While the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the upcoming school year is still unknown, one non-profit continues to advance plans to open a new school and increase its service to Miami-Dade’s children in underserved areas, whether it be virtually or in-person.
The nonprofit network called Knowledge is Power Program, is opening a new middle school, KIPP Courage Academy, this August.
But with the uncertainty among parents about the upcoming school year, schools across South Florida, including KIPP charter schools, are working with school districts to ensure reopening plans are safe and in line with CDC guidelines.
“Student and staff temperature checks and questionnaires. They should also expect potentially staggered arrivals and dismissal times so that we limit the number of people and reduce any sort of congregation,” said Monica Kress, Managing Director of Operations at KIPP Miami.
Monica says they’re working with Miami-Dade County Public Schools to give parents options.
Earlier this month, Miami-Dade Superintendent Alberto Carvalho said the district’s reopening plan is contingent on Florida making progress on reining in the spread of the virus. The county’s school district will be announcing the board’s decision next week.
KIPP Sunrise Academy third grade student, Thyler Herrera says he’s excited to go back to school.
“I miss everything about school including working as a group and teachers have always been there for questions that I cannot answer,” said Thyler.
“It has been challenging. It’s challenging to adapt because I’m still a working mom and I have to integrate my schedule with his,” said Jessica Rodriguez, Thyler’s mother.
Jessica says it’s been a challenge to work and keep up with her son’s studies, but plans to use KIPP’s hybrid model in August.
“Depending on what the outcomes and what health conditions allow for us to do, we want to be able to work with our families to find the best situation for their student,” said Monica.
KIPP has two other school locations in South Florida. KIPP Sunrise, serving grades K through three and KIPP Liberty, serving grades sixth through seventh.
Monica says they’re still accepting applications for this school year. If you’re interested in learning more, click here.
