The International Baccalaureate Organization, founded in 1968, is a recognized leader in the field of international education. The organization works with nearly 1,500 schools to develop and offer three programs in 120 countries to more than 200,000 students. One of those three programs is targeted for the elementary school level.

The research-based program is known for cultivating internationalism and respect for other cultures, according to Strudley, but is being adapted to the Los Gatos community and allows students to maintain a strong sense of cultural identity.

"It's all about inquiry education," Strudley said. "It raises the bar of excellence to a new level and meets the academic needs of the full spectrum of learners."

Students are taught to be active learners, well-rounded individuals and engaged citizens. Lexington isn't actually eligible to become an official IB school until an authorized visit in the spring of 2007, Strudley said, so right now it's just considered "a candidate school."

Strudley said they are also trying to generate the funding to participate in the program, since the training is costly. But it will be worth the efforts, Strudley said, since IB graduates from the high school level of the program are statistically proven to have advantages over Advanced Placement graduates. Strudley is also looking down the road at further expanding the program to Raymond J. Fisher Middle School, as well as offering an IB preschool.

"It makes you think about the meaning behind what you are doing in your classroom," said second-grade teacher Sally Bailey.

One example Bailey mentioned was that instead of just teaching about rocks and soil as natural resources, students will be taking a closer look at valuable and finite resources on a more global level.

"It's so the kids aren't so provincial. It's not just all about Los Gatos," said first-grade teacher Lauren Honda.

Three Lexington teachers—Jan Parker, Jason Deppong and Patricia Vaden—attended an IB training session in Utah and have been sharing their excitement with the staff.

"My teachers are committed," Strudley said. "The support I've received from the staff and the community has been phenomenal. This makes so much sense because it meets the needs of all kids."

Strudley said they are planning upcoming community meetings for parents and residents to get everyone behind the program.

"It's good for kids. That's what this is all about," Strudley said. "It's makes them more viable, contributing members of their community."

But the program brings a tremendous amount of work for teachers, who have to take their existing programs and tailor them to the IB units. There are action, collaboration and reflection components to the program for teachers. But the benefits, according to Lexington teachers, are that the program adds more meaning to their instructional day.