’m learning about things I will need to know with skills that will help me in the future.”
Surrounded by IB Ambassadors, the Schneider Family Foundation presented $270,000 to support International Baccalaureate programs at SPS on Wednesday, Oct. 2. The Schneider family has donated over $1.7 million to support the SPS IB programs over the years.
“The IB framework is important, but the students, they show its impact,” said J. Michael Schneider. “The skills they’re already developing, the teachers who help them, it’s impressive to see.”
Thanks to the Schneider Family Foundation’s generosity, this year’s gift will support SPS IB programs at all of its IB sites. The $270,000 donation will provide support for curriculum and instruction, field trips, trainings and workshops, as well as exam fees for students and support of the IB Ambassador program, said Natalie Murdock, executive director of the Foundation for SPS.
“When community partners like the Schneider Foundation support our public schools, it enhances the experience of our students,” said Murdock. “We are incredibly grateful to the Schneider family for their long-time support of the IB program. The impact they are making is immeasurable.”
Springfield Public School’s commitment to the International Baccalaureate is unmatched in the Midwest. From pre-kindergarten to high school graduation, students at SPS can explore the dynamic, enriching learning framework of IB – a continuous learning pathway rarely found in public education, says Jeremy Alsup, coordinator of IB.
“SPS is the only district in Missouri and one of a handful in the country to have pre-K to grade 12 IB programming,” said Alsup. “When fully implemented and explored, IB is transformative in helping students achieve greater and become the dynamic, innovative leaders our community needs. But without support, IB is not possible. We’re so thankful to partners who see the potential and support the possibilities. The Schneider Foundation’s contributions are truly immeasurable in their impact, and we are so grateful for their continued support.”
