A Sense of Belonging

Upon returning from the IB Americas Conference held in the great mid-American city of Chicago, I have a better understanding and respect for the organization known as the International Baccalaureate. The IB Americas is one of three global regions within the IB organization. Its regional conference held in Chicago was truly something to behold. Over two thousand educators from North, Central, and South America were present in the heart of Chicago for a four day conference that featured outstanding keynote speakers, excellent student presentations, and most importantly, expert-led workshops that unpacked the pedagogy of the IB. It was a whirlwind of activity in the Windy City.

Credit to the organizers for putting together a first-rate conference that was expert in every regard, and meticulous in its planning. It was a first-rate conference at a first-rate venue in a first-rate city. The theme was: "Educating for Life". Current best-selling author and journalist Paul Tough ( http://www.paultough.com/the-books/how-children-succeed/ ) spoke on the need for developing character and socio-emotional skills in addition to cognitive skills. The power of narrative was in evidence as children's author Carmen Agra Deedy spoke of early experiences that led to a lifelong love of reading, and by extension, learning. Spanish mathematician Eduardo Saenz de Cabezon delivered an engaging talk in Spanish (translated into English), simultaneously making math relevant and showing the importance of language acquisition. Renowned educational commentator Sir Ken Robinson delivered a witty and intelligent closing talk on the changed role of the educator in the current age.

Perhaps the greatest takeaway was the notion of a sense of belonging, belonging to something greater than oneself. It was a great pleasure to take part in this conference alongside colleagues and like-minded educators. No one organization can be said to have all of the answers to the challenges facing education. Yet, the IB does a terrific job in providing an excellent framework for providing a holistic, integrated, and inquiry-based education from elementary through secondary levels. That is an accomplishment unto itself. With an expanding educational community that provides excellent resources and supports to its teachers, the IB can be said to be a forerunner in the educational field. Taken together, the IB is an organization worth belonging to.