For Keaira Vernon, becoming a dean at KIPP Compton Lower School wasn’t a single leap — it was the result of nearly a decade of growth, perseverance, and belief in what education can make possible.
Born and raised in Los Angeles’ Crenshaw District, Keaira experienced firsthand the inequities that shape access to education. As a student, her grades allowed her to be bused more than an hour away to attend a better-resourced school — a moment that changed her life and clarified her purpose. “I saw the pipeline—the education pipeline and the differences—so I wanted to be an educator in the inner city, because I know what the students need, and I know what they can be capable of.”
Keaira joined KIPP nearly 10 years ago, starting as an after-school instructor at KIPP Empower. Over time, she has held roles as an instructional aide, special education aide/behavior interventionist, teacher resident through Alder, RSP teacher, KIPPStar Teacher of the Year (2023), and now dean.
“Each of my roles has pushed me to grow in new ways,” she shared. “I’ve learned how to advocate for students, build strong relationships with families, and serve the community in a consistent and affirming way.”
Along the way, Keaira navigated profound personal challenges — becoming a mother at 22, experiencing the significant loss of her mother at 25, and pushing forward through moments of doubt. With the support of mentors and school leaders at KIPP who believed in her potential, she earned her master’s degree and continued saying yes to growth opportunities.
Now in her first year as a dean, Keaira leads with empathy, structure, and high expectations. She brings her lived experience into every decision, seeing herself in her students and pushing them to dream bigger, find resources, and believe in what’s possible, just as others once did for her.
Inspired by Keaira’s journey? KIPP SoCal is currently hiring educators who are ready to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact.