Cultivating Confident, Creative, Compassionate Leaders
KairosPDX is reshaping the system that has failed our increasingly diverse youth. Our approach to dismantling structural racism includes policy advocacy, professional development services, and hands-on learning through our flagship community school and family engagement programs. In addition to academic performance, we prioritize cultural, social, and emotional growth, preparing our children for compassionate leadership.
KairosLOVE
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KairosLOVE ~
About KairosPDX
Founded by a diverse group of leaders who understand the pivotal role that education plays as a gateway to opportunity, KairosPDX was birthed in 2012. We know that many came before us, and fought for the right for all kids to learn, to receive a quality education in schools that see their brilliance.
We are faced with a reality that there still exists two worlds, split on socioeconomic and racial lines. We are faced with a persistent achievement gap that perpetuates inequity and the denial of opportunity that so many fought and died for.
We believe we can do better, and that we can provide a model that narrows that gap and develops young people who know they can change the world for good.
Our Mission
To eliminate the prolific racial achievement and opportunity gaps by cultivating confident, creative, compassionate leaders exceeding academic expectations at each developmental milestone.
Our Vision
To engage and empower children and families through a liberating education by which each individual is freed to bring their very best to their own goals and dreams. We are crafting a new narrative around children and families of color placing strength, excellence and achievement at the fore.
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KairosLOVE is grounded in two core values that shape our work with children:
Safety and Respect: I care about you too much to harm you with my words or actions. Because of that, I commit to doing the personal work required to avoid shaming, threatening, or diminishing you in any way.
Commitment to Growth: I am deeply invested in your long-term success—academically, socially, emotionally, and culturally. This means I will:
Hold high expectations and clearly communicate my belief in your potential
Reflect and affirm your strengths
Help you build the habits needed for success
Support your development as an independent learner
Center our relationship in everything we do
Identify and address skill gaps with care
Learn and honor your cultural identity
Intentionally align your academic experience with your racial and cultural identity
These values guide how we teach, connect, and grow with our students every day.
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Community Action Sessions were created based on the belief that high-quality extracurricular education should be accessible to all students, regardless of race, gender and socioeconomic status. CAS invites community partners to create direct access to rich and diverse learning in the following areas:
Service Learning
STEM
Health & Wellness
Arts & Culture.
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At KairosPDX, we recognize that nutrition is foundational to lifelong well-being. We are committed to providing children and families with consistent access to healthy, nourishing, and culturally appropriate foods. Through our community garden, students engage in planting and harvesting, developing a deeper appreciation for where their food comes from and the diverse range of produce available. These hands-on experiences not only promote healthy eating habits but also celebrate cultural food traditions, connect families to meaningful recipes, and encourage environmental stewardship.
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As part of the KairosPDX Learning Academy, the Reflection Room centers on children’s wellness and social-emotional growth. This team supports children through regular check-ins, mindfulness practices, and positive reinforcement (“bucket fills”), as well as by guiding de-escalation, redirection, and conflict resolution. The goal is to help our KairosPDX leaders build essential life skills as they grow.
KairosPDX Programs
Learning Academy
The KairosPDX Learning Academy is a Preschool-5 community school.
Community Relations
The Family Engagement Team works to bridge the gap of communication
Training Academy
KairosPDX Training Academy
Government Affairs
KairosPDX Government Affairs
Mental Health Program
Mental Health Resources for Families