Gear Up
GEAR-UP, an acronym, which stands for, Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, is a program we have here in MSAD #70, for students in grade 8-12. This is a state and federally funded program that supports students who are economically disadvantaged in preparing for, accessing and succeeding in postsecondary education. The objectives of the program are as follows:
- To increase the academic performance and preparation for postsecondary education
- To increase the rate of high school graduation and participation in postsecondary education
- To increase educational expectations and knowledge of postsecondary options, preparation and financing
- To integrate the program into Maine's existing education infrastructure
- To anchor the use of Maine's Learning Technology Initiative and distance learning networks into the GEAR UP program strategies and activities
Requirements for students in the GEAR UP Program are as follows:
- Signed the 2006 compact
- Have a Personal Learning Plan (PLP)
- Have taken PSAT as a Junior and/or Sophomore
- Have taken SATS or ACT as a Junior and / or Senior
- Have attended a College visit through Gear Up, Guidance or Online
- Have an attendance of 90% or better
- Have passing grades
- Be Pell Grant eligible
- As a Senior, are planning to file a FAFSA by March 1st
- As a Senior, are planning to attend a college in Maine (taking at least 6 credits)
Presently, there are 147 students in our district who are in GEAR UP