High School

Modern Knowledge Schools is proud of our academic program, records and accomplishments. Faculty work hard to provide an academic experience that offers, as our mission statement promises, "a world class education with an American curriculum." Each student is treated as an individual, focusing on developmentally appropriate instruction, higher level thinking, teamwork and problem solving skills. However, our efforts go beyond the purely academic to focus on the education of all aspects of a young person. MKS sponsors a broad range of interscholastic athletics including competition in the Bahrain Private School Sports League for both middle and high school students. Students present Arabic and English plays, a talent show and an annual carnival.

We have small classes (20 students) and dedicated teachers with enough preparation time built in to the program to provide additional help to students. Through hard work and teacher assistance, students have maximum opportunity for success in this rigorous program.

In accordance with the school's mission the high school program aims to ensure that all students are equipped with the foundation knowledge, skills and attitudes to successfully succeed in IB diploma and/ or the American diploma program

Diploma Options

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program
The International Baccalaureate (I.B.) Diploma Program is a comprehensive and rigorous two-year curriculum for students in grades 11 and 12. The course culminates in external examinations and the award of the IB Diploma. The general objectives of the IB Diploma Program are to provide students with a balanced education; to facilitate geographical and cultural mobility; and to promote international understanding through shared academic experiences; and to provide access to tertiary education.

The IB Diploma is the only internationally recognized high school diploma. Its standard of academic excellence has led to the Diploma being accepted for entrance to universities around the world.

The subjects offered at MKS are as follows:

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
TOK is an interdisciplinary requirement intended to stimulate critical reflection on the knowledge and experience gained inside and outside the classroom. The course challenges students to question the bases of knowledge, to be aware of subjective and ideological biases, and to develop the ability to analyze evidence that is expressed in rational argument. It is a key element in encouraging them to appreciate other cultural perspectives.
Creativity, Action, Service (CAS)
The IBO’s goal is to educate the whole person and foster responsible, compassionate citizens. The CAS program encourages students to share their energy and special talents with others; students may, for example, participate in theatre or musical productions, sports and community service activities. Students should, through these activities, develop greater awareness of themselves, concern for others, and the ability to work co-operatively with other people. CAS activities must be undertaken for approximately 150 hours over two years.

The High School Diploma
The high school diploma is awarded to students in Grade 12 who have earned all required course credits in grades 9-12. The high school diploma is accepted by universities in North America.

The Bahrain Ministry of Education recognizes the Modern Knowledge Schools’ high school diploma. The diploma is accepted by universities in Bahrain and throughout the Gulf.
Subjects /Credits needed for graduation

Students need a minimum of 26 credits to graduate from MKS. They are required to take a math each year. If a student has completed all required credits in math, they are required to take an elective credit of math.

These requirements are based on four years in attendance at MKS. For students entering MKS after 9th grade with credits from other schools, these credits will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. It is expected that every student will pursue a program of study that allows him or her to realize full academic potential.

The academic courses in Grades 9 and 10 provide both a broad base and rigorous program in English and literature, mathematics, science, social studies, technology, the arts and physical education. Students will have opportunities to develop the full range of their skills, both within the classroom and through the variety of activities In Grades 11 and 12 all students will be working towards the American diploma and/or the full IB Diploma.

Academic 4 Year Plans

The classes a student would take over four years at MKS are as follows:

Feedback on Student Progress
Teachers and parents are very much in partnership to ensure that students reach their academic potential. Teachers and parents can communicate by email or phone at any time to discuss issues and concerns.

Report Cards
At the end of each quarter all students receive a report card giving both performance grades and effort grades. The performance grades are awarded on an A to D and F scale with grades decided mainly through criteria within each subject area. These cover the class activities and homework. The effort/behavior grades are either satisfactory or unsatisfactory. At the end of each semester the quarter performance grades are averaged to produce a semester grade. The semester grades appear on the transcript issued by MKS.

Mid Term Progress Reports
Mid Term Progress Reports are sent during the quarter to inform parents of student progress. These reports comment upon concerns and suggestions that a teacher may have or to report good performance or improvements made. The counselor calls the student’s parents to inform them of the progress report. Mid term progress reports may be sent at any time.

Parent Conferences
Parent/Teacher Conference Days are set aside after the 1st and 3rd Quarter for parent conference days, by which time grades have been sent out to facilitate home-school communication. Parents or teachers may also initiate parent conferences at other times during the school year as the need arises. Please contact the High School Office to schedule an appointment. We want to work in partnership with parents in order to provide the best possible education for all students. If a parent has a concern related to a specific subject area, he/she should contact the relevant teacher. If the parent and teacher cannot resolve an issue satisfactorily then the parent may contact the Counselor, the IB Coordinator and if concerns still remain, parents may request a meeting with the Principal.