From our principal, Becky Escamilla

Welcome!

Whittier International is a vibrant neighborhood school with an international focus. Because Whittier is home to students from more than 25 countries, it lends itself like no other to the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Our diverse population and the IB curriculum, create a uniquely rich school culture of which we are very proud.

Our school is an authorized International Baccalaureate/Primary Years Programme (IB/PYP), part of a growing number of IB PYP schools both nationwide and throughout the world. Our teachers have completed extensive IB training in the latest instructional practices, assessment, and child development to offer your child an educational experience that is world-renowned. We know that IB/PYP provides tremendous advantages for students, helping them to become “citizens of the world.”

IB/PYP provides a well-rounded program that incorporates the BVSD curriculum with an international focus. In kindergarten through fifth grade, students learn Spanish as a world language. In addition, our curriculum builds on state standards delivered through internationally developed, research-supported educational practices. “Inquiry” is a primary strategy used to integrate higher-order thinking, questioning, and application of content knowledge. As they complete each "Unit of Inquiry," students participate in projects that promote responsible citizenship, applying content knowledge through community action. Character education is approached through IB Attitudes and Outcomes. Students at Whittier regularly assess their ability to exhibit citizenship.

Finally, our families are actively involved at Whittier International. Volunteers are welcome in classrooms, helping to extend and enrich the curriculum. Our school also offers a wide assortment of after school enrichment and activities that bring our families and community together. As the new principal at Whittier, I have been thrilled with the positive and caring atmosphere at our school, the phenomenal teaching staff and our tremendously supportive parent organization. Community members describe Whittier as a “school with heart” where the environment is deeply caring. Our school’s high quality staff, dedicated to academic achievement for all, makes Whittier a choice for over 300 students.  I am delighted to be a member of this outstanding learning community and invite you to visit with me at any time to answer questions or offer support.

Sincerely,

Becky Escamilla