A few months ago, the GEAR UP community gathered in Washington, D.C. for the 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Conference to Light the Way, remembering the many people who serve as light for GEAR UP: our educators, families, and students. This week, we pass that light forward and honor the people who make GEAR UP what it is.

Over the past couple of years, our work has been tested. GEAR UP has faced significant uncertainty and numerous challenges, threatening opportunities for over half a million students…

This September 18, NCCEP is proud to join ACAC's WhyApply Day, a nationwide celebration of the college application season, and share messages reminding students that applying to college is within reach. 

Here's how you can join in: 

• Wear your college gear on Friday, September 18
• Share why you believe students should apply to college, or tell your own story of why you applied
• Post on social media using #WhyApply and #GEARUPworks to add your voice to the movement 

Let's show students…

On August 5, the U.S. Department of Education launched the 2027-28 beta testing, allowing hundreds of thousands of students to submit the FAFSA before the October 1, 2026 public release. A limited group of school districts, community-based organizations, and postsecondary institutions will participate in Beta 1 through in-person and virtual FAFSA completion events. In late August – early September 2026, Beta 2 invites any student or parent to visit StudentAid.gov to request to participate.

Stay…

We here at NCCEP appreciate each one of you for participating in this year’s 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference in Washington, DC. More than 1,900 education professionals representing GEAR UP programs from across the nation engaged in plenary sessions, more than 130 concurrent sessions, and a series of special programs.

In the comments section below, please share your highlights and photos from your conference experience. We’d love to hear from you!

See You Next Week!

We are excited to see you next week in Washington, D.C. for the 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference!

As you prepare to join us July 19–22, remember to: 

• Download the Conference App. Get the app to create your personal agenda, check out our exhibitors, and get familiar with the hotel floor plans.
• Get Ready for the Roll Call of the GEAR UP States. Monday morning we’ll kick off the event by celebrating each of our GEAR UP states. As always, we encourage noisemakers and…

Click here to register you and your GEAR UP colleagues!

Come ready to participate! Discussion Labs are an opportunity to share, learn, and problem-solve together.

This time of year provides an opportunity for reflection and to ground us in why we do our work. Together, we’ll explore professional and personal mission statements—what they are, why they matter, and how they can reinforce one another. Led by members of NCCEP’s Communications Advisory Committee, this session centers connection,…

Click Here to Register Today!

Going to the 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference in July? Join this webinar to learn about the conference, review how to use the planning tools, and cover best practices and tips. We have a tool to share and will also have time for Q&A.

Meet the 2026 Annual Conference Plenary Speakers

We are excited to welcome an outstanding lineup of speakers for the 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference. Each brings a distinct perspective and deep expertise to inform and energize our community as we explore this year’s theme: Lighting The Way.

Leadership is a Beacon | Baruti Kafele

Strong leadership provides clarity and direction during times of change. Baruti Kafele will share how educators can lead with purpose and support others through…