GEAR UP

GEAR UP

GEAR%20UP%20Mississippi
GEAR%20UP%20Mississippi
GEAR%20UP%20Mississippi
GEAR%20UP%20Mississippi

The Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) initiative is a national college access program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. GEAR UP Mississippi is administered by Mississippi State University.

GEAR UP Mississippi Impact Goal

To significantly increase the number of Mississippi students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education

Through the grant, three GEAR UP Mississippi partner districts will receive assistance in staff professional development and student academic preparation for college.

GEAR UP Mississippi is in partnership with Get2College to provide statewide college and financial aid application assistance.

Map of GEAR UP Mississippi partner districts: Greenville, Meridian, and McComb
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GEAR UP Goals

  1. Increase the academic performance and preparation for postsecondary education opportunities
  2. Increase the rate of high school graduation and enrollment in postsecondary education
  3. Increase GEAR UP students’ and their families’ knowledge of postsecondary education preparation, options, and financing

Details

  • Three GEAR UP districts:
    • Greenville
    • McComb
    • Meridian
  • Nine middle and high schools
  • 4,000+ students
  • Estimated $3,500/student scholarship for the first year of postsecondary education within Mississippi
  • Statewide dissemination of college access information
  • Seven-year grant through Aug. 22, 2026

Services

  • Academic student services focused on rigorous coursework success
  • College access student services focused on Get2College postsecondary planning, ACT prep, college application, and financial aid application assistance
  • Professional development for teachers and administrators
  • Family and community engagement activities that support student academic performance

Contact

For more information, contact the GEAR UP director.

Partners

Mississippi State University Department of Educational Leadership Get2College Woodward Hines Education Foundation Mississippi Department of Education Mississippi Public Universities ACT