National Blue Ribbon Schools Program

In 2004, responding to the strong need for a local, college-preparatory, public high school, KIPP opened KIPP Houston High School (KHHS), its first high school in the nation. There are now 20 KIPP high schools, and KHHS is 1 of 22 schools in the family of KIPP Houston Public Schools. Our students identify as 83% Latino, 15% African-American, and 2% Asian. Over 85% are eligible for free or reduced-price meals.

KHHS’s collaborative teaching and learning culture is supported by seven core values: hunger for improving every day; relevance; rigorous academic studies; supportive relationships among students, parents, and teachers; strength of mind, body, and spirit; honor both inside and outside the classroom; and sincere humility in all personal and professional interactions.

KHHS offers a dynamic college-preparatory education and support system that encourages student achievement, maturation, and independence. Most classes have less than 25 students, and team and discussion-based learning methods are the norm. All KHHS teachers utilize technology to enhance lessons.

KHHS also has a vibrant, eclectic extra-curricular life. Students experience field lessons throughout the school year and enrichment opportunities during their Summer of Learning, requiring all 9-11th graders to spend 100 hours interning, traveling, volunteering, studying, or doing a combination of these activities. Student-athletes play a variety of sports. Music, art, and theater programs connect our students to their creative selves. There are over 30 additional student activities, including school-wide spirit teams. Lastly, spirit teams include staff and students across grade levels and convene for school-wide competitions and community-building activities.