Skip to main content

Specialty Programs

At Mullen Elementary, we are proud to be an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) school since 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.

 

Elementary school specialty programs have a limited number of seats available each year for student transfers.  We currently only have seats available for students that will be going into 2nd grade for the 2027-2028 school year. 

Information Meetings

Specialty Program information nights are held in the fall and offer an overview of each program and the application process. Program-specific information nights are held at each elementary school.

General Information Sessions

  • October 22, 2026, 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Mullen ES (Library)
  • January 21, 2027, 5:30-6:30 p.m. on Zoom
Attendance Areas

Bristow Run ES, Chris Yung ES, Loch Lomond ES, Mullen ES, Piney Branch ES, Sinclair ES, Sudley ES, and Yorkshire ES

Important Dates

  • November 2, 2026 – Specialty program application opens
  • February 1, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. – Specialty program application closes
  • March 1, 2027 – Application results will be available for parents
  • March 5, 2027 – Deadline to accept or decline an offer

We encourage parents to submit applications as soon as possible. Late applications will not be considered.

Specialty Program Application Process Information

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:

  • 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.

More information

About the IB Programme at Mullen Elementary

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 Programme?

Students who attend one of the designated schools are included in the program at 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 World 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 HS. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme 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 students' sense of responsibility to themselves and their communities, as indicated in the IB Learner Profile.

Check out the videos and articles below for more information about the PYP.