At KIPP NYC We Believe

Beliefs and Mission
Character
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Character

Since KIPP’s beginning in 1994, we have believed that in the long run the strength of one’s character is as important as academic skills. In 2005, we met Martin Seligman from the University of Pennsylvania and Chris Peterson from the University of Michigan. Over the course of their careers, they researched the character strengths that across geography, race, gender, time, and many other factors have helped people have fulfilled, meaningful, and engaged lives. Their work made sense to us and fit with what we had always believed and sought to develop.

Character Strengths (Based on research of Martin Seligman and Chris Peterson)

Virtue: Wisdom and Knowledge
  • Creativity
  • Curiosity
  • Open-mindedness
  • Love of Learning
  • Perspective
Virtue: Courage
  • Bravery
  • Grit (Persistence and Resiliency)
  • Integrity
  • Zest (Energy and Enthusiasm)
Virtue: Humanity
  • Love
  • Kindness
  • Social Intelligence
Virtue: Justice
  • Citizenship
  • Fairness
  • Leadership
Virtue: Temperance
  • Forgiveness and Mercy
  • Humility/Modesty
  • Prudence/Discretion
  • Self-control
Virtue: Transcendence
  • Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence
  • Gratitude
  • Hope (Optimism)
  • Humor
  • Spirituality