Transfer Rates Similar for KIPP, Local Schools

Contrary to some recent research, a new study finds that the percentage of students transferring late into KIPP schools is similar to that of other local public schools.

The study , released this month by the Princeton, N.J.-based Mathematica Policy Research, raises questions about recent findings indicating that KIPP schools are losing high numbers of students and not filling their empty seats—factors that might help explain the KIPP charter school network’s academic success.

“To be sure, KIPP’s success is not simply a mirage that is based on the results of a select number of high achievers who persist through 8th grade,” the researchers write in...