KIPP:
"The KIPP schools are the most striking example of a movement that is improving education across America: the rise of 'charter' schools."
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27,800students served
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85%qualify for free / reduced meals
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85%who were with KIPP in 8th grade go to college
Read the Jay Matthews book about KIPP.
"Work Hard. Be Nice. How Two Inspired Teachers Created the Most Promising Schools in America."
Buy now »About KIPP
KIPP began in 1994 when two teachers, Mike Feinberg and Dave Levin, launched a fifth-grade public school program in inner-city Houston, TX, after completing their commitment to Teach For America. In 1995, Feinberg remained in Houston to lead KIPP Academy Middle School, and Levin returned home to New York City to establish KIPP Academy in the South Bronx. These two original KIPP Academies became the starting place for a growing network of schools that are transforming the lives of students in under-resourced communities, and redefining the notion of what is possible in public education.
Since their founding, the two original KIPP Academies have sustained track records of high student achievement. While less than 40 percent of low-income students attend college nationally, KIPP's college matriculation rate stands at more than 85 percent for students who complete the eighth grade at KIPP. More than 90 percent of KIPP alumni go on to college-preparatory high schools; collectively, they have earned millions of dollars in scholarships and financial aid since 2000.
KIPP's Five Pillars
KIPP schools share a core set of operating principles known as the Five Pillars:
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High Expectations
KIPP has clear, measurable high expectations for academic achievement and conduct that make no excuses based on the students' backgrounds. Students, staff and families build a strong culture of achievement.
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Choice & Commitment
Students, parents and teachers all commit to a college-prep education. Everyone makes a commitment to the school and to each other to put in the time and effort required to achieve success.
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More Time
With an extended school day, week, and year, students have more time in the classroom to acquire the academic knowledge and skills that will prepare them for competitive high schools and colleges, as well as more opportunities to engage in diverse extracurricular experiences.
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Power to Lead
Great schools start with great educators. KIPP school leaders have control over their school budget and personnel allowing them maximum effectiveness in helping students learn.
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Focus on Results
KIPP schools relentlessly focus on high student performance on standardized tests and other objective measures. Students are expected to achieve a level of academic performance that will enable them to succeed at the nation's best high schools and colleges.
