We push for social, political, and economic equity by increasing the number of students of color who graduate from college, while supporting positive identity formation and social/emotional development. We want schools to do right by kids and families by providing instruction and support that truly empower them. We want to belong to a network of schools working for the same purpose and know that our work contributes to city-wide and nationwide change for people of color.
Over the last five years, an average of 82% of our teachers have returned each year, significantly higher than the local or national averages and in contrast to the general perception of urban charter schools. Additionally, the pathway from teacher to leader is intentionally designed and well-worn. 3.5 times more leaders than in a traditional school model translates to 3.5 times more opportunities for teachers to grow into leadership.
For many of us, joining KIPP Chicago feels like coming home professionally. It’s the school we always wished we worked at, but never knew existed.