TITLE: Celebrating February 8, 2011, as KIPP Day at the State Capitol.

SUMMARY: Celebrating February 8, 2011, as KIPP Day at the State Capitol.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the Knowledge Is Power Program, also known as KIPP, and to welcome its supporters to Austin for KIPP Family Day at the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, The Knowledge Is Power Program began in 1994 when Teach for America veterans Mike Feinberg and Dave Levin initiated a fifth grade public school program in inner-city Houston; the program flourished and expanded as Mr. Levin returned to his native New York City to establish an academy while Mr. Feinberg remained to lead an academy middle school in Houston; these two original academies have served as a foundation for a growing system of schools that aid disadvantaged communities; and WHEREAS, Today, the Knowledge Is Power Program is a national network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory public schools with a track record of preparing its students for success in college and beyond; there are currently 99 schools in 20 states and the District of Columbia serving more than 27,000 students; and WHEREAS, The schools build a partnership between parents, students, and teachers that emphasizes learning first, more time spent on in-school learning, and a strong culture of achievement; and WHEREAS, This exemplary program is truly deserving of recognition for its exceptional record and its success in redefining what is possible in public schools; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby commend the Knowledge Is Power Program for its many outstanding contributions to education and call on Texans to celebrate February 8, 2011, as KIPP Day at the State Capitol; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of this special occasion. Shapiro President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 8, 2011.