GearUP
Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a national college readiness program designed to increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education. The grant hopes to deepen its efforts with school districts and community organizations to make college a reality for more middle and high school students in the state.
GEAR UP helps create activities and provides experiences to students and families. Some of these activities and experiences include school programs and clubs, meeting STEM professionals, tutoring, and learning opportunities like field trips and camps.
The GEAR UP staff also finds ways to support teachers and other school staff to make sure all students are receiving support and opportunities to increase their success.
GEAR UP ACHIEVERS PARTNERSHIP
- South King County school districts (Auburn, Kent, Renton, and Tukwila)
Participation
- Current 10th (Class of 2025) and 11th grade (Class of 2024) at RHS
- Program continues through the first year of college (ends September 2025)
- No defined time commitment-students can participate in any activity
Closing academic achievement gaps
- Emphasizing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields
MENTORING AND A RANGE OF COLLEGE-READINESS ACTIVITIES:
- AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) classes
- Campus visits (UW, South Seattle, Bellevue, Renton Tech, WSU, EWU)
- Tutoring and academic workshops
- Workshops for students and parents on financial literacy and post-secondary planning
- Leadership, career, and summer activities
GEAR UP Coordinator: Deborah Currie, deborah.currie@rentonschools.us, 425-204-3517