TEAM & Family Magazine—Camden—Spring 2024

High School's Founding Class High School's Founding Class

HEARTBEAT HIGHLIGHTS

Our Kids Will Run to School

Dear Families,

I’m excited to share with you our annual TEAM & Family Magazine!

This year is full of firsts for our KIPP community: KIPP Hatch Middle moved into its permanent home at a state-of-the-art campus in the Parkside neighborhood. The new facility (featured on page 8!) has supported student engagement, academic learning, and athletic programs.

Speaking of engagement…in this edition, we’ve shared how our Heartbeat tenet, “Our kids will run to school” is coming to life across campuses. In this issue, you will find:

Recipes By Families, For Families

Can your fridge magnets hold one more item? Check out a classic recipe on page 7 that you can prepare with your family!

Meet Our Founding High School Class

These KIPP High School students are ready to make history when they graduate in June. Learn more about where they’ve been and where they’re heading on page 10.

Engagement Excellence

Our teammates strive to make learning joyful for every student in their classroom. From engaging in performing arts classes with Ms. Hemmings to CO2 dragster races with Mr. Pawling, the commitment to students running to school is evident in Camden. Head to page 12 to catch ‘Heartbeat highlights’ from your school.

In May and June, students and families will have many opportunities to celebrate the academic and personal growth that’s taken place this year, and I hope to join those celebrations with you and your family.

We remain grateful for the many ways you support your student’s learning at home and school.

Sincerely,

Drew Martin Executive Director, KIPP New Jersey

OPENING LETTER 02

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 04

A.J.'S CANDIED YAMS 07

STEP INSIDE KIPP HATCH 08

MEET KIPP HIGH SCHOOL'S FOUNDING CLASS 10

HEARTBEAT HIGHLIGHTS 12

STUDENT WRITING 18

NEWARK FAMILY RESOURCES 19

TEAM & FAMILY CONTRIBUTORS

A special thank you to the KIPP parents, families, teachers, and staff for partnering with us and contributing to this issue.

RESOURCES

Visit kippnj.org/school-resources for student handbooks and more information about your child’s school.

COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS? marketing@kippnj.org

ABOUT KIPP NJ

The mission of KIPP New Jersey is to create a network of schools in Camden and Newark, New Jersey, that instill in their students the desire and ability to succeed in college, in order to change the world.

KIPP NEWARK COLLEGIATE ACADEMY

Science teacher ELLIOT TEICHMAN embodies dedication to his craft. His collaborative planning, data analysis, and leadership in engineering have created a positive learning environment for students as well as fellow teachers.

KIPP PURPOSE ACADEMY

Teacher LAUREN COOKE goes the extra mile to support student success, from conducting a ‘furniture audit’ that ensured classrooms were set up for success on day one, to spending countless hours creating engaging lessons that cater to students’ needs to conducting one-on-one tutoring sessions.

KIPP RISE ACADEMY

Operations coordinator AMIRAH OUTLAW is new to Rise this year but already has been an instrumental force in registering parents and ensuring enrollment documentation is correctly submitted. She’s also done an excellent job in supporting the school’s successful attendance campaign this year.

These individuals are just a few standout members of our school communities. They consistently embody school values, help fellow students and teammates, and make a positive impact on everyone they meet. They put in work that sometimes goes unnoticed behind the scenes, whether through mentoring students or supporting their colleagues. Collectively, these teammates play a crucial role in making sure our students run to school.

KIPP UPPER ROSEVILLE ACADEMY

Physical education teacher DORRYN SIMMONS’ commitment to student development goes beyond the basics of the P.E. curriculum. Coach Simmons combines physical and mental exercise in his classroom, integrating chess lessons into the P.E. curriculum. This approach enriches students' experience, fostering both physical fitness and strategic thinking.

KIPP JUSTICE ACADEMY

MARAD BANKS a dedicated learning specialist on the fifth and sixth-grade teams, exemplifies an unwavering commitment to student success. Known for going above and beyond, Mr. Banks ensures every scholar feels valued and supported as they navigate challenges and strive to reach their potential.

KIPP SPARK ACADEMY

English Language Learner teacher MEGAN ENGLANDER spearheads initiatives that celebrate diversity and engage families. Ms. Englander launched a pen pal exchange with an orphanage in Uganda so students could practice English through letter writing and started offering English classes to Spanish-speaking families. Soon, she’ll organize a fundraiser for Central American artists through the ‘Pulsera Project.’ Thank you, Ms. Englander, for connecting students and families to engaging learning opportunities.

KIPP THRIVE ACADEMY

There’s always something fun happening for students on the first floor of THRIVE, thanks to the efforts of Kindergarten teacher ANGELICA JOHNSON From innovative center-based learning to ‘Fun Friyay’ activities, she goes above and beyond to make each day special for students, fostering a positive and engaging atmosphere at her school.

KIPP NEWARK LAB HIGH SCHOOL

JUAN MORALES brings Spanish 3 to life at Lab. Mr. Morales successfully advocated for the introduction of Spanish 2 and 3 Honors options, enriching the academic curriculum. He also launched English classes for Spanish-speaking Lab families. As the eleventh-grade chair, his leadership has yielded remarkable student achievements, including the highest GPAs and best attendance records throughout the school.

KIPP LIFE ACADEMY

At Life, the PARAEDUCATOR TEAM honors the school’s unwavering commitment to support all learners. The team goes above and beyond by creating tailored exemplars for lessons they share with colleagues, monitoring progress on i-Ready (an instructional assessment platform), and contributing significantly to students’ holistic development, showing them love and kindness every step of the way.

KIPP SEEK ACADEMY

At Seek, paraprofessional CARL SNEAD’s commitment to children and families is unwavering. Whether it’s welcoming students with cheerful music, checking in with them throughout the day, or orchestrating holiday meal pickups and gift exchanges, Mr. Snead creates memorable experiences for every student at Seek.

KIPP BOLD ACADEMY

JAHNIYA CULVER a proud KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy and KIPP Rise Academy alumna, is a multifaceted leader — serving as a learning specialist and operations fellow. Throughout this year, she has been instrumental in actively shaping the school's culture. Jahniya's thoughtful planning and deep relationships inspire students to run to school each day!

KIPP TEAM ACADEMY

DESSIREE PEREZ a science teacher and Student Government advisor at TEAM, has been the driving force behind impactful student and community events throughout the year. Ms. Perez’s planning and efforts to organize school-wide events are shaping an environment that empowers student voices and creates a welcoming community.

NEWARK

Paraeducator Team KIPP Life Academy

Dessiree Perez KIPP TEAM Academy

Juan Morales KIPP Newark Lab High School

Elliot Teichman KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy

KIPP HIGH SCHOOL

MIKAL HAMILTON is a dedicated behavior specialist and head coach for the girls' basketball team. Mr. Hamilton works tirelessly to support students with the highest needs and builds community and camaraderie among his players.

KIPP LANNING SQUARE MIDDLE

Math teacher RAHIM SHIVER leads the charge to support high attendance, coaches soccer and boys basketball, and excels as a seventh-grade math teacher. Mr. Shiver’s belief that every student can succeed in math helps students believe in themselves. His reflective nature, positive attitude, and teamwork reverberate throughout the school community.

KIPP LANNING SQUARE PRIMARY

Security officer VINCE PERRY is often the first face students see each morning when they arrive at LSP. From greeting everyone in the front office and highfiving kids at the door to making sure each student is safely dismissed in the afternoon, Vince's warm presence and sense of humor make him an invaluable member of the Lanning Square community.

Vince Perry KIPP Lanning Square Primary

A.J.’s Candied Yams

When KIPP Lanning Square Primary fourth grader Alain Jerome (who goes by A.J.) was asked to contribute to a class cookbook project by sharing a recipe, only one dish came to mind: candied yams. Or, as his family calls them, A.J.’s Candied Yams.

A.J. and his peers shared more about their families and cultures through the recipes featured in their cookbook, as well as the stories behind those recipes. For A.J., candied yams are a cherished tradition during holiday gatherings such as Christmas and Thanksgiving. A.J.’s mother, Mariah Jackson, cooked the recipe once and today it’s one that the whole family requests for special meals.

We hope you enjoy A.J’s Candied Yams with your own family! Dig in.

Mikal Hamilton

KIPP High School

KIPP SUMNER ELEMENTARY

Kindergarten teacher AYTIERRA TENDER’s kid focus is evident in her beautifully designed classroom and her dedication to leading school events at Sumner. She’s stepped up to make kindergarten engaging and joyful for students this year.

KIPP HATCH MIDDLE

Learning specialist YASMINE ABED is the driving force behind the Sunshine Committee, a group that brings joy to school staff during events hosted throughout the year. Her active participation and dedication contribute to a positive atmosphere at Hatch — students love that she attends practically every school event!

INGREDIENTS:

4 yams

¼ cup of water

1 stick of salted butter

1 tbsp of cinnamon

1 ½ cups of Karo syrup

1 cup of granulated sugar

1 cup of brown sugar

INSTRUCTIONS:

Aytierra Tender KIPP Sumner Elementary

CAMDEN

1. Peel the yams, and cut them into rounds about 1/2 inch thick.

2. In a large pot, place the cut yams, and add 1/4 cup of water.

3. Add the stick of butter, cinnamon, Karo Syrup, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to the pot with the yams.

4. Place the pot over medium heat, and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring regularly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the yams are evenly coated.

5. After 20 minutes, check the tenderness of the yams with a fork. They should be soft and easily pierced.

6. Once the yams are tender, transfer them along with the syrupy mixture to a serving dish.

KIPP HATCH MIDDLE SCHOOL!

It’s the kind of school building worth running to each morning. Following a twenty-one million dollar renovation, KIPP Hatch Middle opened to students and families this past August.

Blending 20th-century architecture with 21st-century upgrades, the school includes a sunlit gymnasium, an 800-seat auditorium, state-of-the-art classroom technology, and even a game room for students that serves as an incentivize for academic excellence.

Already, students are taking advantage of this building. Catch them in action inside here!

want eighth graders to see that they will improve if they approach each concept with curiosity, believe in their ability to learn new things, and commit to implementing feedback in math. That will help them be wellprepared for high school.

We collaborate to maintain a positive and and like an extension of our own families. that walks through our doors feels heard, supported, It’s our goal to make sure every family

a goal of seeing their kid win in every way possible. enriching environment for our students and share

School Operations Manager Anzania Preston

Original lamps, new wall inspiration. This bright vestibule greets students as they enter each morning.

School Operations Manager Anzania Preston speaks with Director of School Operations Tyler Middleton.

Eighth-grader Zamyra Quiles celebrates a basket in KIPP Hatch Middle’s sunlit gymnasium. Hatch offers athletics like basketball, flag football, and cheerleading alongside extracurricular activities like cooking club and Girl Scouts.

Science teacher Ryan Weaver has been with KIPP Hatch Middle (formerly KIPP Whittier Middle) since it was founded in 2016 and seeks to make science engaging for his students.

Hatch has Camden pride in spades: A mural of the skyline of Camden adorns the building’s main office.

The renovated auditorium has retained its charm and offers a stunning backdrop for student performances and community events.

KIPP Hatch Middle teacher Carly Scott

Eighth-grader Jashon Powell tackles Algebra problems with support from Scott, who joined Hatch in 2022.

One of those events is the Hatch Games. Here, teacher Kynisha Stevenson leads students in a sing-off during the school’s monthly Hatch Games in the auditorium, where the community comes together for friendly competition, and to celebrate academic growth. (learn more about the Hatch Games on page X!).

These Founders Are Moving Forward

MEET THE KIPP HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2024!

In June of this year, KIPP High School (KHS) will mark a critical milestone as it graduates its inaugural class of seniors. Launching a new high school amid a global pandemic presented a challenge for students and teachers, but today the class of 2024 is focused on the future—and they have big plans in the works.

Director of College and Career Placement Kenny Reyes and his team of KIPP Forward counselors help shepherd those plans to reality. “While we know that a four-year degree often provides greater earning potential over time, we want every student to find a pathway that suits their goals. I’ve seen the excitement about college build for this class; students who were weighing two-year degree options saw their peers apply for four-year colleges and started to move in that direction, too” he said, adding that college excitement is also trickling down to next year’s junior class.

KIPP Forward counselor Malik HarrisDaniels graduated from KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy in 2016. “Working in this role has been my dream job since college. It’s been a privilege to work with the class of 2024; I want them to know that the obstacles they’ve faced won’t defeat them, but make them unique. I want them to strive to reach their definition of success,” he said.

Check out what’s next for these five founding members of the class of 2024!

LILIANA NEMORIO-CRUZ

Liliana Nemorio-Cruz’s senior year is proving busy: she’s applied to more than 30 colleges, acted as a Student Council grade level representative and social chair, and has completed more than 50 hours of community service. On top of that, she translates for Spanish-speaking families at parent-teacher conferences at her alma mater, KIPP Lanning Square Middle each quarter. How does she balance it all? “I’m a to-do list enthusiast,” she said.

As of this writing, Nemorio-Cruz is still waiting to hear back from a competitive roster of colleges (Tufts University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Barnard College to name just a few), but she’s already secured several acceptances.

“I wanted to reach high for college. I appreciate my counselor Ms. Bingham for helping me highlight my passion for writing in my applications. I felt proud being able to share my story,” said Nemorio-Cruz.

AAIZON TRUSTY

Aaizon Trusty’s early positive experiences with KIPP Whittier Middle, with teachers like Ms. Brown and field trips to spots like Washington D.C. helped make KHS a natural next step.

A defensive lineman for the KHS Titans football team, today Trusty’s postgraduation plans center his passion for athletics. He hopes to one day become a sports broadcaster or team manager, and his KIPP Forward counselor Malik Harris-Daniels has offered guidance on that journey. “Mr. Malik pushed me in the college application process and made sure I had a strong personal statement. Nobody in my family has graduated college, so I’ll be the first one. It’s exciting,” said Trusty.

As he weighs his college options, he’s leaning toward Albright University in Reading, Pennsylvania, which boasts a sports management program. “KIPP has grown so much since I started there in fifth grade, and I’ve grown with it,” he said.

JADEN NAZARIO

Jaden Nazario enrolled at KIPP High School after spending his middle school years at KIPP Whittier Middle (today called KIPP Hatch Middle). For Nazario, being a KHS founder has also meant an opportunity to spearhead clubs based on interests he shared with his peers. A former football player, Nazario pivoted to founding the film and media club with his friends, born after the group completed a film project over a summer break. Today, the club meets twice each week and is working on a film (currently under wraps!) that will be shared with the student body later this spring.

When it came to the college admissions process, Nazario was originally stressed by the idea of leaving his home city. “I don’t often leave Camden, but I recently became more adventurous and willing to step outside my comfort zone,” he said. “Applying to and then actually attending a college that’s out of state will be a new experience for me, but I’m excited to study at Lycoming College next year,” Nazario added. He will build on his foundation at KHS next year, studying filmmaking as a member of Lycoming’s class of 2028.

we want every student to find a earning potential over time, degree often provides greater While we know that a four-year

pathway that suits their goals.

LYRIQUE IVERSON

When asked why she chose to attend KIPP High School, Lyrique Iverson’s answer was simple: I felt most myself here. KIPP is like a second home to me.

Iverson is pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse as one of the founding members of the Healthcare Academy at KHS, which aims to expose students to healthcare careers. The medical assistant certification program operates in partnership with the American Training Center, whose staff visit KHS several times a week for a full morning of classes that expose students to the anatomy and physiology curriculum. Students who complete the program will become certified medical assistants, an immediate pathway to job opportunities.

“I never thought that in high school, I’d be learning how to take a patient’s pulse, oxygen saturation, or blood pressure. It’s amazing and I love it,” she said. Iverson’s ultimate goal is to be a supportive presence for her patients as a nurse. “Going to a hospital is such a scary experience for people, but I don’t want anybody to feel alone. I’m a people person, and I want to be there to support my patients,” said Iverson.

ASAAHD MORTON

“After high school, even if I don’t change the whole world, I want to make it a better place in small ways by connecting with people,” said Asaahd Morton.

Morton is already well on his way to achieving that vision. Whether by working alongside his uncle to operate a community dog shelter or helping his elderly neighbors mow their lawns, Morton shows up for the people in his life and community and says that over the years, the KIPP community has shown up for him. “When I first started in fifth grade, reading was a challenge for me, but teachers at KIPP Whittier Middle got me to a higher level and built up my confidence,” said Morton.

After graduation, he hopes to follow the path of his father and uncle and explore career opportunities in construction or landscaping, in addition to his work at the shelter. His KIPP Forward counselor Taylor Davis has supported him along that journey. “Ms. Davis is a real inspiration. I greet her every morning and she’s given me great advice, encouraging me to be confident and never back down,” said Morton.

Kenny Reyes KIPP Forward Director of College and Career Placement

Our Kids Will Run T School

Whether they’re finding the beat during performing arts class, racing CO2-powered dragsters, or competing in their first cross-country race, KIPP students are engaged in learning inside and outside the classroom every day.

Through athletics, programs, traditions, and classroom projects, the student experience in our schools is guided by a central tenet of our ‘Heartbeat’ values: the deep belief that students should run to school every morning.

Learn how that mission is coming to life in Newark and Camden!

Red Carpet Recognition: Celebrating i-Ready Success

At KIPP Seek Academy, students dressed to the nines on February 1st as they walked a red carpet in the school’s gymnasium to receive their i-Ready Grammy awards. Students learn and master skills in ELA and math through the assessment tool, i-Ready, and the i-Ready Grammys celebrate the progress students have made through that platform. "Our priority is the experiences we give kids. We want them to recognize that their hard work will result in something tangible, and we are celebrating the success they achieve each day," said school Principal Alexis Conde.

The event was met with enthusiasm from students like Kennedy Montford. "I'm excited about my award because I love learning on i-Ready, and I never give up," she said. Montford credits her teacher Mariah Pagan for instilling in her the importance of perseverance, noting how one of the school values, grit, has been instrumental in her academic journey.

We are celebrating the success they achieve each day.

STEM Learning at KIPP Lanning Square Middle

Under the leadership of science teacher Bryan Pawling, KIPP Lanning Square Middle School launched a STEM elective this year where students have tackled everything from piloting drones to building Lego robots. In late January, the gym erupted with the sounds of students cheering as they put their latest creation, CO2 dragsters, to the test. For Pawling, the project was a familiar one. "I put together CO2 dragsters as a middle school student. It was great to watch students take ownership of this process and engage with hand saws and sanding tools,” he said.

Beyond the excitement of racing, the STEM elective lays the foundation for students interested in science and technology careers. Seventh-grader, Kayden Satchell, added, "It was really fun to work with hand saws and shape our dragsters, even though it was hard at first. Mr. Pawling is a great teacher and made it fun for us."

Purposeful Strides: Cross-Country Team Comes to Life at Purpose

KIPP Purpose Academy launched its first-ever cross-country team this fall. With the support of Coach Kaylarose Scott, Coach Hope Whalen, and Coach Kim, students trained in the school’s weight room and ran laps around their campus as they prepared for competitions.

Their hard work paid off at their first event in Jersey City’s Lincoln Park (with seventh-grader Jeremiah Morales taking home first place!) and in the classroom. "Many of our students gained a strong sense of purpose during the season that translated into progress in their behavior and their academics. I created a study hall for athletes to make sure they’re meeting academic requirements to compete on the team,” said Scott. For Morales, the season marked the beginning of a bright future in running. "Cross-country was new for me this year and challenging. I went into the first competition feeling like I might not do well, but I did great. I was proud of myself. It can get exhausting sometimes, but now I enjoy running," he said.

Many of our students gained a strong

sense of purpose during the season

that translated into progress in their behavior

and their academics. Coach Kaylarose Scott, KIPP Purpose Academy

Dip, Dodge, Dive, Duck! A New Tradition Comes to KIPP High School

Founding KHS senior A’Shon Robinson helped execute an event this past fall that connected the school community—even if it did breed intense competition. The inaugural Titan Tournament brought together faculty and students alike for a dodgeball game.

“I wanted to execute something that would bring the whole community together so people could have fun,” said Robinson. In doing so, he sparked a new tradition for the school. The junior and senior classes competed against freshmen and sophomores, with the upperclassmen and women taking the win. The competition then pitted the junior and senior classes against each other, with the juniors moving on to compete against the staff. The KHS staff emerged victorious. “I was proud of A’Shon and our Student Council for really investing the student body in this event and demonstrating strong leadership,” said Associate Director of Student Life Ken O’Kane, who noted an uptick in attendance the day of the tournament. He believes the competition will become a school staple.

SPARKing

After-School Engagement

At KIPP SPARK Academy, student enthusiasm for after-school learning is sky-high: More than 100 students at SPARK take part in the program, where students can choose from 18 staff-led clubs like Girl Scouts, cheerleading, basketball, chess, knitting, art, cooking, and performing arts, to name just a few. Teacher-inResidence Tasha Brevard leads the school’s Double Dutch Club, where students are learning about the sport. “I grew up in the 80’s and loved double dutch. It helps my students blow off energy after school, and it boosts their confidence as they learn to be one with their teammates," said Brevard.

Meanwhile, at Sculpture Club, students are exploring clay, creating figures, and exploring their creativity as they uncover their artistic abilities with special teacher Nambya Tanks. “They run right into my classroom every day because they're excited about the arts; I can't keep them out of my class," said Tanks. Douglas Vanceah III is one such enthusiastic student. “I am an artist because it makes me feel happy, creative, and successful. I love to see what I have created when my illustrations and sculptures are done. I especially love my character creations,” said Vanceah.

Bringing Dreams to Life

For the past three years, KIPP Life Academy students have spent the week of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday reflecting on their futures. During this “Future Dreams Week,” students learn about how Dr. King worked towards his vision for the future and then explore ways they can manifest their dreams, learning more about college life and HBCUs and how they can impact their community. On the final day, students dressed as their future selves—doctors, nurses, judges, and police officers were all represented— and presented their dreams to their classmates.

“Our goal is for students to draw connections between who they are right now and who they could be in the future,” said school leader Charlene Dixon. “We want them to realize that the efforts they put in today are seeds for the future,” she added. At the end of the year, Dixon will ask students to write more about how they hope to change the world, and she shared that this event sets the foundation for that critical reflection.

The Journey to 10,000 Books: Justice Students Drop Everything and Read

Enter KIPP Justice Academy on ‘Drop Everything and Read’ (DEAR) Day, and you'll likely spot students scattered throughout the hallways, curled up in bean bag chairs in classrooms, or intently occupied at their desks in classrooms. That’s because their school community has embraced a goal and an ethos that centers on a love of reading. With the installation in October of a brand-new library sponsored by Snipes, the school aims to collectively read 10,000 books this school year. Events like DEAR are helping them get there.

For avid reader seventh-grader Yanieli Byrd-Ortiz, DEAR days are special. "It's a peaceful time where we can lose ourselves in any book of our choosing. I love exploring different genres, and I believe it inspires myself and others to read more," said ByrdOrtiz. English teacher Margarita Cuevas-Cruz spearheaded DEAR. days, recognizing the importance of building the culture and habits of reading at Justice. "Many students viewed reading as an activity confined to the classroom. Events like these help change that attitude and engage students," Cuevas-Cruz explained.

For the Love of Math: Parents Multiply the Engagement at THRIVE

Just when KIPP THRIVE Academy families thought they were done running to school themselves, THRIVE brought them back into the math action. On the heels of Valentine’s Day, more than 50 families and students gathered to learn more about Illustrative Math, the school’s new math curriculum. “We knew some families were struggling with the new math strategies, so parents got to see those strategies up close on Math Night to better understand the new curriculum,” said Principal Ashley Salter.

HEARTBEAT HIGHLIGHTS

Cheers and Challenges: Step Inside the Hatch Games!

Each month, KIPP Hatch Middle School’s auditorium comes alive with the sounds of students singing, shouting, and dancing as they take part in the Hatch Games. A longstanding Hatch tradition, the Hatch Games bring together each grade’s advisory team to celebrate academic wins and recognize the advisories that have exemplified school values throughout the month.

From sing-offs to ‘minute-to-win-it’ competitions, the revelry is fun and also a testament to academic investment at Hatch. Assistant school leader Crystal Peralta helps bring Hatch Games to life. "The number of students we’ve seen moving up two to three grade levels in i-Ready is much higher than in previous years, and it’s a reflection of our commitment to building strong student culture," she said. Seventh-grader Autumn Smalls has helped her advisory team win three of the events. “I love getting to meet new people, and my advisory has always participated. My favorite part is the sing-off because I know my class depends on me to do well. It’s a great way to celebrate what school is all about,” said Smalls.

Christopher Lighty, the father of a fourthgrade student, enjoyed the event. “As a father, I like to be involved and have a better understanding of the work that’s being sent home. I’m at THRIVE on a weekly basis, but it’s important to see how everything fits together, both in policy and in practice,” he said. For Salter, bringing families into the learning process is key. “We always look for opportunities to build community, relationships, and partnerships. It takes a village and when we work together, we’re all successful and students run to school,“ she said.

“Mad Science Magic” Heads to KIPP Upper Roseville Academy

This past winter, KURA’s Director of School Operations Shenise Wilkins sought to introduce an event to her school community that would engage students of all ages in science as part of the school’s commitment to experiential learning. That’s when she discovered “Mad Science,” an organization that brings engaging, science-based events to schools across New Jersey. The show was a huge hit with students, who got to interact (safely!) with dry ice, create bubbles, and watch chemical reactions.

"The kids were blown away—the presentation was engaging and informative," Wilkins shared. “Their commitment to inclusivity was so important. They adapted performances for students with sensitivities to sound and went the extra mile to include many students in their presentation,” she added. A testament to their learning? The next day in teacher Nicole Jackson’s science class, students were able to draw connections between what they had learned and their science curriculum.

BOLDly Building Financial Futures

At KIPP BOLD Academy, Winston Roberts, a former math teacher and creator of the ‘Luxury is Teachable’ financial literacy program, envisions a future where every student achieves financial freedom. To realize that vision, Roberts created the school’s financial literacy class where he empowers students to become agents of change within their communities, teaching them the fundamentals behind building savings, investing, and approaches to retirement. So far, the program has reached more than 600 students at BOLD and KIPP TEAM Academy.

For students like Ayden Anan, the class has been a game-changer. Anan acknowledged that he sees people struggling financially in his home city but also sees the potential for their success with the right tools. "Learning these principles is crucial because many in our community don’t know about financial literacy. By mastering these principles now, I can have financial success in the future, and I have started to save my money to eventually start investing," said Anan.

Panthers Strive for Success, On and Off the Basketball Court

In February, KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy’s varsity boys' basketball team found themselves on a winning streak of 20-6 as they attempted to reach an ambitious goal: a state championship. Guided by Coach Jyron Brooks, the team embodied discipline, resilience, and unity both on and off the court. Coach Brooks's philosophy emphasizes character development alongside athletic ability. "My goal is to equip these young men with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of the real world," he said.

Senior Becki Camara is a center on the team. "Staying committed to the gym and steering clear of distractions has been crucial for my growth, both on and off the court," said Camara. As the team united in pursuit of a state championship, their resilience and tenacity served as a testament to the power of mentorship, teamwork, and determination.

“Do We Have a Deal?”

Rise Students Learn the Power of Persuasion

Sumner Students Honor Black Change-Makers

One day each February, KIPP Sumner Elementary transforms into a ‘wax museum’ as students honor Black icons by sharing their stories with an audience of families and staff (in costume of course!). As families circulate in the schools’ hallways, they press buttons to launch into each child’s account of their represented Black icon.

At the suggestion of her mother, Megan Walker, first grader Saniyah Walker represented actress and singer Dorothy Dandridge, who broke barriers in the film industry. She was the first Black woman to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress and featured on the cover of Life. “When I grow up, I want to be a singer. I had fun learning about her life and making this poster with my mom,” said Saniyah. Two stations down, first-grader Logan Coles represented Mae Jemison, an astronaut and engineer who was the first Black woman to travel into space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavor. In addition to being a scientist, Mae Jemison was also an avid dancer as a child. Coles hopes to fuse sciences and the arts, too. “Someday, I’d like to be a labor and delivery doctor and an artist,” she said.

“Yes, Chef:” Alumna Leads Culinary Class at Lab

HEARTBEAT HIGHLIGHTS

This year, the fourth-floor kitchen at KIPP Newark Lab High School bustled each Wednesday as students in the school’s new Cooking Club prepared meals. Attracting more than 20 students, the school’s Cooking Club is led by KIPP New Collegiate Academy alumna Quadasia White, who today owns a successful catering business and whose sister is a current student at Lab. "I wanted to bring my passion for cooking to students and learn alongside them,” she said.

Club members like tenth-grader Daviyonah Kennedy enjoyed cooking foods from different cultures. “I was interested in joining and cooking Jamaican cuisine because my dad is Jamaican,” said Kennedy. Her favorite dish? “I made a Jamaican jerk chicken for my mom, grandma, and my dad, and all of them liked it — even if my grandmother thought it was a little spicy,” said Kennedy.

Seeking a way to support her students’ persuasive writing skills, KIPP Rise Academy ELA teacher Christina McGuffie found inspiration from Shark Tank, a popular television show where contestants pitch their business ideas to a panel of potential investors. “I wanted to help my students understand what good persuasive writing looked like as we explored frameworks like ethos, logos, and pathos,” said McGuffie. Students generated ideas, wrote a business plan, came up with slogans, and ultimately pitched their business to classmates.

With ideas ranging from a phone app that would help young people locate pickup sports activities happening in their neighborhood to electric bicycles that support greener commutes, students brought their problem-solving, writing, and presentation skills to the table as they pitched their projects. Seventh-grader Jaiden Barnes pitched his idea for an electric bike that generated its own power.

“I liked the project because I got to express my creativity,” said Barnes, who added that the project had helped him with his narrative and creative writing skills. “My goal is to instill a love of writing in students, and I’ve seen the lessons from this project translate to their persuasive writing,” said McGuffie.

I've learned a lot about teamwork

because I didn't know my teammates before,

but now we work together really well.

I've made some amazing new friends.

Student Voice in the Spotlight at KIPP Lanning Square Primary

If you’re seeking Beatrice Hemmings’ performing arts classroom at KIPP Lanning Square Primary, you’re unlikely to need directions. Instead, you’ll hear her clear voice over the clip-on microphone she uses to engage her students as they sing, dance, and act. "I feel strongly that students should practice communication and storytelling skills in my classroom while discovering who they are as people," said Hemmings.

In a classroom complete with a small stage, soft lighting, and a musical theater marqueeinspired wall, Hemmings instructs students as they order plot points in a story, practice dance steps, and develop their theater vocabulary. Each week, students explore a different performing art and learn about how characters develop and the main themes of each story. For students like fourth-grader Alanii Broadwater, the classroom is inspiring.

“I love theater class because I like learning the dances Ms. Hemmings teaches us and also because I want to be an actress when I grow up. I like watching shows like 13: The Musical and doing funny voices,” she said.

Students and Alumni Step into the Spotlight at TEAM

In its first year, KIPP TEAM Academy's Step Club, led by KIPP New Jersey alumni Briona Hawkins and Asha Alston, has quickly become a beloved addition to the school's extracurricular roster. With a mission to nurture creativity through rhythmic expression, the club has attracted students like sixth-grader Aubrey Lawson, who joined after being inspired by step videos online and her grandmother's encouragement. "I've learned a lot about teamwork because I didn't know my teammates before, but now we work together really well. I've made some amazing new friends," said Lawson.

"We wanted to create a space where students could express their creativity through stepping, and it's been incredible to see the enthusiasm and teamwork among the members," said Hawkins. As the Step Team continues refining its choreography and skills, students hope to bring their skills to a wider audience this spring.

KIPP TEAM Academy sixth-grader Aubrey Lawson

Así soy yo

BY YULEISY Z'ANI RIVERA

I am my island

From the nuvorican movement

No soy caucásica

I am from the roots of my people

I am questions about my ancestry, doubts to the purity of my blood Soy puertorriqueña

I'm salsa, merengue, and bachata playing in the family function

My hair is my heritage, my hair is like the waves en la playa de Puerto Rico

I’m from love and hardships

From bacalaitos to pastelillos

I’m from "If you don’t celebrate it, we will!"

I am Yuleisy Z'ani Rivera and I won’t let you nickname me because my name is "too different"

I am more than my nationality

I'm Latina and I'll yell at the top of my lungs, “Siempre” I'm not a race, I’m a well-written book.

SOY BORICUA!

I am perfect as I come, perfecto como Dios me hizo.

FOOD

Hope Mobile Food Distributions

In-person food distributions on the third Wednesday of every month in the KIPP Lanning Square gym. Food available for all KIPP families and residents of Cooper Plaza and Lanning Square.

Kroc Center Food Pantry

856-379-4871

Monday: 9:00am - 11:30am and 1:00pm - 3:30pm

Thursday: 1:00pm - 3:30pm

Friday: 9:00am - 11:30am and 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Mighty Writers Food and Diaper Distributions

1801 South Broadway, Camden, NJ

Monday - Thursday, 11:30am - 1:00pm

DENTAL SERVICES

Gracious Smiles Dentistry

609-744-1200

gracioussmiles73@gmail.com

Full-service dentist at KIPP Lanning Square (525 Clinton St). Patients can also be seen at the Gracious Smiles office in Marlton.

MENTAL HEALTH

PerformCare performcarenj.org

State-wide system hotline for children’s psychiatric care (24/7): 877-652-7624

Center for Family Services centerffs.org

Access Center contact: 877-922-2377

HOUSING AND HOME SERVICES

Camden County Board of Social Services

Rental assistance and other resources. 856-225-8800 | njhelps.org

Camden County OEO

Rental assistance and other resources. 856-964-6887

St. Joseph Carpenter Society

Assistance with homeownership or home repairs. 856-966-8117 | sjcscamden.org

UTILITY ASSISTANCE

Camden County OEO

LIHEAP and other resources. 856-964-6887

Hispanic Family Center

LIHEAP and other resources. 856-365-7393 or 856-541-6985

LEGAL AID

South Jersey Legal Services 856-964-2010 | lsnj.org/sjls

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

LogistiCare

Free transportation to and from medical appointments for Medicaid participants. 866-527-9934

EMPLOYMENT & JOB TRAINING

Camden Works

Job postings for Camden employers, as well as resources for residents looking for work. camdenworks.net

Hopeworks

Job training for young adults in technology. hopeworks.org

KIPP Cooper Norcross Academy

525 Clinton Street Camden, NJ 08103

What do these colleges and universities have in common?

Albright College

• Alfred University

• Alvernia University

• Arcadia University

• Arizona State University

• Bloomfield College

• Bridgewater College

• Caldwell University

• Camden County College

• Campbell University

• Centenary University

• Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

• Clark Atlanta University

• Coppin State University

• Delaware State University

• Drew University

• Drexel University

• D'Youville College

• Elizabeth City State University

• Fairleigh Dickinson University-College at Florham

• Felician University

• Georgia State University

• Georgian Court University

• Hampton University

• Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

• Hartwick College

• Hobart William Smith Colleges

• Jackson State University

• Kansas State University

• Kean University

• La Salle University

• Lebanon Valley College

• Lincoln University of Pennsylvania

• Louisiana State University - Main Campus

• Lycoming College

• Lynchburg College

• Manhattan College

• Miami University - Oxford

• Monmouth University

• Montclair State University

• Morehouse College

• Morgan State University

• Neumann University

• New Jersey City University

• New Jersey Institute of Technology

• Norfolk State University

• North Carolina

A & T State University

• North Carolina Central University

- Main Campus

• Ohio University-Main Campus

• Pace University - New York

• Palm Beach Atlantic University

• Pennco Tech

• Point Park University

• Penn State

• Quinnipiac University

• Ramapo College of New Jersey

• Rider University

• Roanoke College

- Camden

• Rowan College at Burlington County

• Rowan College of South Jersey

• Rowan University

• Rutgers University

• Rutgers University

- New Brunswick

• Rutgers University - Newark

• Saint Elizabeth University

• Saint Peter's University

• Seton Hall University

• Shaw University

• Shenandoah University

• South Carolina State University

• St Mary's College of Maryland

• St. John's University - New York

• Syracuse University

• Temple University

The College of New Jersey

• The

• The University of Tampa

• Tennessee State University

•

Richard Stockton College of New Jersey

• Thomas Jefferson University

• Towson University

• University of Connecticut

• University of Delaware

• University of Hartford

• University of Maryland

- College Park

• University of North Carolina at Charlotte

• University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus

• University of Portland

• University of Texas - San Antonio • Villanova University

• Virginia State University

• Washington & Jefferson College

• West Virginia University

• Widener University - Main Campus

• William Paterson University of New Jersey

• Winston-Salem State University

They have all accepted KIPP Cooper Norcross Academy alumni and students from the KIPP High School (Founding) Class of 2024.

CONGRATULATIONS, SENIORS!

We'll continue to support you every step of the way.