GEAR UP’s vision is that all students are academically, socially, and financially prepared to enter and complete the post-secondary program or institution of their choice. 

We believe that young people who start planning in middle school have a better chance of entering college and completing their degrees. 

Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is a competitive federal program that provides six- and seven-year grants to education/community partnerships and states to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education. 

GEAR UP’S THREE OBJECTIVES ARE:

1. Increase academic performance and preparation for post-secondary education.
2. Increase high school graduation and post-secondary participation rates.
3. Increase students’ and their families’ knowledge of post-secondary options, preparation, and finances.

For the 2024-25 Academic Year, GEAR UP will provide the following to Seniors:

1. Field trips to college campuses and job sites
2. Assistance with college applications including application fees through Common App
3. Assistance with Financial Aid including FAFSA, WAFSA, and Scholarships
4. Support for AP exam fees and Running Start fees and books
5. Tutoring and academic support
6. Assistance with finding apprenticeships, jobs, etc.

Meet our GEAR UP specialists:

Karla Equihua Naranjo