Who We Are
GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a federally funded college and career readiness program dedicated to helping students prepare for success in high school, higher education, and future careers. Through academic support, mentoring, tutoring, leadership development, college exploration, and family engagement, GEAR UP empowers students to achieve their educational goals and reach their full potential. James Madison University proudly partners with Staunton City Schools to deliver GEAR UP services to a cohort of middle and high school students. The program follows students from Shelburne Middle School through Staunton High School and into their first year of postsecondary education, providing continuous support throughout their educational journey.
Our goal is to increase college and career readiness, improve high school graduation rates, reduce barriers to educational success, and help every student envision and achieve a successful future.
What We Do
GEAR UP provides comprehensive academic, college, and career readiness services that help students successfully prepare for life after high school. We support students through tutoring, mentoring, academic enrichment activities, leadership development, career exploration, and college preparation programs designed to build confidence, skills, and future opportunities. Our program offers college campus visits, field trips, workshops, after-school activities, and summer programs that expose students to a variety of educational and career pathways. We help students develop study skills, set academic and personal goals, explore career interests, and understand the steps needed to pursue higher education. In addition to supporting students, GEAR UP works closely with families and guardians by providing resources and guidance on college admissions, financial aid, scholarships, and postsecondary planning. Through strong partnerships with schools, families, and communities, we strive to ensure that every student has the knowledge, support, and opportunities needed to succeed in college, careers, and life.
