Team and Family Magazine—Newark—Fall 2020

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A MAGAZINE BY AND FOR THE KIPP NEW JERSEY COMMUNITY

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TO T H E FA L L E D I T I O N O F

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Dear Families, We hope your family is staying safe and well.

The world we live in can feel unpredictable right now—but KIPP Newark remains more committed than ever to partnering with you to support your child’s wellbeing and academic success. We are grateful for your continued partnership.

This edition of TEAM and Family Magazine elevates the voices of our students, staff, and families around a number of issues that have been brought to the forefront this year as our country confronts a pandemic and takes steps towards undoing long-standing systemic racism. Their voices are a testament to the power and potential that lives within our students and communities.

In this issue, you will find:

COMMUNITY VOICES Hear the voices of our team and family as they speak about what needs to change to create a world of racial equity.

STAYING HEALTHY IN MIND AND BODY In these difficult times, self care and mental health are critical. Hear advice from our social workers and step inside the lives of our families during COVID-19 on page 8.

STUDENT WRITING The power of our students’ pens is strong. Check out the work of one of our student writing contest winners on page 19.

Please reach out to us with any questions you might have about how to support your child’s continued learning, and know that we are here to help and support. If you need additional support during this time, please call our hotline at 973-679-7199—and head to page 22 for our community resources.

Take care, Joanna Belcher Executive Director, KIPP Newark

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in this issue LETTER FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 02 SCHOOL UPDATES 04

COMMUNITY VOICES 14 THE ROAD TO COLLEGE DURING COVID-19 18

ALUMNI ENTREPRENEURS MAKE THEIR MARK 06

THE POWER OF THE PEN 19

WE SET THE WEATHER 08

FAMILY RESOURCES 22

CELEBRATING OUR 2020 TEAMSPY WINNERS 11

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT 20 CALENDAR 23

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL!

@KIPPNewark

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 aim 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.

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KIPP UPPER ROSEVILLE ACADEMY

KIPP NEWARK COLLEGIATE ACADEMY

KIPP NEWARK LAB HIGH SCHOOL

The KIPP Upper Roseville team is excited to welcome the next class of Kindergartners as we double in size to serve grades 1-2. We're focused on continuing to build community to ensure students feel connected, even virtually, by hosting fun events like dance parties, scavenger hunts and movie nights for scholars and families.

KIPP NCA is leading the way when it comes to virtual celebrations. We inducted our largest National Honor Society and hosted an online graduation with over 500 participants. KIPP NCA is also committed to practicing Grace, Gratitude, Patience, Positivity and Adaptability (G.P.A.^2).

As we navigate remote instruction G.P.A.^2 allows us to foster a community where students and staff feel safe, supported and successful.

At KIPP Newark Lab High School our students design and build things every day because we believe in preparing for the future. COVID-19 has solidified for us the importance of preparing students to thrive and adapt in an uncertain world. We are doubling in size this year, welcoming a new team of teachers and students to our community—our 'Sharks' are off to a great start!

KIPP RISE ACADEMY We're excited to continue focusing on dismantling the systems and structures that have perpetuated oppression for our students. Along with the network, we will strategically build opportunities that will empower and amplify the voices of our students, families, and staff, and that will create a stronger and more inclusive learning community.

KIPP NEWARK COMMUNITY PREP KIPP Newark Community Prep is elated to launch our second year—we've increased both our staff and student populations by 100%! Moreover, we are starting the school year strong and have developed a crystal-clear vision for creating meaningful relationships and strong systems that support our teammates and help kids feel safe, known and loved during this difficult year!

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KIPP Life Academy leads the way!

We are so looking forward to entering this new phase of learning with families as closer partners than ever before. This summer, hundreds of our returning students participated in online summer programming, while our school leaders and operations teams have individually "met" with every new family at least twice!

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KIPP SPARK Academy's vision for this school year is to ensure that "Academic Pride" rings through loud and clear during remote learning just as it would during in-person school.

Our school staff has been working hard to reimagine what the student experience should look and feel like to bring this to fruition; "The Marathon Continues," as we support our students education and wellbeing.

KIPP SEEK ACADEMY KIPP Seek Academy is focused on building relationships and community partnerships with our families and students as we launch this year fully remote. Teachers are excited to jump into teaching—whether it's live online or in-person. We look forward to hosting monthly family/staff Chat and Chew meetings as we navigate through these difficult times together and ensure our students have a year of learning and growth.

This summer, over 200 TEAMmates participated in the National Summer School Initiative program. It was a great opportunity for students and TEAM teachers to keep the learning going all summer. We closed out the summer with two curbside book swaps for TEAM families to swap out library books and pick up books to keep! We're maintaining the focus on reading into this school year!

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KIPP THRIVE ACADEMY

KIPP TEAM ACADEMY KIPP BOLD ACADEMY Teachers and teammates at KIPP BOLD Academy didn’t let the pandemic stop them from keeping an important BOLD tradition alive: home visits! BOLD ran its first ever virtual home visit program to welcome the class of 2028 by ensuring that every single student felt the love, even over Zoom. We will continue to focus on social-emotional health this year!

This summer, KIPP THRIVE Academy teachers June Yaw, Angelica Ramirez and Naquana Haynes led a virtual summer program for K-2 scholars that ensured that they received summer enrichment and stayed mentally healthy even while virtual! We carried that focus on social-emotional learning and academic learning into this school year for our virtual launch.

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This summer, LSP held a virtual summer program that provided academic support as well as a variety of enrichment options including mentoring, cooking, strings, read alouds, fitness club, science, and more! This year, our school priority is loving, restoring, and rebuilding. We look forward to partnering with our families and students during this unprecedented school year.

KIPP LANNING SQUARE MIDDLE While this year will look different in many ways, we are committed to keeping the promise we made to our families when we opened our doors—to provide a place for each and every child to thrive. As we forge ahead, we are grounding ourselves in being the revolution we seek. This work is critical as our country attempts to remedy systemic racism and our school seeks to educate black and brown children.

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In the face of uncertainty and unprecedented times, KIPP Whittier is focused on building relationships with our families and students. Teachers are excited to jump into teaching—whether that is live online or live in-person— as we move through this school year. The idea of Parents as Partners will be brought to life as we continue to navigate these difficult times together.

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KIPP HIGH SCHOOL We are THRILLED to welcome our founding group of 9th graders this fall at KIPP High School in Camden! We can't wait to get to know you to make our school a place you can call your second home!

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Alumni Entrepreneurs Make Their Mark Our alumni have big dreams, and they’re making them a reality. These four young entrepreneurs represent only a fraction of our team and family who are making their mark by doing everything from selling custom-made hoodies to running their own makeup business.

They’re bringing their creativity and genius to the world and we’re sharing their unique stories with you here.

Z A H I R MILLER TH E F INESS E C LOTHING @FI N ESS ETHEBRAND WWW. F INESS ETHEBRAND.CO M What inspired you to start your own business?

My inspiration came in part from my parents. Growing up, I saw how into fashion they were and that played a role in me starting Finesse. The company started off as me designing a hoodie for myself—I was never planning to sell anything. But then I posted a picture of myself wearing my design on Instagram and people liked it and asked if I was selling them.

Eventually this led to me obtaining an LLC and website and the business grew from there.

But to me, Finesse Clothing is much more than a clothing brand. I want to have an impact on people. I want to influence them to do more than what they think they can, whether that means to start a business, go to school, or any other goals they may have.

Tell us about your most memorable moment with Finesse.

I was asked by one of my high school teachers from KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy, Mr. Brown, to come and speak to his class about entrepreneurship. I was able to share my own experiences and give some insight into the mindset and skills needed to be an entrepreneur.

It was memorable because I realized that I could influence someone to take a leap of faith and step out of their comfort zone. My advice to them was that failure is something good and is a stepping stone to your success.

What inspired you to start your own business?

I wanted to start my own business selling hair bonnets for a long time. When we were in quarantine, I had more time on my hands, which encouraged me to get started on my line.

Satin Majik started off as a satin hair bonnet line with a target audience of Black girls—though not limited to them. I sell bonnets for children and adults.

Tell us about your most memorable moment as a business owner.

When I first launched, I sold out in two days. This was a pretty big accomplishment. Something else that really stuck with me is when my younger cousin saw my children’s bonnets, she immediately acknowledged the print on the bonnet and said, “the girls on the bonnet look like me.” That was a proud moment for my business.

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EMAJANAE JAC KSO N SATIN MAJIK @SATINMAJIK

S HAMIYAH JAC KSO N CAREF ULLLY C RAF TED @CAREF ULLLYC RAF TED What sparked your interest in the makeup industry and starting your own business?

When I was a freshman in high school, my mom didn’t allow me to wear mascara or heavy makeup to school. One day that year, I stole her mascara before school and applied it anyway! But my mom also inspired me by teaching me how to do brows when I was a kid. Still, I never thought I would take a leap of faith and consider entering the makeup industry. I met a girl on campus at my college and she was passionate about doing her own makeup. She exposed me to a lot of different types of makeup that I didn’t know existed. After that, I did makeup for fun.

I realized in college that I wasn’t really happy with my experience and decided to write down a list of things that made me happy. Makeup was on it. That’s when I realized that I could pursue that full time.

MAE-EMMA JO NES LAS HED BY MAE @_LAS HEDBYMAE

What inspired you to start Lashed by Mae? I have always gotten my eyelashes done by someone else in the past, but eventually I was encouraged by those around me to learn how to do them myself. Lashed by Mae started off as a side hustle. I plan on going to law school in the future, and I knew that once I was in law school, I couldn’t be employed full-time, so this would give me an income on the side.

Tell us about your most memorable moment as a business owner.

When I first started working for my clients, I was very nervous. But I was able to attain a skill I never had before I became a lash technician: patience! August of 2019 would have to be my most memorable moment. I had a lot of clients and I was able to see the ups and downs of owning a business. There came a time where my business took a hit because the majority of my clients are college students, and around that time they go back to school.

Any advice for those who might follow in your footsteps?

I always tell aspiring entrepreneurs that it’s important to have multiple streams of income— and there’s always room for growth of your business. I tell them to never give up because you can always improve with time!

Tell us about a memorable moment you had as you started Carefullly Crafted?

Before I entered the industry full-time, I went to a networking event for people in different beauty-related industries. It was an amazing experience and I realized the power of networking when I met the organizer. We talked about makeup and later she reached out and asked if I would give a makeup tutorial to people in her company who were interested. It went really well and was a highlight because I never thought I’d be able to teach a group full of women about makeup.

What’s your advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Be patient! That’s so important right now. It’s not a fast-acceleration business, you’re not going to be great overnight. You have to be patient and work at it. I’m still mastering the perfect eyeliner look! Also, we had no idea that COVID-19 would hit. I think it made me more patient and it made me realize that I need to have other streams of income. I would also encourage people to have their own unique style. You can look at others for inspiration, but people will come to you because you’re your own person with your own style.

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We Set The Weather Helping Children Stay Mentally Healthy in a Time of Uncertainty

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ow can my child maintain relationships with friends and family? How do I explain what we see on the news? What can I ask to find out if my child is coping well with changes?

These are just a fraction of the questions parents across the country are grappling with as they navigate the 2020-21 school year during a pandemic. We asked our social workers and KIPP parents to share their advice, stories, and wisdom on how to address the many social and academic concerns brought up during COVID-19.

Below you’ll find their thoughts on these topics alongside parent narratives from life in quarantine in Camden and Newark.

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O N H OW TO EXPLA I N THE UN C ERTA I NTY OF THES E TI MES TO C HILDR EN. Taylor Wegmann, a social worker at KIPP Whittier Middle, encourages parents to think about their child’s age and developmental progress when they approach a conversation about COVID-19.

“My recommendation is always to be as open and honest as is appropriate for your child’s age and development,” she said. “For example, it’s appropriate to talk to your child about the severity of the pandemic, without discussing all of the symptoms of a severe case of the virus, which might make them feel anxious.”

Understanding how the virus spreads is also important to get kids on board with social distancing practices. In Newark, KIPP SPARK Academy parent Shana Boyd-Merisier found that her daughter had misconceptions about the virus and how it was spreading, so she had each member of her family hold hands one-by-one and explained that each link represented a potential passing of the virus.

“By the end, she understood that it didn’t matter where the virus had originated—it was possible for us to spread it to people we loved, even if it was an accident. That visual really helped,” said Boyd.

Social workers say that parents should do their best to model social and emotional

wellness. Behavior Analyst Elizabeth Callahan said, “Find ways to ensure you’re coping well, because we set the

to spend a ton of time on FaceTime—it can help to get them excited to share small moments in their day. For example, if a teenager asks if the malls are open, I would say something like, ‘I’m not sure but let’s call Aunt Tricia and ask.’ For younger kids, I would have them share their —T I N N E E S H A RE E D, KIPP Whittier Parent drawing with their favorite uncle – i.e., weather. Everyone responds differently to ‘Let’s call Uncle Lewis and show him your stressful situations, and your responses cool drawing,’” said Riaz. will teach your child how to cope during stressful times.”

Callahan suggests families follow in Tinneesha’s footsteps—but also consider O N H ELPI NG CHI LDR EN A S low-tech ways to stay in touch. “Families THEY COP E W I TH THE LACK OF can go old-school with a pen pal—pick a SO C IALI ZATI ON WI TH FR I ENDS friend or family member and write or send AN D SUP P ORT NETWOR KS them pictures,” said Callahan.

AT SC HOOL. ON A P P ROACHI NG YOU R CH IL D In Camden, KIPP Whittier parent Tinneesha TO FI ND OUT I F THEY ’R E Reed and her family are taking full DOI NG OKAY. advantage of technology to stay in touch with family. “We’ve had Zoom birthday Every family differs in how often they talk parties. My child’s grandmother is high- about difficult topics and emotions. But risk and we meet with her through Zoom Riaz says there’s a variety of ways to do this regularly,” said Reed. And it wouldn’t be a effectively. “For families where this is not Sunday night in the Reed household without part of the daily conversation, it may help a dance party. to start by asking their child about how a certain character felt during a TV show you Director of Social Work and Student watch. This opens the door to talking about Support Sheyla Riaz agrees that technology other's feelings,” said Riaz. “It can also start is a great way to create small moments of with a “how was your day?” And as they joy. “For those kids who just don’t want are sharing, we can ask more open-ended

“Every Sunday night after dinner, [my kids] FaceTime with their three cousins and we all have a dance party together. It feels good to connect like that."

Resources to Keep Your Family Connected & Learning

• Open Culture: This collection provides a list of free educational resources for K-12 students and their parents and teachers. www.openculture.com/free_k-12_educational_resources • ActivEd is offering free access to its "Walkabouts" platform with web-based lessons for students in grades pre-K-2 that integrate movement with language arts, math and reading content and correlate to state learning standards. Students, teachers, and parents can access grade-level content. www.info.activedinc.com/covid • Kahoot! Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform that brings together students to engage in learning activities together. www.Kahoot.com • Nova Labs at PBS offers aspiring scientists video, animation and games on scientific topics like predicting solar storms and constructing renewable energy systems. www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/labs/ • National Geographic Kids offers a variety of fun and education games, quizzes, and puzzles for students of all ages. www.kids.nationalgeographic.com/games/ • KIPP families who have questions about our school closures, are in need of services or food, or have been in close contact with someone affected by COVID-19 should call 973-679-7199.

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questions like ‘what was that like for you?’”

Riaz added.

Setting time aside daily to check-in on emotions is something Reed does with her children in Camden. “I try to create space for them to talk and process how they’re feeling and I try to encourage these conversations over dinner as a family,” said Reed.

ON SIG NS A CH I L D MIGHT BE ST R UG G L I NG TO CO PE. “Anxiety and depression in children looks much different than it does in adults,” says Wegmann. “Depending on their age, children might not yet have the emotional vocabulary to express how they are feeling

verbally. Instead, changes in behavior are more reliable indicators that your child is struggling,” she added. Additionally, Wegmann says this behavior can manifest physically (headaches, stomachaches, problems sleeping) or behaviorally (increased tantrums, irritability).

Callahan encourages parents to look for signs, because often kids won’t come right out and say it, but their behavior may give us cues. Look for things like excessive crying or irritation, difficulty with attention or concentration, poor sleep habits or school performance, or a return to previously outgrown behaviors (like bedwetting) if they’re concerned about their child.

Family Life During COVID-19

As a parent, it became an exciting challenge to keep them educated and deal with the very real emotions they’re feeling, as they try to understand what’s happening in the world. This summer, we planted a garden. We watched them bloom and grow, we harvested them, and now they’re cooking and eating the food they’ve grown. No excuses not to eat those vegetables!

They’ve always been readers, but this moment in time has them interested in history. They’ve been reading historical nonfiction. They’re interested in what happened during the Civil Rights movement. We just watched the documentary about Representative John Lewis’s life.

I let my boys suggest something they wanted to do each day. My best ideas come from them. So if on a normal day at school, they played kickball with their friends, we would go to an open space to play kickball or throw a ball around together.”

—T I N N EESH A REED, KIPP Whittier Middle Parent

I have a three-year-old boy, a one-year old boy, and my oldest daughter, Micahya, at home during the quarantine. Micahya is in second grade at KIPP SPARK Academy.

This summer, we spent a lot of time in an inflatable pool in our yard. We do arts and crafts projects. When it’s safe, we’ll go to Dollar Tree for craft supplies. Micahya loves fashion. We have her make sketches of clothing designs and then carry them out using towels or sheets—even though she’s not able to sew yet. She makes dresses for her dolls!

Shana Boyd-Merisier and her family

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Her birthday was in May and originally she wanted a skate-themed party. Instead, we did a Zoom party and a drive-by birthday celebration. Her teacher, Ms. Gadsden, dropped by as a surprise and Micahya was so happy to see her! Afterwards, we did a socially distant skate party in Veteran’s Park where everyone wore masks and brought their own skates.”

—S H A N A BOY D - ME R I S I E R , KIPP SPARK Academy parent

Celebrating our 2020 TEAMspy Winners Every year we celebrate the work of our staff at our annual TEAMspy Awards event. But the 13th Annual TEAMspy Awards looked a little different this year because this school year looked very different! But that doesn’t mean we didn’t take the time to celebrate the incredible contributions of our teammates in Newark. Now more than ever, we appreciate what they do to partner with our families and communities each day—nothing can stop their dedication— not even a global pandemic! They found creative ways to step up to the plate during COVID-19 and keep our team and family connected while ensuring the health of our community was top of mind.

Superstar Staff We celebrate our KIPP New Jersey administrative TEAMmates who were recognized for their incredible contributions!

KRISTIN A HAAG Director of Literacy Achievement Ms. Haag: “I’m so grateful to have received the Heartbeat award this year. Early childhood is a magical time full of exploration, curiosity, and wonder and I love working with our teachers and leaders to share in the joy of our littlest learners.

Watching a new reader's face light up for the first time with understanding and excitement is an irreplaceable feeling, and I’m so thankful to work with the beautiful kids in our Newark, Camden, and Miami schools.”

D I A NE A DA M S -WHITE Managing Director of KIPP Through College Ms. Adams-White: “This award is representative of all of the incredibly hard work the KIPP Through College Persistence Team put into making sure our alumni were well-supported this year. As a team, we worked hard to be responsive to the needs of our students, particularly once COVID hit. We threw out our typical spring “playbook” and prioritized getting in touch with all students on our caseloads more frequently as the world around us was in constant flux. Working on this team is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had because we get the privilege of guiding students as they work to achieve their highest visions of themselves.”

Heartbeat Award The Heartbeat Award is given out to staff members who truly exemplify all of our values.

Whether they are showing us what it means to go above and beyond for all of our kids or constantly seeking improvement so they can make themselves and their schools better or always putting the interests of our kids and teammates before themselves, these teammates are truly outstanding.

A BDOUL OUEDRAOGO KIPP Rise Academy This year’s winner is known for his “humility, quiet power, love, and insane commitment” to the Rise community. As his teammates put it, “everyone at KIPP Rise feels loved by Ab.”

“For me this award doesn’t serve as the pinnacle of a process, but as a reminder to always honor, advocate, and uphold promises to the kids and families I serve.”

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Kid Focus Award

Freedom Award

Impact Award

The Kid Focus Award is given out to staff members who remind us what it means to go above and beyond for our kids by always believing that promises made to children are sacred and keeping their commitments to them 100% of the time.

The Freedom Award is given out to staff members who always exemplify this value by using the freedom that is given to them to develop new programs, practices, and ideas in service of our students.

The Impact Award is given out to staff members who always show us what is possible by believing that the ultimate results we seek are all of our students getting to and through college or the career training they choose.

N AQ UA NA HAYNES KIPP THRIVE Academy Naquana drew praise from nominators for establishing a school-wide Spelling Bee. Said one nominator, “It was beautiful to see classes and grades holding posters to cheer on other classmates. Kids that may have been normally shy or quiet stood on stage literally pounding their chest from that sense of accomplishment.”

ROB R E DDI CK KIPP TEAM Academy Nominators love Rob. Here’s what they had to say. “As an alum, he embodies why TEAM is so special. He is EVERYWHERE in the building. He connects with the kids on the most basic human level—compassion.”

Mr. Reddick: “I am beyond honored to be the recipient of the Kid Focus Award! As a dean, it’s important for me to let kids know that no matter their struggles, I love them. I am grateful for the space to become a part of so many memories, laughs, and transformations on a daily basis in this work. My kids mean everything to me and it means the world that it has not only been recognized, but celebrated by a network that has done so much for me since I was a kid.”

TEAM of the Year

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“Education provides children with access, information and freedom. Freedom to fall in love with learning through transformative activities/ experiences that are rooted in academics. Freedom to dream bigger and go further.”

LAUR EN A LCENA KIPP BOLD Academy According to colleagues, “Lauren has truly gone above and beyond this year in her role as the AP of STEM. With her support, we have already seen tremendous gains in the mastery of standards.”

Ms. Alcena: “I am honored to receive this award and grateful that our families entrust us every day with helping shape their children’s worldview. There’s nothing more rewarding than getting to see the future when I look at our kids' faces and see their brilliant ideas come to fruition.”

The TEAM of the Year Award is given out to staff members who demonstrate what it looks like when amazing teammates come together and make magic happen for our kids and families. When we say there is no I in TEAM, we mean it!

SIXTH GRA DE - KI P P R I S E ACA DEMY Mark Joseph, Taylor Johnson, Brianna Boyer, Kara Galarza, Vanessa Ackon, Malcolm Ellison, Jolise Grisham, and Danny Rodgers

Fun Award

TEAMwork Award

Improvement Award

The Fun Award is given out to staff members who can always be found making class fun for students and work fun for their co-workers. Fun means recipients don't take themselves too seriously and make time to laugh and play.

The TEAMwork Award is given out to staff members who we can count on at any time or any day because they put the interests of students and their team above personal interests and are egoless in seeking to do what’s best for the whole organization and their colleagues.

The Improvement Award is given out to staff members who model what it means to get better by constantly seeking to improve their work and their school, no matter how good it already is—and creating and sharing new practices, ideas, or approaches that improve our schools and communities.

ALAYN A M I L L E R KIPP SPARK Academy This teacher’s classroom is downright magical. Said nominators, “She created a real-life Hogwarts in her classroom with many Harry Potter-themed details and components. It was great that our school community and the Newark community were able to see the fun and excitement that Alayna brings to SPARK each day.”

Ms. Miller: “Over the past 8 years that I’ve taught at SPARK, I have been able to do the work that I love, alongside teachers that truly embody our mission. The notion that “we find a way or we make one!” has been the fuel for my ideas over the years, and I’m grateful to have been supported and encouraged, even when they seemed crazy. When I think about the experience I want my scholars to have in my classroom—engagement is always at the core of every lesson and every moment.”

TOMMY LUNA KIPP Rise Academy Tommy is always doing his best for our students. Said one of them: “When you walk into his room, his kids are engaged in critical thinking, having rigorous discussions around mathematical concepts and laughing alongside him. As a teammate, he has grown into a person that others look up to.”

J OSHUA ESTEBA N KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy This teammate embodies TEAMwork.

According to one nominator, “Josh is always listening to ideas that other teammates have and either implementing them himself or sharing them with anyone who will listen. He constantly talks about the importance of building and maintaining a strong math team and celebrates any wins we have with gusto.”

Mr. Esteban: “Winning the TEAMwork Award is meaningful to me because it recognizes the amazing teams at NCA that I’ve been a part of this year (Math Department, 10th grade team, Humans of NCA, and Incredibles). Our students at NCA inspire me to keep working hard for them because of their engaging personalities, immense potential, and consistent perseverance!”

“I stay on my grind to improve my craft and my advocacy because my kids and my city deserve the best version of myself. You protect and improve what you love. I love my kids. I love my families. I love Rise. I love Newark.”

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SHAPING A MORE E Q U I TA B L E WORLD

Breonna Taylor. Eric Garner. Tamir Rice. Trayvon Martin. These names represent only a small fraction of the people killed by police violence. This year, the murder of George Floyd brought police brutality, and the systemic racism that underlies it, to the forefront of our national consciousness. We are outraged by the long list of victims, both named and unnamed.

Our community has not stood by silently. The central tenets of our ‘Heartbeat’—the core values that our organization lives by—is that our community shares a deep belief that our students will change the world and that we are responsible for dismantling systems of oppression that hold our students back from achieving their full potential. Above all, the promises we make to them are sacred. It is our mission and responsibility to build a more just world for our students and prepare them to do the same.

We’ve asked members of our team and family—teachers, parents, and students—to reflect on the ongoing work it will take to end systemic racism in their communities and in our country and what a more equitable and just world looked like from their perspective.

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MARQUET Z. DORSEY 8th Grader, KIPP BOLD Academy

I answer this question being a young, black, AfricanAmerican who is scared of being killed by a white man taking advantage of his authority because he’s wearing a badge. As an educated, talented, young Black man, how could I ever see us Black people being treated equally when racism is still going on after 400 years of torment and torture? My idea to help achieve a more equal world would be to get the best education, be an example of a great leader to my niece, and to speak up when I know things are wrong. I would love to one day peacefully protest if necessary and always have hope that the world will come together as one. I will continue to do what my mom tells me to—pray!"

DELORES BLACK KIPP TEAM Academy Parent "I believe if our country is completely open and honest about slavery, equal rights, and injustices against minorities, we can begin to make changes to our nation and combat systemic racism.

What I think it will take to end systemic racism here in Jersey is the same as what needs to be done around the world. Newark, New Jersey and the U.S. can make changes by: 1. Including civilians from the community on the police force, county and government agencies.

2. Community policing – making it mandatory for officers to walk their vicinity (beat) and simply greet and meet.

3. Provide proper education and healthcare.

4. Revamp the entire legal system and treat minorities like the human beings we are.

A more equal world looks like people of all backgrounds learning from one another, living together without fear or judgment of being harmed simply because of their ethnicity."

"From my standpoint, I think it will take the people of the United States to educate and humble themselves for systemic racism to end. Systemic racism is a current obstacle within the U.S. due to ignorance amongst those who oppress others. To "fix" the problem of systemic racism within the U.S., people need to be properly informed on the history of the U.S. This means the authentic origin story of the U.S.—not the white-washed tale of Columbus discovering the Americas that is told within schools. Once these facts and that history is learned by all, change will indeed happen.

A more equal world would look like a world free of all judgment and discrimation. If people stopped discriminating and posing judgment on others, they would realize that we are all equal.”

ZANIYA HARRISON

12th Grader, KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy

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MEGAN SHANAHAN Learning Specialist KIPP Upper Roseville Academy

ANDREW CHISHOLM Principal KIPP Life Academy

"When I think about an equitable world, I am reminded of the type of classroom I strive to create for my students who are exceptional learners on the Autism Spectrum.

My responsibility is to remove the barriers that prevent them from having access to the material. This requires understanding each of my students and their needs as individuals in order to create an equitable learning space. The same level of work and dedication is required of us as global citizens in regards to equity.

A more equitable world would be one where we educate ourselves on what barriers have been established through systemically racist policies and institutions, and take action to dismantle them. It looks like a world where we work together to create the resources needed to ensure access for all, just as my team and I do for our students in our classrooms."

TOMMY LUNA Math Teacher KIPP Rise Academy What eliminating systemic racism comes down to is political accountability. While many racist systems can be identified on a national level, their infrastructure is maintained on a local level, be it school boards, zoning boards, city council’s, housing authorities, etc. There are people who make decisions that either are the fire of racism directly, or the oxygen that feeds it indirectly. Those decision makers HAVE TO be held accountable.

That accountability comes from political involvement by residents to either call out the problems directly or, even better, come up with concrete policy or governing structure solutions. In short, what exists is what’s allowed.

I’m not a fan of the word equality.

Mathematically, I’m a math teacher, it means exactly the same, but we know that equal treatment for unequal needs isn’t the reality people deserve. What’s needed and deserved is equity. A more equitable world is one where folks can make their own choices to improve their own lives without being held back by personal, financial, or political constraints."

"As a species, humans have the ability to adapt through various traits, ranging from skin color to body hair, or by working in groups through families, communities, cities, etc. This strength of adaptation is also our greatest weakness, because it can separate us from each other as much as it brings us together.

A more equal world is one in which we don’t value sameness, but we seek out, revel in, and encourage difference. Difference adds to our collective strength. Difference ensures a piece of us survives—and in so doing, all of us survive through our DNA, our basic and essential anatomy, and our sentience which took years of evolution to design.”

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THE ROAD TO COLLEGE

DURING COVID-19

their options for paying for college. The same holds true for making decisions about the type of application a student submits.

“We don’t have time to say ‘let’s just see’ when it comes to college options and decisions around whether to apply Early Decision or Early Action” said college counselor Jackie Broomfield. “The landscape this year will benefit students who really evaluate their options early.

If you’re confident that your top-choice schools can also meet your financial need, then applying EA/ED makes sense—as qualifying students will likely be first in line for financial aid,” she added.

T

his year, the class of 2020 faced challenges on their journey to college that their predecessors at KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy never encountered: the effects of a global pandemic. Between shrinking financial aid, travel barriers, and job loss, many students changed or rethought their plans for college or career with the support of their KIPP Through College (KTC) advisors.

While there is still uncertainty about the challenges the Class of 2021 will face as they apply to college this year, our KTC team is prepared to help students face the unpredictable. Here is some advice from KTC counselors to seniors as they contemplate their options for next year: 1. The early bird gets the worm. All of our counselors said that students seeking college admissions this year will benefit from a proactive approach—particularly when it comes to financial aid and filing for FAFSA. “Families should do their best to fill out the FAFSA and get their paperwork in order as soon as possible this year,” said KTC counselor Aixa Carmona. She added that families should take advantage of online tools like the FAFSA4caster to understand

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2. Virtual visits matter. According to Carmona, “Before COVID-19, many schools offered students fly-ins for tours and interviews, but sometimes they were more exclusive. Now that these visits are virtual, they’re opening them up to more students.

These tours are often led by a current student, which makes them more personal.”

3. Get to know your admissions counselor.

Counselors say students have new opportunities to stand out through Zoom interviews and meetings with admissions counselors. College counselor Natasha M. Stone says that getting to know your admission representative matters more now than ever. “If you have a virtual session with the admission rep, be sure to ask them good questions about their school—even if you may already know the answer to it!

Don’t be afraid to ask for mailing addresses to send personalized thank you cards after interviews. You can even call Financial Aid offices to learn more about different scholarship opportunities,” said Stone.

4. It’s about more than a score. With many schools going test-optional, our college counselors agree that it’s a good time for students to put together a thoughtful

application that stands out from the competition. Counselors say this can be accomplished through a thoughtful college essay and through highlighting meaningful experiences. Stone encourages students to find opportunities to safely perform community service, when possible. Carmona suggests students can write about their personal experiences during COVID-19 and how that impacted the person they’re becoming—but this shouldn’t limit their topics for an essay. “If they’ve been creative or explored a new interest since March, they could write about that experience—but we don’t want them to feel like COVID-19 has to define their whole high school experience either.”

5. Use your KTC resources. Stone says there’s one upside to meeting with students’ virtually via Zoom: “We have the chance to be even more focused on the college search. When we meet with students, they aren’t getting distracted by anything else going on in our room—plus it gives them the opportunity to have ownership over the process a little more. I can screen share with them easily to help them walk through certain parts of the application, but they have to take some of those key steps themselves.” She emphasized the importance of students using tools provided by KTC—like the virtual organizer spreadsheet platform that allows applicants to view their correctly weighted GPA, all prospective colleges, lists of KIPP partner schools, and many other tools to keep them on track with the college application process.

6. Balance your list. Developing a balanced list of colleges that includes a reach, a match, and good bet for acceptance are important for students every year—but this year it’s even more important, says Broomfield. “I’ve been telling students to reach out early and often to colleges to get a clear picture of what their financial aid might look like—and encouraging students to consider in-state options as well. We don’t know what might happen in the future right now with COVID-19, so making sure your list includes some in-state options isn’t a bad idea. A balanced list is a rock amidst a lot of uncertainty.”

As we navigate the uncertainty of COVID-19, our college counselors are here to help students ensure they have what they need to be successful in their journey to and through college.

The Power of the Pen

Each year, we challenge our students with a writing contest that showcases their immense intellectual talents. This year’s theme was Make Your Mark!

We saw a range of styles and genres, from poetry to biography to narrative to speeches. Below is just one example of the work of these talented students. You can find all of their work on our Remote Learning Site!

THAT BLACK CHILD

DESTINY LORA

BY 8TH GRAD ER, KIPP RIS E ACAD EMY

I am special, ridicule cannot sway me Ruby who listened to threats about going to learn but didn’t care The reason I can go to school with different people That black child I am strong, obstacles cannot hold me Rosa, who refused to give up her seat that she rightfully had on the bus The reason I can ride the bus without having to give up my seat That black child I hold my head high, showing the world who I am Angela, who was never afraid to speak her mind in front of anyone The reason I can speak without getting nervous! I can be confident That black child I hold my pace, while moving through adversity Ida B. Wells, who wrote and wrote until she was heard about her problems The reason I can stand up for myself and the issues I face That black child The reason I can write and express myself no matter who says anything I am proud of my culture and my heritage Madam C.J Walker was proud to be black and a female The hot comb is the reason I can wear my hair any way I want That black child I’m becoming all I can be and more That black child I’m that black, that black child that made a change 19

ALUMNI IN THE NA DI A STO KE S KIPP Schools Attended: KIPP TEAM Academy KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy College and Graduation Year: Fairleigh Dickinson University, Class of 2021 Major/Area of Study: Nursing Internship Employer: Davis Integrated Medicine

n o i t i d E p i h s n Inter

For KIPP New Jersey alumni interested in pursuing their career goals over the summer, 2020 presented a challenge. Instead of learning how to deliver a presentation in a conference room or getting to know their coworkers over lunch, many focused on their Zoom background and making sure they were ready for their first video call.

But that didn’t stop them from taking internships in fields ranging from healthcare to education. Explore what they took away from their experiences!

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What is one key takeaway from this experience that you will continue to use in the future?

The healthcare team is always collaborative and connected; therefore it is vital that all members of a team communicate for the wellbeing of the patient.

What is one piece of advice you would give to students navigating internships and the workplace after graduation?

Never refuse or reject an experience just because you think it does not align with what you want to do. All experiences are great experiences.

N ICHOL AS OSAGI E KIPP Schools Attended: KIPP TEAM Academy, KIPP Newark Collegiate Academy College and Graduation Year: Dickinson College, Class of 2021 Major/Area of Study: Neuroscience/Psychology Internship Employer: KIPP New Jersey Special Education Team What is one key takeaway from this experience that you will continue to use in the future?

I have learned much about the importance of communication. When you start a new position, it can sometimes feel like you are expected to know how to do everything immediately. This internship has taught me that it is fine to ask questions when you don't understand something.

What is one piece of advice you would give to students navigating internships and the workplace after graduation?

Understand what your big picture is--if you can find a way to relate your work to your big picture, the internship/job that you are doing will become so much more rewarding. Make the most of the opportunity.

CYAN PE RD U E KIPP School Attended: KIPP TEAM Academy College and Graduation Year: Syracuse University, Class of 2021

TA H L I YAH TA B RO N KIPP School Attended: KIPP Rise Academy College and Graduation Year: Boston University, Class of 2023

Major/Area of Study: Social Work

Major/Area of Study: Biology (Pre-Vet)

Internship Employer: KIPP New Jersey Special Education Team

Internship Employer: Montclair Democratic County Committee

What is one key takeaway from this experience that you will continue to use in the future?

Research! Throughout this internship I have been doing a lot of research about many different topics surrounding the connection between mental and physical health. I’ve been able to use the research I’m doing for KIPP in my personal life in my use of mindfulness techniques and it has helped to inform my path for social work. It’s been such a big part of my experience that I will be creating my own mindfulness platform to share with others. It was something I always wanted to do but this internship helped to build my confidence around this.

What is one piece of advice you would give to students navigating internships and the workplace after graduation?

I would say to ask as many questions as possible! Clarity is key and you want to ensure that the internships you are looking into will benefit you in the long run somehow. Even if it isn’t directly in your preferred field, always inquire about the skills you will need and/or gain from the internship.

What is one key takeaway from this experience that you will continue to use in the future?

One takeaway from this experience is how important it is to go for any opportunity I’m interested in, even if I may not feel like I am the most qualified. Although my career goals and current qualifications stray from my internship, I have learned a lot from being an intern for the Montclair Democrats. Remaining ambitious—even if I am doubtful of my abilities—is something this internship taught me, and I am grateful for that.

What is one piece of advice you would give to students navigating internships and the workplace after graduation?

Networking is extremely important. I have been able to meet some amazing people and make great connections because of the opportunities I’ve had to speak with people from various fields. I was even able to intern at the Utica Zoo this past Spring semester because of someone I met and spoke to at a KIPP networking event, and it was an amazing experience that opened my eyes to another potential career option based on my interests in animal science and medicine.

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Newark Family Resources For more information, please contact your school social worker for assistance in navigating community services. Your school’s social worker may have additional resources not listed here.

You may also go to the NJ.gov site for general information on several benefits & resources at: www.knj.news/NJCOVIDAssistance As we navigate the COVID-19 crisis together, if you are in need of services or food or have been in close contact with someone affected by COVID-19, please call our hotline at 973-679-7199.

NJ Mental Health Cares has established a hotline for people dealing with anxiety related to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Call 1-866-202-HELP (4357) for free, confidential support. Calls will be answered from 8am to 8pm seven days a week by live trained specialists.

E M P LOYM E NT State of NJ COVID 19 Jobs & Hiring Portal

Resources Available: Family case management, tax prep classes, tax prep services.

North Ward Family Success Center

1-800-246-7743

www.knj.news/NJHiringPortal

286 Mt Prospect Avenue, Newark 973-481-0415 Resources Available: Family success plans, employment-related, life skills, housing assistance, advocacy, and related supports.

FOOD PA NT R I E S & RESO URC ES NJ SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

LGBTQ + R ESOURCES LGBTQ National Youth Talkline Family Equality Resource Center www.familyequality.org/neighborhood/

M ATERNI TY S ERVI CES Family Service Bureau’s New Start Program

NJ SNAP provides food assistance to families with low incomes to help them buy groceries through a benefits card accepted in most food retail stores and some farmers markets.

274 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103 973-412-2056 Resources Available: Assistance with securing infant supplies; parenting classes; access to mental health and addiction services; life skills training; assistance with pediatric care; assistance in applying for Assistance to Needy Families, WIC, and other social services.

SNAP Outreach Team is available to help families apply or recertify for SNAP benefits SNAP Hotline: 908-838-4831

AD D IC TI ONS & S UBSTA NCE USE SERVI CES ReachNJ

www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/

Community Food Bank

Several locations in Newark www.cfbnj.org/food/find-food/ 908-355-3663

Mend Hunger Relief Network Several locations in Newark www.mendnj.org 862-250-5216

H OUS I NG Eviction Protection & Assistance www.knj.news/NJRentalRelief

South Ward Children’s Alliance Brick Avon Academy: 219 Avon Avenue, Newark 07108 862-236-1333 22

ReachNJ is an addictions hotline (open 24/7) where individuals who are seeking substance use services for themselves or friends and family can get assistance and support from live, New Jersey-based, trained addiction counselors.

ReachNJ Hotline: 844-732-2465

M EN TAL HEA LTH S ERVI CES Youth Advocate Programs, Inc

45 Academy Street, Suite 303 Newark, NJ 07102 973-624-1520 Resources Available: Individual and family therapy; psychiatric evaluations; medication management; child, adolescent and adult services. Services also available from our Thrive & BOLD Academy location.

Have general COVID-19 questions?

The NJ Poison Control Center and 211 have partnered with the State to provide information to the Public on COVID-19: Call: 2-1-1 Call (24/7): 1-800-962-1253 Text: NJCOVID to 898-211 Text: your zip code to 898-211 for live text assistance

PerformCare

www.performcarenj.org State-wide system hotline (24/7): 877-652-7624 Resources Available: Phone interview with parent for immediate services, evaluations, psychiatric care, children’s mobile response programs

Center for Family Services

www.centerffs.org/ Various Locations Access Center contact: 877-922-2377 Resources Available: Intensive family therapy; Individual, group and family counseling; Grief and traumatic loss counseling; Structured intervention for traumatized children, adolescents, and families; Teenage support groups

PA R ENT S UPP ORT Child Care Resources

General information and resources: www.knj.news/NJChildCareCOVID

Program for Parents (PfP)

PfP helps link families to child care services as well offering parenting workshops and support services. www.programsforparents.org/

Family Service Bureau of Newark

274 South Orange Avenue, NJ 07103 973-412-2056 Resources available: parenting groups, anger management classes, substance abuse education and psychiatric services.

UTI LI TY A SS I STA NCE Utility Rights

www.njcommunityresources.info/utility_shutoff.html

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Jul 22-31 New Teacher PD Jul 31 New Staff Orientation Aug 10 First day returning staff Aug 10-21 Staff PD Aug 24 Summer School Begins (Remote) Sept 7 No School - Labor Day Oct 12 No School - Indigenous Peoples' Day Oct 26 First Day - Hybrid Instruction Nov 2 Asynchronous Learning/Teacher PD Nov 3 No School - Election Day Nov 9 No School - Veteran's Day Nov 12-13 Early Dismissal - Q1 RCCs Nov 25-27 No School - Thanksgiving Break Dec 23 Early Dismissal - Winter Break Dec 24-31 No School - Winter Break Jan 1 No School - New Year's Day Jan 4 No School - Staff PD Day Jan 18 No School - MLK Day Jan 29 No School - Staff PD Day Feb 4-5 Early Dismissal - Q2 RCC's Feb 15-19 No School - Mid-Winter Break Mar 15 No School - Staff PD Day Apr 5-9 No School - Spring Break Apr 22-23 Early Dismissal - Q3 RCCs May 31 No School - Memorial Day Jun 10-11 Early Dismissal Jun 10-11 Q4 RCCs Jun 11 Last Day of School Jun 19 Juneteenth

Holidays & Recesses Asynchronous Learning Early Dismissal Start Date for Students Last Day of School

202 0 -21 SC HOO L C LOSU R E PO L I CY: In the event that inclement weather or school building closures prevent in-person instruction this school year, KIPP Newark will provide live, synchronous instruction remotely.

Report Card Conferences Start/End of Quarter

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TEAM Charter Schools 60 Park Place, Suite 802 Newark, NJ 07012

We’re offering students the support they need to stay learning and remain connected to our community.

Know a family seeking a great school for their child?

Send them to kippnj.org/enroll today!