About KIPP LA Schools

While fewer than 41 percent of low-income students attend college, more than 89 percent of KIPP alumni nationwide have gone on to college.
 

What Is KIPP LA?

KIPP LA Schools is a non-profit organization that operates elementary and middle public charter schools in under-resourced communities in Los Angeles. We are part of the nationwide KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) network of 109 schools in 20 states and Washington, DC.

KIPP LA’s schools feature a “no shortcuts, no excuses” philosophy and a strong culture of achievement. Our curricula are designed to provide students a well-rounded education, with sufficient time dedicated to academics, the arts, enrichment, and physical education. KIPP LA’s educators are committed to continually improving their teaching skills, and to giving students the support and motivation they need to excel in school and beyond.

Our Mission.

KIPP LA's mission is to teach the academic skills, foster the intellectual habits, and cultivate the character traits needed for our students to thrive in high school, college, and life. Through the success of our students, the KIPP LA team and family will serve as a model of excellence and collaborate with others to raise the quality of education in Los Angeles.

Our Past.

KIPP first came to Los Angeles in 2003 when KIPP Academy of Opportunity and KIPP LA Prep (both middle schools) opened. In 2007, a charter school management organization, KIPP LA Schools, was formed to support and open more KIPP schools in Los Angeles. In 2008, KIPP LA’s first elementary school, KIPP Raíces Academy, opened.

In summer 2010, KIPP LA opened two elementary schools: KIPP Comienza Community Prep and KIPP Empower Academy as the second stage of its expansion.

Our Future.

KIPP LA is in the process expanding to 14 schools – seven elementary and seven middle schools – by 2016. When all schools are operating at capacity, by 2020, KIPP LA will serve approximately 6,000 students in grades K-8.

Why it Matters.

In South and East Los Angeles, an estimated ten percent of incoming high school freshman go on to college and just four percent earn a college degree. Once all KIPP LA middle schools have alumni in college, we estimate we will increase the annual college-going rate in our communities by nearly 50 percent.