Educational Pathways
A Customized Education for a Changing World
We believe that every student has the power to shape the future. That’s why our magnet program offers a dynamic, purpose-driven education designed to challenge, inspire, and prepare students for success. Through our diverse pathways—including the globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB), Dual Language Immersion, Project Lead the Way, and AVID—we equip students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to thrive in an ever-changing world.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
From elementary through high school, Hilton Head Island is the only place in the Lowcountry where students can experience the full IB continuum - a world-class education that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and global readiness. This prestigious program offers a seamless, challenging, and enriching path that prepares students for success in college and beyond.
IB Primary Years Programme (PYP)
IB Primary Years Programme (PYP)
Since 2001, Hilton Head Island Elementary School (HHIES) has been a pioneer in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), offering a globally recognized, standards-based curriculum with an international perspective. The PYP nurtures students into lifelong learners who are curious, internationally minded, and engaged in their education. Through inquiry-based learning, students take an active role in their education, making connections across subjects such as English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and the Arts. The program promotes hands-on experiences, encouraging students to question, experiment, research, and reflect. Beyond academics, HHIES fosters a vibrant school community with annual events like the Fall Festival, Robotics, Science Fair, and International Night. The PYP experience culminates in the Fifth Grade Exhibition, a capstone project where students showcase their learning and growth as global citizens.
IB Middle Years Programme (MYP)
IB Middle Years Programme (MYP)
The IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) continues the IB journey, bridging the gap between elementary and high school with a rigorous, inquiry-driven curriculum for students in grades 6-10. Implemented in partnership with Hilton Head Island High School, the MYP challenges students to make meaningful connections between their classroom learning and the real world. By engaging in interdisciplinary studies, students develop critical thinking skills, creativity, and a deeper understanding of global issues. The MYP is designed to prepare students for the demanding IB Diploma Programme in grades 11 and 12, equipping them with the problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and academic discipline needed to thrive in higher education and beyond.
IB Diploma Programme (DP)
IB Diploma Programme (DP)
The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is a globally recognized, college-preparatory program that offers students the opportunity to engage in challenging coursework across six subject areas, including English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, a second language, and the Arts. Students may choose to pursue the full IB Diploma or take individual IB courses for certification. Beyond academics, the IB DP fosters holistic development through its unique core components: the Theory of Knowledge course, which explores critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning; the Extended Essay, an in-depth research project; and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), which encourages students to make meaningful contributions to their communities. Highly regarded by universities worldwide, the IB Diploma Programme prepares students for college and career success, offering rigorous coursework, critical thinking development, and potential college credit through IB exam performance—all at no cost to students.
Dual Language Immersion
Hilton Head Island Elementary School’s Dual Language Immersion Program offers young learners an incredible opportunity to develop bilingualism, biliteracy, and cultural competency from an early age. Starting in first grade, students can choose to immerse themselves in Spanish or Chinese, learning core subjects like math, science, and social studies in both English and their target language. As they progress through the program, they build strong literacy skills in both languages, gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures while mastering complex academic concepts. With a curriculum aligned to state standards and additional language proficiency assessments, students emerge as confident, globally-minded learners prepared for the challenges of the future.
Currently focused in elementary school, the Dual Language Immersion Program is set to expand as part of the CHANGEMAKERS magnet program, offering students the chance to continue their bilingual education in Spanish through middle and high school. This long-term commitment ensures that students not only become proficient in a second language but also develop the cognitive and career-ready advantages that come with true bilingualism. With research-backed benefits such as enhanced problem-solving skills, improved academic performance, and increased career opportunities, this program is a powerful investment in a student’s future.
Project Lead The Way
Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is an innovative, hands-on STEM program that engages students in critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world applications from elementary through high school. Through project-based learning, students explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in ways that inspire creativity, curiosity, and a passion for discovery.
At the elementary level, PLTW Launch introduces students to foundational STEM concepts through interactive, inquiry-based lessons. From kindergarten to fifth grade, students engage in engineering challenges, robotics, and scientific explorations that help them develop problem-solving skills and a strong understanding of how the world around them works. Whether exploring ecosystems, properties of matter or how robotics impact our society and environment, young learners gain a solid STEM foundation that prepares them for future academic success.
As students move into middle school, PLTW Gateway builds on this foundation with courses that explore coding, robotics, medical investigations, energy systems, and even space flight. Hands-on projects challenge students to think critically and collaborate as they apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. By engaging in dynamic problem-solving, students step into the roles of engineers, designers, and innovators, making connections between their studies and potential future careers.
As part of our commitment to innovative STEM education, we are implementing PLTW Algebra 1 Advantage in middle school to enhance students' understanding of mathematical concepts through real-world applications. This dynamic, hands-on curriculum transforms abstract algebraic ideas into engaging, practical problem-solving experiences. By connecting math to real-life scenarios, students build confidence, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deeper appreciation for how mathematics shapes the world around them.
At the high school level, PLTW expands into specialized pathways in biomedical science, computer science, and information technology. Students gain hands-on experience in fields such as medical research, automation, and software development, preparing them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. Whether designing and programming apps, analyzing DNA sequences, or practicing medical techniques, PLTW students develop practical skills that set them apart for college and beyond.
Learn more about PLTW Algebra 1 Advantage
AVID
As part of the Changemakers Magnet Program, Hilton Head Island Middle and High Schools are implementing AVID® (Advancement Via Individual Determination)—a proven program designed to prepare students for college and career success. AVID provides structured academic support using an inquiry-based approach that fosters critical thinking, organizational skills, and a college-ready mindset. While AVID benefits all students, it has been particularly effective in supporting traditionally underrepresented students, including those from low-income backgrounds and first-generation college applicants.
At the middle school level, AVID helps students develop strong literacy and learning strategies, while high school students can take the AVID Elective, a dedicated course that offers additional academic, social, and emotional support. This program empowers students to tackle rigorous coursework with confidence, equipping them with study skills, time management strategies, and self-advocacy tools. Beyond the elective, AVID also enhances teaching practices across the school, ensuring that all students—whether enrolled in AVID or not—benefit from research-backed instructional strategies that promote engagement, persistence, and success in higher education and beyond.