About
KIPP Destiny Elementary grows scholar-leaders who are empowered to define their own destiny and positively impact the world through superior academic preparation and leadership development. The school's core values are Inquire, Make it Better, Persist toward Excellence, Appreciate, Care, and Take a Risk.
Catherine Gilleland
Assistant Principal
KIPP Destiny Elementary was founded in 2013 because a group of dedicated teachers and leaders wanted to create the opportunity for our children of southern Dallas to live choice-filled lives. We strive to grow our scholar leaders each and every day through our IMPACT values coupled with rigorous academics that centers on serving the whole child.
Turner Cooper
First Grade Lead Teacher
Hello! My name is Turner Cooper, a 2011 graduate of Morehouse College and a current a third year teacher in Dallas, Texas. I teach first grade at KIPP Destiny Elementary. As a graduate of DISD (Dallas Independent School District) I have firsthand have seen and experienced the ups and downs of attending a public school. As a teacher for my 26 phenomenal personalities, I just want to make sure that I am able to provide them with all of the resources possible!
Shanandolan Ward
Music and Movement
“What does it mean to be a Starlight Singer? To never give up, shine bright like a diamond, work hard, be nice, persist towards excellence, to encourage our team, family, and audience”. This motto is a vow that the Starlight Singers have committed to year after year, to ensure that “Excellence is the only Choice”. The Starlight Singers are a show choir of youth from grades 1st-7th that have attended or currently attend KIPP Destiny Elementary and Middle School. Led by accomplished American Idol and Sunday’s Best finalist, Shanandolan Ward, the group has won several awards and competitions since its inception in 2014. The Starlight Singers embody the values of dedication, commitment, and excellence that they consistently display through music and dance. As a result of this excellence, the Starlight Singers, to date, have been featured on NBC 5 News, achieved Division 1 rating and Outstanding Choir at the Sandy Lake Music Festival Competition for the last four years, and have performed for a crowd of over 5000 educators from across America.
