Academics
IB Program
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a prestigious global education program that provides a challenging, pre-university curriculum aimed at developing well-rounded students. It emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and a strong academic foundation, preparing students for higher education while promoting global citizenship. Key components include the Theory of Knowledge course, an Extended Essay, and the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) program.
IB Glossary
Higher Level/Standard Level (HL/SL): Diploma students enroll in a total of six IB courses, consisting of three at the Higher Level (HL) and three at the Standard Level (SL). HL courses span two years and conclude with final assessments in May of the senior year. At Legacy, we offer two one-year SL courses: IB Mathematics AA and IB Mathematics AI.
Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Offered in both the junior and senior years, this course encourages students to explore how we acquire and justify knowledge.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Students engage in diverse experiences spanning creative endeavors, physical activities, and community service, fostering personal growth beyond academics.
Internal Assessment (IA): Internal Assessments are subject-specific assignments completed throughout the course. Assigned and graded by the teacher, they contribute to a student's overall score in each IB course.
IB vs. AP
IB (International Baccalaureate)
- A well-rounded, comprehensive program that integrates various subjects.
- Students are taught research skills and encouraged to connect ideas across disciplines.
- Exams are essay-based, allowing students to explain concepts in depth.
- Assessment is based on multiple components, including Internal Assessments (IAs) and exams.
- Only students enrolled in IB courses can take IB exams.
- IB teachers collaborate to create a cohesive curriculum across subjects.
- IB students form a supportive cohort within the program.
- The IB Diploma can earn students at least 24 college credit hours at Texas state schools (credit policies may vary at private or out-of-state institutions).
AP (Advanced Placement)
- Independent, stand-alone courses, focusing on individual subjects.
- Exams are primarily multiple choice and short answer, with some essays.
- Scores are determined by one exam, lasting around 3 hours.
- Any student can take an AP exam, including those enrolled in IB courses.
- AP students typically form peer groups within individual classes.
- College credit awarded for AP exams depends on the university and major.
For more information about the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, please reach out to our IB Coordinator, Henri Naylor, at hnaylor@wfisd.net.
Career & Technical Ed.
We offer a range of Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes starting as early as junior high, with these courses eligible for high school credit. High school students also have the opportunity to attend class at our Career and Education Center, where they can receive hands-on training in various career paths, preparing them for future employment or further education. Check out the programs we offer:
- Agriculture Science & Mechanics
- Architecture & Construction
- AV Production & Communications
- Auto Collision & Automotive Technology
- Marketing & Finance
- Cosmetology
- Culinary
- Education & Training
- Engineering & Robotics
- Floral Design
- Health Science
- IT/Computer Programming
- Law Enforcement
- Plumbing
- Veterinary Assistance
- Welding/Manufacturing
Gifted & Talented
The goal of GT education in Wichita Falls ISD for students to develop innovative, advanced-level products and performances that reflect individuality and creativity. This is accomplished through a variety of programs and services in grades K-12.
For more information, check out our District's Gifted/Talented Program Guide:
Dual Credit
In collaboration with both Vernon College and MSU Texas, our District offers high school juniors and seniors a number of classes that can be taken for dual credit. The credits count not only toward a student’s high school graduation plan but also toward his college requirements. Because WFISD subsidizes the cost of each dual credit class, this is a great opportunity for college-bound students. For more information, click on our dual credit guidebook linked at the bottom of this section.
Student Information:
Before taking dual credit courses, students must demonstrate "college readiness" by passing the TSI Assessment (called TISA2).
For more information, as well as preparation materials, visit their official Texas website.