One day our nation will know Newark and Camden, New Jersey, as cities of world-class public education. KIPP New Jersey schools are part of the nationally recognized “Knowledge Is Power Program” non-profit network of college-preparatory, free, public charter schools educating elementary, middle, and high school students. In 2002, KIPP New Jersey first opened its doors in Newark’s South Ward as a single class of 80 fifth graders and has since grown to serve over 5,800 students in grades K-12 in Newark and Camden. More than 90% of KIPP New Jersey students currently qualify for free or reduced meals. In the next few years, KIPP New Jersey will have fifteen schools in Newark and ten in Camden. By offering highly effective educators with strong bonds to families, more time in school learning, services that support a variety of student needs, and a culture focused on achievement, our students succeed on their way to and through college.
KIPP schools have clearly defined and measurable high expectations for academic achievement and conduct in order to create and reinforce a culture of achievement and support. We know that every student is different and we personalize learning based on a student’s needs, skills, and interests.
Success in life depends on both academics and character. We help students foster character strengths that are essential for their own success and well-being. And we empower them to express their voice with power and to improve the world around them.
Students need physical and emotional safety to take risks and learn from their successes and mistakes. Our schools provide a safe, structured and nurturing environment with minimal distractions and more time for both academics and extracurriculars, so our students love school and maximize learning.
Great schools require great teachers and school leaders, and of course, great students. At KIPP New Jersey, we empower our educators to lead school teams, and we invest in ongoing training to help them grow as professionals.
Our counselors and advisors support students as they prepare for and select the right college and career for their needs. After high school, we help KIPP alumni navigate college’s social, academic and financial challenges.
KIPP is a non-profit network of college-preparatory, public charter schools educating elementary, middle, and high school students. We have a 20-year track record of preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life.
Our schools are part of the free public school system and enrollment is open to all students. Our public charter schools are given more academic and budgetary flexibility than traditional public schools, and in exchange, commit to deliver high-quality academic results for students.
There are 242 KIPP schools in 20 states and the District of Columbia educating more than 100,000 students on their path to and through college, careers, and life. We believe that great teachers and school leaders, a supportive learning environment, and an emphasis on both academics and character are the foundation for student success, and we strive to provide these for every child.