Meet LPS Focus Program Senior: Harry, International Baccalaureate (IB)

April 3, 2025

The mission of Lincoln Public Schools is to prepare ALL students for successful careers, lifelong learning and civic engagement.

High school graduation is a culmination of our scholars' and educators' hard work toward this significant milestone. 

The LPS Focus Programs’ core values of exploration, education, engagement and empowerment are beliefs rooted in the overall LPS mission and the school district’s commitment to high school graduation. 

Read how senior Harry used the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program at Lincoln High to Launch at LPS in this Q&A. 

 

Name: Harry

Grade: 12

Home High School: Lincoln High

Focus Program: International Baccalaureate (IB)

Why did you choose the IB Program?

I knew IB would build a community that pushes me every day to be my best self – in and out of the classroom.

How did the IB Program change your high school experience?

IB has given me relationships with truly exceptional individuals I never would've had the chance to grow with. IB additionally emphasizes the significance of exploring passions outside of the program. This has opened me up to the Lincoln High culture, and given me experience in a number of athletics, clubs, ensembles and student groups. 

What is the greatest lesson you learned from the IB Program? Why?

IB has grounded me in self-advocacy. From my proudest successes to humbling moments, this experience has taught me to ask for help when I need it. The students and teachers around me are always more than willing to guide me through the challenges I cross along the way.

How did the IB Program help you reach your graduation goals?

This program builds a support system to guide you every step of the way. Even beyond the students and teachers worldwide, IB holds a strong structure of administrators and coordinators within the building. These figures have an honest and clear passion for what they do, forming person-to-person relationships with all students involved. This system has balanced my abilities to grow on my own, as well as knowing I have people behind me, keeping me on track and where I need to be. 

What are your post-graduation plans?

I plan to attend the University of Michigan for biological sciences.

How did the IB Program help prepare you for those post-graduation plans? 

IB places an emphasis on a well-rounded education. In getting in-depth, advanced experience in six separate subject groups, I have constructed a basis of knowledge that will allow me to thrive in whatever classroom setting I find myself in. Furthermore, IB has developed my study and writing skills, both preparing me to excel in further education. 

How did the IB Program help prepare you for the future?

As a truly unique network of learners worldwide, IB has been an opportunity to explore my identity in a global context. This program is a basis of connection for students like myself to bridge a curricular divide across the world. Ultimately, this provides me with an education relevant to people and places outside of what I came into IB familiar with.

What would your advice be to younger students considering joining your focus program? Why?

I could not recommend IB higher for students looking to take a risk and foster their personal growth. The unique set of resources, teachers, staff and students this program brings together has allowed me and many others to grow educationally, socially and personally.  Allow yourself to identify your strengths and weaknesses, and take advantage of this driven community around you to be the best you can be. 

What are you most thankful about this experience? Why?

As I've continued to recognize, I am incredibly grateful for the people this program has surrounded me with. I've met students who will put others’ success before their own. I've met the most passionate teachers I've had in my academic career. I've met staff members who devote themselves to this program, allowing me and many others to find success throughout these four years. These people will continue to have an impact on my life, as I continue to grow as a student and person. 

Congratulations, Harry! We wish you the best in your future endeavors. We are thankful our educators could help you Launch at LPS!

 

Choose your passion. Choose your community. Choose your future with LPS Focus Programs. 

Learn more about the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program at Lincoln High by visiting its website at https://home.lps.org/ib/ or stop by our website home.lps.org/focus to get more information about all our focus programs.

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