William W. Bodine High School for International Affairs

Collage of Bodine High School students participating in school activities, including a mascot photo, public speaking, classroom learning, outdoor adventures, and soccer.

Welcome to
Bodine High School

William W. Bodine High School for International Affairs (BHSIA), located in the Northern Liberties neighborhood of Philadelphia, is a criteria-based public high school serving students in grades 9–12 within the School District of Philadelphia. Founded in 1981, Bodine provides a rigorous, college-preparatory education with a strong focus on international studies and global learning. Students have access to programs and opportunities including International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), and dual enrollment. Through challenging academics and a globally focused learning environment, students are encouraged to think critically, lead with integrity, and prepare for success in college, careers, and an interconnected world.

Blue Bodine script logo with a globe showing the Americas above the school name.

Principal’s Message

Welcome to Bodine

Dear Bodine Students, Families, and Community Members,

Welcome to William W. Bodine High School for International Affairs, a school community built around global learning, academic challenge, and the belief that students can make a positive difference in the world. Our partnership with the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia continues to shape opportunities that connect classroom learning to international perspectives and real-world experiences.

Our educational approach is grounded in three core pillars: International Academic Standards, which promote critical thinking and intellectual curiosity; Ambassador Values, which emphasize empathy, diplomacy, integrity, and leadership; and International Experiences, which help students learn from cultures, ideas, and issues beyond their own community. Through the International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, world languages, athletics, clubs, service, and global programs, students are encouraged to discover their strengths and prepare for life after high school.

Strong partnerships among students, families, staff, and community organizations are essential to our success. We invite families to stay connected, ask questions, participate in school life, and support students as they grow into thoughtful, confident, and responsible global citizens. At Bodine, we do not simply prepare students for the future; we prepare them for the world.

Bodine – Your Passport to the World.

Sincerely,

Dr. David E. Brown
Principal

Iran Garcia
Assistant Principal

Principal Dr. Brown stands outdoors wearing glasses, a tan blazer, and a red patterned vest, with trees in the background.
Main entrance of Bodine High School featuring stone columns, blue doors, colorful mosaic artwork, and blue murals along the brick exterior.

Our School

At William W. Bodine High School for International Affairs, students experience a rigorous college-preparatory education centered on international studies, global awareness, world languages, and leadership. Through our partnership with the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and opportunities including International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment, service, and global experiences, students develop the knowledge, confidence, and perspective needed for college, careers, and active citizenship.

Attendance & Bell Schedule

Bell Schedule

  • School Day: 8:00 AM – 3:04 PM
  • Breakfast: 7:30 – 8:00 AM
  • Lunch: Lunch periods vary by student schedule.

Specific student schedules may differ depending on class sections.

➜ For bell schedules, early dismissals, inclement weather procedures, delayed openings, and emergency closings, please refer to the Parent & Student Handbook.


Attendance

Regular attendance is important to student success. Excessive or unexcused absences may affect academic progress.

Students are responsible for making up missed work and should check class resources or contact their teachers after an absence.

Dress Code/Uniforms

Students are expected to follow Bodine’s uniform and dress code each day. The policy supports a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment.

Inclusive Dress Policy

Students may dress in accordance with their gender identity and/or expression within school guidelines.

Dress Code

  • Shirt/Top
    Approved Bodine T-shirts, polos, sweatshirts, hoodies, and official school team or club shirts.
  • Pants/Bottoms
    Pants, shorts, and skirts must fit at the waist and cover undergarments when sitting, standing, or bending.
  • Footwear
    Safe footwear must be worn at all times.
  • Headwear & Hoodies
    Hats and headwear are permitted as long as the student’s face remains visible to staff. Hoodie hoods must remain down inside the school building.
  • PE Uniform
    A separate official PE uniform is required for gym class and must be purchased through the school.

Not Permitted:

  • Crop tops, tube tops, halter tops, backless shirts, or clothing that exposes the midsection
  • See-through or mesh clothing without appropriate coverage underneath
  • Clothing that exposes undergarments
  • Clothing or symbols with obscene, threatening, hateful, illegal, or disruptive content
  • Modifications to the approved Bodine uniform

If a student violates the dress code:

  • A parent/guardian may be contacted
  • The school may provide loaner clothing or request a change of clothes.

➜ See the Parent & Student Handbook for complete dress code information.

Community Partnerships

Strong partnerships expand learning opportunities for students through mentoring, internships, enrichment programs, health services, college access, workforce development, and career exploration.

  • ASAP Debate
  • Eat Right Philly
  • Heights Philadelphia
  • Knowledge@Wharton
  • Philadelphia Financial Scholars
  • STEM Scholars at The Franklin Institute
  • Summer Search
  • Villanova VESTED and VIEW
  • Vision To Learn
  • World Affairs Council of Philadelphia

Partnership Dashboard

Explore programs and opportunities available to students across the School District of Philadelphia, including arts, STEM, wellness, mentoring, and more.
➜ Search the Dashboard

Points of Pride

  • National Blue Ribbon School (2009)
  • Recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools in 2020, 2021, and 2022
  • International Baccalaureate World School offering the IB Diploma Programme since 2005
  • Global learning opportunities that include international travel, diplomatic experiences, and Sister Cities exchange programs
  • A 100-hour minimum service expectation that reinforces civic responsibility and the school’s Ambassador values
  • Multiple Lindback Award-winning educators recognized for excellence in teaching

School History

William W. Bodine High School for International Affairs is named in honor of William Warden Bodine Jr. (1918–1983), a prominent Philadelphia civic and business leader with a deep interest in international affairs. Bodine served as chairman of the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and was active in numerous civic organizations throughout the region. His commitment to global understanding, civic engagement, and public service is reflected in the school that bears his name.

Bodine was founded in 1981 through a partnership between The School District of Philadelphia and the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia. It was the first public school in the nation to be co-sponsored by a world affairs organization, establishing an educational model centered on international issues, global perspectives, world languages, and cultural understanding. The World Affairs Council continues to partner with the school, providing students with international programs, exchanges, travel, and other globally focused learning opportunities.

For more than four decades, Bodine has built on this distinctive history while preparing students to participate in an increasingly interconnected world. Today, the school continues its tradition of academic excellence and global learning through its college-preparatory curriculum, International Baccalaureate program, world language studies, leadership opportunities, and commitment to its longtime motto, “Harmony in Diversity.”

School Traditions

International Day

International Day celebrates the global cultures, languages, identities, and perspectives represented in the Bodine community. The tradition reinforces our international mission while giving students opportunities to learn from and celebrate one another.

Spring Trip Abroad

International travel is a signature part of our global learning experience. With support from the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and other partners, students may participate in educational travel that connects classroom learning to history, language, culture, diplomacy, and global citizenship.

Sister Cities High School Exchange

Bodine participates in Sister Cities exchange opportunities that connect students with peers from other parts of the world, including a longstanding connection with Kobe, Japan. These exchanges build cultural understanding, communication skills, and lasting international connections.

Global Forums and Civic Engagement

Students take part in globally focused programs such as the International Student Summit, Global Economic Forum, speaker programs, and civic engagement activities. These experiences encourage students to discuss current issues, practice diplomacy, and engage with perspectives beyond the classroom.

Parent & Student Handbook & Policies

➜ Parent & Student Handbook

➜ District – Student Code of Conduct & Discipline Process


Policies


School Improvement Plan – Title I Documents

➜ View your school’s School Improvement Plan
➜ Request a translation of your school’s plan

If you do not have web access or need additional assistance, please contact planningsupports@philasd.org for support.


Annual Notification of Rights under FERPA

The School District of Philadelphia is required to annually notify parents and eligible students of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). These rights include the right to inspect and review education records, request amendments, consent to disclosures, and file a complaint.
➜ View the Annual FERPA Notice

For questions, please contact the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities.

Smiling cartoon globe mascot wearing a Bodine baseball cap and blue sneakers, giving a thumbs-up and flexing one arm.

At A Glance

Principal
Dr. David E. Brown

Assistant Principal
Sharon Connelly-Menotiades

Phone: 215-400-7630
Fax: 215-400-7631

Address:
1101 North 4th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19123

➜ SEPTA – Trip Planner

Grade Levels: 9-12
Learning Network: 15
Student Enrollment: 500
➜ School Data & Statistics

School Type
Criteria-Based Admission

Admission Criteria:

  • Grades: As and Bs and one C
  • Attendance: 90%
  • Standardized Test: 50th Percentile in ELA and 50th Percentile in Math

Apply to Bodine

Admission to Bodine is through The School District of Philadelphia’s School Selection Process. Students interested in attending must submit a School Selection application during the District’s annual application window.

As a criteria-based school, we have specific admissions requirements that students must meet to be considered.

Shadow Days

Shadow Days are available on Tuesdays and Thursday. To schedule one, please email debrown2@philasd.org.

Admissions Criteria

  • Admissions Type: Criteria-Based Admission
  • Attendance: 90% or higher
  • Grades: All A’s and B’s, with no more than one C
  • Standardized Assessments: 50th percentile or higher in both Math and Reading/ELA

Requirements may vary by school year. Families should review the current School Selection information and application timeline before applying.

➜ Learn More & Apply Through School Selection

Visit Our School

Find dates and details for upcoming tours, open houses, and shadow days on our school calendar.

Calendar

School Event Calendar

We maintain a school calendar that highlights important events such as parent-teacher conferences, school performances, testing dates, and more.

➔ View Our School Calendar

District Academic Calendar

The School District of Philadelphia provides an official academic calendar each year that includes start and end dates, holidays, report card conferences, and more.
➜ View the District Academic Calendar

Academics

At William W. Bodine High School for International Affairs, students follow a rigorous college-preparatory program grounded in international studies, global awareness, and Ambassador values. Learning emphasizes critical thinking, communication, cultural awareness, civic responsibility, and strong preparation for college, careers, and life beyond graduation. Students build these skills through core academic subjects, world languages, international studies, and advanced learning opportunities.

Academic Support

Every student learns differently. Academic support services help students strengthen academic skills, stay on track for graduation, and achieve their educational goals. Additional support is available for students who need extra assistance, enrichment, or individualized instruction.

At Bodine, academic support includes credit recovery, summer programs, and additional help from teachers. Students should work with their teachers and counselors to identify the support they need.

Advanced Coursework

Bodine offers several advanced academic opportunities that challenge students and help prepare them for college and other postsecondary pathways.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Bodine offers Advanced Placement courses that provide students with college-level academic experiences while in high school. Course availability may vary by school year. Students who earn qualifying AP exam scores may be eligible for college credit or advanced placement depending on the college or university they attend.

Dual Enrollment

Eligible students may complete college-level coursework while enrolled at Bodine.
➜ Learn More About Dual Enrollment

Honors Coursework

Bodine offers Honors coursework for students seeking additional academic challenge within the school’s college-preparatory program. Honors course availability may vary by grade level and school year.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Bodine offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for eligible students in grades 11–12.
➜ Explore the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme

Graduation Requirements

To graduate, students must meet the School District of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania requirements. Review the current requirements and work with a school counselor to plan courses and track progress.
➜ View Current Graduation Requirements


School-Specific Graduation Requirements

Bodine has additional requirements for coursework, world language study, and service. Check the Parent & Student Handbook and speak with a school counselor about current requirements, approved service activities, and how to record completed service.

Students in the IB Diploma Programme must also meet Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) requirements. Contact the IB Coordinator for current expectations and guidance.
➜ Review the Parent & Student Handbook

Multilingual Programs & Services

The School District of Philadelphia provides a variety of programs and services in many languages to support our multilingual families. Students whose first language is not English may qualify for ESOL services.

Need Help?
➜ Contact your school’s Bilingual Counseling Assistant


Programs & Services

Multilingual Curriculum and Programs

Learn more about the different programs and opportunities offered for multilingual students and families, and to get assistance with any District-related questions or processes.
➜ View Multilingual Curriculum and Programs


Language Access Support Services

Learn more about accessing interpretation/translation services, including Bilingual Counseling Assistants (BCAs) assigned to your school, and other resources.
➜ View Language Access Support Services


Language Access Concern

Your feedback is essential in helping us improve language access within our District. If you’ve encountered a language-related challenge, such as a communication barrier, translation issue, or interpretation challenge, your input helps us improve our services.
➜ Share a Language Access Concern

Special Education Services

At Bodine, we are committed to providing specialized services to students in the least restrictive environment, as required by law. Students receive accommodations and modifications as outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

The District provides an extensive range of educational services and supports for students with diverse needs within our schools.
➜ Learn more about IEPs and Special Education Programs.

Visual & Performing Arts

At Bodine, students can explore their creativity and develop artistic skills through visual arts and music coursework.

Arts Offerings

  • Band
  • Ceramics
  • Crafts
  • Intro to Art
  • Orchestra
  • Sculpture

Course offerings may vary by school year.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme

Bodine offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for students in grades 11–12. The two-year program provides advanced academic study while developing research, critical-thinking, communication, and global-awareness skills.

Admission Policy
Inclusion Policy
Academic Integrity Policy
Language Policy
Assessment Policy

Programme Eligibility

Bodine students are considered for the IB Diploma Programme based on academic performance, attendance, conduct, teacher recommendations, and participation in the school’s IB preparation process during grades 9–10.

Courses Offered

  • Biology
  • Business Management
  • English A: Literature
  • French Ab Initio
  • French B
  • History
  • Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
  • Portuguese B
  • Spanish B

Core Components

In addition to their IB courses, students complete three required components of the Diploma Programme:

  • Theory of Knowledge — a course focused on critical thinking
  • Extended Essay — an independent research project
  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) — experiences involving creativity, physical activity, and service beyond the classroom

College Credit

Students who earn qualifying IB exam scores may be eligible for college credit, advanced standing, or course placement depending on the college or university they attend.

College & Career

At Bodine, students receive support exploring colleges, careers, financial aid, employment, and other opportunities after graduation. School counseling, college-access support, dual enrollment, community partnerships, and global learning experiences help students connect their interests and academic goals with plans for the future.

Counseling Services

School counselors play an important role in supporting students throughout their high school journey. They work closely with students and families to promote academic success, personal growth, and postsecondary planning while connecting students with the resources they need to achieve their goals.

Bodine’s school counseling program supports students with:

  • Academic planning and course selection
  • College and career planning
  • Family collaboration
  • Graduation and credit monitoring
  • Postsecondary planning
  • Referrals to school and community resources
  • Social-emotional support

Students also have access to additional college-access resources and support throughout the college and postsecondary planning process.

Career Experiences & Partnerships

Learning extends beyond the classroom. At Bodine, students have opportunities to explore careers, build professional skills, and gain real-world experience through career-connected learning opportunities. These experiences help students connect classroom learning to future careers while developing the knowledge, confidence, and workplace skills needed for success after graduation.

World Affairs Council of Philadelphia

Through Bodine’s longstanding partnership with the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, students participate in global learning experiences that strengthen communication, research, diplomacy, collaboration, civic engagement, and leadership skills.
➜ Learn More About the World Affairs Council Partnership

College & Career Partnerships

Bodine also works with community partners to expand access to college planning, career exploration, financial literacy, mentoring, STEM, and other postsecondary opportunities. Specific programs and eligibility requirements may vary by school year.

Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment allows eligible students to take college-level coursework while still enrolled in high school and earn college credit.

Bodine offers dual enrollment opportunities for eligible students. Partner institutions, courses, eligibility requirements, and application processes may vary.

➜ Learn More About Dual Enrollment

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Bodine supports students and families as they navigate the cost of college and other postsecondary opportunities.

Support includes:

  • College cost planning
  • FAFSA completion support
  • Financial aid guidance
  • Scholarship searches

➜ View Financial Aid & Scholarship Resources

Student Life

After-School & Summer Programming

Out-of-School Time (OST)

Out-of-School Time (OST) is the time that a child or youth spends in after-school or summer programming. In Philadelphia, OST programs are provided for young people in grades K through 12.
➜ Learn more and find a program near you

Summer Programs

Explore free summer programs from the School District of Philadelphia that keep students learning, engaged, and prepared for success.
➜ Learn more about opportunities for your student over the summer.

Athletics

At Bodine, athletics provide students with opportunities to build teamwork, leadership, discipline, sportsmanship, and school pride through competitive sports. Some sports are offered through partnerships with other District high schools.

Sports Offered

Fall
  • Boys Soccer
  • Cheerleading
  • Cross Country
  • Football (with Kensington High School)
  • Girls Soccer
  • Girls Tennis
  • Girls Volleyball
  • Golf (with Constitution High School)
Winter
  • Bowling (with Carver High School)
  • Boys Basketball
  • Cheerleading
  • Girls Basketball
  • Wrestling
Spring
  • Badminton
  • Baseball
  • Boys Tennis
  • Boys Volleyball
  • Softball
  • Track & Field
Year-Round
  • Students Run Philly Style

Athletic offerings may vary by season and school year.

Sports Physical

Participation in athletics requires a completed physical form signed by a doctor.
➜ Learn more about sports physicals

Philadelphia Public League (PPL)

Student-athletes compete in the Philadelphia Public League, representing their school while developing physical fitness, teamwork, sportsmanship, and discipline.
➜ Learn More About Philadelphia Public League Athletics
➜ Find Your Team Schedule

Clubs & Student Organizations

At Bodine, students are encouraged to build community, explore their interests, and develop leadership skills through academic, cultural, identity-based, service, media, and special-interest organizations.

Clubs & Organizations

  • Asian American Pacific Islander Club
  • Black Student Union
  • Chess Club
  • Debate Team
  • Entrepreneur Club / Investing Club
  • Gaming Club
  • Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA)
  • Hispanic & Latino Cultural Club
  • Media Club
  • Muslim Students Association
  • National Honor Society
  • Robotics Club
  • Women’s History Month Program
  • World Affairs Club
  • Yearbook
  • Youth Volunteer Corps

Club offerings may vary by school year.

Student Leadership

At Bodine, students have opportunities to develop leadership skills, represent their peers, serve their community, and become active participants in school life.

National Honor Society

Eligible students develop leadership and service through a school community centered on scholarship, character, and civic responsibility.

Student Government Association

Students represent their peers, contribute to school activities, and develop communication, organization, collaboration, and leadership skills.

World Affairs Club & Global Programs

Students strengthen public speaking, diplomacy, civic engagement, and global awareness through the World Affairs Club and World Affairs Council programs.

Youth Volunteer Corps & Service

Students develop leadership through volunteer service and community engagement. Bodine’s 100-hour minimum service expectation further reinforces the school’s commitment to active citizenship.

Health & Wellness

School Nurse

Our school nurse provides immediate care for health concerns, conducts required screenings, and supports students’ overall wellness.

➜ For details on medication administration, mandated screenings, immunizations, and other health services, please refer to the Parent & Student Handbook.

Need Help?
➜ Contact your School Nurse

Immunization Requirements & Health Services

Pennsylvania law requires all students to be fully immunized or officially exempt before attending school. This is mandated by the PA Department of Health, the Philadelphia County Board of Health, and the School District of Philadelphia.

➜ Learn about immunizations, physicals, and wellness programs

Mental Health Resources

Find free support, counseling, and tools to care for your mental well-being.
➜ View Resources

Vaping/Smoking Resources

Family guides, free tools, and support to help quit vaping or smoking.
➜ View Resources

Resources

Parent & Family

Parent and Family Portal

➜ Log in to the Parent & Family Portal to view school announcements, messages from your child’s teacher, and access grades, test scores, attendance, immunization records, and report cards.

Family Hub

➜ Visit the Family Hub for help with registration, academics, special education, English learner support, student records, transportation, and more.

Transportation

➜ View transportation services for bus routes, bus status, the Flat Rate Program, and support.

Accommodations & Multilingual Support

➜ Request translation or accessibility accommodations for any school or District event.

AHERA Inspection Reports

➜ View AHERA inspection reports for asbestos material status and school-specific details.

Students

Student Hub

➜ Visit the Student Hub for help with academics, athletics, records, college & career planning, CTE programs, and more.

Working Papers

➜ Learn how to obtain working papers for employment.

Transcript Requests

➜ Request official or unofficial transcripts.

Google Classroom

➜ Access class assignments and materials. For help, see the Google Classroom Login Directions.

Chromebook Support

➜ Get help with Chromebook issues, repairs, and troubleshooting.

Get Involved

Volunteer

Interested in volunteering at Bodine? All volunteers must complete The School District of Philadelphia’s required volunteer clearances and procedures.
➜ Review Volunteer Requirements

For current volunteer opportunities at Bodine, contact debrown2@philasd.org.

Alumni

Bodine alumni are invited to stay connected with the school community through the BHSIA Alumni Association.
➜ Join the BHSIA Alumni Association Facebook Group

School Advisory Councils (SACs)

SACs are peer-elected groups of family members, school staff, students (grades 7–12), and community members who work together to support academic success and strengthen school partnerships.
➜ Learn more about School Advisory Councils

Parent & Family University

Parent & Family University provides free resources, courses, and support to help parents and families engage with their children, schools, and community.
➜ Learn more about Parent & Family University