Opening Letter - KIPP Chicago Public Schools

The Whole Child Review Issue No. 14, October 2024

Opening Letter

Dear KIPP Chicago Champions, Educators, and Supporters,

With the start of the school year and the first signs of fall settling in, I’m filled with hope and enthusiasm for what’s to come for KIPP Chicago. After facing the immense challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, our community has emerged stronger, more resilient, and more united than ever. Together, we’ve laid a solid foundation that will propel us toward even greater success.

Over the past couple of years, we overhauled our entire curriculum, sharpening our focus on early literacy and the science of reading. We’ve made deep investments to create a transformative learning environment where every child has the tools to thrive, especially during these critical early years. This is the year we begin to see the fruits of that labor—the results of the foundation we have so carefully rebuilt.

Our classrooms are buzzing with renewed energy, free from the disruptions that once defined the pandemic years. The challenges we’ve faced have only strengthened our resolve, and I believe we are on the brink of extraordinary progress in student achievement.

This year, we also honor something we hold dear—the incredible leaders within our community. I want to take a moment to celebrate our Heart of Gold recipients—educators who have dedicated over a decade to bringing their profound and impactful leadership to KIPP Chicago. Their unwavering commitment to our students, families, and mission continues to inspire us all, and their leadership has been a guiding light through both challenging and joyful times.

Additionally, I’d like to extend special recognition to our alumna and board member, Paris Clark, for the recent opening of her bakery, And She Bakes Too, in Portage Park. Paris has always embodied the values we hold dear at KIPP, and her entrepreneurial spirit continues to inspire us all. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and excited to see her success grow.

With a stronger community, a reimagined curriculum, and a shared commitment to excellence, this year promises to be one of transformation and achievement for KIPP Chicago. Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we work together to make this vision a reality.

With gratitude and excitement,
April

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