Oregon GEAR UP

"I love our College & Career Center!" says Wendy Eilers, the GEAR UP coordinator in Lebanon. "It is colorful, bright, and full of information. Our students enjoy having a place of their own, and staff members and visitors frequently comment on what a great space it is."

Educators from GEAR UP schools have to agree; 18 traveled from across the state to see it in action and learn how Lebanon High School transformed the space to one that is comfortable and well-used.

The entrance and hallway welcomes students to consider a variety of postsecondary options.

The goal was to have multiple areas available for student use. There are now several comfy seating areas, a TV that runs announcements and educational shows, numerous computers, tables and chairs for students to work at and tons of informational bulletin boards (thanks Pinterest!) on the walls and in the hallways.

Comfortable seating and plenty of computers for students during College Application Week.

The space is staffed by Eilers as well as the counseling secretary so there is always an adult present and the room can remain open for a variety of uses. "We have an average of 30-40 students that use it daily," says Eilers. "We also house our peer tutors in this area so they are readily available for any student who needs homework help throughout the day or after school. We host many college reps, military recruiters and people coming in to talk about their careers. We also allow students to host club meetings in this room. We have a projector for presentations, and tons of room to host larger groups."

Our students enjoy having a place of their own, and staff members and visitors frequently comment on what a great space it is. This is by far one of the best things we have done with GEAR UP funds.

A packed presentation with the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest.

Want to create or revamp your school's space like Lebanon High School? Make a plan with our College & Career Center Toolkit.