Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) (Student Services and Federal Programs Division)

Initiative: To implement a program at Middleton High School to increase parental involvement within the school setting.

Goals:

To create a meeting/training time that would benefit parents

To increase parental involvement at Middleton

To create training seminars for parents

To create events that showcase what students could do in the future, as well as talents and diversity within the school

To create parent liaisons to help with communication to all parents of 11th and 12th grade students at Middleton

To help foster a “family” environment at Middleton where a logo is “family first”

Targeted Population: Current cohort of 11th and 12th grade students at Middleton High School.

Timeline: GEAR UP began in 2006 at Ferrell and Pierce middle schools with 7th and 8th grade students and follows these students as they transition to high school. The students are followed through graduation at Leto and Middleton high schools.

Staff Development: The staff has received training in GEAR UP, service learning, AVID, Advanced Placement, and guidance by College Board, AVID Center, and district trainers through the HCPS Professional Development System.

Transferability: GEAR UP is a grant awarded specifically for students attending Ferrell and Pierce middle schools who transition to Middleton and Leto high schools. The grant is currently in the fifth year.

Continued on attachment.

* Increase promotion rates at all grade levels and the percentage of high school graduates, * Motivate students to become responsible learners, * Challenge and support all students with an appropriate curriculum, * Align the performance management system with the district’s priorities, * Promote a culture of safety, which is free from harassment, bullying, and aggression, * Demonstrate "best practices" in all aspects of safety including students, employees, visitors, facilities, transportation, and health