Name: Lilliana Minor High School: Coronado High School (Class of 2024) Postsecondary Plan: Arizona State University, studying Tourism Development, Hotel and Resorts Management Journey: There was a time when Lilliana Minor wasn’t sure if college was the right path for her. Financial concerns and family responsibilities made the prospect of higher education feel overwhelming. But with a positive and driven mindset, alongside the encouragement of mentors and the support of her community, Lilli discovered ways to navigate challenges and create…
To read in English, click here. Nombre: Lizeth Carreon Escuela preparatoria: Amphitheater High School (Generación 2023) Planes después de la prepa: Estudiar Análisis de Datos Empresariales (Business Data Analytics) en la Universidad Estatal de Arizona (ASU) Historia: Desde reuniones de clubes y eventos estudiantiles a largas sesiones de estudio nocturnas, Lizeth Carreón tiene una agenda muy apretada en la Universidad Estatal de Arizona. Como estudiante de tercer año de Análisis de Datos Empresariales, ella desempeña varias funciones: líder estudiantil, organizadora…
leer esto en español Name: Lizeth Carreon High School: Amphitheater High School (Class of 2023) Postsecondary Plan: Arizona State University, studying Business Data Analytics Journey: From club meetings and campus events to late-night study sessions, Lizeth Carreon has a full plate at Arizona State University. A junior majoring in business data analytics, she wears many hats–student leader, club organizer, scholarship recipient, and mentor to peers. Yet despite her busy schedule, Lizeth radiates positivity and speaks with warmth and gratitude about…
Arizona GEAR UP is launching the student-led GEAR UP Alumni Clubs at Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and the University of Arizona, and we need dedicated faculty and staff to help bring them to life. We have students ready to go with members and a constitution drawn up; all we need is YOU! These clubs will serve as vital networks for GEAR UP graduates, connecting them with peers, resources, and opportunities to thrive in college. As a faculty or…
The Arizona GEAR UP team proudly represented our state at the 2025 NCCEP/GEAR UP National Conference in San Francisco, bringing our expertise and the voices of our alumni to the national stage. This year, we were joined by two outstanding alumni: Lizeth Carreon, a graduate of Amphitheater High School now attending Arizona State University, and Lilliana Minor, a graduate of Coronado High School also attending ASU. Their perspectives brought depth and authenticity to our session, reminding everyone why the work…
The 2025 Lumberjack Leadership Summit took place from June 2 to June 5, 2025, in Flagstaff, Arizona, on the Northern Arizona University Mountain Campus. More than 200 students and staff made the trip up north to participate. For four days and three nights, students experienced life as a college student. They lived in dorms, ate in the dining hall, and took part in sessions and activities that explored college life and future careers. Students were divided into four teams: the…
Metro Tech High School is proving that with the right leadership, intentional programming, and a culture rooted in support, students can soar. This year, Metro Tech earned statewide recognition for its outstanding improvement in FAFSA completion, ranking second in the large school category. At the center of this momentum is Lindsay Holbrook, a dedicated school counselor and instructional leader who has worked tirelessly to create a strong postsecondary-going culture on campus. Under her leadership, college and career readiness have become…
Name: Lesly Aponte Pineda High School: Youngker High School (Class of 2023) Postsecondary Plan: Construction Management and Technology, Arizona State University Journey: From a high school student in Buckeye, Arizona, to a driven college junior with big aspirations in the construction industry, Lesly Aponte Pineda has proven what’s possible with hard work and determination. Lesly first connected with Arizona GEAR UP during her junior year of high school, when she began exploring attending college. “They were very helpful,” she recalled.…
Across Arizona, our 5E high schools have been creating impactful, student-centered experiences that break barriers and open doors to opportunity. From multilingual workshops to STEM exploration and surprise student reunions, these schools are making sure every student feels seen, supported, and set up for success. February Highlight: Youngker High School – Spanish College WorkshopYoungker High School kicked off the spring with a thoughtful workshop delivered entirely in Spanish to support monolingual students and their families. The event focused on helping…
Arizona GEAR UP is excited to welcome Jennifer Hernandez as the newest member of our team! Jennifer joins us as the Academic Program Coordinator, where she will be working with our 5E High Schools to support students on their journey to postsecondary education. Jennifer brings a wealth of experience in college access and youth development. Before stepping into this role, she worked with College Depot since February 2023, and has spent the past five years deeply engaged in the college…
View the entire letter here. Arizona has made remarkable progress in FAFSA completion, marking a significant step in expanding college access for students statewide. A recent announcement highlights that nearly 30,000 high school seniors have already completed their 2025-26 FAFSA, pushing the state's completion rate to 26.3%—a dramatic improvement from 18% in April 2024. This growth places Arizona second in the nation for year-over-year FAFSA completion gains, showcasing the dedication of educators and community partners in making financial aid more…
Rebecca McIlvaine is bringing her passion for student success to her new role as a GEAR UP coach at Buckeye Union High School in Buckeye, Arizona. After working behind the scenes in the state office, she’s excited to reconnect with what she loves—helping students and families prepare for college. "I missed working with kids," McIlvaine shares. "Being back around them makes me so happy." With a strong background in education, Rebecca is ready to make an impact at one of…
Another Successful National GEAR UP Week in the Grand Canyon State! National GEAR UP Week is a time to celebrate GEAR UP students' accomplishments and recognize GEAR UP programs' positive impact on communities nationwide. Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs marked the occasion by proclaiming September 23-27, 2024, as Arizona GEAR UP Week. At our 5E's of Equity High Schools, multiple celebrations took place. At Amphitheater High School in Tucson, students enjoyed lunch events and games sponsored…
National GEAR UP Week is a time to celebrate the achievements of GEAR UP students and raise awareness of GEAR UP programs nationwide. In Arizona, Governor Katie Hobbs has proclaimed September 23-27 as Arizona GEAR UP Week. National GEAR UP Week is a nationwide celebration that brings together students, parents, educators, and college access professionals to highlight the success of GEAR UP programs. It’s a time to raise awareness in communities about the positive impact GEAR UP is having on…
Piñon High School has been honored with the Arizona FAFSA Challenge Award for the Most Improved FAFSA completion rate, celebrating a remarkable 19% increase from the previous year. This significant achievement was recognized by the Arizona Board of Regents, who awarded the school three laptops to gift to students who completed the FAFSA. Kyle Sandoval, a school counselor at Piñon High School, played a pivotal role in this success during his first year in the position. Starting in July of…
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – This June, Northern Arizona University geared up to host the 3rd annual Lumberjack Leadership Summit. The yearly gathering invites students from GEAR UP Schools across Arizona to participate in a summit focused on exploration, leadership, and collaboration. The Lumberjack Leadership Summit is a free-of-cost summer program designed to help students learn valuable life skills and explore future postsecondary possibilities. This year, the summit was open to rising 10th and 11th graders.…
Proud parents, students, and families filled the media center at Youngker High School in Buckeye, Arizona, as they celebrated graduating seniors for Senior Signing Day. The event, put on by the Youngker GEAR UP team, featured a luncheon, photo ops, and banner signing, creating an atmosphere of joy and accomplishment. Joined by partners from the Student Success Agency, students were recognized for their commitments as they took photos with their future school or organization swag. The room buzzed with excitement…
Name: Letom Kpea High School: Buckeye Union High School (Class of 2024) Postsecondary Plan: Pre-Law at the University of Chicago, Full Ride Scholarship Journey: Letom Kpea, a driven and motivated student, is set to embark on her college journey at the University of Chicago with a full-ride scholarship, beginning this Fall semester. Letom, who started preparing for college as a freshman, has always aimed high, with dreams of attending an out-of-state university. “I had the vision that I wanted to…
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an important part of securing financial aid for higher education. In an effort to increase educational accessibility and affordability for Arizona students, Governor Katie Hobbs has proclaimed April 2024 as the “Finish Line to the FAFSA Month.” The proclamation calls upon those working in higher education to encourage and support students in completing the FAFSA. It also emphasizes the importance of completing the FAFSA in making college and university more affordable…
This year, the 2024-2025 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) looks a little different from years prior. The Federal Student Aid Office has made some major changes to help ease the process of completing the FAFSA for students and families. The FAFSA is the first step in securing financial aid for college. Completing the FAFSA opens the door to BILLIONS of dollars of financial aid. Let's take a closer look at these changes and highlight what students and parents…
Name: Huishan Chen High School: Amphitheater High School (Class of 2024) Postsecondary Plan: Princeton University majoring in Civil and Environmental Engineering Journey: Huishan Chen, a senior at Amphitheater High School in Tucson, Arizona is set to spend the next four years attending Princeton University on a full-ride scholarship beginning Fall 2024. Chen, a first-generation college student is excited to be a Tiger and credits her family and school staff support for helping make this all possible. “I always knew I…
Are you looking for a rewarding summer job that lets you work with high school students and enjoy the cool weather in Flagstaff? We are hiring for our Summer Leadership Academy, from June 1st to June 7th. Positions Available: Gear-Up Team Leader Job#607797 Ideal for current college students with some experience working with youth. Gear-Up Resident Assistant Job#607796 Ideal for candidates with experience working with high school adolescents, previous resident assistant or camp counselor experience, and previous facilitation experience. Health…
We are excited to invite current 10th and 11th graders to join us for the 2024 Lumberjack Leadership Summit! This year’s summit promises an exciting lineup of hands-on STEAM activities, leadership skill-building, and a glimpse into the collegiate experience. Here's what you can expect: Hands-on STEAM Activities: Experience the thrill of building a robot, visit the NASA Astronaut Training Center, and engage in various engineering activities that will challenge and inspire you. Leadership Development: Enhance your leadership skills and explore…
2023 was an eventful year for Arizona GEAR UP. Let's look back and celebrate the work our school and project partners put in to help students succeed. We want to hear your year highlights!
2023 Highlights
Youngker GEAR UP Honored - The Arizona Board of Regents named Youngker High School the FAFSA Challenge Most Innovative Player for December. The award recognizes schools that use creative and fun ways to help students and families complete the FAFSA. Tonopah Valley…
2023 Convening of Partners Recap Thank you for joining us in Flagstaff, Arizona, for the Arizona GEAR UP 2023 Convening of Partners. Over two days, Arizona GEAR UP Partners from across the US and Canada gathered at the Northern Arizona University Campus to learn from one another and collaborate on future projects supporting Arizona's students. Thank you all for your participation and support.
Night One Night one of the Convening of Partners kicked off with Arizona…
Student Success Agency kicked off its nationwide tour in the Grand Canyon State this August. Over a week, the SSA Team visited 4 of our Arizona GEAR UP schools: Youngker High School, Buckeye Union High School, Amphitheater High School, and Tonopah Valley High School. Student Success Agency is an organization dedicated to providing resources and support for high school students by connecting them with “agents” that serve as student mentors. The process begins with students sharing their…
This July, the 2023 NCCEP/GEAR UP National Conference is taking place in San Francisco, California. The Arizona GEAR UP team is excited and honored to be attending this year's event. Multiple schools and project partners will join the Arizona GEAR UP state office to present on a variety of topics. Check out what the AZGU planned this week: Monday, July 17th, Block 1 – 10:45 – 12:00 pm College, Career, Future Ready: Gain additional tools to build a college-going culture…
Welcome to Flagstaff Northern Arizona University welcomed over 200 people for the 2023 Lumberjack Leadership Summit (LLS) this summer. Students and staff spent a week on-campus learning about college, the STEAM fields, leadership skills, and more. The Lumberjack Leadership Summit serves as a gateway for students to explore the world of higher education with immersive experiences. The Summit is open to rising first-year students, sophomores, and juniors at our Arizona GEAR UP schools. The event is free…
As a small town in Arizona, around 100,000 people call Buckeye, Arizona, home. Among those people is Joshua Bunnell, a senior at Youngker High School, graduating this spring as part of the Class of 2023. Not only is Josh 1 of 100,000, but he is also one of 20 students selected this year to be a Flinn Scholar. This prestigious scholarship award covers the cost of attending any public Arizona University and welcomes you as part of the Flinn Foundation.…
Decision Day is a national celebration of students’ years of hard work and dedication to their future. It is a day when students decide on what they want to do after graduation. Decision Day can include which university to attend, accepting a job offer, enlisting in the military, or another type of postsecondary education. In Arizona, Governor Katie Hobbs proclaimed May 1 as “Arizona Decision Day.” Festivities for Decision Day were celebrated throughout the week from May 1-5. Our 5E’s of…
Attending college can be an exciting time for students, but it can also come with financial challenges. The cost of tuition, books, room, and board can add up quickly and make college expensive. Scholarships are one of many ways to help students pay for college. At our 5E High Schools, GEAR UP Coaches are working with students to help them secure scholarships for their future. Buckeye Union High School District The Buckeye Union High School District has had two students…
One of the most significant decisions in a student’s educational career is deciding what they want to do after graduation. There are many pathways to choose from after high school, and our Arizona GEAR UP Coaches are here to help students find their way. This past month, our coaches have hosted events to help students find what is right for them. From career exploration to college visits, students could learn about various educational opportunities. Amphitheater High School (Tucson, Arizona) event since the COVID-19 pandemic…
In celebration of National GEAR UP Week and to bring recognition to our students and schools, we have started the “I Heart GEAR UP” campaign, where people from across the state take pictures with the “I Heart GEAR UP” sign and share them with us! It’s easy to participate – just have fun and take photos with the sign, then share them out on your favorite social channel! Check out the support we have gained so far: GEAR UP Schools Agua…
Possible Futures Career Exploration Curriculum helps students in grades 6 – 10 explore STEM occupations, develop essential skills such as collaboration and communication, and learn how to positively contribute to their communities. The Lenses on the Future Unit guides students through the process of creating an Education and Career Action Plans (ECAP). With these 12 lessons, combined with the Arizona-specific career research tool, My Future Az, teachers can lead students through the exploration, reflection, and documentation elements of their individual…
Tucked away in the back of Amphitheater High School in Tucson, Arizona, is one of the school’s most unique learning centers—the school’s greenhouse. Students learn a mix of math, biology, and science while working in the conservatory. Throughout the day, you’ll see them shuffling in and out of this outdoor classroom with tools, notes, and plants in hand. It doesn’t end there; students also learn personal responsibility, sustainability, and teamwork—all skills that will help them succeed in college and beyond.…
Arizona GEAR UP was well represented at this year’s National Council for Community and Education Partnerships/GEAR UP Capacity Building Workshop (CBW). From Feb 14 – 16, three of our very own AZGU team members took center stage and shared their expertise and best practices with hundreds of colleagues from across the country. First up, our Communications Manager Melissa Fast presented alongside an elite team of GEAR UP communications specialists in the “Follow Your Heart: Grow Your Communications Passion” session. The…
Free college tuition is now available to high school graduates across Arizona through a new scholarship initiative. The Arizona Promise Program is a scholarship fund that helps cover tuition costs at Arizona’s three public universities: Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and the University of Arizona. The Arizona Promise Program makes college accessible for students who live in low-income communities. Qualifying students will receive free tuition and fees for up to four years with this new scholarship. How to qualify…
Here we are—2022. Self-care remains so important given our current COVID surge. Since none of us likely imagined year two, let alone year three, of a pandemic that has disrupted EVERYTHING, we thought you could use some self-care tips. Here are a few we’re gonna try: Top 10 Self-Care Tips aka. Covid-Care Take a walk. Yeah, it may seem lame or too simple, but remember our friends in the East will risk frostbite within 15-30 minutes outside. Enjoy the sunshine.…
To make sure we’re good stewards of grant funds, Arizona GEAR UP works with ICF, which is an evaluation team. Now, we need your help. It’s time to survey our school communities—educators, parents, and students. If you’re an educator in one of our 5E Schools, a parent, or student, please fill out the survey below. We promise it’ll take just five minutes. But the rest of you aren’t off the hook. Do you know any of the people mentioned above?…
Arizona GEAR UP is proud to welcome our newest team member, Jasmine Dean. She joined GEAR UP in January 2022 as the new Middle Grade Program Manager, where she will work with project partners and middle grade programs throughout Arizona. Jasmine brings over 13 years of experience in education, college readiness, and non-profit work to the Arizona GEAR UP Team. She is also no stranger to GEAR UP programming, previously working with the GEAR UP partnership grant at Arizona State…
To read this article in English, click here. En enero comienza el último semestre de high school para los estudiantes de último año. Durante estos emocionantes y ocupados meses, hay bastante que hacer. Por suerte, Arizona GEAR UP y los entrenadores de GEAR UP están aquí para ayudar. A continuación, hemos proporcionado listas de verificación que las familias pueden seguir basándose en los planes del alumno para después de high school. Impriman este artículo y colóquenlo en el refrigerador para…
Para leer este artículo en español, haga clic aquí. January kicks off the last semester of high school for seniors. During this exciting and busy time, there’s quite a bit to keep track of. Luckily, Arizona GEAR UP and GEAR UP Coaches are here to help. We’ve provided checklists below families can follow based on their student’s plans after high school. Print this article and post on your fridge so everyone in the family can help. Beginning in January, students…
Para leer este artículo en español, haga clic aquí. Dual Enrollment gives high school students the chance to earn college credit while still in high school, and someone else picks up most of the cost. Also, colleges offer financial help for those who need it, so there’s a chance it won’t cost anything. Many students who participate can end up with a year’s worth (or more) of college credit, so it takes less time and money to earn a college…
Arizona GEAR UP and our schools are always looking for new and innovative ways to build a college-going culture. At Tonopah Valley High School, they did just that by successfully completing their first-ever College Road Trip earlier this month. Over a four-day trip, Tonopah Valley students and GEAR UP coaches traveled across Arizona and New Mexico to visit multiple college campuses to learn about the schools and their communities. At the beginning of the year, the coaches announced big plans…
This past October, our partners at Be a Leader Foundation hosted their 13th Annual Taking Steps Towards College Success Virtual Summit. From October 22-23, over 800 students logged on to participate in the virtual summit. The two-day event was completely free and open to all high schoolers across the state and provided resources and workshops to help prepare students for life after high school. On the first day, students were introduced to the event by keynote speaker, Anna Maria Chávez. After…
Arizona GEAR UP is looking for someone to fill our Middle Grade Program Manager position. To apply, visit the job posting on LinkedIn or create an account on NAU's hiring portal. Job Description The Middle Grade Program Manager position is accountable for expanding, managing, and delivering GEAR UP activities and programs to middle-grade schools in Arizona. These schools are feeders to the grant’s 5E partner, and other A60 high schools (please see NAU GEAR-UP website for more information on these…
Do you know someone ready to apply to college, and would you like to be their superhero? We know the college application season intimidates a lot of people, but with a little preparation and guidance, you can streamline the process in no time. Whether you’re helping your child or want to just give them some pointers, we want to make it easy. First, decide what school(s) are the right fit. We all have different interests and passions, so College Board…
Arizona GEAR UP aims to help students prepare and succeed in college and beyond. Thanks to Center for the Future of Arizona (CFA), teachers and students across the state now have access to a brand new, robust, and interactive program that helps students explore all kinds of careers and how to get there. Possible Futures is free for all to use and offers students an opportunity to learn first-hand about careers that interest them. Arizona Pathways to Prosperity, a program…
From October 17-19, GEAR UP members from across the western United States gathered in Billings, Montana for the GEAR UP West Conference. The annual event brings together GEAR UP Programs to discuss projects and progress in educational equity. Arizona GEAR UP’s very own Daniel Pulu presented at the conference. Daniel was joined by Duane Gregg from GEAR UP Tennessee to co-present on one of our flagship projects, the Senior Launch Guide, an all-in-one resource designed to help high school seniors…
La Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes, más conocida como FAFSA, es una solicitud que los estudiantes y sus familias completan para obtener fondos para la universidad. Una vez que sometas el FAFSA, recibirás tu elegibilidad para ayuda financiera, que abarca desde becas, subvenciones, estudio-trabajo y varios tipos de préstamos. El formulario FAFSA para el año escolar 2022-23 estará disponible desde el 1 de octubre. Así que, si eres un estudiante de high school (o padre de uno), ahora…
Espańol The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as the FAFSA, is an application students and their families complete in order to qualify for financial aid. Once you successfully fill out the FAFSA, you’ll receive your financial aid eligibility, which ranges from scholarships, grants, work-study, and various types of loans. Grants, scholarships, and work-study are financial awards that do not need to be paid back, but they have limited pools of funding available. So applying as soon as…
Arizona GEAR UP always wants to provide our coaches and educators with resources to support them and their students. Just this month, we have added multiple free online resources to our website. Whether you’re looking for resources for middle grades or high school, check them all out. Discover Guide Starter Kit The Discover Guide Starter Kit provides resources for educators who want to implement the Discover Guide into their curriculum. You can find preview videos about the Discover Guide and…
From special proclamations to fun school events, Arizona GEAR UP partners celebrate National GEAR UP Week. To build more excitement, Student Success Agency (SSA) plans to visit our 5E’s of Equity Schools to kick-off their mentoring program with our students. SSA will give introductions and share how they can help students achieve their academic goals. Student Success Agency was founded in 2012 and leverages current technologies like cell phones and computers to support students outside of the traditional school environment.…
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…
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 students living in low-income communities. More than 15,000…
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…
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 an impact on student…
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, and Expect More Arizona have…
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…
Since a young age, Desert View Freshman Mario Valencia has had an interest in robots and technology. He remembers applying to technology camps as a kid and being turned down because he was too young. When he heard about the Arizona GEAR UP Leadership Academy & Technology Camp, he jumped on the opportunity and signed up immediately. The camp highlighted the science, technology, engineering, and math fields and provided students with a robot that they programmed themselves. Students selected their…
At their annual conference, the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP) gave professor emeritus Daniel Kain its Community Partner of the Year award. NCCEP works with the U.S. Department of Education to oversee GEAR UP across the country with the goal to level the playing field in educational equity and access. Dr. Kain has served as principal investigator or co-PI for Arizona GEAR UP for nearly two decades. Dr. Kain’s research and expertise in problem-based learning, educational equity,…
Seeds Training is an integral part to Arizona GEAR UP Summer Camps. The educational programs the Seeds team implements build life, leadership, and learning skills for our GEAR UP students that not only help students now but well into the future. While the pandemic required us to move the Summer Leadership and Technology Camp to a virtual platform, students showed up and had a great time. Seeds Training Founder Greg Evans noticed some unexpected surprises (and benefits). “We always make…
The pandemic brought new challenges to everyone over the past year and a half. But for GEAR UP Coach, KenJuan Lockhart, he embraced the challenge and helped students succeed in spite of COVID-19. Mr. Lockhart joined GEAR UP in 2020 as a coach, and he has taught English at Buckeye Union High School for four years. “When the opportunity came up, it made sense because I get to reach a broader range of students on a daily basis,” Mr. Lockhart…
On May 25, Arizona GEAR UP’s Middle Grade Program Manager Ann Connelly hosted the 5E Feeder Middle School Year 3 Planning meeting. Representatives from 15 schools joined the virtual meeting to discuss the upcoming school year plans and services available to schools. The meeting began with a presentation highlighting the positive impact a college-going culture has on students and how to build a positive culture within a school. Ann was joined by several GEAR UP project partners that shared what…
MacKenzie Sanford recently graduated as part of the Class of 2021 at Tonopah Valley High School, an Arizona GEAR UP 5E High School in Maricopa County, Arizona. MacKenzie first heard about GEAR UP from an email she received her junior year. She says she immediately wanted to learn more, and when asked about her participation in GEAR UP, she was ecstatic. “I’m talking to them all the time, like about graduation and ‘how do I do this and do that?’”…
Every year, Arizona GEAR UP hosts a Summer Program for rising 10th graders, where students spend a week learning about themselves and exploring the STEM field. With the COVID-19 pandemic, this year's camp looked a little different. This year’s camp was open to all grades. Students signed up for this year's Free Virtual Leadership Academy & Technology Camp online, which featured a choice of four one-week classes that focused on robotics and programming. Before the program started, students were sent…
For many, summer brings vacations and recreation, but there’s no time to relax for GEAR UP and all our partners with concerns of college readiness, summer melt, and career exploration. From middle school to high school graduates, Arizona GEAR UP has packed the summer with initiatives to address access and educational equity. Planning for Year 3 of Arizona GEAR UP 2019-26: The Five E’s of Equity is in full swing for middle school services. Our middle grades team met with…
Do you know families that struggle to pay for internet—especially since COVID-19 hit? Help is on the way. In response to the pandemic, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) launched the Emergency Broadband Benefit for families in need, and we want you to help us spread the word. The service provides a discount of up to $50 per month toward broadband internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can…
Arizona GEAR UP is proud to partner with Helios Education Foundation, Achieve60AZ| College Success Arizona | Expect More Arizona, and other community partners on the Helios Adelante Scholars Initiative, which provides a $1000 incentive scholarship to 2020 graduates to encourage college attendance. The initiative plans to address the unprecedented drop in postsecondary enrollment in Arizona. Nationally, the postsecondary enrollment for first-time freshman from the class of 2020 declined an unprecedented 6.8 percent, according to the National Student Clearinghouse. This decline…
Arizona GEAR UP celebrates and recognizes Dr. Daniel Kain for his nearly 20 years of commitment to the advancement of GEAR UP and a lifelong career as an educator and change agent. In retirement, Dr. Kain can rest assured that his influence, expertise, and collaboration set a new standard for what partnership truly means. His ability to meet people where they are while keeping track of the goals at hand add increased insight to any project in which he oversees…
Since the beginning of Arizona GEAR UP, a program staple has been building positive community relationships that empower students to reach their full potential. In 2002, Emily Johnson worked for Kino Jr. High and became one of the first GEAR UP Coaches in Arizona. The first GEAR UP grant was a cohort model that followed a class from middle school through high school graduation. For the next six years, Emily, or “Miss Johnson,” as her students still call her to…
We need your help to spread the word about free career advising for high school juniors and seniors. AdviseAZ, a program of AZGU project partner College Success Arizona, provides a near-peer advising model to help students prepare for the future. AdviseAZ AmeriCorps strives to increase the number of students who enroll in and complete postsecondary education. Thanks to the partnership between Arizona GEAR UP and College Success Arizona, high school juniors and seniors across the state can receive free career and…
Arizona GEAR UP facilitated the College, Career, and Academic Planning course for Arizona educators this spring. Program Manager of Senior Year Services Daniel Pulu led the group of College Access Professionals (CAP) in a four-session course that focused on engaging students in early career awareness and development; supporting students in career and postsecondary planning; using data to address equity and to guide academic and career planning; and the importance of postsecondary choices and finding the right postsecondary fit. “One of…
La primavera marca una época muy ocupada para los estudiantes del último año de high school, así como para sus padres. Su hijo puede saber hacia dónde se dirige para alcanzar sus metas, pero Arizona GEAR UP quiere ayudarlos con detalles importantes antes de que comience su nueva aventura. Los entrenadores de GEAR UP están disponibles durante el verano para ayudar a los estudiantes, y también a sus padres. ¿No sabe con quién hablar? Consulte la lista de entrenadores de…
Spring marks a busy time for high school seniors and their parents/guardians. Your child may know where they’re headed to reach their goals, but Arizona GEAR UP wants to help with important details before the new adventure begins. GEAR UP Coaches are available during the summer to help students and parents/guardians, too. Don’t know who to talk to? Check out the list of our GEAR UP Coaches working with each of our schools. Summer Checklist Check admissions materials for any…
Moving to a new school can be a challenge, even more, when it's in a new country. Jakelline Rodriguez moved to San Luis, Arizona, from Mexicali, Mexico, when she was a high school freshman. English is a second language for Jakelline, and when she moved to the U.S, she wanted to focus on learning English and keep up with her classes. As a result, she didn't get very involved with GEAR UP at San Luis High School until her senior…
Exams can cause a lot of stress, but we’re here to help make it a little easier with our top 5 tips to prepare. Keep up in class. First on the list—show up and pay attention. Class time also provides a chance to ask questions if you need help. Take notes, too. This helps you retain new material. Need help with note-taking techniques? Check out these strategies. Study the material. Next, complete all assigned reading, which is key to learning…
Arizona GEAR UP will host a FREE Virtual Leadership Academy & Technology Camp June 7 – 11. We even provide gift certificates for lunch during this week-long event. The only requirement is students must attend one of our Achieve60 Schools or one of our 5E Partner Schools. Space is limited, but we need your help in spreading the word. In previous years, Arizona GEAR UP invited rising 10th graders to Northern Arizona University mountain campus for a weeklong experiential camp to learn more…
Arizona K12 Center Math Institute Through high-quality professional development, the Arizona K12 Center helps educators improve teaching skills and enhance leadership abilities. During the pandemic, it more important than ever to stay connected and receive support from other educators. You still have time to registers for the April 27 session of GEAR UP Math Institute. This session is the last of a series, but it will give you a taste of more to come this summer. During this learning opportunity,…
Arizona GEAR UP just launched an innovative college and career readiness guide targeted at parents. Yes, that’s right, we want to make sure parents also have the tools they need to help their children soar into the future. The Discover Parent Guide complements the Discover Guide, which is a college readiness and exploration manual for middle school students. The Discover Parent Guide builds awareness for parents regarding postsecondary options and attainment. Additionally, the guide provides developmental benchmarks for students from middle school through…
Hector Araujo Is one of the first alumni to come out of Arizona GEAR UP, and he continues to represent GEAR UP on a national level. Hector was first introduced to GEAR UP as a student at Kino Junior High in Mesa, Arizona. In previous grant cycles, Arizona GEAR UP worked in a cohort model that followed a class from middle school through high school graduation. On his first day of 8th grade, Hector made his way to the GEAR…
Paying for college may cost a lot less than you think thanks to scholarships and financial aid, and the first step starts with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Simply put, fill out the form and earn free money for college. Based on FAFSA applications, students receive over $120 billion of funding each year. The application opened in October, but if you hurry, you still have time to fill out the form. Colleges and universities use this application…
Making plans following high school often causes anxiety for families and students alike. Everyone tosses around so many terms, which causes even more stress. Arizona GEAR UP wants to help simplify the jargon, so we boiled down some of the most common terms below. Postsecondary Education: think of it as any education or training after high school. Several options include four-year universities, community colleges, certificate programs, trade schools, or the military. But now we’ve thrown more terms at you. No…
Hacer planes para después de high school le suele causar ansiedad tanto a las familias como a los estudiantes. Todo mundo arrojándoles términos por todos lados, lo que causa aún más estrés. Arizona GEAR UP quiere ayudar a simplificar este vocabulario, así que resumimos algunos de los términos más comunes a continuación. Educación superior: considérenlo como cualquier educación o formación después de high school. Varias opciones incluyen universidades de 4 años, colegios comunitarios, programas de certificación, escuelas vocacionales o las…
When we ask alumni about their experience with Arizona GEAR UP, we hear things like, “my coach never gave up on me,” or “as a first-gen student, they helped me with college applications,” and one of our favorites, “without my coach’s support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.” Throughout this grant cycle, we will shine a light on our frontline workers—school coaches. They remain vital to the success of GEAR UP programs across the nation, and coaches tirelessly help…
“Put yourself out there and go for whatever you want.” This sage advice comes from Arizona GEAR UP alumna, Porsche Fellers, who just finished up the fall semester of her junior year at the University of Arizona. Beginning in the spring semester, Porsche will begin nursing school at Northern Arizona University on the Tucson campus. She expects to graduate in spring 2023. Porsche graduated from Lee Williams High School in Kingman, and got involved with Arizona GEAR UP in seventh…
To align with the Achieve60AZ attainment goals, Arizona GEAR UP identified 41 under-served Arizona schools—our A60 schools—to help high school seniors put postsecondary plans into action. In addition, we provide CAP training, free of charge, to educators in these schools. Now, it’s time to sign up. All the courses will offer online asynchronous learning, so you can learn at your own pace. Additionally, the group will meet once a week for about an hour for an informal discussion. Space is…
By: Robert Neese, executive director Arizona GEAR UP Resilience can help us successfully adapt to adversity, stress, tragedy, or trauma. When you think of resilience, you may consider “the ability to bounce back.” The concept may seem complex, but let’s simplify our ideas by using a rubber band metaphor. Rubber bands, like people, come in different shapes and sizes and are subject to different situations and expectations. Rubber bands are made through a process called vulcanization, which builds up the…
When was the last time someone wanted your opinion? Well, that’s exactly what Arizona GEAR UP needs, and we’ll even throw in an honorarium as a little incentive. We need to form a committee of diverse perspectives to help gauge whether or not our grant is meeting the needs of our students—what works, what needs improving. The Arizona GEAR UP Participatory Evaluation & Sustainability (PES) Team only meets a few times a year, so there’s no huge commitment. You may…
It’s never too early to prepare for college, which is why Arizona GEAR UP created the Discover Guide. Once eighth graders in our targeted schools receive the guide, they will explore college and career plans. Teachers and students also benefit from instructional videos. Honing in on interests, passions, and abilities, the guide uses step-by-step activities to help students explore how these aptitudes can propel potential career possibilities. Along the way, students discover a postsecondary path and the steps to get…
PSAT/NMSQT/ACT/SAT. No, not a big bowl of alphabet soup, but what the heck does it all mean? First, these jumbled letters all translate to different kinds of standardized college tests. We’ll explain each one, give you a few pointers, and show you how doing well can help you earn money for college. Let’s start with the PSAT/NMSQT, which stands for the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test and the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Whew, grab a napkin because that’s a mouthful. …
Arizona GEAR UP created the Senior Launch Guide Video Series to supplement the Senior Launch Guide, which offers tons of resources for students to explore postsecondary opportunities. The Guide provides students with information regarding education and training after high school, including four-year universities, community college, technical school, the workforce, or the military. Thanks to The Helios Education Foundation, seniors across Arizona receive the Guide, which supports Achieve60AZ's goal for 60% of Arizona adults to hold a postsecondary credential or degree…
Arizona GEAR UP partners with Be A Leader Foundation to increase postsecondary enrollment and reduce the attainment gap for underrepresented students through mentorship and leadership development. Be A Leader also works with school counselors on capacity building and engages students using a case-management approach to customize support with the college and financial aid application process. Since 2006, Be A Leader has created college-going programs for Arizona youth. It designs each program to strengthen school resources while it focuses on building…
1. Fill out the FAFSA. FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid®. The FAFSA will determine what federal financial aid you will receive, like grants, work-study, and loans. Also, many states and colleges use this data to award their own aid. Grants generally depend on financial need, and you won’t repay grants. So, that’s like getting free money. Federal work-study provides part-time employment while enrolled in college. Federal loans come in several varieties, but Direct Subsidized Loans…
1. Llena el formulario FAFSA. FAFSA son las siglas en inglés de Free Application for Federal Student Aid®. El FAFSA determinará qué ayuda financiera federal recibirás, tales como subvenciones, estudio-trabajo y préstamos. Además, muchos estados y universidades utilizan estos datos para otorgar su propia ayuda. Las subvenciones generalmente dependen de la necesidad financiera y no las tienes que pagar. Así que es como obtener dinero gratis. El programa federal de estudio-trabajo proporciona empleo de tiempo parcial mientras estás inscrito en…
English Perform well on these tests—it could mean $$$ for college. 5 Tips for Test Success: 1. Learn the format of each test. 2. Check out study guides or take a prep class. 3. Set a target score you’d like to achieve. 4. Take an official practice test before studying. 5. Analyze your mistakes & keep practicing. Talk to your GEAR UP Coach if you have questions. You may also get a fee waiver if needed. Español Obtén buenos resultados…
Arizona GEAR UP aligns with Achieve60AZ goals to help ensure that by 2030, 60% of Arizona adults will hold a postsecondary credential or degree. To that end, we identified 41 under-served high schools across the state to provide targeted services to seniors. As we come together, Arizona seniors will soar to success. Arizona GEAR UP refers to these 41 schools as our A60 schools. Our Senior Services Manager Daniel Pulu coordinates services from the state office. Thanks to the Helios…
Arizona GEAR UP maintains close relationships with our 5E Schools, which include Amphitheater High School, Buckeye Union High School, Coronado High School, Tonopah Valley High School, and Youngker High School. As we all know, this year presented challenges beyond our imagination. Even though the 5E High Schools remain virtual, GEAR UP Coaches make sure to keep parents and students informed. Thanks to their dedication, students can achieve success in the pursuit of postsecondary education. Also, our GEAR UP school teams…
Gracias a la colaboración entre nuestras escuelas 5E y nuestros socios comunitarios, Arizona GEAR UP ayuda a los estudiantes y sus familias a prepararse para sus planes de educación superior. Sabemos que uno de los mayores obstáculos es el costo de una educación universitaria. Afortunadamente, existe ayuda en forma de becas y asistencia financiera. Pero ¿por dónde empezar? El Formulario Gratuito de Ayuda Financiera Federal para Estudiantes (FAFSA®) se abrió en octubre y cuanto más temprano presenten su solicitud, es…
Thanks to the partnership of our 5E Schools and community partners, Arizona GEAR UP helps students and families get ready for postsecondary plans. We know one of the biggest hurdles is the price tag of a college education. Luckily, help exists in the form of scholarships and financial aid. But where to start? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) opened in October, and the earlier students apply, the more likely they will receive FREE money for postsecondary education.…
Arizona GEAR UP alumna Jennifer Jaimes Gomez graduated from Mohave High School in 2018. Currently, she attends Arizona State University and studies elementary education, with plans to teach in her community one day. Jennifer first joined GEAR UP in 2012 as part of the 2012-19 grant cycle that followed a cohort model and worked with students from middle school through their first year of college. "In middle school, it was more getting to know college terms and becoming familiar with…
Dawson Williams is a Junior at Northern Arizona University and says his time in Arizona GEAR UP helped him get to where he is today. Dawson grew up in Bullhead City, Arizona, where he was first introduced to GEAR UP in middle school and began learning about postsecondary education. Dawson's school was a part of the 2012 grant cycle that followed a cohort from middle school through their first year in postsecondary education. In high school, Dawson was exposed to…
COVID-19 has shifted the way people go about their daily lives. From home life to work life, everyone adjusted routines. A survey taken in June from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has shown that 40.9% of people surveyed have experienced some form of mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. While it’s natural to feel stressed and anxious in challenging times, mental health experts recommend acknowledging and accepting these feelings as they arise. Understanding and taking care…
Arizona GEAR UP alumna Rachell Peña graduated from San Luis High School in 2018, and now has big plans for the future. Rachell got involved with Arizona GEAR UP during her freshman year in high school. “It’s a very beneficial program, and everyone who can take part should take full advantage,” Rachell said. “GEAR UP helped me with applying for college and scholarships and all those details I didn’t know about since my mom hadn’t gone to college.” At a…
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey issued a proclamation announcing Sept. 21-25 as GEAR UP Week, honoring commemorates the continuing success of Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP), a national program intended to help increase high school graduation rates and college attainment for students in low-income communities. The proclamation coincides with the celebration of National GEAR UP Week. GEAR UP is a federally funded program that aims to foster partnerships and collaborations between NAU, high-poverty high schools and…
