Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs

What is GEAR UP?

GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a federal initiative designed to increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and excel in post-secondary success (after high school).

  • Jubilee GEAR UP is focused on building a college-going culture that inspires students, families, and community members across our Jubilee Academies.

  • The GEAR UP team will enhance the relationships with our Jubilee Communities to promote and facilitate college/career readiness in an innovative way by providing services and support that foster learning and equity to all.

  • The GEAR UP grant program supports college and career readiness for students and families in the cohort Classes of 2027-2034

Our Mission

To increase the number of lower-socioeconomic students exposed to higher educational programs, support their physical, emotional and educational needs in order to equip them to be successful in their future college, career, or military goals.

Our Objectives

  • Increase students’ academic performance and preparation for education beyond high school. 

  •  Increase the rate of high school graduation and participation in education after high school by creating connections with schools and colleges. 

  •  Increase students’ education expectations and their families’ knowledge of education options after high school, preparation, and financing. 

  •  Increase students’/parents’ knowledge and skills regarding work-based learning experiences, STEM, remote learning, and mental health services.

Our Approach

GEAR UP provides early intervention to Jubilee Academies students in 1st through 9th grade, helping them become college-ready. Our current cohorts in the class of 2027-2034, work with GEAR UP advisors through graduation, providing years of personalized support. GEAR UP offers unique programs and services tailored to the needs of the Jubilee Academies community, including academic planning, mentoring, counseling, tutoring, financial aid information, college application support, and family engagement.

Our GEAR UP Schools

District GEAR UP Team

Rio Grande Valley & Coastal Bend

South Central

GEAR UP empowers students, parents, educators, and administrators by forging partnerships with businesses, paving the way for greater academic success and positive impact.

GEAR UP Partners