Idaho Support Programs

GEAR UP

Offered By: Idaho Department of Education

GEAR UP Idaho focuses on early planning and strategies to help you get ready for college.

GEAR UP will help you meet the standards necessary for high school graduation and provide you with the skills necessary to succeed beyond high school.

GEAR UP students create a six year learning plan and take common college and work-preparatory classes. Course work will include additional and/or more rigorous math, English, and science courses.

GEAR UP will advise you and your family of advanced learning opportunities available in Idaho, Financial Aid resources, and college access issues that will prepare your entire family for the transition to college.

GEAR UP will provide an opportunity for you to demonstrate your ability to succeed in college and the option to gain college credits while in high school.

The GEAR UP program provides services to selected public schools in Idaho with a student population where 50% or more qualify for free or reduced lunch under the National School Lunch Act. The cohort model of GEAR UP serves students beginning in seventh grade and follows them through high school. The majority of GEAR UP students come from rural communities in Idaho. GEAR UP schools were selected based on eligibility, a completed application process, level of need, willingness to participate in the program, and consideration of equal demographic and geographic distribution.

GEAR UP Provides to Participating Schools and Students:
Regional coordinators and site coordinators to implement program activities and services within the schools; funds available to reimburse schools for costs associated with approved school-specific training and programs, college visits, and activities; considerations for 4-year renewable scholarships of $2,000/year based upon financial need, completion of rigorous coursework, and full participation in the GEAR UP program; and funding for GEAR UP students to prepare for and take the ACT.

To find out if your school has a GEAR UP program, contact your school counselor, or the program manager listed below.