KIPP Chicago

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  • Investment to Date $3.9M
  • Students Served 4,879
  • Grantee Since 2013
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About

KIPP is a national network of charter schools dedicated to preparing students in underserved communities for success in college and in life. KIPP Chicago Schools (KIPP Chicago) operates a network of eight schools serving K-8 students,  and KIPP Through College (KTC), a program that supports KIPP alumni in succeeding in high school and college. KIPP Chicago uses a holistic approach to learning and focuses on high academic expectations, an extended school day and year, and teacher and leader effectiveness.

Grantee Performance

Why We Invested

KIPP Chicago is dramatically improving student outcomes by providing the preparation and support needed for success in high school, college, and beyond. As a testament to its high-quality model, KIPP Chicago student and alumni outcomes have regularly exceeded relevant benchmarks. Its schools have consistently been rated among highest performing schools in Chicago, according to Chicago Public Schools’ school quality rating policy. Leadership remains consistent, leading the organization with a culture of innovation and continuous improvement as it has grown significantly over the years.

Looking Ahead

KIPP Chicago continues to strengthen its holistic and rigorous academic model, while academic and KIPP Forward (formerly KIPP Through College) outcomes continue to be above benchmark. Through the recently launched Whole Child Initiative, KIPP Chicago aims to improve student, family, and staff outcomes and wellbeing. The organization focuses on strengthening teachers’ social-emotional learning capabilities, forging community partnerships to address health needs, and improving KIPP Chicago families’ access to food. KIPP Chicago leadership remained adept at driving staff diversity and well-being improvements while maintaining a strong financial position. KIPP Chicago has expanded to serve significantly more students over the last couple of years, and growth will continue in the year ahead. 

Our Impact

  • DEI Leadership Development: KIPP Chicago worked with facilitator Dr. Blanca Ruiz to engage in a series of DEI workshops to create a vision and action plan for a more racially just and equitable organization. A Better Chicago covered 50 percent of costs.
  • Talent Recruitment Strategy:  KIPP Chicago worked with On-Ramps to recruit a Director of Development. A Better Chicago vetted search firms and covered 50 percent of the fees.
  • Branding and Website Redesign:  KIPP Chicago worked with a branding and design firm to refresh their brand identity and update their website. A Better Chicago vetted vendors, supported with project management and covered 50 percent of the fees.