GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a grant funded by the United States Department of Education. The program is designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. GEAR UP offers a variety of services and early intervention programs to help make college possible for everyone. GEAR UP not only helps students, but also has programs for parents, teachers and schools, ensuring success for all. Gear Up provides services to students in underserved, low-income communities to ensure they develop the academic and personal skills needed for postsecondary success. Partnership among PCCUA and eight school districts include:
- Barton
- Clarendon
- Dermott
- DeWitt
- Dumas
- Helena-West Helena
- KIPP Delta
- Lakeside (Lake Village)
- Lee County
- Marvell-Elaine
- Stuttgart
- other community partners
Services include activities that promote:
- Increased academic performance and preparation for post-secondary education;
- Increased high school graduation and participation in post-secondary education;
- Increased student and family knowledge of post-secondary education options, preparation and financing;
- Increased post-secondary success; and
- Professional development for teachers.
