A World of Choices: Exploring The Village School’s Diplomas

At The Village School, students' futures are in their hands. Whether students are passionate global scholars, doctors, entrepreneurs, or computer scientists, the high school’s diploma program gives them a chance to pursue those desires. With options like the Entrepreneurship Diploma starting in 2019, to a brand new Computer Science Diploma, The Village School is continuously expanding pathways for its students' futures.

One of the most followed paths at The Village School is the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. This rigorous journey includes a Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) project and an Extended Essay. With an emphasis on international mindsets, the curriculum instills global views and college readiness with classes like Theory of Knowledge and higher-level courses that challenge students.

For students passionate about healthcare, the high school offers a Pre-Med Diploma, rooted in biology, chemistry, and anatomy. Beyond traditional lecture classes, these students conduct lab research, simulations, and exposure to the medical field through a required internship over the summer. By graduation, the Pre-Med students are prepared for rigorous college courses and career-driven majors. “Being in this diploma has taught me so much. Even though it is hard work, it is definitely worth it. I have gained so much experience in the medical field through internships and projects,” said Pre-Med senior, Valentina Navarro.

Entrepreneurship students at The Village School participating in a discussion with a Junior Achievement mentor. (Photo: Patricia Elliston)

In contrast, the Entrepreneurship Diploma is designed for the dreamers. This innovative diploma leans into the real world of business. Courses like Design Thinking, AI and Tech Tools, and Fundamentals of Finance are provided. This program guides students through the academic and experiential aspects of business, with a requirement of at least 3 IB classes to be taken. Students design products, pitch to local judges, and sell in the Houston area, including an annual Trade Fair at Memorial City Mall. Along the way, mentors from Junior Achievement attend classes to guide students. “My mentor taught my group and I so much. She guided us through challenges and is part of the reason I am pursuing business,” said Entrepreneurship senior Salma Ortega. By instilling confidence and resilience, students enter the next stages of their lives prepared to innovate.

Computer Science students at The Village School collaborating with Entrepreneurship students on developing AI platforms. (Photo: Patricia Elliston)

The Computer Science Diploma is the newest addition to The Village School’s diploma options, created for technology-minded students who are eager to learn programming and innovation. This diploma emphasizes technical skills, problem-solving, and collaboration. This past year, the Computer Science students partnered with the Entrepreneurship students to help them generate AI-driven platforms for their businesses. By joining forces, both diploma students gained insightful perspectives. This diploma equips graduates to thrive in an evolving, technology-driven world. “I have progressed far beyond what I thought I would achieve in this program. I built projects I am proud of and found my passion,” said Computer Science Senior Motunrayo Famori.

From the intellectual discipline of the IB Diploma to the creativity of Entrepreneurship, the hands-on experiences of Pre-Med, and the technological innovation of Computer Science, The Village School’s diploma options reflect the diverse community and passions of their students. No matter the path chosen, students are equipped with essential skills beyond a high school classroom. The Village School ensures students find a program that works for them, whether in a global setting, hospital, boardroom, or technology lab.