Advanced Studies
Soaring Higher: Advanced Studies and the Firebird Advantage
Our Advanced Studies program—featuring Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) and Career-related Programme (CP) pathways—is designed to do more than prepare students for college exams. It is the premier launching pad for developing the core competencies outlined in our Portrait of a Firebird.
By choosing AP and IB courses, our Firebirds actively embody the five key attributes that prepare them for lifelong success and leadership:
- Critical Thinker: Advanced Studies courses move far beyond simple memorization. Firebirds learn to dissect complex texts, analyze data with precision, and evaluate multifaceted arguments, developing the intellectual agility needed to solve real-world problems.
- Thoughtful Communicator: Whether defending a thesis in an AP seminar or crafting an extended essay in IB, Firebirds hone their ability to express sophisticated ideas clearly, persuasively, and with empathy across diverse mediums.
- Engaged Collaborator: Rigorous academic environments thrive on dynamic teamwork. Through group inquiry, peer feedback, and shared problem-solving, our students learn to value differing perspectives and build consensus to achieve shared goals.
- Global Citizen: With a curriculum built on international perspectives and cross-cultural understanding—especially through IB's and CP’s global lens—Firebirds learn to navigate an interconnected world with cultural competence, ethical responsibility, and open-mindedness.
- Lifelong Learner: Embracing the academic challenge of AP, IB and CP fosters genuine curiosity, resilience, and self-advocacy. Firebirds leave our halls with the intrinsic drive, confidence, and passion to continually seek knowledge long after graduation.
By embodying the Portrait of a Firebird through Advanced Studies, students gain a distinct edge in college admissions and beyond. Selective universities worldwide recognize the dedication required to excel in AP and IB/CP coursework, viewing it as a clear indicator of college readiness. Furthermore, strong performance on AP exams and IB assessments offers practical benefits—allowing students to earn valuable college credit, save on future tuition, skip introductory university courses, or pursue double majors with ease.
*****
Kettering Fairmont High School's Program of Studies -- Advanced Studies
Honors, AP, and IB Course List
Benefits of AP, IB, and CP Pathways
- Learn more about the IB Diploma Program and IB Courses from our own present and past IB Firebirds!