Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Watch Out Jacksonville – KIPP Is Coming | The Jacksonville Observer

Watch Out Jacksonville – KIPP Is Coming | The Jacksonville Observer


Watch Out Jacksonville – KIPP Is Coming

In September of 2010, a new school will open in Jacksonville. That is too poorly stated. In September an educational system titled KIPP is going to affect a region of Jacksonville, Florida, in such a way that its students
will have a life changing experience and a real opportunity to attend college. In fact, KIPP could RIP the fabric of public education in Jacksonville in half.
I was fortunate enough to hear the story directly from Tom Madjanics, the stellar executive director of KIPP this last week. Stellar because of his outstanding resume and his superb delivery – spoken like a professional speaker.
KIPP stands for Knowledge Is Power Program. It is currently in 82 cities and even “Oprah” has recognized its high achievements. Yes, Oprah has put her stamp of approval on the program. Now over the years I’ve heard educator after educator expound the qualities of new ideas and ways to educate the masses but this is the first “real” idea that may have traction.
Jacksonville is under attack, in fact, the entire country is under attack. This is what we were told