GEAR UP, a Palomar College program that helps prepare middle and high school students for college, has received its grant renewal from the U.S. Department of Education covering until 2021.

GEAR UP reaches the college students of tomorrow by supporting students on their educational journey, and helping them with the next step in achieving their lifelong dreams.

The $1,190,400 grant supports the GEAR UP classrooms at Vista High, Rancho Buena Vista High, Fallbrook High, and Valley Center High, serving more than 3,300 students.

COVID-19 has caused the program to make a few minor changes. Under normal circumstances it gives students the opportunity to visit college and university campuses, providing the students a chance to interact with leadership groups and learn about different academic programs. Due to the social distancing guidelines that have been set, the program is offering its services remotely for now, including its student tutoring sessions.

GEAR UP’s goals remain the same in the midst of the pandemic, including:

· Increasing the enrollment of rigorous courses

· Increasing high school graduation rates

· Promoting successful enrollment in post-secondary education

· Increasing college degrees

· Supplying access to financial assistance for post-secondary education

The GEAR UP grant is scheduled to run until 2023 with funding renewed annually based on yearly performance. Students must meet the academic requirements and advance to the next grade level to be eligible for the grant renewal.