Memphis-Shelby County Schools Approves Fourth KIPP School

Akia Green says all three of her children have thrived in KIPP Memphis’ public charter schools.

On Tuesday, she was among those speaking in favor of the charter operator’s request to add a fourth school in Shelby County. Green told members of the Memphis-Shelby County School Board that families in Cordova deserve to have the same opportunities her children received.

“My children and I have experienced the KIPP journey firsthand, and I can truly say it’s been transformative. I’ve watched my three children thrive in KIPP Memphis,” said Green. “The love, structure, and academic excellence we’ve received has supported my family’s growth in every way possible.”

According to its application, KIPP Cordova Collegiate Elementary would be centered around “rigorous academics” and a focus on performing arts. KIPP hopes to have at least 50 percent of students in third-grade and up meeting or exceeding state academic performance standards within three years, with students also participating in at least one dance, theatrical, or vocal performance each year.

The Memphis-Shelby County School Board denied the school’s application last April, but KIPP Memphis submitted an amended application for the board to consider this week.

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