A Bitter Sweet Grind - Elementary Lead Teacher KIPP Schools Employee Review

The work-life balance when working for KIPP is strained because of school hours and workload expectations. The typical school day for KIPP teachers is 710-430 (student arrival and dismissal duty time included). I've worked for public and public charter and public charter is much more strenuous. Like all schools, each is run by a different principal whose leadership style will vary. Therefore, working for one KIPP school will be different from working for another. No matter what, the grind is the same. In my opinion, the district is favorable for educators who don't have families and can commit their evenings and weekends to fulfilling assignments and meeting deadlines. Although not stated, the understood culture is to drive student achievement at the expense of your personal life. The benefits package is like most other teaching positions with 10 paid sick/personal days off per year. Something to mention is the district doesn't offer paid maternity so if you're thinking about expanding your family, maternity leave is available but it is unpaid. All things considered, KIPP has enriched my life because its team values transcend the workplace and penetrate your most meaningful relationships. The grind will stretch you as a person as well. There's the bitter and the sweet when working for KIPP.