The International Baccalaureate program of which our school is a member 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 hearing about the IB program, I had already embraced the concept. I realize that my preteen students are so absorbed in our American pop culture and technology, that they are therefore somewhat oblivious to the real world around them. There are many opportunities to communicate with others around the world or with friends across the country using My Space or a cell phone. However, this is often what our children do! I think it's my job as an educator to push them out of their bubble to see how others live in other countries. It is very important that our children realize that there are greater things outside of their schools and neighborhoods. In addition to being connected to the world, our American children need to take their eyes off their iPods....