At KIPP Chicago, our students recently embarked on a powerful journey of learning and self-expression through the novel All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely. This impactful story, which explores the pressing issues of police violence, identity, and justice in America, resonated deeply with our students’ lived experiences and the world around them.
Led by the incredible Alice Gustafson, our students partnered with Professor Leah Gipson, a passionate advocate for Chicago’s youth whose work focuses on community involvement, environmental justice, and healing through art. Along with graduate students from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), they engaged in a culminating art project that transformed their reflections and ideas into powerful statements of activism and hope.
Through this project, students discovered how art can be both a personal outlet and a tool for advocacy, bringing attention to victims of police brutality whose stories often go untold. This collaboration gave our young Black and Brown students an inspiring platform to challenge stereotypes, celebrate their creativity, and contribute to the work of building stronger, more just communities.
Here’s what some of our students had to say about the experience:
“I loved that we were able to work together, share our ideas, and come up with one final project that represented all of us. I think we did a good job working as a team.” – Johnathan Ross
“It was really fun to meet new people, especially graduate students. I enjoyed getting to know them. We all were able to share our work.” – Zanila Smith
“I enjoyed expressing myself through art. The graduate students from SAIC were fun to work with. We were able to share how smart and creative we are.” – Shaniah Sanders
Thanks to Alice Gustafson’s thoughtful leadership, this collaboration became a shining example of how literature and art can empower students to explore their identities, amplify their voices, and create change. We are so proud of their resilience, artistry, and brilliance—and we can’t wait to see the impact they’ll continue to make.
In December, 50 talented 6th, 7th, and 8th graders from all four KIPP Chicago schools gathered at Walter Payton College Preparatory High School to participate in a Model United Nations (UN) conference. Representing 24 countries in pairs, our students tackled the critical topic of “Increasing Access to Equitable Education.”
For many KIPPsters, this was their first experience at a Model UN conference, and they rose to the occasion with confidence and poise. Delivering speeches and engaging in discussions with peers from across the city, they showcased their leadership skills and passion for global issues.
The day was made even more special thanks to the Walter Payton Model UN team, who gave our students a behind-the-scenes tour of the school. KIPP students explored electives, learned about school trips, and asked insightful questions about the high school experience, inspiring them to envision their futures at top-tier schools like Walter Payton.
A big thank-you goes to our dedicated Model UN coaches for their support in making this experience a success. Opportunities like these not only build confidence but also expand our students’ aspirations, showing them the heights they can achieve.
Dorian & Patty from KIPP One, Maricruz from KIPP One, and Carla from our regional team were recognized for their exceptional participation in the 2024 Illinois Multilingual Conference. Their commitment to professional growth and their dedication to supporting multilingual learners were demonstrated through their engagement in key sessions, followed by a prompt and thoughtful sharing of valuable resources with the rest of the ML team upon their return.
Their proactive approach reflects a deep care for students and their families, as well as a commitment to fostering an inclusive, multilingual environment. By sharing these insights and resources, they are enhancing classrooms and helping ensure that every KIPPster receives the support needed to thrive academically and personally.
Their leadership and collaboration exemplify the values of lifelong learning and teamwork. The knowledge they have brought back will have a lasting impact on students, staff, and the broader community as the focus on multilingual excellence continues.
Dorian, Maricruz, Patty, and Carla’s dedication inspires and models the importance of ongoing growth and student success.
