March 6, 2019

Name: Shawn Franks
School: Umatilla High School
Position: Alternative Ed Assistant, GEAR UP Coordinator
College Alma Mater: ITT Technical: Degree in Multi-Media/Graphic Design
One fun fact about you: I have a beautiful wife, an amazing son, and I help mentor the FIRST Robotics Team: Confidential 4125!

Describe an aspect of your educational journey.
I grew up with very little support from home, I learned at a young age that if I wanted or needed anything that I could only depend on myself to make it happen. School was important, it was my pathway out of hard situations and circumstances. I graduated from college and continued on with my career by making a plan, taking advantage of every opportunity, and knowing that we all take responsibility for leading the lives we live.

Share one way that GEAR UP has made a difference in your school or community.
I think the biggest impact that GEAR UP has made in our district is that the conversation and planning of life AFTER high school starts younger and is constant. 7-12 grade students know that we, as staff, are willing to help support every plan or try to help them find every opportunity that we can.