This past week I was
privileged to spend the week in Las Vegas with my KIPP Destiny family for the
2013 KIPP School Summit. While many joke that I have been to Vegas a time or
two, this was definitely a trip I will remember forever.
We had the opportunity to
attend several amazing sessions with keynote speakers that are prominent
researchers and leaders throughout the nation. In addition they spoiled us with
rooftop happy hours at the Cosmopolitan, by renting out the Marquee nightclub
and hosting a glamorous gala with a Grammy award winning pop star. However, one
of my absolute favorite moments was meeting Mike Feinberg and Dave Levin, the
two founders of KIPP. I’ll admit I was very intimidated after Mike told me that
he would definitely pay us a visit to come and observe. No pressure, only the
founder of KIPP. After reading about the history and foundation of KIPP, it was
almost a dream to see them call out each of the regions for the epic “roll
call” aka chant off. I have to say our KIPP Destiny chant to Destiny’s Child
“Say My Name” and “Blurred Lines” was probably the best one yet…
I feel so incredibly
blessed to be working for KIPP, an organization that is immersed in values
based culture and continuous growth. Not only do they emphasize our role in implementing
change but they also place a high importance on self-assurance and work life
balance, which was apparent after they decided to host a conference in Las
Vegas.
The Gala and Opening
Ceremony were some of the most inspiring events that I have attended in my
life. We were able to hear KIPP students of all ages (from third grade to
college graduate) speak about their experience at KIPP and how it has
transformed their lives. They also brought in KIPP performing groups for the
entertainment, and wow, some of the most amazing performers I’ve ever seen.
From choir groups to hip hop dance teams to drum line; those kipsters were
absolutely incredible, it had me in tears. At the gala we had the honor of
meeting some of the Dallas KIPP Board members and donors, which really had me
emotional. Knowing that someone other than an educator invested their time and
savings into believing that we can make the difference melted my heart. I will
never forget shaking our board member's hand as he said “Thank you. I am so
excited for KIPP Destiny and what y’all are doing over there.”
So I will leave you with
our closing Gala video:
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