As we move into the new school year, stories of students like fifth grader Brooklyn Smith remind us why the work we do in KIPP North Carolina Schools is so important to the entire community. Brooklyn, who arrived at KIPP Academy Charlotte (KAC) after spending her elementary school years at KIPP Change Academy (KCA), represents the power of a nurturing school community—a strong village.
Brooklyn’s time at KCA was full of self-discovery and growth. Teachers and leaders instilled in her lessons that prepared her for life beyond the classroom: How to stay focused, how to stay organized, and, most importantly, how to never give up. Dance became a creative outlet where she could move freely and confidently, while Girls on the Run gave her the chance to develop discipline and resilience. Through these activities, Brooklyn learned that she could achieve anything she set her mind to, reinforcing the lessons she learned at KCA. Those lessons continue to give Brooklyn the confidence to express herself authentically and to rise as a leader among her peers.
Because Brooklyn embodies all of the best things about being a KIPPster, she was selected by the KIPP Foundation to be a featured student speaker during the 2024 KIPP School Summit in July in Orlando, Fla. Brooklyn was selected to represent the future of KIPP, and in her talk she opened up about her journey, sharing how support from her family, KIPP Charlotte community, has got her to the stage. Her story continues to be a reminder of what is possible when students receive the support they need to succeed.
As students settle into a new school year, Brooklyn’s story is the inspiration that fuels our dedication as a community. She and countless other scholars like her are the reason we do this work. Their success isn’t just our goal; it’s our greatest accomplishment.
