Royal Palm Beach Community High School has a variety of Academic and College and Career Academy programs, including an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, Business Marketing, HVAC, NJROTC, Medical Sciences, and STEM. Please visit the program pages for additional information.

Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating Technology (HVAC)

The Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating Technology program prepares students for college or advanced industry training and employment in the HVAC–R industry. This program focuses on broad transferable skills such as planning, management, finance, labor and community issues, health, safety and environmental factors. Upon completion of this program, the student will be prepared to take the state certification examination for air conditioning, refrigeration and heating mechanics and earn industry certification through the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme

The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is an academically challenging and balanced program of education that prepares students in grades 11–12 for effective participation in a rapidly globalizing world and for postsecondary success in college and career. Students study at least two languages and increase understanding of diverse cultures. Due to its rigorous nature, preparation for the IB Diploma Programme is offered through the IB Middle Years Programme curricula in the 9th and 10th grades or through other accelerated curricula. The IB diploma leads to advanced standing in universities throughout the world. The IB Diploma Programme framework includes required courses within six subject groups: Studies in language and literature, Language acquisition, Individuals and societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts. Schools tailor course sequences to meet each school’s focus. Algebra I or Algebra I Honors and Spanish or French for high school credit are highly recommended to prepare students for the rigor of the program.

Medical Sciences - Pre-Medicine

The Medical Sciences Honors program offers an innovative, integrated learning environment designed to provide the student with the medical skills and training necessary to succeed in postsecondary healthcare career education and/or to successfully transition into the healthcare workforce. This comprehensive program combines a rigorous academic curriculum with intense clinical and laboratory experiences. Student clinical rotations are conducted at area hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Clinical clearance, including a background check and drug screening are required prior to entering the clinical setting. In the School District of Palm Beach County all medical courses provide local honors credit. Algebra I or Algebra I Honors is recommended.

Marketing and Entrepreneurship

The Marketing and Entrepreneurship program prepares students for entry–level management trainee positions through its Marketing Program. This multi–faceted, survey program is designed to prepare students for higher education and careers in marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. The program develops marketing concepts as they apply to areas such as business, e–commerce, entertainment, fashion, finance, hospitality, law, management, sales, and sports. Hands–on projects throughout the program will allow students to work with local businesses and entrepreneurs to develop real world experiences and skills. Students can develop leadership skills while participating in many community activities and field trips.

Navy JROTC

The Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) program teaches self– discipline, self–confidence and leadership skills to meet life’s challenges. The naval science curriculum includes seamanship, oceanography, meteorology, astronomy, radar, sonar electronics, and leadership. Instruction consists of formal classroom training supplemented by field trips to various naval facilities. Upon completion, students are under no obligation to enlist in the armed forces. Successful completion of the NJROTC program allows entry into the armed forces up to two pay grades higher than other enlistees without NJROTC experience.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)

This four year, pre–university course of study is designed to meet the needs of highly–motivated students wishing to engage in a tailored curriculum with opportunities to pursue studies in mathematics, science, engineering , and technology. STEM students take courses through the Advanced International Certificate in Education (AICE) partnership and the College Board Advanced Placement program. Students may have opportunities to participate in SECME and other learning experiences such as First Robotics competitions and computer game design. Boca Raton Community High School students choose between engineering and an architectural drafting course track.

The Cambridge AICE Diploma (or Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education) is an internationally recognized diploma awarded to students for the satisfactory completion of a series of academically rigorous courses specific to AICE in high school.

Benefits of the AICE Diploma

• Earn College Credits
• Earn 100% Bright Futures upon completion
• Accelerated courses increase student Weighted G.P.A.

Applying for your AICE Diploma

Please fill out the AICE Diploma Registration form.

RPBHS AICE Coordinator

Marlaina Skowron, AICE Coordinator
(561) 792-8605

Lisa Jones, Assistant Principal for Curriculum
(561) 753-4000

Earning the AICE Diploma

Cambridge AICE Diploma Qualification

In order to earn an AICE Diploma, students must pass a total of seven (7) AICE courses including the items listed below. All must be completed within a three (3) year period.

1. One class from Group 1
2. One class from Group 3
3. Global Perspectives
4. English Language

AICE Diploma Levels

• Cambridge AICE Diploma with Distinction: awarded to students with a score of 360 points or above. The maximum Diploma score is 420 points.
• Cambridge AICE Diploma with Merit: awarded to students with between 250 and 359 points.
• Cambridge AICE Diploma at Pass level: awarded to students with between 140 and 249 points.

AICE Diploma Course Sequence Options

AICE Resources

Why Choose Us
Cambridge AICE Brochure
Florida Credit-by-Exam Equivalencies
AICE Diploma Planning Guide
Cambridge AICE Diploma Curriculum
Cambridge AICE Diploma Qualification
AICE News

The College Board® Advanced Placement Program is a collaborative effort among motivated students, dedicated teachers, and committed high schools, colleges, and universities. Since it was launched in 1955, the AP Program has allowed students to take college-level courses and exams and to earn college credit and/or placement while still in high school. Credit for comparable college or university courses is awarded for passing scores on AP examinations at the sole discretion of each higher education institution. AP courses carry a 6.0 weight in the FLDOE course code directory.

AP Resources

College Board
AP Central
AP Students
AP Parents
AP News & Changes

AVID Program Information                                  

AVID Tutor Application

For more information, please contact the AVID Coordinator, Mrs. Renee Houck, by email.

Programs Offered

Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating (HVAC)
Business Marketing
Medical Sciences
Navy JROTC
STEM

About Our Programs

What is the HVAC-R Academy?

The Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration Academy is a four- year sequence of high school courses combining core academics with specialized training required for journeyman level employment in the Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology industry, apprenticeships, and/or continuing post-secondary education. Entrance Requirement: None

What post-secondary options are available to HVAC-R Academy graduates?

Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration program completers earn Florida Department of Education Occupational Completion Points (OCPs).

• A/C, Refrigeration & Heating Helper (average hourly wage $15-17)
• A/C, Refrigeration & Heating Mechanic Assistant (average hourly wage $18)
• A/C, Refrigeration & Heating Mechanic 1 (average hourly wage $21.52)

HVAC-R Academy students are eligible for the Florida Department of Education Bright Futures Program Vocational Gold Seal Scholars Award (requirements must be satisfied). Academy completers can enter an apprenticeship program at the journeyman level. Graduates enjoy advanced standing at local public and private post-secondary institutions as established in the articulation agreements. Students can enroll at a two or four year college to obtain a degree in HVAC-R, management, or related field.

For what careers will HVAC-R Academy students qualify upon completion of post-secondary education?

The median annual salary for heating & air-conditioning mechanics and installers is $43,640. HVAC-R mechanics and installers enjoy a variety of employer-sponsored benefits such as insurance coverage and pension plans. Some employers pay for work-related training and provide uniforms, company vehicles, and tools.

How does the HVAC-R Academy work with business and industry leaders and the community?

The advisory board for the HVAC-R Academy is comprised of the western community’s leaders in the heating & air-conditioning profession. Support from and communication with this board is essential in providing opportunities to strengthen the curriculum. The unique combination of academics, hands-on learning, and collaborative partnerships with community resources ensures the students the preparation required to become future industry leaders.

What course sequence is offered to HVAC-R Academy students?

9th - A/C, Refrigeration & Heating Tech 1
10th - A/C, Refrigeration & Heating Tech 2/3
11th - A/C, Refrigeration & Heating Tech 4/5
12th - A/C, Refrigeration & Heating Tech 6/7

Additional resources pertinent to the HVAC-R Academy can be found at the following links:

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Palm Beach Air-Conditioning Contractors Association (PBACCA)
HVAC Excellence
Refrigeration Service Engineers Society
Florida Department of Education HVAC-R Curriculum Framework

---

What is the Marketing and Entrepreneurship Program?

The Marketing and Entrepreneurship program prepares students for entry-level management trainee positions through its 4 year course sequence. This multi-faceted, survey program is designed to prepare students for higher education and careers in marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. The program develops marketing concepts as they apply to areas such as business, e commerce, entertainment, fashion, finance, hospitality, law, management, sales, and sports. Hands-on projects throughout the program will allow students to work with local businesses and entrepreneurs to develop real world experiences and skills. Students can develop leadership skills while participating in many community activities and field trips. Program completers develop the appreciation, knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to work and live in a global marketplace.

Entrance Requirement: 2.5 Grade Point Average (GPA)

How does the Marketing and Entrepreneurship Program prepare students for post-secondary education?

This vigorous specialized four-year program focuses on:

• Development of a high achieving student emphasizing honors and college-level (Advanced Placement and AICE) coursework
• Acquisition of the communication skills, legal and ethical practical knowledge, and career skills attributed to business professionals
• Applied experience with business internships, mock companies, real companies, and business simulations
• Interaction with business professionals and field trips
• Participation in community service projects with the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club and student organizations such as DECA and Interact Club

How does the Marketing and Entrepreneurship Program work with business leaders and the community?

The advisory board for the Business Marketing Academy is comprised of the western community’s outstanding business professionals. Support from and communication with this board is essential in providing opportunities to strengthen the curriculum. The unique combination of high-level academics, hands-on learning, and collaborative partnerships with community resources ensures the students the preparation required to become leaders in the world of the future.

---

What is the Medical Sciences Academy?

The Medical and Health Sciences Academy is a Choice Academy Program that offers students unique coursework and opportunities to prepare for top post- secondary schools and careers in the medical profession. Students will complete specialized classes incorporated within the four-year plan in order to acquire important life and career skills such as communication, problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork and technology. Such skills requisite for employment are reinforced via student organizations, professional speakers, field trips, and community service. During the senior year, students will have the opportunity to participate in an individually prescribed internship and clinical experience. Entrance Requirements: 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA)/Successful completion of Algebra I is recommended

What are the primary spotlights of the Medical Academy?

• Development of a high achieving student emphasizing honors and college- level sciences
• Acquisition of the communication skills, legal and ethical practical knowledge, and career skills attributed to health professionals
• Hands-on experience with patients during a clinical preceptorship at chronic and acute care facilities
• Field trips and interaction with health professionals serving in hospitals and specialty units
• American Red Cross community first aid, CPR, AED and HIV 104 certification
• Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) membership
• Community service projects including the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s “Pennies for Patients,” and the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

How does the Medical Sciences Academy prepare students for post-secondary education?

Students enrolled in the Medical Sciences Academy will follow an extensive four-year college preparatory program designed to provide the university- bound student with the requisite skills and academics to pursue undergraduate majors in Pre-Med, Pre Veterinary, Pre-Pharmacy or Pre-Dental.

How does the Medical Sciences Academy work with the medical community and business leaders?

The advisory board for the Medical Sciences Academy is comprised of the western community’s outstanding medical, health education, and business professionals. The unique combination of high level academics, hands-on learning and collaborative partnerships with community resources ensure students the preparation necessary to become future leaders in medical science career fields.

---

What is the NJROTC Academy?

Do you want to make your high school years more exciting and fun? Do you want to feel like you are included in a group or a family who respect you for who you are? Well, here’s your chance to do just that by joining the Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) where you explore the concepts of being an informed citizen and have an opportunity to learn to lead others. Discover the rich history of the Naval Science and scientific aspects of tomorrow’s naval technology, while at the same time honing your leadership potential.

Entrance Requirement: None

How does the NJROTC Academy prepare students for postsecondary success?

Enrollment in NJROTC does not mean you have to join the military. There is no military obligation and you are not tied to a recruiting program. It does provide tools for success after high school regardless of a chosen career path. At the very least, your improved self-discipline and self-confidence will serve you in good stead wherever you go. However, there are benefits available for students who do wish to consider the military in one form or another.

After graduation from high school as an NJROTC cadet, you will be better prepared to pursue a college education through the NJROTC program. Membership in Navy JROTC helps cadets build a solid background for ROTC scholarship applications available at colleges and universities across the country.

If your goal is to apply to a military service academy, there are avenues within the NJROTC program that will help you achieve this goal. With all other factors being equal such as grades, SAT scores, community involvement, etc…your NJROTC experience provides a competitive edge over other applicants.

If going to college right after high school graduation is not for you, you may want to pursue a military enlisted career. If you complete two or three years in NJROTC, you are entitled to enter the military one to two paygrades higher than other enlistees.

---

What is the STEM Academy?

This four year, pre-university course of study is designed to meet the needs of highly-motivated students wishing to engage in a tailored curriculum with opportunities to pursue studies in engineering and computer game design. STEM students take courses through the Advanced International Certificate in Education (AICE) partnership and the College Board Advanced Placement program. Students have opportunities to participate in SECME and First Robotics competitions.

Entrance Requirements: 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA)/Successful completion of Algebra 1 recommended.

What characteristics do STEM Academy students embody?

STEM Academy students demonstrate talent in mathematics and science. Intelligent with extraordinary analytic ability, STEM students solve problems creatively and are curious about the way things work. They are divergent thinkers who enjoy puzzles and games. While capable of independent achievement, STEM Academy students are comfortable working in a group environment as members of a problem-solving team. Possessing developed study skills and disciplined work habits, STEM Academy students are willing to meet difficult challenges. STEM Academy students are generally open-minded, resourceful, inquisitive, and highly motivated for success.

For what college and career pathways does the STEM Academy prepare students?

Due to their academic excellence and exposure to an accelerated curriculum, STEM graduates are extremely well prepared to meet the challenges of the most prestigious universities in the United States. They go on to pursue careers in medicine, engineering, mathematics, physics, chemistry, oceanography, astronomy, biomedicine, architecture, computer technology, business, law and the humanities.

How does the STEM Academy work with the engineering community leaders?

The advisory board for the STEM Academy is comprised of the western community’s outstanding business and engineering professionals. Support from and communication with this board is essential in providing opportunities to strengthen the STEM curriculum. The unique combination of high-level academics, hands-on learning, and collaborative partnerships with community resources ensures the students the preparation required to become leaders in STEM-related career fields in the world of the future.

Royal Palm Beach High School is an IB World School® authorized in 2017 to offer the Diploma Programme (DP). Our administration and faculty sought authorization to provide students from the Western Communities with a rigorous, broad-based liberal arts education that meets international standards. As an International Baccalaureate World School®, RPBHS follows the IB model by developing students’ intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills to live, learn, and work in a rapidly global world. Our vision and philosophy of teaching and learning align with the approaches supported by recent research on best practices in international education and the standards and practices advocated by the International Baccalaureate.

A single purpose unifies RPBHS stakeholders, that is, to embody and exemplify the IB Learner Profile through meaningful action. The Diploma Program provides a holistic educational experience whereby students graduate with an expanded set of higher-level thinking skills from concurrently studying specific disciplines through real-world assessment outcomes. The IB emphasizes written and oral language, including the ability to communicate in at least two languages. The IB Diploma Programme program provides exposure to experiential learning through the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) program at a sophisticated level, whereby students are challenged to solve problems in their particular areas of interest and reflect on their resulting personal growth.

The Diploma Programme features high-quality, internationally-ratified, high-criterion-referenced assessment standards in all subjects. The internal and externally moderated forms of assessment allow students to demonstrate what they know and understand in multiple ways, including face-to-face oral presentations, laboratory reports, projects, exhibitions, and portfolios, in addition to traditional written examinations. The IB Learner Profile allows students to assess their progress against defined personal attributes.

RPBHS Vision/IB Mission

Royal Palm Beach Community High School is dedicated to meeting the holistic needs of all students. This will be achieved by ensuring:

• A safe, respectful, socially just environment
• Rigorous academics with personalized learning
• A variety of extracurricular activities

This will all be accomplished while building parent and community involvement and maintaining open communication among all stakeholders.

Students will graduate with pride and confidence, prepared to succeed in their post-secondary endeavors and become inquiring, lifelong learners and productive global citizens.

The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

To this end, the organization works with schools, governments, and international organizations to develop challenging international education programs and rigorous assessments.

These programs encourage students worldwide to become active, compassionate, and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

Daniel DiCurcio, Diploma Programme Coordinator
(561) 753-4014

Kathryn Murphy, Counseling Services Department Coordinator
(561) 753-4020 

IB Initiative

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme Flyer
IB in Title I Schools
IB Athletes
IB & AVID

The DP Curriculum at RPBHS
IB Diploma candidates take one course from each of the six groups of study in the DP.

They enroll in at least three Higher Level Courses (HL) and three Standard Level Courses (SL) over the course of two years (11th and 12th).

Six Groups of Study

Group 1: Studies in Language & Literature
IB English Language & Literature HL

Group 2: Language Acquisition
IB Spanish B SL
IB French B SL
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
IB History HL
IB Psychology SL or HL

Group 4: Sciences
IB Biology HL
IB Environmental Systems and Societies SL

Group 5: Mathematics
IB Math Applications & Interpretations SL
IB Math Analysis and Approaches SL

Group 6: The Arts
IB Visual Arts SL or HL

Three Core Requirements:

THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE is a course designed to encourage each student to reflect on the nature of knowledge by critically examining different ways of knowing (perception, emotion, language and reason) and different kinds of knowledge (scientific, artistic, mathematical and historical).

EXTENDED ESSAY is a requirement for students to engage in independent research through an in-depth study of questions relating to one of the subjects they are studying.

CREATIVITY, ACTIVITY, SERVICE requires that students actively learn from the experience of doing real tasks beyond the classroom. while reflecting on their learning experiences.

IB DP model

Earning the IB Diploma

1. Candidates of the IB Diploma must satisfy all assessment requirements in six subjects as well as the core areas of Theory of Knowledge; Extended Essay; and Creativity, Action and Service. Performance in each of the six IB Diploma subjects is graded on a scale of 1-7 points. A maximum of 3 points is awarded for combined performance in TOK and EE. The maximum total diploma point score is therefore 45.
2. Diploma candidates must take at least three—and not more than four—courses at Higher Level (HL), with the remaining courses taken at Standard Level (SL). The difference between HL & SL is not in quality of instruction, but in quantity of instructional time and in the number of assessments—with HL usually having more. All HL subjects and at least one SL subject must be taught over the two years of the diploma program.
3. The diploma will be awarded to candidates whose total scores, including any bonus or penalty points, reaches 24-27 points, satisfactory grades on both Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay, and an approved Creativity, Activity and Service program completed.
4. The following additional requirements must also be met.
       > There is no grade 1 in any subject.
       > There is no grade 2 in a Higher Level subject.
       > There is no more than one grade 2 at Standard Level.
       > Overall, there are no more than three grades 3 or below.
5. At least 12 points have been gained on Higher Level subjects; candidates who register for four Higher Level subjects must gain at least 16 points at higher level.
6. At least 9 points have been gained on Standard Level subjects; candidates who register for only two Standard Level subjects must gain at least 6 points at standard level.
7. The diploma will be awarded to candidates whose total scores, including any bonus or penalty points, reaches 28-45 points, satisfactory grades on both Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay, and an approved Creativity, Action and Service program completed.

Note: The diploma will not be awarded to candidates regardless of their score if any of the following conditions exit.

1. The student fails to complete all assessments for all subject areas.
2. The student receives a grade of 1 in any Higher Level subject
3. The student does not submit an Extended Essay
4. The student does not successfully complete the Theory of Knowledge course
5. The student does not successfully completed Creativity, Activity and Service activities; or 
6. There has been an instance of malpractice (academic dishonesty).

Resources

The IB Learner Profile
In the IB Educational Context
Academic Integrity
FLIBS

Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE)

The Cambridge AICE Diploma (or Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education) is an internationally recognized diploma awarded to students for the satisfactory completion of a series of academically rigorous courses specific to AICE in high school.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Advanced Placement® (AP) courses provide a unique learning experience that promotes college readiness. AP courses are college-level courses and exams provided in high schools for which students can earn college credit and advanced placement in college course sequencing, helping them to stand out in the admissions process. AP course descriptions and exams are developed by the College Board and are available in over 30 subjects, including art, computer science, history and social sciences, mathematics, sciences, English language and literature, and world languages.

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID)

AVID’s mission is to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college readiness in a global society.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Royal Palm Beach High School is an IB World School® authorized in 2017 to offer the Diploma Programme (DP). RPBHS administration and faculty sought authorization for the purpose of providing students from the Western Communities with a rigorous, broad-based liberal arts education that meets international standards. As an International Baccalaureate World School®, RPBHS follows the IB model by developing students’ intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills needed to live, learn and work in a rapidly globalizing world.