Vision

To provide a well equipped, informed and productive STEM atmosphere for the success of our large venture into World Class education for all at KIPP.

Mission

To have KIPP students enter college informed, imaginative and skilled while growing into STEM literate citizens in a 21st century world.

Program

KIPP Houston is in a unique position to grow through promoting science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. We reside in one of the leading states for funding of STEM education, and have local opportunities with none other than NASA, Rice University and Progressive Forum. Our neighbors include the nation's largest medical center and leading petroleum companies. KIPP STEM is a comprehensive program designed to enhance and support KIPP schools. Through a variety of special projects, the program reinforces 7 important components of operation:

• Leadership
• STEM Culture
• Student Outreach
• Teacher Support
• Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment
• Business and Academic Partnerships
• KIPP Advancement

History

Originally funded as a Texas High School Project (THSP) T-STEM initiative, STEM at KIPP was implemented as a pilot for the high school and middle school on KIPP Houston's flagship campus in 2007. This support has helped improve awareness, collaboration and infrastructure for STEM fields. One year later it expanded to include each of the three middle schools that fed into KIPP Houston's solitary high school. In 2010-11 the STEM program is planning to grow along with KIPP Houston to include 18 schools in all 8 area KIPP campuses.

Results

KIPP STEM has helped raise over $2 million in 3 years to enhance these fields. It has initiated projects, mentoring and events. It has provided resources and training to students, teachers and leaders. Students and teachers alike have won STEM awards. Currently, the STEM projects it has brought over 20 partners to KIPP including the newest with Dr. Conley (author of College Readiness) and his Educational Policy Improvement Center, better known as EPIC.