Tulsa, OK

I just heard about this program on Tulsa’s north side. Apparently it started a couple of years ago, and is doing very well. I was impressed by the students improved stats and additudes toward education. The school is having open house this week, Thursday,February 31 at 10am and 1pm; if you have kids in Tulsa Public, this is worth checking out.

From the KIPP Tulsa website:

Vision statement
To have all stakeholders working together toward the common goal of providing opportunities by which all students may reach their optimum level of achievement. We envision meeting the needs of students by addressing not only academic, but also emotional and social needs, in effort to prepare each student for college. Students will then carry behaviors and knowledge that will enable them to become productive citizens.

Mission statement
To build character and prepare all students with the optimum academic and social skills necessary in order to succeed in high school, college and the competitive world beyond.

In the summer of 2005, KIPP Tulsa contracted with the Tulsa Public School District to start and manage a free, public middle school with a great deal of autonomy. KIPP Tulsa is designed to accommodate 90 fifth grade students adding a grade each year until reaching full capacity of approximately 360 students ultimately serving grades 5 through 8.

KIPP CREDO
If there is a problem, we look for a solution.
If there is a better way, we find it.
If a teammate needs help, we give.
If we need help, we ask.

KIPP Tulsa is modeled after the nationally acclaimed Knowledge Is Power Program which has over forty-five schools operating in urban and rural communities throughout the country. In alignment with state and national standards as well as the KIPP national model, KIPP Tulsa takes an innovative, strategic approach to education while providing a rigorous college preparatory curriculum.

At KIPP Tulsa, we know there are no shortcuts – no excuses to success. Therefore, we make great strides to create and reinforce a culture that builds character, raises student achievement, and demands energized, high quality instruction. This proven approach combined with more time in school and a strong commitment to learning helps transform educationally, disadvantaged youth into scholars!

KIPPlife Facts

• 96% of student body come from 11 “high needs” schools from within the district
• 80% of student body are on federally subsidized breakfast & lunch programs
• Students are in school up to 10 hrs per weekday and 5 hours on Saturdays
• Students are responsible for up to 2 hours of homework every night
• Students are required to wear school uniforms

What makes us different?

• The highest expectations.

• Open enrollment. Students are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis regardless of prior academic performance or behavior.

• Extended day schedule. Classes during the school year operate Monday – Thursday, 7:30a.m. – 5:00p.m.; Friday, 7:30a.m. – 4:00p.m.

• Saturday School. Classes are in session on alternate weekends from 8:00a.m. to 1:00p.m. Sessions include tutoring and study hall along with enrichment courses such as Dance, Physical Fitness, Foreign Language and Music. Attendance is mandatory.

• Summer School during the month of July. Attendance is mandatory.

• Experiential Field Lessons. Local and out-of-state field lessons are designed to broaden students’ view of the world and their life experiences. Out-of-state field lessons are linked to core curriculum class plans. Destinations include, but not limited to, Washington, D.C, Chicago and California.

• Teachers are available each evening via mobile phone for additional help with homework.

• A discipline system that effectively meets the needs of teaching and learning.

• A behavior modification program that ensures student values and complete homework daily.

• Parents, students and teachers all sign and are expected to adhere to the Commitment to Excellence contract.

• A strong hold to our school values including Respect, Teamwork, Commitment, Organization, Initiative and Balance

KIPP Tulsa is located in the Ellis Walker Woods building at:

1661 East Virgin Street

Tulsa, OK 74106

Office hours

Monday through Friday

7:30a.m. – 5:00p.m.

Guests are always welcome and we will always do our best to accommodate the interests and needs of those who visit. For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact:

918.925.1580 (Office)

918.925.1590 (Fax)

info@kipptulsa.org