Neubauer Fellows Community

Melissa Poorman

Head of Schools
KIPP Philadelphia Schools
2018 Neubauer Fellow
Sector
Charter
Education
M.S.Ed. Urban Education, University of Pennsylvania
B.A. Politics, Washington and Lee University
Administrative Certification, KIPP School Leadership Program
"I became a Neubauer Fellow because I was excited to gain principal lifelines in Philadelphia who I could thought partner with. The principal role can be a lonely one, and I think it is so important to be connected to others and share ideas. I also was excited to become a Neubauer Fellow to become part of a group of people interested in making our city better by improving the education system for our students."

Melissa serves as the Head of Schools for KIPP Philadelphia Schools. Previously, she served as the principal of KIPP DuBois Collegiate Academy from 2016 to 2023. The school recently achieved two straight years of overall improvement in the school district’s School Progress Report. KIPP DuBois partners with Summer Search and Philadelphia Bicycle Club.

Melissa has been an educator since 2008. Prior to becoming a principal, Melissa served as a high school English teacher and assistant principal. Melissa grew up in Andrews, South Carolina.

Fellow Listing