A graduate of Taft 7-12 School in Lincoln City, Samantha Kuk credits an 8th grade GEAR UP class as a starting point in her college journey that has taken her to the University of Oregon.
At Newport High School, former student, coach, counselor and now administrator, Reyna Mattson knows firsthand the importance of building relationships with students and encouraging them to meet their potential.
Who says college and career readiness can't be fun? At Lorna Byrne Middle School, students put their knowledge to the test as part of a college and career carnival, complete with prizes.
A dedicated counselor and long-time GEAR UP team member turned coordinator, Kirsten Wright helps students at Stanfield Secondary School plan their futures.
GEAR UP schools foster a college-going culture with regularly scheduled college t-shirt days that encourage students to reach higher and involve staff in communicating the expectation of higher education.
Thanks to a partnership with the Portland Timbers, 100 students from 5 high schools learned about the variety of career options available as part of a professional sports organization.