The International Baccalaureate program of which our school is a part has adopted and implemented the IB philosophy of promoting intercultural understanding and respect. We encourage our students to become active in our communities, to think critically about themselves and the world around them, and to become compassionate, lifelong learners. Before learning about the IB program, I had already adopted this concept. I realize that my preteen students are so absorbed in our American pop culture and technology, therefore somewhat unaware of the real world around them. There are many opportunities to connect with others from around the world or with friends across the county using My Space or a mobile phone. Yet that's what our children do, a lot! I feel like it's my job as an educator to push them out of their bubble to see how others live in other countries. It is so important for our children to realize that there are bigger things outside of their schools and neighborhoods. In addition to becoming globally connected, our American children need to take their eyes off their iPods...