KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) is a national network of tuition-free, college-preparatory public charter schools in the United States. Founded in 1994, the organization has grown to operate 279 schools across 28 regions, serving nearly 125,000 students. The network employs over 16,000 educators.
The organization's model emphasizes a "Team and Family" philosophy that pairs academic rigor with character development, centered on a deep partnership between teachers and families. KIPP Forward, its alumni support program, is designed to provide ongoing assistance to students through college and beyond.
KIPP began with a single class of 47 fifth graders in Houston, Texas. The network's guiding principle is that all students, regardless of their background or zip code, can achieve an excellent education. Today, it is one of the largest public charter school networks in the country.