KIPP Academy of Opportunity (KAO) is a high-performing tuition-free public charter middle school located in South Los Angeles. We serve approximately 360 students in grades five through eight. KAO enables students to become self-motivated, competent, life-long learners. Our students recognize that an outstanding education is key to achieving personal success and leading a life of infinite opportunity. KAO is part of the national KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) network. KIPP schools are dedicated to preparing students in underserved communities for success in college and in life. Nationally, more than 80 percent of KIPP alumni have gone on to college. KAO is operated by KIPP LA Schools, a non-profit charter school management organization.

KAO's mission is to ensure that educationally under-served students develop the academic skills, character, and intellectual habits necessary to succeed in top-quality high schools, competitive colleges, and the world beyond.

KAO serves 360 students in grades five through eight. Ninety-one percent of KAO students are African-American; nine percent are Hispanic/Latino. Eighty percent qualify for the free or reduced lunch program.

OUR PROGRAM: KIPP'S FIVE PILLARS

High Expectations. Students, parents, teachers, and staff create a culture of achievement and support, an environment in which students are prepared for the rigors of high school and college.

Choice & Commitment. Everyone at KIPP makes a commitment to his or her school and to one another to put in the time and effort required to achieve success.

More Time. With an extended school day, week, and year, students spend more time in school learning and have more opportunities to engage in diverse extracurricular experiences.

Power To Lead. The principals of KIPP schools are effective academic and organizational leaders. They are free to innovate, make staffing changes, and swiftly move dollars, allowing them maximum effectiveness in helping students learn.

Focus On Results. KIPP schools relentlessly focus on high student performance on standardized tests and other objective measures, as well as emphasize continuous improvement in teaching and learning.

In 2008-09, KAO outperformed 80 percent of Los Angeles Unified School District middle schools, as measured by California's Academic Performance Index. KAO also outperformed all neighboring traditional public middle schools.