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Mission & Philosophy

Dwight is dedicated to igniting the spark of genius in every child. Kindling their interests, we develop inquisitive, knowledgeable, self-aware, and ethical citizens who will build a better world.

Our Vision

To foster the next generation of global leaders who can thrive anywhere in the world.

OUR THREE PILLARS

Global Vision
Students at Dwight School working together on a class assignment.

Dwight’s mission, vision, and pillars extend globally across our network of schools and is supported by the International Baccalaureate ethos. Students develop a sense of themselves, as well as the world around them. Dwight opens students’ hearts and minds through challenges and opportunities, inviting students to build bridges within and between cultures.

Personalized Learning

Dwight embraces the individuality of each learner, as no two students are the same. Dwight supports these student journeys through a robust academic curriculum and after-school programs. Dwight makes it a priority to focus on and develop each child’s spark of genius. Whether connecting a student with an exceptional mentor, designing tailor-made enrichment, crafting a special study abroad opportunity, or providing an innovative program or tutorial, Dwight recognizes and fosters each student’s gifts and talents.

Community
Students performing in an orchestra on stage.

Dwight’s community is a family of diverse individuals whose collective goal is to build a better world. The power of our learning environment is enhanced by connecting and valuing the different contributions and talents of all members. Through unlimited service, leadership, programmatic, and scholarship opportunities, we inspire students to find their own unique paths to action.

Diversity Statement

Dwight values an inclusive and diverse community. Our rich and long-standing New York presence and strong international focus have combined to forge our unique community, which is enriched by our members’ varying backgrounds. These include age, cultural tradition, ethnicity, gender, nationality, physical ability, race, religion, sexual orientation, and socio-economic position. Each member — families, faculty, staff, and alumni — contributes to Dwight’s rich tapestry.

We seek to enroll families who will work in partnership with the School to embrace the challenging ― yet rewarding ― situations borne from diversity. We pledge to support and advocate for our community and recognize that all perspectives are valued.

As an International Baccalaureate World School, Dwight is committed to a strong sense of global understanding. As the concept of diversity continues to evolve, we will evolve with it. Our dedication to this effort is ongoing.

Global-mindedness Statement

Education transcends geographical boundaries ― while our School is situated in Manhattan, students’ learning experiences are designed to help them become citizens of not only New York City, but also the world. The International Baccalaureate Program emphasizes inquiry and learning through the study of global contexts and provides a rich framework to achieve these goals.

Dwight values the importance of students’ language acquisition while honoring the  development of their mother tongues. By reducing barriers created by language and broadening our understanding of cultures inherent in the languages our students study, we can better participate in a global dialogue. At Dwight, the study of language is designed to be one of inclusiveness.

Additionally, as a global network of leading International Baccalaureate World Schools, our students, faculty, and staff have countless unique opportunities to collaborate with peers on and across other Dwight campuses. These include curricular and creative collaborations, service opportunities, and exchange programs, exposing them to the cultures and insights of others ― and enabling them to share their own culture. As an IB educator, we strongly advocate the mission of “encouraging students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.” Through greater empathy and international understanding, students will develop a more global perspective.

IB Mission Statement

“The International Baccalaureate® aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.”

To learn more about the IB mission, please visit the IB’s website