About Us

GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a 7-year program sponsored by the United States Department of Education. Designed to increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education, GEAR UP provides grants to states and partnerships to provide services at target middle and high schools. GEAR UP grantees serve an entire cohort of students beginning no later than the seventh grade and follows the cohort through their first year of college.

GEAR UP is a seven-year project designed to enhance students’ academic success and college and career readiness. Students will explore the various educational and career options that are open to them. Highlights included various hands-on activities, college visits, career exploration and other activities to prepare them for post secondary education.

The mission of the Duval County Public Schools GEAR UP grant is to increase students’ aspirations toward high school and beyond and to create experiences that give students access to traditional/non-traditional postsecondary options.  It is our vision that every GEAR UP student has access to, attends, and graduates from a postsecondary institution receiving a certificate, degree, or specialized training and are thriving individuals in their respective communities. The Duval County Public Schools GEAR UP project follows two student cohorts— students in the graduating class of 2023 from select schools in the district; and students in the graduating class of 2027 attending select schools in the district.  The project supports students throughout their middle school and high school careers and helps support the students as they make the transition into higher education and career.

General questions, email gearup@duvalschools.org