KIPP STAR College Prep Middle School

Grades Served

5-8

Principal

Carol Martinez

Address

625 West 133rd St New York, NY 10027, USA

Phone

(212) 991-2650

Email

starmiddle@kippnyc.org

Instagram

@kippstarmiddle

About KIPP STAR College Prep Middle School

KIPP STAR is a school where every child is known and nurtured. Rooted in Harlem’s rich culture and history, we provide a vibrant education that blends rigorous academics with inspiring arts and enrichment. Students build strong foundations in core subjects and explore creative “Specials” such as dance, visual arts, cyber civics, and P.E., developing a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom. Each day balances focused instruction with engaging electives and meaningful community connections, preparing students to succeed in college, career, and beyond. We also believe families are essential partners in this journey—our open-door policy and active Parent-Teacher Association invite parents to visit classrooms, volunteer, and help shape school life. Caring advisory programs, restorative practices, and strong family connections ensure that every child feels supported, heard, and fully prepared for the opportunities ahead.

Fun Fact

KIPP STAR goes beyond traditional schooling to spark curiosity and grow well-rounded leaders. Our after-school opportunities—from robotics and photography to cheerleading and financial literacy—help students uncover hidden talents, while our KIPP Eats Well program promotes health and wellness every day. We weave Harlem’s stories into lessons on civil rights, the arts, and current events, grounding students in a deep sense of community pride. And through strong family partnerships and our student-led Justice League for peer conflict resolution, we create a safe, collaborative environment where children learn to lead with confidence and compassion.

Discover KIPP STAR College Prep Middle School

Everything you need to know about our school culture, programs, and community. Click to explore each section!

School Culture

Our annual traditions include:

Details

Orientation in August before the first day of school
Back to School Night
Latinx Heritage Show in October
Family Potluck in November
Winter Ball for students in December
Black History Show in February
Fall Festival
Winter Festival

Values

We believe strong values create a foundation for academic success, personal growth, and meaningful community impact.  At STAR, we shine with joy and authenticity, unite as one, honor sacrifice through perseverance and justice, and lead with integrity. Empowering students to learn, grow, and shape a brighter future.

  • SHINE
  • One band. One sound.
  • Freedom is not free.
  • Be the change. Lead.
  • Specials

    Teacher-led, non-core classes that enrich the KIPP learning experience.

  • PE
  • Dance
  • Foreign Language
  • Visual Arts
  • Music
  • Extracurriculars

    Enrichment programs and clubs let students explore passions and develop leadership skills.

  • Chess
  • Crochet
  • Boys & Girls basketball
  • Flag Football
  • Event Planning
  • Hair Care
  • Culinary
  • Cheer
  • Soccer
  • Martial Arts (Mixed)
  • Justice League
  • Family Engagement

    Families play an active and vital role in our school community.

  • Families are welcome to visit, shadow classes, and join our PTA.  Parents can also participate in trips by volunteering to chaperone trips as needed.

  • Afterschool Program

    Our aftercare program is offered through DYCD and primarily serves grades 6–8 free of charge.

  • KIPP: STAR provides aftercare for grades 6–8.

     

  • Limited options are available for 5th graders, including:

     

  • Chess Club

     

  • Homework Academy

  • Boxing

  • Dance

  • Newspaper club

  • Cheer Team (6-8 only)

  • Your KIPP STAR College Prep Middle School Journey

    Follow your educational pathway from elementary through middle school to our premier college preparatory high school.

    Elementary School

    KIPP STAR Harlem College Prep Elementary School

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    Middle School

    You are here

    KIPP STAR College Prep Middle School

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    High School

    All Paths Lead Here

    KIPP NYC College Prep

    Ready to Start Your Journey?

    Join thousands of KIPP NYC alumni who have successfully navigated from elementary school to college graduation.

    Ready to Join KIPP STAR College Prep Middle School?

    Take the next step in your child’s educational journey. Apply now or schedule a tour to see our school community in action.

    Apply Today

    Start your application now! Our online application is simple, free, and takes just a few minutes to complete.

    Free to Apply • No Tuition • 
    Application Deadline April 1st

    Questions?

    Have questions about our school? Our enrollment team is here to help guide you through the process and answer any questions about our community, academics, and what makes us special.

    Typically respond 24-48 hours • Multilingual support available

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    Reflects 6 year BA grad rates for the CPHS Classes of 2013-2018 as compared to students from similar backgrounds as indicated in the The Pell Institute 2022 Equity Indicators Report

    College/CTE/Military Enrollment Rate reflects Classes of 2013-2024 CPHS graduates.

    High School Graduation Rate reflects the students who have graduated KIPP NYC College Prep High School from 2013 through 2025 amongst those who ever enrolled, have been eligible to be in high school for four complete years, and have remained enrolled (did not transfer to another high school) or graduated.

    College Counseling

    Start your teaching career with comprehensive training and mentorship. Perfect for recent graduates and career changers passionate about education.

    Regional Support

    Start your teaching career with comprehensive training and mentorship. Perfect for recent graduates and career changers passionate about education.

    Additional Support

    Start your teaching career with comprehensive training and mentorship. Perfect for recent graduates and career changers passionate about education.

    Leadership

    Start your teaching career with comprehensive training and mentorship. Perfect for recent graduates and career changers passionate about education.

    Associate Teacher Program

    Start your teaching career with comprehensive training and mentorship. Perfect for recent graduates and career changers passionate about education.

    Teaching Roles

    Start your teaching career with comprehensive training and mentorship. Perfect for recent graduates and career changers passionate about education.

    2,780 Alumni Supported*

    *represents our support of KIPP NYC Middle School Alumni that attend high schools other than KIPP NYC College Prep and KIPP NYC 8th grade completers that have graduated KIPP NYC College Prep or other high schools within the past six years.