KIPP New Orleans Schools Unite Families for a Night of Connection and Community

New Orleans, LA — On a warm Wednesday evening, KIPP New Orleans Schools opened their doors to families across campuses for the annual Family Night. The event wasn’t just an opportunity for parents to visit classrooms; it was a celebration of the strong, supportive community that KIPP has built across the city.

Each of the campuses, serving students from pre-K through 12th grade, hosted a variety of activities designed to bring families closer to the schools and each other. From classroom tours to meet-and-greets with teachers, the night offered a chance for parents, students, and staff to come together outside the regular school day.

Family Night Family Nights  Family Night

At KIPP Morial, students with perfect attendance were honored in a VIP section, underscoring the school’s commitment to recognizing hard work and dedication. Over at KIPP Central Primary, students signed up for new clubs and activities, excited to explore interests beyond academics.

The sense of community was further strengthened by the presence of key partners. Big Brother/Big Sister representatives were there to offer guidance and resources to families, while members of the AKA sororities assisted with voter registration, making it easier for parents to take part in the upcoming elections. These efforts demonstrated that KIPP’s commitment to its students extends beyond the classroom and into the broader community.

family night  family night  family night

For ninth-grader Gerrard Johnson from Frederick A. Douglass High School, the evening was a reminder of what makes KIPP special. “It’s not just about schoolwork here,” Johnson reflected. “It’s about connecting with the people who care about us. Tonight, I saw that everywhere I went.”  

Sixth-grader Corey Jones from KIPP Central Academy was enthusiastic about the evening. “I loved seeing my teachers outside of the classroom and having fun with my friends and family. I’m also excited for my dad to learn about how well I’m doing in school. I’m hitting all my goals academically, and I’ve got good behavior too.”
 
Corey’s father, Corey Jones Sr., couldn’t hide his pride. “His mom is going to be so proud. I’m thrilled that KIPP is preparing him so well for the future. He’s going to continue at a KIPP high school and follow in my footsteps as a Cougar at John F. Kennedy High School.”
 
family night  
   
As families like the Joneses reflected on their children’s growth and accomplishments, the atmosphere was filled with a deep sense of shared purpose. It was clear that the bonds between students, families, and educators were stronger than ever—a testament to the community KIPP strives to build every day.
 
family night        family night
Principal Shimon Ancker Pierce of Booker T. Washington High School captured this sentiment, saying, “Tonight, we showed that KIPP is more than just a place to learn—it’s a community. We want our families to know that they are a vital part of our students’ success, and we’re here to support them every step of the way.”