Seniors and families drove through the parking lot as faculty and staff cheer. There were drive-through stations where students picked up their caps and gowns, sweet treats, and graduation yard signs.

With school building closures for the remainder of the school year, KIPP Texas-Houston seniors missed the final milestones of their high school careers - Commitment Day, senior trips, prom, and graduation itself. The COVID-19 pandemic forced schools across the country to cancel traditional year-end rites of passage for the Class of 2020.

KIPP Northeast College Preparatory celebrated the success of its seniors with a car parade at 2:30 p.m., Friday, May 22. “We want to be able to provide a meaningful way for our seniors to be recognized for all their hard work – but to do so in a way that is mindful of everyone’s health and safety,” said Kristen Pappas, interim principal at KIPP Northeast College Preparatory. While not quite the same, this event will give students some semblance of closure and togetherness that commencement provides.

KIPP Northeast College Prep is graduating 100% of its senior class; in addition, all have been accepted into college - for the fourth consecutive year. The Class of 2020 has been offered $15.2 million dollars in scholarships.