KIPP Middle Schools

KIPP Middle Schools is a network of public charter schools serving grades 5-8 that aims to improve education for low-income students. The KIPP model is based on Five Pillars: high expectations, choice and commitment, more time in school, power to lead for principals, and focus on results. KIPP schools typically serve predominantly minority and low-income students, with an average school day of over 9 hours (compared to 6.6 hours nationally) and 192 days per year (compared to 180 days nationally). Students spend approximately 5 hours per day in core academic subjects (English/language arts, math, science, and history) and 4 hours in non-core activities. Most KIPP schools require one Saturday school day per month. The model emphasizes comprehensive school-wide behavior systems with clearly defined rewards and consequences. KIPP schools typically enroll students in 5th grade and serve them through 8th grade. The intervention requires teachers to implement the curriculum and approach, with professional development provided before implementation. Schools use various instructional materials including textbooks, workbooks, and classroom resources, though nearly half of KIPP schools report using no math textbook in 7th grade.