IB NEWS
Issue: 2 October 2025
WHAT IS INTERNATIONAL MINDEDNESS?
International mindedness is a view of the world in which people see themselves connected to the global community and assume a sense of responsibility towards its members. By starting with the IB Learner Profiles here at Cullen, we have started to lay a foundation for our students to become internationally minded.
We teach these qualities not just as academic ideals, but as life skills that empower students to navigate an interconnected world with empathy and understanding. By embracing the IB Learner Profile, we aim to cultivate well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to our diverse global community.
WHAT IS TRANSDISCIPLINARY EDUCATION?
Transdisciplinar y education goes beyon d tra ditional subjec t boun daries, providin g a h olistic approa ch to learnin g. It en coura ges students to explore real-world issues an d develop skills that exten d beyon d in dividual disciplin es In th e PYP, it's about breakin g down th e walls between subjec ts, fosterin g a seamless integration of kn owledge f rom various domains
KEY ELEMENTS OF TRANSDISCIPLINARY LEARNING
Real-World Issues:
Transdisciplinary learning is rooted in real-world challenges By addressing authentic problems, students develop a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of subjects and their applications in the world.
Inquiry-based Learning:
Through inquiry-based learning, we encourage curiosity and independent thinking. Students learn to ask questions, seek answers, and develop a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.
Global Citizenship:
Transdisciplinary education aligns with the PYP's goal of creating globallyminded citizens. Students engage with diverse perspectives, fostering cultural awareness and empathy, essential qualities for navigating our interconnected world.
THE BENEFITS
Engagement:
Transdisciplinary learning allows students to explore their interests which, in turn, makes learning meaningful and relevant This engagement promotes a positive attitude towards education and a lifelong love of learning.
Holistic Development:
Along with academic achievement, your child will develop into a well-rounded individual with a deep sense of inquiry, adaptability, and a global perspective
Preparation for the Future:
Our world is changing rapidly The ability to connect knowledge across disciplines is a valuable skill Transdisciplinary education equips your child with the tools needed to face the challenges of the future with confidence
IB CONSULTANT VISIT
We had our consultant visit September 24 and 25 During this visit, Katie visited classrooms, meet with students, teachers, parents, and with our district leaders She provided us with a lot of feedback which we will use to get ready for authorization Our goals for this year based off of Katie’s feedback are: th th
Revising our language and assessment policies and share them with our community
Complete all units of inquiry in each grade level
Work on building inquiry with our staff and students
More parent communication
We are definitely on the right track!
UNIT 2 AT A GLANCE BY GRADE LEVEL
PRE-K KINDER
Theme: How We Organize Ourselves
Central Idea: We can organize ourselves and objects based on similarities and differences.
Learner Profiles:
Communicators- We will describe similarities and differences
Inquirers- We will ask questions
Caring- We will discuss ways to take care of the Earth
Theme: Where We Are in Place and Time
Central Idea: Physical and human characteristics influence our community.
Learner Profiles:
Thinkers- Students will think about how to classify objects
Inquirers- Students will ask questions about characteristics of objects
Knowledgeable- Students will know that objects have different characteristics
1ST
Theme: Sharing the Planet
Central Idea: Living things have physical and social needs in order to support survival.
Learner Profiles:
Inquirers- Students will ask questions learn more about structures of human and natural systems.
Open-Minded- Students will work in groups and respect other points of view
Knowledgeable- Students will be able to describe characteristics of animals
2ND
Theme: How We Organize Ourselves
Central Idea: People create systems to organize and solve problems
Learner Profiles:
Principled- Students will be responsible for selling products at Market Day
Thinkers- Students understand the functions of money
Communicators- Students will work collaboratively for Market Day and communicate their plans.
WHAT THIS LOOKS LIKE FOR EACH GRADE LEVEL
3RD
Theme: How We Organize Ourselves
Central Idea: Communities and cultures change over time
Learner Profiles: Thinkers- Students will think about causes of change. Open-Minded- Students will be open to different ways of solving problems and looking at different communities .
Risk-Takers- Students will share ideas and explore new concepts
4TH
Theme: How the World Works
Central Idea: Systems and patterns impact our world.
Learner Profiles: Knowledgeable- Students will understand what systems and patterns are
Reflective- Students will identify and reflect on patterns and systems
Thinkers- Students will use their knowledge of systems and patterns to solve problems and make changes
5TH
Theme: Where We Are in Place and Time
Central Idea: Transformation leads to adaptation
Learner Profiles: Open-Minded- Students will be open to new strategies
Communicators- Students will communicate with group members
Reflective- Students will reflect on math strategies, and connections with text and content
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
VICTORIA
ZIMMERMAN
Hello! I am your IB coordinator and I am so excited to be on this journey here at Cullen ES. This will be my 20th year in education. I have taught Pre-K, 1st grade, 4th grade ELAR, and 5th grade ELAR. I was also an instructional coach for 3 years. I just completed my 11th year here in Hays CISD.
I received both my undergrade and masters at Texas State University. Eat ‘Em Up Cats!
UPCOMING EVENTS
IB Cultural Fair will be held in the spring. We would love to have members from our community come speak to different grade levels depending on the IB units we are in.
(Our wonderful PTA will be helping create a list of volunteers)
STILL CURIOUS ABOUT IB?
Please feel free to contact me victoria.zimmerman@hayscisd.net (512)268-8449 (43204)