Pros
There are lots of places to be a teacher, but I stay with KIPP DC because the organization really listens to teachers and staff in schools and provides a TON of resources. Anything I need gets ordered and delivered right away, when I want to do something cool with kids (field trips, tech, celebrations, etc) they are always supportive and helpful. There are lots of opportunities for growth - with so many schools KIPP is a great place to get experience with leadership while still teaching, and there's a transparent VP application process if you want to move out of the classroom. The KIPP day is LONG but the KIPP calendar is terrific - the long breaks are really great, 2 weeks at Christmas, a full week at Thanksgiving, a lot of extra 3 and 4 day weekends when you need them most, and an earlier end in June than most local districts. Starting earlier in August and ending earlier in June is great (no one really learns anything in June anyway).
Cons
If you're not a self-starter and someone who takes initiative, you may not be successful at KIPP - they don't do a lot of micromanagement (which I love!) but they definitely expect you to deliver results for kids. There isn't a formal teacher evaluation process, and how much coaching and support you get really depends on your manager and your school. If you're someone who cuts corners or slacks off or requires a lot micromanagement to do your job you probably won't be happy at KIPP. Teacher pay is REALLY great, but leader pay is not. Many VPs and Deans are paid less at KIPP than at other charter and district schools. But I appreciate the transparent teacher and leader salary scales and that they put SO much money into teacher salaries. I make more teaching than I would if I left the classroom for a dean or VP role.