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August 14, 2025KIPP Prepares for 20th Year in Capital Region
KIPP Capital Region Public Schools staff gathered at the Albany Capital Center on Wednesday, August 12 for their annual welcome back event. Throughout the course of the day-long event, regional staff and staff from throughout the seven schools located in Albany and Troy focused on professional development for the upcoming school year and celebrated the start of the 20th year of KIPP in the Capital Region.
“From reviewing resources to brushing up on best practices instilled region-wide to support KIPP Capital Region’s mission, our annual welcome back event sets the stage for the year ahead, and this year is a particularly special one. We are not only celebrating the 20th year of KIPP in the Capital Region, but also the long-awaited opening of KIPP Capital High School,” said Stephanie Valle, KIPP Capital Region CEO. “The 2025-2026 school year is looking bright for the KIPP Capital Region community and our school leaders, faculty and staff are ready for it!”
The day featured a special guest Dr. Mahalia Hines – educator, speaker, author, and co-founder of the Common Ground Foundation. Dr. Hines is also the proud mother of award-winning artist Common.
During her presentation and fireside chat, Dr. Hines shared her story and experience with new and tenured teachers at KIPP Capital Region as they prepared for the year ahead. For new educators she pointed to the power that they will have, not only in the classroom, but as role models who can change the trajectory of the lives of their students. She also encouraged teachers, new and returning, that when they thrive their students will thrive and to lean on one another to navigate difficult situations.
If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about the opportunities in teaching in the education field at KIPP Capital Region Public School, visit: https://www.kippcapital.org/join-our-team/.
