The Story
IB tests are cancelled. People are upset. What’s going on??
What actually happened?
The IB tests that usually happen in May have been cancelled. So obviously, the school is in a bit of a pickle, and the community is not being quiet about it. But as it turns out, the cancellation sounds bad, but comes with a lot of other clarifications. So everyone, take a deep breath and pause your FaceBook rant for just a minute.
What’s cancelled?
According to Mr. Cannon, only the “pen and paper” IB exams are not running. Ongoing projects for film, studio art, and other similar classes are still due. For junior diploma candidates, the Extended Essay is still due as well. And speaking of diploma candidates…
Will IB students still get the diploma?
Short answer: yes. IB diploma candidates who are eligible will receive the award. However, terms of eligibility have changed significantly, as no one is able to take the tests. Instead, IB will be calculating your scores based on your “standard of work” during the school year. AKA, if your grades are good, you get the diploma. As well as this, the CAS project for seniors is ending on May 20, with a portfolio instead of a presentation.
Will it count for college?
Honestly, the information available from IB about colleges was pretty lackluster. Mr. Cannon referred us to the official IB website, which essentially told us that it’s up to the university to decide whether it still counts. The site also said that students should check with their schools to learn more. So yeah, not a lot there, but for all you college kids, may the odds be ever in your favor. And of course, the situation is still developing.
What about fees?
More bad news: as of now, IB is not refunding test fees because they are still issuing scores and diplomas. Yeah, we’re a little mad too, but luckily, IB did acknowledge everyone being unhappy and said that this policy is subject to change. We’ll see about that.
How does this affect first year classes?
Fortunately, not at all. People taking IB classes that require two years worth of classes will still be able to take the test next year, after they have completed the full curriculum. So sophomores and juniors, you can stop panicking. And for people taking second year classes, you have one thing to look forward to: all terminus IB classes are ending April 23 and 24th!
The Runaway
IB definitely still has some questions to answer, and we never thought people would be mad about a test being cancelled. But hey, we also never thought we would be trapped inside our houses because of a global pandemic.
What to Say…
When you missed seeing your teacher’s friendly face…
On Wednesday, Mr. Jozokos sent out an email saying that the school would be allowing teachers to utilize Google Meet, starting Monday. He also sent out a long list of rules and expectations to go with it, along with a link to an entire webpage dedicated to it. The teacher has to initiate the Google Meeting (Google Meet meeting? chat? video call?) by sending a link to students through Classroom or email. The district wants teachers to close ALL other tabs not necessary for the class to avoid multitasking. And don’t worry, there are plenty of rules for students too. The behavioral expectations outlined in the Student Handbook still apply (you’ve definitely read that, right?) The district is encouraging students to avoid multitasking as well, and as always, they want students to remember to treat their teachers and peers with respect. You also must turn off your camera (ctrl e) and microphone (ctrl d). And of course, no taking pictures, videos, or screenshots. Mr. Jozokos reiterated all this in his email.
When the seniors needed something going for them…
IB tests weren’t the only major exam cancelled. On Friday, Mr. Jozokos announced that because of the new extension of remote learning, senior project will be ending with Quarter 3 on April 3rd. Yup, that means no presentation, and for some, no AoK. If a senior has failed one of the three quarters graded, they have until May 29th to make up their work. Upon asking seniors how they felt, many were happy that they didn’t have to worry the coronavirus causing cancelled AoKs or ill-prepared presentations. And let’s be real, who wants to work on a giant project in the middle of a world crisis?
Things to Know…
We didn’t have plans anyway…
Governor Sununu issued a shelter in place last Friday, effective last Saturday at midnight. So if you weren’t social distancing already, you have to do it now. Sorry.
How many more weeks again?
As of now, we have five more weeks until we can go out in public again. But it’s not like we’re counting or anything.