At Mullen Elementary, we are proud to be an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) school since fall 2020. As part of a global community of IB World Schools, we are committed to nurturing young learners who are curious, compassionate, and globally minded.
The IB PYP framework empowers students aged 3-12 to become active participants in their own learning through inquiry-based, transdisciplinary education. Our dedicated educators guide students in developing essential skills, knowledge, and attitudes that prepare them to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Since adopting the PYP, our school has embraced a holistic approach to education that values student voice, choice, and agency. We foster a learning environment where students are encouraged to ask questions, explore real-world issues, and take meaningful action in their communities.
We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our vibrant learning community and how the IB PYP is shaping the future of education at Mullen.
Information Meetings
General Information Sessions
- October 14, 2025, 11 a.m. – Register for the webinar
- October 30, 2025, 5:30 p.m. on Zoom
- January 22, 2026, 5:30 p.m. at Mullen ES
Application Window opens on November 3, 2025.
Mullen PYP Informational Night Presentation
Criteria for IB Programme Consideration
Mullen Elementary is proud to offer the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), which nurtures curiosity, global awareness, and academic growth. When considering students for participation, we review the following criteria:
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Academic Performance
Academic performance is considered as part of the overall review process. -
Attendance
Students should have no more than 10 absences during the current school year to ensure consistent engagement in learning. -
Behavior and Discipline
A positive and respectful learning environment is essential. Students must be in good disciplinary standing, which includes:- No disciplinary incidents in the past 12 months related to fighting, vaping, disrespect, classroom disruption, or vandalism.
- No history of serious infractions, including assault or battery, sexual assault or harassment, arson, possession of weapons, or involvement with drugs or alcohol.
These criteria help us ensure that all students thrive in a safe, inclusive, and academically enriching IB learning environment.
Mullen Elementary School is one of five IBPYP programs offered in Prince William County.
* Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme (DP), or the Career-related Programme (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted.
What is the Primary Years Programme?
The primary years programme is a program for learners aged up to 12 years offered under the sponsorship of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).
Who may participate in the Primary Years Programmes?
Students who attend one of the designated schools are included in the program in that school. Students may also transfer to one of the designated elementary schools for the program.
What subjects does a student study in the Primary Years Programme?
As in all Prince William County Public Schools, students will follow the Standards of Learning of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the PWCS curriculum. Students study the following subject areas in the Primary Years Programme:
*Language: Language Arts and Foreign Language
*Social Studies
*Mathematics
*Science and Technology
*Arts
*Personal, Social, and Physical Education
What other IB Programmes are offered in PWCS?
The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IBMYP) serves students in grades 6-10. The programme is offered at Hampton MS, Beville MS, and Unity Braxton MS. As well as Gar-Field HS and Unity Reed Jackson HS. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program serves students in grades 11-12 and is offered at Gar-Field HS and Unity Reed HS. The International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme is designed for students aged 16-19. This programme is also offered at Gar-Field HS and Unity Reed HS.
How are all Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programme similar?
The three programs, IBPYP, IBMYP, and IB Diploma Programme develop student learning in specific subject areas. All three programmes also have themes or concepts that help students connect ideas across subject areas. Finally, all three programs involve student terms of student responsibility to themselves and their communities indicated in the IB Learner Profile.
Check out the videos and articles below for more information about the PYP.
Videos
What is the IB PYP?
What Does Inquiry in the PYP Look Like?
What Does it Mean to be an Inquiry Teacher?
Articles
What is International Baccalaureate?
Parents: Why We Chose an IB World School
