About KIPP SoCal
KIPP SoCal Public Schools is a nonprofit organization that operates 24 tuition-free, open-enrollment charter public schools, within 20 Local Education Agencies (LEA), educating more than 9,800 students and supporting 5,800 alumni to and through college and beyond.
Our whole-child approach to learning not only focuses on rigorous academics, but also character development, enrichment, social-emotional learning, physical and mental health, and affirmation of identity.
Our award winning schools are part of the national KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) network, dedicated to meeting the needs of all learners and providing the social, emotional and academic support for success in high school, college, and life.
We Educate Over
9,800 students
We Support
5,800 alumni
We Operate
24 schools
KIPP SoCal: Joyful Excellence
Our Mission
Together with families and communities, we create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose—college, career and beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and create a more just world.
We believe the purpose of education is liberation, in cultivating a place and space where diverse identities are affirmed, voices are heard, and our students can envision what a just world is and feels like.
The KIPP Approach
Our transformational public schools are built on five pillars.
At KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program), teachers, students, and families are all united around the same goal—to ensure that every child grows up free to create the future they want for themselves and for their communities. Our success is driven by:
Highly Effective Teachers & Leaders: We believe in the power of great teachers and school leaders. We learn from each other and with each other. We empower our school teams and invest in leadership development and training.
Safe, Structured & Nurturing Environments: We provide a safe, structured, joyful and nurturing learning environment. We build meaningful relationships built on love, empathy, compassion and respect, fostering a love of learning, a willingness to take risks and reap rewards.
Focus on Character: Success in life depends on both academics and learning. We help students foster character strengths that are essential for their own success, empowering students to express their voice with confidence and to improve the world around them.
High Expectations: Clearly defined and measurable high expectations for academic achievement and conduct creates and reinforces 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.
KIPP Forward: Formerly KIPP Through College, our counselors and advisors support students as they prepare for and select the right college for their needs and interests. After high school, we help KIPP alumni navigate the social, academic, and financial challenges they might encounter while in college.
School Awards
3 National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards
In the exemplary high performing category. KIPP Raíces Academy (2015), KIPP LA Prep (2016), & KIPP Comienza Community Prep (2017).
9 California Distinguished Schools Awards
KIPP Adelante Preparatory Academy (2006), KIPP LA Prep (2011, 2019 & 2021), KIPP Endeavor College Prep (2012), KIPP Academy of Opportunity (2013), KIPP Raíces Academy (2013), KIPP Comienza Community Prep (2018), KIPP Sol Academy (2021).
11 Innovate Top Los Angeles County Public Schools
KIPP Academy of Innovation (2019 & 2020), KIPP Corazón Academy (2020), KIPP Comienza Community Prep (2019 & 2020), KIPP Iluminar Academy (2019 & 2020), KIPP Promesa Prep (2020), KIPP Raíces Academy (2019 & 2020), KIPP Scholar Academy (2019 & 2020), KIPP Sol Academy (2019 & 2020), KIPP LA Prep (2019 & 2020), and KIPP Vida Preparatory Academy (2019 & 2020).
U.S. News & World Report Best Elementary Schools
KIPP Comienza Community Prep (2022), KIPP Iluminar Academy (2022), KIPP Promesa Prep (2022), KIPP Raíces Academy (2022)
U.S. News & World Report Best Middle Schools
KIPP Academy of Innovation (2022), KIPP Comienza Community Prep (2022), KIPP Los Angeles Preparatory Academy (2022), KIPP Scholar Academy (2022), KIPP Sol Academy (2022)
KIPP students are learning to change the world by thinking critically, leveraging their unique identities, and engaging in civic empowerment. We must continue to spread this education, not only for our students but for the positive impact they will have on their community and world.