KIPP DIAMOND Academy Year Three (2004-2005) Evaluation Report

The purpose of the present evaluation study was to examine the progress made in program implementation, school climate, and student achievement by the KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) DIAMOND (Daring Individual Achievers Making Outstanding New Dreams) Academy (KIPP:DA) housed in Cypress Junior High School in Memphis, Tennessee. The school began operation during the 2002-2003 academic year. This report provides longitudinal findings from all three academic years in which the KIPP:DA has operated. The impact on student achievement will be addressed in a supplementary report following receipt of student-level achievement data. The following questions guided the evaluation methodology: (1) What are the immediate and long-term impacts of KIPP on student achievement? (2) What is the school climate at KIPP? (3) What is the frequency of usage of various traditional and alternative (student-centered) instructional strategies? (4) To what degree and level of quality are the goals and strategies of KIPP being implemented? (5) What are teacher reactions to and experiences in KIPP? and (6) What are parent (caregiver) reactions to and experiences with KIPP? Appended are: (1) SOM (School Observation Measure) National Norms for Secondary Schools; and (2) KIPP DIAMOND Academy Parent Questionnaire Comments. (Contains 5 tables.)