At KIPP DC, we often say, “Promises made to kids are scared.” It’s a reminder that belief, motivation, and support can unlock potential in ways we never imagined. And sometimes, it shows up in the form of a beard.
This summer at KIPP DC College Preparatory, that promise came to life in a big and very visible way.
Chris Gleditsch, AP U.S. Government teacher and self-proclaimed beard devotee, made a deal with senior DaJuan Jones: if DaJuan scored a 5 on his AP exam, he’d earn the right to shave Mr. Gleditsch’s beard himself.
“I knew DaJuan could get a 5,” said Mr. Gleditsch. “He got a 4 the previous year, so it was absolutely within his skillset and determination. I was pretty much expecting this beard would have to go at some point this summer.”
That wasn’t an easy promise. “I’m very attached to it,” he admitted. “This version of the beard has been around for three years. Not even my girlfriend has seen me without it. My only concern now is whether it’ll grow back with more gray.”
The beard may be gone, but it’s a small price to pay for the incredible effort DaJuan put in over the school year. From Sunday study sessions at the National Portrait Gallery, to lunch-time review sessions, to staying after school, DaJuan showed up. Every time.
“He did all the extra work,” said Mr. Gleditsch. “He took it seriously. Whatever we can do to motivate our kids to do their best, we’ll do it.”
Preparation for an AP exam is a year-long effort. It’s in the big projects, yes, but it’s also in the details: the lunch-and-learns, the after-school check-ins, and the hours of independent study.
DaJuan’s hard work paid off. This fall, he’ll be attending the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) as part of the Class of 2029. And while Mr. Gleditsch’s beard may grow back, the memory of this shared promise and its powerful payoff will stick around far longer.
