(Washington, DC) – Hector Garza, head of the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP), said today, “Despite Administration rhetoric about the importance of educational achievement to the social well being and economic competitiveness of our country, the White House budget released today actually eliminates a critical education program – GEAR UP – which ensures that close to one-and-a-half million low-income middle and high school students have the tools they need to excel academically.”

GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a successful partnership between the federal government, schools, colleges, universities, businesses, and communities. GEAR UP works with entire classrooms of low-income children, guiding them to make the academic choices that prepare them for success in high school and college. GEAR UP currently serves approximately 1.5 million students nationwide.

In response to the budget recommendations, Congressman Chaka Fattah, the chief architect of GEAR UP says, “America has always invested in its children and we must continue to do so. Since the inception of the program, some 3 million low income students have been academically prepared for college thru the GEAR UP program. By cutting funds to a program that has proven successful, this Administration turns that dream into a nightmare. That is both illogical and irresponsible.”

“By proposing to eliminate this vital program, the Administration is demonstrating an unconscionable lack of concern for students and families from low-income and working class communities who depend on GEAR UP for a better future. Just as baffling is the Administration’s failure to understand that GEAR UP is realizing their stated educational goals. Eliminating GEAR UP and proposing new programs is not just inefficient—it jeopardizes the progress made to date and the ongoing efforts in hundreds of communities nationwide,” said Garza.

GEAR UP currently provides professional development to tens of thousands of teachers, ensures that students take and succeed in more rigorous coursework, and affords schools and universities the tools to better service students who need assistance.

The Berea College GEAR UP Partnership works with a cohort of 3500 students (primarily 6th and 7th graders) in Madison, Jackson, Estill, Lee and Rockcastle Counties.