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OCT.16, 2025—The Pal-Mac High School Library Tuesday transformed into a ceremony space as a record number of students signed their commitments at the 3rd annual International Baccalaureate (IB) Signing Day.

43 Pal-Mac juniors and seniors were joined by their families as they signed their Declaration of Intent to the IB's Diploma Programme. Each Pal-Mac student who participated has committed to taking at least one course. Among them, two seniors and ten juniors are currently candidates for the full IB Diploma Programme.

Pal-Mac’s IB Diploma Programme Coordinator Rebecca DeSol started the signing day tradition three years ago as a way to drum up student excitement in the same way student-athletes do when they sign their National Letters of Intent.

PHOTO GALLERY: 2025 IB SIGNING DAY

"We are excited and inspired by the growing number of students interested in developing skills that will help them in school and throughout life,” DeSol said.  “Committing to this journey requires persistence and hard work, but the rewards go far beyond a test score."

Jonas Henley (left) and Kareem Afify (right) the two IB Diploma Programme candidates

Internationally, the IB Diploma Programme is the gold standard for pre-university preparation. It is designed to develop skills in well-rounded students who excel in their academics. IB students at Pal-Mac may choose up to six IB courses (Literature, History, Math, Science, Foreign Language, and an elective: Psychology or Film) to earn credit. 

Candidates for the full IB diploma also produce work comprised of creativity, activity, and service components. This year, senior Jonas Henley created a full-fledged car show that raised money for the High School Band. Additionally, Diploma Programme students enjoy a philosophy elective called “Theory of Knowledge” and undergo an independent research project called "The Extended Essay."

In an opening address to students, Pal-Mac High School Principal Andy Wahl said that while the programme is challenging, students are not taking on the work alone.

"Today is around around declaring, so you're going to get a certificate declaring that you're going to move forward," Wahl said. "And we're declaring that we're here to help you as parents and educators, to be with you side by side as cohorts, as, collaborators to help you work toward meeting this amazing accomplishment."

Being an IB student can also increase a student's chances of college admission, should they choose that path. Their assessments are compiled into one overall score, and those scores potentially earn them credit. Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC) offers credits, though students can earn AP credit in addition to their IB credit since IB is international. Some IB students use their work to earn scholarships.  

For more information about the IB Diploma Programme at Pal-Mac, check out their website,