Since the beginning of Arizona GEAR UP, Ann Connelly has been a constant in the program, but in October, she will retire following a 20-year tenure at Arizona GEAR UP.
Ann first joined GEAR UP in 2001 after GEAR UP was introduced at the school where she worked as a counselor. As a coach, Ann worked with a cohort of 7th grade students. During her time as a coach, she found a passion for working with middle grade students.
“I liked… Read more
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has proclaimed Sept. 20-24 as GEAR UP Week, which commends the continued success of Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). The proclamation coincides with the celebration of National GEAR UP Week.
Northern Arizona University has led the Arizona GEAR UP program since 2000. The project has helped increase high school graduation rates, helped create a college-going culture, and increased the college-going rate among Arizona… Read more
As students begin to return to the classroom, stress and anxiety can also come along for many students and parents alike. After more than a year of remote learning, this “new normal” can be overwhelming. This anxiety is normal and completely understandable, but we want to share some ways to help.
Be Patient and Supportive.
The pandemic took a toll on students academically, emotionally, and mentally. This new school year will bring upon new challenges for everyone, and giving your students… Read more
Arizona GEAR UP is dedicated to educational equity for all students in Arizona. We want to make sure that every student has access to quality education. The same goes for our teachers and educators. With the help of the Arizona K12 Center, AZGU is able to offer teachers throughout the state professional development to help support and provide new approaches to teaching.
“A teacher, regardless of location, should have access to high-quality professional development to make… Read more
In the journey of achieving Educational Equity in Arizona, several organizations are working hard for the students of the Grand Canyon State. A new group has emerged to help forward this mission – Education Forward Arizona. While the look may be new, Education Forward Arizona is backed by a team of experienced and familiar faces in education. Education Forward Arizona brings together the teams, resources, and drive of three different entities. Achieve60AZ, College Success Arizona,… Read more
Earlier this year Middle Grade Services Program Manager Ann Connelly hosted a meeting highlighting services available to our GEAR UP middle schools. One of those presenting was Cindy Erwin from Pathways to Prosperity.
Operating as part of the Center for the Future of Arizona, Pathways to Prosperity is an early college initiative aimed at having more students graduate with degrees and credentials that lead to careers in high-demand fields. The goal is to better prepare students for careers starting as… Read more