KIPP Ujima Village Academy

One of my sons graduated in 2010 from KIPP where he performed excellently. Though he didn't get accepted into some independent schools like some of his peers he is receiving an above average education @Baltimore city polytechnic High school where he continues to thrive. My other son is currently an 8th grader @ KIPP, though there have been drastic changes within this school (not all good) I still believe my children could not have received a better public school education anywhere else in Baltimore city.Kipp to college is a huge benefit by keeping a relationship with the the students while in high school to ensure they stay on the road to college. Kipp still have some of it's original teachers but have had 3 principals since I've been a Kipp parent. They have lost some quality benefits like Saturday school, NAL, extended school days ( though they are in school longer than other city schools.).they now have the whole school building to the Kipp family now housing their elementary school Kipp harmony. Mr Nornhold is an excellent math teacher he prepared my son for algebra 2 in 9th grade. The former spanish Ms.McCrory prepared my son for spanish 2 in 9th grade. KIPP is great!
—Submitted by a parent

KIPP UVA offers a complete community based school environment. The teachers and staff are available whenever needed by both students and parents via school provide cell phones. They are committed to each student not only learning at grade level but their goal is for every student to excel. Each student learns that high school is only a stepping stone in what is expected of them. The teachers want student to know that college graduation is attainable and there is even a support program for students that encounter challenges while in high school to ensure that they complete the goal of going to college. The extended day program, after-school activities and homework leave no time for students to become distracted. I am very pleased with the education my son has received at KIPP UVA.
—Submitted by a parent

Kipp Ujima is not a bad school for its intent is to provide academic excellence for inner city students. Indeed, its test scores on standardized tests seem to vouch for a certain modicum of success. However, such success seems to have drowned out much needed criticism of certain aspects of the school. For instance all KIPP instructors are not operating at a professional level. For instance there is one teacher in particular who imposes penalties/punishments on the entire class for the actions of a few. This is indicative of poor classroom management and a desire not to confront those few who are the instigators of the disorder. These and many other criticisms of a more serious nature are not heeded by the principal. Some inner city parents are not overly concerned with certain lapses in KIPP+ because of the deplorable state of area zone schools.
—Submitted by a parent

LOVE IT!!! My son is a 5th Grader here and he has NEVER liked math, the way they go about teaching is so 'Outside the box' He was always an Honor Roll student but he has only been an 80% student in math. His NERY FIRST Math test @ KIPP he scored a 93% which means his math teacher did in 1 month what his former scholl failed to do in 4 years. I was given links to web pages to assist with studying for his test (fun activities) which we used and still do even when he has no test. My son is an A Math student in 1 month. That says something. I also LOVE Mr. Toler he is MARVELOUS, if you have a probem he has a resolution and he will follow through!!! I LOVE KIPP!!!
—Submitted by a parent

My son graduated from KIPP Ujima in 2007. This school is the best school in Baltimore City. The teachers and staff truly care about your child's education and will go to great lengths to ensure that your child is giving it all that he/she has. I love how the staff doesn't 'give up' on a student, no matter how hard it is. It's that kind of a positive environment that can turn an average child to a great student. My son is now a Junior at Calvert Hall College High School. I truly believe that it wouldn't been possible if it wasn't for KIPP. I love this school so much. I would love to see all city schools turned into KIPP schools. They would be 150% better than they are now.
—Submitted by a parent

I am a student at KUVA .I did not graduate yet and I am in the 7th grade.This is a great school and if you are reading this I think you should send your child here.We have some of the highest scores in the state of Maryland. I love this school. From A. Shipley
—Submitted by a student

I graduated from KIPP Ujima Village Academy in 2007. It was the best most preparing school in the city. I now attend City because of the extended hours and focus they give to every student
—Submitted by a student

I've been to many schools in Baltimore City and KIPP is the school that I highly reccomend. Wishing all schools could have teachers that carry cell phones for your child to contact if their having problems or concerns with school work. The teachers are always well prepared to give your child the attention he/she may need. Discipline, well where ever you go in life you must have rules and if your child have a problem with following rules this school may not be for him/her. There's many things that my child have learned while attending KIPP. She's learned respect, being a role model, the importance of team and family. Although these qualities are implemented at home. Kipp has shown and given her the confidents needed to be successful while climbing the mountain top to college. To stay focus, try and do your best is always a criteria for success. Leesa Townes
—Submitted by a parent

KIPP may have been a wonderful school in the beginning, but it isn't anymore. They are out of compliance with special ed., they can't keep any good teachers, and the new principal isn't doing a good job at keeping Mr. Botel's dream alive. I wouldn't recommend any of my loved ones to attend school there or work there.
—Submitted by a teacher

Mr. Botel please start a High School. Baltimore city can use more schools like this. Any parent in Baltimore city looking for a great middle school look no further.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter started at KIPP in 2005. I can't say enough good things about the staff and children at KIPP. She's motivated, confident and has a whole new set of principles related to her work ethic and school performance. The extracurricular programs and hands on experiences excite my child and are of private school caliber. KIPP is definitely top notch.
—Submitted by Tracey Drummond, a parent