Recognizing that students need opportunities to acquire the appropriate academic skills, college access information, financial assistance and psychosocial support to succeed, Oklahoma GEAR UP’s early intervention initiatives encompass a variety of programs, activities and services to help our state’s students not only prepare for college, but enter and succeed.
Statewide College Access Information
Oklahoma GEAR UP is recognized nationally for its comprehensive public awareness component. Aimed at fifth- through 12th-grade students and their parents, GEAR UP provides, in both English and Spanish languages, Web sites for parents and students, enhanced resources for teachers and guidance counselors, instructional videos, teacher guides, student activity booklets and college readiness information for the general public.
Community and Faith-Based Organization Outreach
Initiatives that tap the potential of youth and family outreach services of community and faith-based organizations (CBOs) are the focus of these activities. GEAR UP awards subgrants to CBOs to promote Oklahoma’s Promise and to engage parents and family members in their child’s college preparation process by raising educational expectations.
Subgrants to Eligible K-12 School Districts
Oklahoma GEAR UP awards subgrants to eligible K-12 school districts to implement student academic intervention strategies as evidenced by student assessment data. Oklahoma GEAR UP will award 24 subgrants per year through 2011. GEAR UP trainer/coordinators will work closely with each school district to ensure that the early intervention strategies are effective and research-based.
Professional Development
Oklahoma GEAR UP is committed to helping students better prepare for college by offering training and professional development opportunities for teachers and school administrators. Professional development opportunities focus on improving student success through techniques such as curriculum enhancement, vertical teaming, working with special populations, data analysis and academic improvement.