As DeSoto Independent School District continues its quest to increase the postsecondary readiness of its students, the district is proud to announce the upcoming celebration of National GEAR UP Week which takes place September 23 through 27, 2024.
This national week of immersion around college, career, and military readiness is designed to ensure students are aware of their postsecondary options, the necessary preparation, and the resources available to support their desired pursuits.
In DeSoto ISD, there are two GEAR UP cohorts - College-Driven GEAR UP and Next Gen GEAR UP. The grants are focused on students who will graduate in the years 2028 and 2029, and this year’s seniors, the DeSoto High School Class of 2025, respectively.
The week will consist of daily activities, specialized student programming, and campus and family connection sessions for each cohort all designed to connect and ignite the flame of lifelong learning in the hearts and minds of our secondary-level DeSoto ISD Eagles by providing each student and their families with immersive, continuous support to create a strong plan for their future.
A summary of the activities planned for GEAR UP students is included below:
- College Visits
- Texas Workforce Commission exploratory visits
- Family information and connection session
- A local day of community service
- Celebrating their readiness milestones
The Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) State Grant is a seven-year federal initiative designed to increase early college awareness, readiness, and success for low-income and historically underrepresented students. This grant serves an entire cohort of students beginning with seventh grade and following the cohort through high school graduation. GEAR UP funds are also used to provide college scholarships to low-income students.
GEAR UP also provides resources for educators, students, and parents on topics including:
- College Readiness
- College Awareness
- Advanced Academics
- Promising Outreach Practices
- Financial Aid
- Parent Involvement
- Mentors, Mindsets, and Relationships
Be sure to stay connected with DeSoto ISD by following the College-Driven Gear UP and Next Gen GEAR UP social media accounts, the DeSoto ISD social media accounts or by visiting DeSoto ISD’s online newsroom at www.DeSotoISD.org/Newsroom where those interested can read about students soaring higher in these cohorts and all district student learning experiences.