An International Baccalaureate Magnet School
The International Baccalaureate and IBMYP at Ammons
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a recognized leader in the field of international education. IB programmes encourage students to be reflective, active, and lifelong learners and critical thinkers. IB students are forever curious, fully engaged citizens who both embrace their own culture and are open and responsive to other cultures and views. Herbert A. Ammons Middle School was the FIRST authorized IB Middle Years Programme in Miami-Dade County.
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Founded in 1968, the IB currently works with over 3,555 schools in 144 countries to develop and offer three challenging programmes to over one million students aged 3 to 19 years.
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We value our hard earned reputation for quality, high standards, and pedagogical leadership. We promote intercultural understanding and respect, not as an alternative to a sense of cultural and national identity, but as an essential part of life in the 21st century. At its heart, the IB is motivated by a mission to create a better world through education. All of this is captured in our mission statement.
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The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) emphasizes intellectual challenge. It encourages students aged 11 to 16 to make practical connections between their studies and the real world, preparing them for success in further study and in life.
IBMYP at Ammons Middle School
The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) at Herbert A. Ammons Middle School is an educational framework designed for students aged 11 to 14 (grades 6-8).
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Key features of the IB MYP at Herbert A. Ammons Middle School include:
Holistic Education: The MYP emphasizes the development of the whole person, focusing not only on academic achievement but also on the personal, social, and emotional growth of students.
Global Contexts: Learning in the MYP is organized around six global contexts, which provide a framework for exploring themes and issues that have global significance. These contexts include identities and relationships, personal and cultural expression, orientations in space and time, scientific and technical innovation, fairness and development, and globalization and sustainability.
Approaches to Learning (ATL): The MYP places a strong emphasis on the development of skills necessary for learning. These include communication skills, research skills, critical thinking, self-management, and social skills.
Interdisciplinary Learning: MYP promotes interdisciplinary teaching and learning, encouraging students to make connections across various subjects and see the relevance of their studies in real-world contexts.
Service Learning: Community service and action are integral parts of the MYP. Students are encouraged to apply their learning to address real-world issues and make a positive impact on their communities.
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The IB MYP aims to provide a challenging and comprehensive education that prepares students for the next phase of their academic journey while fostering international-mindedness and a commitment to service and responsible citizenship.
School Accolades and Recognitions
• Recognized by US News and World Report in 2023-2024 as the #46 ranked Middle School in Florida, the #21 magnet program in Florida and the #15 Middle School in Miami-Dade County out of over 1000 middle schools.
• First fully authorized schoolwide International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program IBMYP in Miami-Dade County 2006-2007, reauthorized in 2010-2011, 2015-2016 & 2021-2022
• Recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education, 2009 and 2018
• Recognized as a Merit School of Excellence/Distinction by Magnet Schools of America for over 15 years
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• Recognized as a Nationally Certified Magnet School by Magnet Schools of America (MSA) in August, 2017 and recertified in 2021
This award recognizes schools exemplifying the five pillars of Diversity, Innovative Curriculum and Professional Development, Academic Excellence, High Quality Instructional Systems, and Family and Community Partnerships
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• Earned an “A” school from the state of Florida from 2000 - today
• Recipient of the Five Star School Award from 2000-2019
This award was created by the Commissioner's Community Involvement Council and is presented annually to those schools that have shown evidence of exemplary community involvement in the categories of Business Partnerships, Family Involvement, Volunteerism, Student Community Service and School Advisory Councils
• Golden School Award Recipient for over 10 years
This award recognizes a school for volunteerism where the total number of hours in volunteer services equals twice the number of students enrolled in the school
• Rated as a top Middle School in MDCPS for student contribution in United Way, 2004-2024
• Winner of the Miami-Dade County Middle School Athletics Varsity and Junior Varsity All Sports Award recognizing the top sports program in the county
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• Principal, Maria Costa, recognized as the South Region Principal of the Year 2017
Administration
Our Administrative Team
Ammons Middle School boasts an exceptional administrative team dedicated to cultivating a dynamic and enriching learning environment. Led by Principal Maria Costa, the team brings a wealth of experience and passion for education. What sets this administrative team apart is their unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of academic excellence, personal growth, and inclusivity. Embracing a collaborative approach, they prioritize open communication and actively engage with students, parents, and faculty. The Ammons Middle School administrative team is known for their innovative work philosophy, blending traditional educational values with a forward-thinking mindset. They prioritize student success, embracing new teaching methodologies, and encouraging creativity to prepare students for the challenges of the future. This team's dedication to creating a supportive community and their focus on holistic student development truly make Ammons Middle School a special place for learning and growth.
