KIPP Texas Reports Significant Rise in Homeless Students and Targets Improvement Plans

In a recent meeting of the KTX State Board of Directors, KIPP Texas Public Schools addressed critical issues surrounding student performance and intervention strategies as outlined in the Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPER). This annual report, mandated by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), provides essential insights into student demographics, academic performance, and school programs, and is a key tool for public accountability.

One of the most pressing topics discussed was the significant increase in the number of homeless students enrolled in KIPP Texas schools, which has tripled from 467 in 2019 to 1,210 in 2024. This alarming trend has prompted the district to submit a strategic support plan to the TEA, focusing on providing targeted academic and emotional support for students qualifying under the McKinney-Vento Act, which assists homeless students. The board highlighted three priority areas for intervention: STAR Math, STAR Science, and STAR Social Studies, emphasizing the need for enhanced one-on-one academic support that has been lacking due to funding and personnel constraints.

Additionally, the board reviewed the performance of special education programs, which have been designated as needing intervention. Challenges in meeting state performance indicators and compliance requirements were acknowledged, with a focus on improving academic outcomes and reducing disciplinary removal rates for special education students. The board is implementing data-driven interventions and professional development for educators to address these issues.

The bilingual education program also came under scrutiny, as academic performance for emergent bilingual students fell below state standards. The board is committed to enhancing instructional strategies and monitoring teacher effectiveness to improve outcomes for these students.

Despite these challenges, KIPP Texas reported positive trends in attendance and graduation rates, outperforming state averages. Attendance increased by 0.8% from the previous year, and chronic absenteeism decreased by 4.3%. The district also noted a 29% increase in college, career, and military readiness among graduates, indicating that KIPP students are engaging more with advanced coursework compared to their peers statewide.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the Targeted Improvement Plans (TIP) for the 2024-2025 school year, which are essential for schools designated as needing comprehensive support. Nine out of ten KIPP schools that received federal designations for being in the bottom 5% of their comparative groups made necessary progress and are on track to exit this designation. However, Pleasant Grove Leadership Academy did not meet the required progress and will remain under federal designation for another year.

As KIPP Texas continues to navigate these challenges, the board's commitment to transparency and community engagement remains a priority, ensuring that stakeholders are informed and involved in the ongoing improvement efforts. The next steps will involve further monitoring of student performance and the implementation of strategic plans aimed at enhancing educational outcomes for all students, particularly those in vulnerable populations.