KIPP's Entry Into Pre-K World Takes Some Adjustment

A Model Built on Rigor, Structure Adapting to the Schooling Needs of a Younger Group of Students

Los Angeles

A growing network of academically oriented charter schools that has made its mark by serving disadvantaged middle school students is working to adapt its rigorous approach to fit its newest clientele: 4- and 5-year-olds.

As the closely watched Knowledge Is Power Program expands into the early-childhood arena, its leaders are aiming to build schools that are sensitive to the learning needs of young children, without deviating from KIPP’s mission to develop capable, college-bound students.

“We’re trying to strike a balance between having high expectations and the developmentally appropriate environment,” said Amber Young, the principal of KIPP Raices Academy, the organization’s first elementary...