Courtesy of: National Alliance for Public Charter Schools
Don Shalvey emphasized the importance of high-performing schools with no difference in quality between the best and worst schools. He initiated the first charter school to inspire public schools. Elise Darwish highlighted Aspire’s growth and sustained high quality. Tara Veesart Soto and Jenny Kim praised Don’s dedication and motivational leadership. Dave Levin and Mike Feinberg shared their transformative teaching experiences, crediting Harriet Vaughn’s influence. They founded KIPP, which expanded to 66 schools serving 17,000 students across 19 states, aiming to graduate 75% of alumni from college, emphasizing the importance of great principals and teachers.
Transcript
Outline
Don Shalvey’s Vision for High-Performing Schools
- Don Shalvey emphasizes the importance of having a system where the difference between the highest and lowest performing schools is zero.
- He shares his experience as a superintendent, where he initiated the creation of charter school number one to inspire public schools.
- The goal was to create a scalable organization that could significantly serve more students and maintain high quality.
- Shalvey highlights the success in growing schools, improving test scores, culture, parent satisfaction, teacher retention, and teacher satisfaction.
Tara Veesart Soto and Jenny Kim’s Tributes to Don Shalvey
- Tara Veesart Soto praises Don Shalvey’s background as a former teacher, which influences his expectations and approach.
- Jenny Kim admires Shalvey’s commitment to his beliefs and his ability to listen and consider others’ perspectives.
- Tara Veesart Soto notes that Shalvey’s motivational speeches are particularly effective because they are deeply understood by those he addresses.
- Jenny Kim adds that Shalvey takes a personal interest in the lives of students, teachers, and staff, demonstrating his genuine care.
Dave Levin and Mike Feinberg’s Early Teaching Experiences
- Dave Levin and Mike Feinberg reflect on their early teaching days, emphasizing the importance of character and academics for success.
- Mike Feinberg recounts his first day of teaching, where he quickly realized the challenges of maintaining control of the classroom.
- Dave Levin shares his experience of seeking mentorship from Harriet Vaughn, who became a significant influence on his teaching approach.
- Harriet Vaughn’s effective teaching methods and dedication to reaching every student are highlighted as inspirational.
The Founding of KIPP and Its Initial Success
- Dave Levin and Mike Feinberg discuss the early days of KIPP, where they focused on creating a supportive and engaging learning environment.
- They describe the involvement of Harriet Vaughn in teaching them effective teaching methods and the use of chants and science experiments.
- The importance of committing to promises and providing stability for students is emphasized.
- Dave Levin recounts the success of the KIPP schools in Houston and the Bronx, which became among the highest performing public schools in their cities.
Expansion and Growth of KIPP Schools
- In 1999, Dave Levin and Mike Feinberg met Don and Doris Fisher, who were interested in replicating the KIPP model.
- Don Fisher asked Levin and Feinberg if they could replicate KIPP, and they agreed to spend Fisher’s money to find out.
- Dave Levin provides an update on the current state of KIPP, noting that there are 66 KIPP schools serving about 17,000 students across 19 states.
- The goal is to expand to 100 schools, with a track record of graduating 75% of their alumni from college.
The Role of Great Teachers and Principals in KIPP’s Success
- Mike Feinberg credits Don and Doris Fisher for their belief, vision, and push in turning KIPP from two schools into a network of high-performing schools.
- Dave Levin emphasizes the importance of having great principals and remarkable teachers in making KIPP successful.
- The success of KIPP is attributed to the collaboration between students, parents, teachers, and principals.
- The focus on creating a supportive and engaging learning environment, combined with high expectations, is highlighted as key to KIPP’s success.
