Philosophy and Values
Fostering international-mindedness, active inquiry, emotional resilience, and moral character in young learners.
IB Candidate School Philosophy
Calgary International Academy is a Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme. This school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common philosophy—a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education that Calgary International Academy believes is important for our students.
The school aims to foster international-mindedness in students by recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of our planet and helping to create a better and more peaceful world, and the integration of STEAM prepares young learners for 21st-century competence.
Our Future-Ready Learning Mandate
Calgary International Academy’s mandate is closely aligned with the OECD’s vision for the future of education. By integrating the Alberta Program of Studies, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, and STEAM education, the Academy combines academic rigour with inquiry, innovation, creativity, ethical responsibility, and global citizenship.
Our future-ready learning mandate is informed by the principles of the OECD Future of Education and Skills 2030/2040 and its emphasis on student agency, transformative competencies, well-being, and responsible global citizenship.
Ten Essential Learner Profile Attributes
As IB learners, our students strive to cultivate:
We nurture curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research to sustain a lifelong love of learning.
We explore concepts, ideas, and issues that have local and global significance across diverse disciplines.
We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyze and take responsible action on complex problems.
We express ourselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in diverse mathematical and digital ways.
We act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and respect for the dignity of everyone.
We appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, while welcoming the perspectives, values, and traditions of others.
We show empathy, compassion, and respect, actively contributing to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
We approach uncertainty with forethought and determination, exploring new ideas and innovative learning pathways.
We understand the importance of balancing intellectual, physical, and emotional aspects of our lives.
We thoughtfully consider the world and our own ideas and experience, working to understand our strengths and growth areas.
Safe and Caring Learning Environment
CIA maintains strict safety, child guidance, and allergy-aware protocols. Our school enforces a positive behavior intervention framework, proactive anti-bullying education, and a mobile-device-free instructional policy to protect student focus and mental wellness.