Team + Family
At KIPP Ascend Charter School, students, parents, teachers, administrators, and volunteers all work together to create a safe, nurturing environment where every child has the opportunity to succeed in academics and in life. Each member of the KIPP Ascend family abides by the following:
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.
The KIPPsters
KIPPsters are among the hardest working students in Chicago. They start their school day at 7:25 AM and end at 5:00 PM. They do 1-2 hours of homework each night. The come to school every other Saturday. And they attend four weeks of summer classes to get a head start on the school year. Their hard work and commitment is all for one reason: so they can climb the mountain to college!
All KIPPsters sign the Commitment to Excellence when they enroll at KIPP Ascend. Click here to view the commitment (in PDF format).
In addition to all their hard work, the KIPPsters have a lot of FUN! As a reward for good behavior and solid academic effort, KIPPsters have the opportunity to participate in fun activities, such as:
Saturday School. Every other Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM, KIPPsters come to school to take fun classes like architecture, dance, finance, journalism, knitting, basketball, and art. Volunteer teachers from throughout the Chicago community lead these Saturday enrichment sessions.
School Summit. Each month, students gather together on Friday to showcase what they have been learning in class. Students emcee their own presentations, skits, and songs for each other and their parents, and often welcome guest speakers from the community.
Field Lessons. In addition to Saturday enrichment classes, students also go on local field lessons. Past field lessons have included trips to DePaul University, Lincoln Park Zoo, Northwestern University, the Chicago River (boat tour), and Francis W. Parker School.
KIPP Dollars. KIPPsters earn “paychecks” for their good behavior and effort. KIPP Dollars can be spent on items from the School Store (books, pens, uniform shirts, etc). KIPPsters can also participate in quarterly auctions, bidding on items such as basketball tickets, books, special luncheons and more.
End-of-Year Field Lessons. Each year culminates in a free, week-long field lesson for students who have high averages on their KIPP paychecks throughout the year. Trips include visits to college preparatory high schools and university campuses throughout the Midwest.