Wareham High School is one step closer to becoming part of the International Baccalaureate Program.

Director of Curriculum and Instruction Andrea Schwamb presented a program curriculum update to the School Committee Wednesday night. The school will undergo a verification process in October, which will determine the school's competency for the program.

The International Baccalaureate organization was founded in 1968, and offers an advanced academic track for students at 3,500 different IB-certified schools in 145 countries. The organization offers the primary years program for students ages 3 - 12; the middle years program for students ages 11 - 16; and the diploma program for students ages 16 - 19.

When asked by Chairman Geoffrey Swett why teachers are excited about the program, Schwamb told him, “It's not common.”

“Its level of inquiry and interdisciplinary studies provide teachers a way for students to open up their minds,” she explained. “[The students'] thinking is honored.”

The committee will continue to hear more updates about the program in the coming months.

Following two musical performances by the Wareham High School Music Department at the beginning of the School Committee Meeting, Shaver-Hood moved to approve the school calendar. This year, school will start on Aug. 29 for students, with a faculty in-service day on Aug. 24. The last day of school will be a half day on June 12.

The School Committee also accepted a $3,000 gift from the Wareham Middle School Student Council to the Wareham Middle School, $10,000 worth of kitchen equipment for the to the high school donated by Lindsey's Family Restaurant, and nine youth exercise machines from the Gleason Family YMCA.