More
Close 
This the last installment in our series of back-to-school blog posts. During the last two weeks, we have explored KIPP Texas’ Operations, Culture, and Academics.
It’s hard to believe that the first day of school is almost here, and we absolutely cannot wait to see you on Monday, August 16! Today, let’s review some of our most important back-to-school announcements.
Beginning-of-Year Website
If you’re looking for all of the back-to-school information in one place, we’ve got you covered! We launched our 2021 beginning-of-year website this week, and it’s your one-stop-shop for everything you need to know.
Academic Calendars
Want to plan a family trip, but can’t remember when your KIPPster has a three-day weekend? The 2021-2022 KIPP Texas academic calendars can always be found on our website.
Health and Safety:
The safety of our Little and Big KIPPsters remains a top priority for KIPP Texas Public Schools. To see all of KIPP Texas’ health and safety-related information for the 2021-22 school year, please click here.
#MaskUpForKIPPsters | Opt-In Program
We firmly believe that a safe, masked, in-person learning environment is what’s best for our KIPPsters. And, we know the number of students in our classrooms will increase significantly compared to last year. KIPP Texas strongly recommends the use of a face mask on our campuses and facilities while around other KIPPsters so much that we’re asking our families and staff to actively stamp their commitment by opting in to wear a mask.
Please join me in a commitment to wear a mask by submitting a Mask Opt-In form. Securing opt-ins will allow our teachers and leaders to remind our staff and students about proper mask wearing to keep our classrooms safer. Our goal is to get 100% of our Team & Family commit to keep ourselves and each other safe by wearing masks while inside our buildings.
Please consider getting the word out about our #MaskUpForKIPPsters campaign and having Little and Big KIPPsters commit to wearing a mask in KIPP buildings by sharing a picture of you wearing a mask that covers your face and mouth on social media, using #MaskUpForKIPPsters or the graphic below.
Immunizations
State law requires that all children attending school are immunized against various diseases. The COVID-19 vaccine is NOT required at this time to enroll in school. During registration, a copy of the student’s shot record is required. The nurse will evaluate the currency of the student’s shots and notify the parent/guardian of any other required immunizations. KIPP Texas is required to abide by the no shots-no school requirements. These requirements can be waived only if a properly signed exemption affidavit is signed and submitted to the school. The list of required vaccines can be found on the Texas School & Child-Care Facility webpage.
Limited Virtual Learning Option:
Pending approval from our Board of Directors, KIPP Texas will offer a limited virtual learning option for medically fragile students in grades K-6 and students who are quarantined across Pre-K through 12, after the start of school. KIPP Texas is forming a task force who will craft the program, create an application for families, and share details in the coming weeks. While we do not have additional details at this time, we do know that teachers who are teaching in-person will not be also teaching virtual learning students.
Transportation
Bus Tracking App
This year, KIPP Texas families who utilize our transportation services can register for an app that provides real-time tracking, estimated time of arrival, and schedule changes for our bus routes. Simply register through the FirstView app, which can be accessed from any smartphone or desktop.
Bus Health and Safety Protocols
Because we anticipate nearly full buses this year, there will not be social distancing on the bus. We highly recommend that all bus riders use a mask and hand sanitizer. We will provide masks for any student who requests one.
Bus Route Information
Specific information regarding your child’s bus schedule, pickup locations, and routes will be provided by your KIPPster’s school.
Student Technology
We are committed to bridging the digital divide by providing KIPPsters with the tools and technology to enhance learning. As you put together your to-do lists for the first day of school, would you please check if you are still in possession of a KIPP Chromebook? We will continue collecting any KIPP devices that were not returned at the end of last school year so we can refresh, inventory, clean, inspect, and distribute to our KIPPsters this fall. If you find that you still have a KIPP Chromebook, please send it with your child on the first day of school.
Child Nutrition
Healthy habits start here! We are pleased to offer all KIPP Texas students free breakfast and free lunch for the entire 2021-2022 school year.
Handbook
Please review the 2021-2022 school year KIPP Texas Public Schools Student and Family Handbook. Inside you will find information regarding student code of conduct, student/parent rights and responsibilities, school policies, and much more.
Uniform Details
We want our KIPPsters to feel and look their best! It is KIPP’s policy that all students wear the appropriate uniform based on their school’s requirements.
Communications Updates
Your KIPPster’s school will reach out to the email or phone number you have provided with specific information about the upcoming school year.
- Please contact your school if you need to update your email or phone number so that we can ensure you receive all family communications.
- KIPP Texas utilizes SchoolMessenger, a statewide communications system to send text messages with important information about events, school closings, safety alerts and more. Please sign up for this free service (standard message and data rates may apply) by texting “Y” or “Yes” to 67587. You can also opt out of these messages at any time by simply replying “Stop” to one of our messages. You can read more details here.
- Don’t forget to follow KIPP Texas on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Contacting your School
We know that sometimes it’s reassuring to speak with someone to get your questions answered, and we’re here to help! Click on your region’s link to find your school’s contact information.
Printables
There is nothing cuter than seeing photos of our joyous, Little KIPPsters on their first day of school! To make these photo ops even more special, we have provided some fun, print out signs for our Little KIPPsters to use. Here are the steps to follow:
- Select it! Select one of the three options below.
- Print it! Print and fill out your selection.
- Share it! Post it on social media and tag us @KIPPTexas on Facebook or Instagram!
Printable 1
Printable 2
Printable 3
If you have any questions, please reach out to your school, or email us at info@kipptexas.org. We absolutely can’t wait to see you and your KIPPster soon!
