CHARACTER
Along with academics, KIPP NYC fosters character strengths that are essential to our students’ long-term success and well-being.
AT THE HEART OF WORKING HARD AND BEING NICE…
IS CHARACTER
A focus on character has been the cornerstone of KIPP since we began more than 20 years ago. To succeed in college and the world beyond, KIPPsters need both a strong academic foundation and well-developed character strengths. They’re deeply interconnected and we never compromise one for the other.
7 KEY CHARACTER STRENGTHS
KIPP’s character work focuses on the seven strengths that are critical for an engaged, happy, and successful life. Our character framework was developed by educators at KIPP NYC in collaboration with Dr. Angela Duckworth, Dr. Martin Seligman, and the late Dr. Chris Peterson, and in partnership with Riverdale Country School.
CURIOSITY
Students are active in their learning and show an eagerness to explore new things and ask questions that help them deepen their understanding.
GRATITUDE
Students recognize what others did for them and express appreciation by saying thank you or do something nice for someone else as a way of thanking them.
GRIT
Students finish what they start, completing tasks despite obstacles. They show a combination of persistence and resilience. They focus and try hard even after experiencing failure.
OPTIMISM
Students expect the best in the future and work to achieve it. They get over frustrations and setbacks quickly and believe that effort will improve their future.
SELF CONTROL
Students regulate what they feel and do and are self-disciplined. They come to class prepared, pay attention and resist distractions and procrastination.
SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE
Students are aware of the motives and feelings of themselves and others. They find solutions to conflicts and demonstrate respect and inclusiveness in interpersonal and group situations.
ZEST
Students approach life and their classwork with excitement and energy. They feel alive and activated. They actively participate, show enthusiasm, and invigorate others.
RESOURCES
Check out the resource library on character education and more at the KIPP Foundation’s website.