KIPP School Summit | KIPP Public Charter Schools (2024)

Estrellitas de Sorto — Washington, DC

KIPP Promise Academy dance teacher, Edwin Sorto, brings his passion for education, dance, and music to life with his students, and the result is the sensational group Estrellitas de Sorto. They focus on honoring the African diaspora through Latin dance and serve as ambassadors for the power of partnered dance as a vehicle for expression. Their electrifying routine, fueled by Edwin’s dedication and creativity, showcases the remarkable talent and energy of KIPP DC students.

Fierce Lionettes — Miami, FL

KIPP Tulsa 3D Drumline

KIPP Tulsa 3D Drumline kicked off the Opening Ceremony with an electrifying performance that set the stage for a 30th anniversary celebration. The mission of the KIPP Tulsa Music Program is to create a learning environment to provide the highest order of education in all major aspects of music, establish a foundation for lifelong learning through music, and encourage students to succeed in high school, college, and beyond.

KIPP West Philadelphia Orchestra and Band

Watch the KIPP West Philadelphia Orchestra and Band take the main stage at KSS! Their vibrant music and impressive talent showcase the rich artistry and dedication of these young musicians. The goal of the program is to create a K-8 youth orchestra in West Philadelphia and unique opportunities for students to showcase their talents and perform at a professional level. KIPP West has performed for the Philadelphia Eagles, 76ers, and at the Kimmel Center.

KIPP Austin Collegiate Dance Crew

Watch the KIPP Austin Collegiate (KAC) Dance Crew in action at KSS! This dance crew is a competitive performance group founded in 2010, and comprises of 10^th-12^th graders passionate about expressing themselves through rhythm and movement. In the 2023-24 school year, KAC Dance Crew competed in three cities and earned a Division I title, Best in Category Hip Hop, Best in Category Novelty, six Judges Awards, and a “Wow” Award.

Gamma Kappa Phi Boys Step Team — Atlanta, GA

The dynamic and powerful performance by KIPP Atlanta Collegiate’s Gamma Kappa Phi Boys Step Team left us all in awe, showcasing the remarkable skill and energy of these young performers. The team was founded in 2000 to form a group of young men who were examples to their school both on the step floor and in the classroom. Since then, they have won seven Georgia Steppers League State Championships as well as a National Championship in 2016.

Eddie Ramirez — Alum, Houston, TX

Eddie Ramirez is a dancer, choreographer, and creative who competed with KIPP Houston High School’s co-ed team KIPP Krew under the direction of Kinder Award winner Fendi Baggs. A recipient of the Award for Excellence in Performance and Choreography, Eddie continues his passion for the arts through community programming and teaching.

A talented artist, Eddie received the YES! Magazine Powerful Voice Essay award and was named KIPP Krew Co-Ed Varsity Male Dancer of the Year. He is passionate about leveraging business to benefit low-income communities and plans to pursue business and marketing in college to advance this mission.

Windy Indie — Alum, Chicago, IL

Windy Indie is a classically trained violinist from the West Side of Chicago whose versatility on the violin is rooted in her humble beginnings. Since picking up the violin as her principal instrument in 6th grade at KIPP Ascend Middle School, she has become passionate about music and encouraging others to believe in themselves.

Mashaud Strozier — Alum, Atlanta, GA

Mashaud Strozier is a KIPP Atlanta Collegiate alumnus and a performing member, board of director, and marketing manager of the Cascade Dream Team, a nonprofit roller skating team, where he spearheaded initiatives to promote roller skating culture, youth development, and financial literacy at the iconic Cascade Family Skating Rink.

Brooklyn Smith — Charlotte, NC

Brooklyn Smith, a fifth grader from KIPP Change Academy, shares how her KIPP community has boosted her confidence both in and out of the classroom. She speaks about what drives her to persevere through challenges and emphasizes the importance of the KIPP team and family’s unwavering commitment to helping students like her create a more just and equitable world for themselves and their communities.

Jehu King — Jacksonville, FL

“I had the incredible honor of attending and speaking at KIPP School Summit 2024, and it was an experience I’ll never forget! As I stood on stage sharing my journey, I couldn’t help but reflect on how KIPP has shaped me into the person I am today. From the classrooms of KIPP Impact Academy to KIPP Bold City High School, every step of the way has been filled with growth, learning, and invaluable experiences that will always stay with me.”

Rocio Mendoza — Alum, Houston, TX

Rocio Mendoza reflects on her experience as a KIPP Texas alumna, beginning her journey as a KIPPster 30 years ago. Hear her inspiring story of growing up alongside the national network of public schools and witnessing its growth and impact.

Common Shows Love to KIPP

Acclaimed rap artist and actor Common takes the stage at KSS 2024 and delivers an incredible performance. Watch Common shoutout KIPP Public Schools, helping us celebrate our 30th anniversary.

Student Art Competition

We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on our students’ artistic achievements in a unique and exciting way. Instead of a traditional Student Art Gallery, we invited our student artists to create and submit artwork that embodies the theme: Every Student. Every School. Every Day.

The response was phenomenal, and the selected pieces were featured on exclusive KSS swag! Yes, you heard that right! Thousands of attendees had the chance to take home these special items adorned with the inspiring artwork of our talented KIPP students.

A Book Talk with Dr. Mahalia Hines

Watch Dr. Mahalia Ann Hines, a distinguished teacher and principal with over three decades of experience, discuss her book Tomorrow’s Children: ‘Raising Children to Stay Human in a High-Tech Society’. This is not just a book; it is a heartfelt call to action. Drawing from her background as both a parent and an educator, Dr. Hines provides a compelling guide for parents and teachers navigating the complexities of raising children in an era dominated by advancing technology. Filled with personal stories, insights, strategies, and activities, Dr. Hines invites readers to envision the future adults they want to nurture and presents a roadmap for fostering love, empathy, and gratitude in the generations to come.

Back in My Day...Preparing Students For a Future of Tech

Technology changes at a rapid pace. Things that were high tech when you were in school may now be obsolete. As educators, it’s our job to ensure that students are ready for a world of evolving technology, but what does that future look like and what skills do we need to teach students? Join leaders in the field of AI and tech to explore the possibilities for our students, and learn about what you can do to prepare yourself and students for the future.

Building a Better Education System

Renowned educator and former Chancellor of D.C. Public Schools, Kaya Henderson, brings her wealth of experience to the forefront in “Equity in Action: Building a Better Education System.” Henderson will inspire attendees to consider the responsibility we have as educators to create a future for students that is full of possibility.

Creating Schools Where Everyone Thrives

Julie Jackson has spent three decades in education, spanning roles from classroom teacher to serving as a dean of students, a principal, a Chief Schools Officer, and now as Co-Chief Executive Officer for Uncommon Schools. Join us for an engaging conversation where Julie will share her personal commitment to the work, the lessons she’s learned over the years, and what we can do to make sure that we’re creating schools where everyone thrives.

Revolutionizing Education: A Fireside Chat with Reed Hastings

“This learning organization attribute is the core superpower of KIPP. Now I look back at the 20 years and see the amazing progress. They are on the forefront of learning. They are not defensive. Always curious.” —Reed Hastings

Reed, whom Forbes credits with “revolutionizing how the world is entertained,” is a pioneering entrepreneur, business leader, and active educational philanthropist. In an intimate fireside chat with KIPP CEO Shavar Jeffries, Reed draws on his longtime leadership on the KIPP Foundation board to discuss why he remains inspired by the potential of K12 education, how disruptors lead through change, and what he views as the next big challenges facing KIPP and the education sector.

Harriett Ball Excellence in Teaching Award

The Harriett Ball Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes outstanding teachers from the KIPP Public Schools network. The winning teachers, nominated by their school leaders, were recognized for their leadership and dedication to improving outcomes for students.

Isaiah Allen — Houston, TX
Evonne Bankston — Chicago, IL
Schnell Bernavil — Jacksonville, FL
Brittany Buchanan — San Antonio, TX
Camille Craven — Chicago, IL
D’Naya Mims — Chicago, IL
Markuisha Patton — New Orleans, LA
Ellis Stephens — San José, CA
Sonya Taylor — St. Louis, MO
Erica Williams — St. Louis, MO

KIPP Six Award

The KIPP Six award is given to staff who have completed their sixth year in school leadership. This year, we celebrate 15 school leaders and what they do every day to prepare KIPPsters to pursue the paths they choose.

Darby West — Denver, CO
Geoffrey Roy — Houston, TX
Sarah Kuwonu — NYC, NY
Monica Madrigal — Los Angeles, CA
Cory Washington — Chicago, IL
Daisy Salazar-Garza — Los Angeles, CA
Nathaniel Snyder — Atlanta, GA
Jarell Lee — Chicago, IL
Erin Huseby — Washington, DC
Susan Oba — San José, CA
Marc Gauthier — Nashville, TN
Tania Hernandez — Los Angeles, CA
La’Qoya Cooper — Dallas, TX
Tessa Catlett — Chicago, IL
Jamie Holley — Austin, TX

KIPP Twelve Award

The KIPP Twelve Award has been awarded to Joe Negron, co-founder and Principal at KIPP Beyond. Mr. Negron’s name is synonymous with excellence, commitment, and love.

Mr. Negron’s journey with KIPP started with a Fisher Fellowship in 2004, when he spent a year alongside Dave Levin at the original KIPP Academy in the South Bronx.  In 2005, Joe opened KIPP Infinity in Harlem. During his tenure as principal, KIPP Infinity was named the top performing public school in all of New York City.  Since then, Joe has returned to the classroom, become a principal manager of multiple schools, and founded yet another KIPP school: KIPP Beyond, where he still serves as Principal.

KIPP Forward Excellence in Counseling and Advising — Alexcia Gest Legacy Award

The KIPP Forward Excellence in Counseling and Advising — Alexcia Gest Legacy Award has been awarded to Jessica Gomes, Access and Persistence Manager on the KIPP Forward team at KIPP Kansas City.

Ms. Gomes went the extra mile for KIPP KC students by implementing the “KC Scholars Traditional Scholarship” application process. She prepared staff, parents, and students for the big lift, and 62% of KIPPsters who applied for the scholarship earned $50,000 each, totaling $850,000. The success of this program is a testament to her vision and dedication to this work. Ms. Gomes’ passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to students’ well-being embody the very essence of KIPP’s mission.

KIPP Forward Excellence in Leadership Award

The KIPP Forward Excellence in Leadership Award has been awarded to Dinah Gray, Director of College and Career Counseling on the KIPP Forward team at KIPP Texas.

As a result of Ms. Gray’s leadership, KIPP Houston High School has earned ten QuestBridge Scholars, one Duke Pre-Review Scholar, one Posse Scholar, two Goldberg Scholars, and six Rales Scholars. More than a third of the Class of 2023 and 2024 exceeded ACT benchmarks, and she has consistently led KIPP seniors to 100% graduation rates. In the last year, she has shown her commitment to learning and growth by launching innovative wish list and application processes at KHHS and recommitted the school to college fair engagement. Ms. Gray is the best of the best in our KIPP Forward work.

Beyond Z Award

The Beyond Z Award honors and celebrates KIPP champions, partners and members of the KIPP community who go above and beyond for the benefit of our children and the pursuit of excellence. The award takes its name from the 1955 Dr. Seuss book On Beyond Zebra, which teaches young readers to go beyond what they previously thought possible. We are grateful to our 2024 Beyond Z Award honorees:

Akin
Bain & Company

Giving Tree Award

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein is a tale of unconditional love and generosity. The award that bears its name honors KIPP’s most generous and visionary donors. We are honored to present the 2024 Giving Tree Award to the Charles and Helen Schwab Foundation.

KIPP College Partner Award

In honor of Duke University’s long-standing commitment and dedication to supporting KIPP alumni over the past 12 years, we recognized Duke with the 2024 KIPP College Partner Award.