GEAR UP

In 2001-2003, in partnership with the School District of Philadelphia, PHENND offered some coordination services under the auspices of the GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) Program.  The goal of GEAR UP is to help low-income students attend college by doing intensive college awareness programming beginning while students are in middle school.  As part of GEAR UP, various colleges and universities provided services to local public schools, through summer and after school programming, teacher professional development, and enhanced college site visits.  During this time, PHENND coordinated monthly meetings of the various GEAR UP IHE (Institutions of Higher Education) partners to strengthen communication and coordination.  Participating IHE’s included Temple University, University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, La Salle University, Community College of Philadelphia, Rosemont College, and Valley Forge Military Academy.