The
GEAR-UP program has gained awareness at the college and among undergraduate
students by encouraging and aiding students to enroll in college.
Mariza Pierce, team manager for the program, encourages seventh-grade
students from different school districts to go to college. This particular
program follows the students from grades seven to twelve.
Teachers, parents and students work together to accomplish the dream
of students passing the TAKS (Texas Assessment Knowledge and Skill).
The program, teaches students that odds can be overcome and it is
never too early to plan for a college education. It informs parents
of the many ways their children can obtain funding through grants,
scholarships, and financial aid.
Middle schools in Clint, Anthony, Canutillo, Tornillo, and Fabens
participate in the grant sponsored program.
The program has 979 students, said Davette E. Alonzo, GEAR-UP program
guidance assistant at EPCC. “Students are encouraged to go to
college because of the uniqueness that it brings them, so they know
that college is available to them,” said Alonzo.
