PORT ORCHARD — Cedar Heights Middle School in Port Orchard has been authorized to operate as an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Middle Years program, the South Kitsap School District announced April 12.

With the addition of Cedar Heights, the district said it now offers the IB program at all of its school levels. South Kitsap High School is an IB World School for the Diploma and Career Related Pathway programs, and Hidden Creek and Orchard Heights elementaries are both authorized for the Primary Years program.

“We wanted to offer our students a more holistic education which will instill in them the skills, knowledge and outlook to succeed in the 21st century, both in their local community and in the wider world,” said Andrew Cain, Cedar Heights principal.

“At the same time, we wanted to give our teachers the opportunity to be a part of an international network of experts leading the field in education and offer a high degree of professional development. We are delighted to become an IB World School and we look forward to reaping the many benefits of the program,” Cain said in a district news release.

IB World Schools share a common philosophy of committing to a high quality and challenging international education, the school district stated. The IB program aligns with the goals of the school district, spokeswoman Amy Miller said, which includes preparing students for education beyond high school, careers and active citizenship.

Cain said IB curriculum provides students with instruction and experiences that develop strong academic, personal and social skills needed for future success.

“Students learn foundational skills and extend their knowledge through inquiry-based learning,” Cain said. “They develop the ability to work collaboratively, which is paramount in the 21st-century work environment, and gain a deeper understanding of their roles as members of local and global communities.”