GEAR UP Project Summary

GEAR UP, which stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, is a federal program whose mission is to significantly increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. The State of Hawai'i GEAR UP program is a consortium of partners that include the State of Hawai'i Department of Education, the University of Hawaii's ten-campus system and many other community partners. GEAR UP serves low-income students statewide and through schools in low-income communities. Project activities aim to increase access to higher education for Hawai‘i students by providing information and encouragement for students and families, supporting students' academic preparation, and increasing students' access to financial aid.

GEAR UP at Leeward Community College

Leeward Community College joined the state’s GEAR UP initiative in 2005. As a project partner, Leeward CC services target students in the communities of Ewa Beach, Waipahu, Waialua, Nanakuli, Waianae and Wahiawa to help familiarize them with college and to increase their ability to access it. Leeward CC, in partnership with a number of community organizations and businesses, provides various activities designed to support students’ as they approach, enter into and then continue in higher education. The GEAR UP Project at Leeward CC is scheduled to continue through 2011.

Past Activities

• Freshman Summer Day Camp (June 19 - 21, 2007)

GEAR UP Forms

• Sign-In Sheet (pdf)