How You Can Help The Capital Region’s Under-Served Students

KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) is a national network of 242 free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory public schools in 20 states and Washington, DC, that prepares underserved students for success in college and in life. Nationally, 80 percent of KIPP alumni have matriculated to college, as compared to a national average for low income students of 8 percent.

In August of 2005, KIPP: TECH VALLEY opened its doors with the promise that hard work would lead to academic success and the road to college for underserved children in Albany. KIPP TECH VALLEY Charter School continues to be a tuition-free, open-enrollment public school that is committed to ensuring that ALL students graduate with the knowledge, skills and character habits necessary to succeed in high school, college and beyond. Admission is open to all students and there are no admission requirements for attending. The school opened in August of 2005 initially serving 90 students in 5th grade. Currently, KIPP TECH VALLEY provides education to approximately 800 students in grades K-8.

The Sunmark Charitable Community Foundation supports KIPP's mission and has started a school supply drive to re-stock the shelves at the KIPP Tech Valley Charter School so the learning can continue!

From January 6-31, Sunmark employees and the public will be asked to donate needed school supplies items. Supplies can be dropped off at any Sunmark branch to help support the students at KIPP: Tech Valley. It’s the innovative charter school that is making a difference for the Capital Region’s underserved students, and your material donations will help these students achieve their academic and life goals.