Teachers at Lowell International Elementary School carefully integrate state academic standards within the internationally focused PYP framework. Students build a knowledge base and skillset, backed by Common Core standards, that prepares them for middle and high school.

Programme of Inquiry

The PYP programme of inquiry is a school-wide learning map connecting IB learner profile attributes, Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, transdisciplinary themes, and specified concepts to lessons and projects in all subjects. Students learn new material, build research and communication skills, and develop IB attributes like “knowledgeable” and “reflective.”

Lowell School educators collaboratively plan units of inquiry to capture student interests, teach academic standards through inquiry-based learning, and help students develop the learner attributes.

Every program of inquiry uses transdisciplinary themes, ATL skills, and specified concepts to guide students and help them make connections among different subjects. For instance, Lowell students learn math concepts and apply mathematical reasoning in science and other subjects, and they study ancient civilizations that contributed to how we understand and use math today.

Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills

• Social
• Research
• Thinking
• Communication
• Self-management

Transdisciplinary Themes

• Who we are
• Where we are in place and time
• How we express ourselves
• How the world works
• How we organize ourselves
• Sharing the planet

Specified Concepts

• Form
• Function
• Causation
• Change
• Connection
• Perspective
• Responsibility

PYP Students

Teachers guide Lowell School students through a challenging curriculum that encourages them to take risks, reflect on their learning, and become effective communicators. Students develop their creative voice and vision in music and art classes. They team-build, strategize, and learn to make healthy choices in physical education class. Weekly Spanish lessons start in K3. Students explore Spanish-speaking cultures in our school community and worldwide as they begin learning a new language.

PYP Parents

The International Baccalaureate maintains a small library of videos, brochures, frequently asked questions, and other resources that explain the PYP and other programmes. Parents and caregivers can learn more about our PYP curriculum during parent-teacher conferences and our spring open house and PYP exhibition.

Students who complete fifth grade at Lowell School can continue thinking globally and preparing for college and career in International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programmes (MYP) at three Milwaukee Public Schools.

• Morse Middle School for the Gifted and Talented, IB authorized since 2024
• Rufus King International Middle School, IB authorized since 2013
• Wedgewood Park International School, IB authorized since 2009