Board to consider $264,790 Gear Up action plan as program supports 11th graders
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Summary
The district requested approval of a year-5 GEAR UP action plan and budget totaling $264,790.55 to support college and career readiness for 11th-graders, including visits, counseling and workshops; staff said the program has expanded visits to HBCUs and other college exposure.
The board heard a presentation and request to move a GEAR UP grant action plan and budget for the 2025-26 school year forward for approval.
Nicole Singer, the district's GEAR UP lead, asked the board to approve an action plan and a budget of $264,790.55. The statewide GEAR UP program focuses on improving equitable college access and success by increasing student achievement, building college-going cultures and creating community supports. The district's GEAR UP program is in its fifth grant year and the administration said the 2025-26 plan centers on 11th-grade readiness, encouragement of additional math coursework, STEM-identity activities and leadership opportunities.
Singer highlighted recent program activities including a trip to Morgan State University (an HBCU), ongoing counseling and academic support, mentoring and scheduled college and career fairs. The program also plans visits to other campuses and hands-on events for students and families.
The committee moved the grant action plan and budget forward to the regular board meeting for final approval.
Ending: The item was advanced for full-board action; the administration said the district's GEAR UP work has met state expectations and that staff will continue program activities described in the action plan.