Meridian schools launch podcast to keep community informed

Meridian Public School District, a partner of GEAR UP Mississippi, recently launched a podcast. “The True Blue Podcast, which will come out twice a month, will feature school leaders discussing district news”, said Deidre Bland, the district's community engagement specialist. GEAR UP was featured in a recent episode, along with college readiness information such as preparing for the ACT and SAT and information about the FAFSA.

Auburn University’s Tiger Excellence Scholars Program participants thriving, becoming leaders

GEAR UP Alabama students participating in Auburn University’s Tiger Excellence Scholars Program (TESP) report experiencing higher cumulative GPA’s, an increased feeling of connection to campus life, and more. Jasmine Prince, assistant director for Inclusive Excellence Initiatives, who oversees the TESP program says, “What our numbers say is that our students understand not only our commitment to…

College sports: SUNY Potsdam athletes mentor middle school students through pandemic

College athletes in upstate New York have partnered with GEAR UP through College For Every Student (CFES) Brilliant Pathways to provide virtual mentoring services for GEAR UP students throughout the pandemic. They are helping students learn more about the essential skills of teamwork, agility, resilience, networking, leadership, and goal setting. “This is a great way to do mentoring, whether we have a pandemic…

Vanguard Academy, MOSTHistory announce GEAR UP partnership

GEAR UP at Vanguard Academy recently welcomed the Museum of South Texas History as its latest community partner. Through this partnership, GEAR UP students can take advantage of the learning opportunities through the museum to further support their academic coursework. Barbara Gonzales, director of GEAR UP for Vanguard Academy, shared, “We are going to be partnering up to do history activities not only for our students but also for our…

The Medical Science Youth Program

GEAR UP at Nassau Community College recently partnered with the Zucker School of Medicine to establish a partnership between the school of medicine and local K12 students. Through this partnership students can take health-related courses, learn from current medical school students, and be exposed to health-related career fields.

Supporting students’ mental health – in a pandemic

Across the country, schools and communities are seeing an increase in students experiencing mental health obstacles related to the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent New York Times article highlighted the severe mental health challenges students are facing in one community in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

One GEAR UP program is working to find ways to support their students in the face of this challenge. GEAR UP at Central Washington University (CWU) saw how…

Pittsburg GEAR UP students participated in Eastern Oklahoma State College virtual tour

Eastern Oklahoma State College GEAR UP recently took their students on a virtual college tour, exploring the college options available in their local community. Students were able to talk to an admissions recruiter, hear more about the Oklahoma Promise scholarship, and learn about financial aid opportunities. Students were able to learn more about what to consider when applying to colleges and what to expect…

Arizona GEAR UP creates college and career readiness guide for middle school students

In support of a statewide college access initiative, Arizona GEAR UP recently created a college and career exploration guide. Available to download in English and Spanish, the Discover Guide will help students examine how interests, passions, and abilities can lead to a potential career. “The earlier students begin postsecondary planning, the better,” said Ramona Mellott, co-principal investigator for Arizona…

GEAR UP North Carolina Hosting Free FAFSA HotSpot Drive-In

GEAR UP North Carolina recently hosted a drive-thru FAFSA workshop. Counselors, advisors, and internet access were provided for students and families in the parking lot of a local high school. “At a time when many students are remote learning and don’t always have access to reliable internet service, we are working diligently to fill that void,” said Patti Harris, College Access and Success Manager, “No matter what form of…