GEAR-UP, an acronym, which stands for, Gaining
Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, is a program
we have at MSAD #70, for students in grades 10-12. 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 rate of 90% or better
* Have
passing grades
* As
a Senior, are planning to file a FAFSA by May 1st
* On
FAFSA, the student's family must have an EFC (estimated family contribution)
of $7,000 or less
* As
a Senior, are planning to attend a college in Maine (taking at least 6
credits)
Presently, there are 70 students in our
district who are in GEAR UP