About

GEAR UP helps the graduating classes of 2023 and 2024 develop the academic skills needed to enroll and succeed in postsecondary education.
A male teacher stands at the font of a classroom speaking to two male students sitting in chairs

Our Mission

Through a partnership with Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools, KU GEAR UP provides college and career readiness programming, academic support, and college financial planning that will empower families and educators to help KCKPS students succeed in a global society.
A group of three female studnets stand at a college info table

Our Students

GEAR UP is funded to serve all current students in the graduating classes of 2023 and 2024 of the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools. The program serves all high schools including Sumner Academy.

Student Services

A room full of kids and adults sitting at tables raising their hands

Our Legacy

Across 44 states, GEAR UP programs are federally funded serving over 700,000 students. The University of Kansas established the first GEAR UP Program in Kansas City, KS, in 1999. Since then, GEAR UP has proudly supported more than 6,000 students through six GEAR UP grants.

Services

We offer a variety of services and resources that assist students with being college-ready.

  • Academic skill-building & advising
  • Summer camps
  • Enrichment activities
  • Campus visits & experiences
  • Career exploration
  • Financial literacy education
  • Parent retreats & skill-building workshops
  • Family events
  • Classroom assistance (mentor/tutor)
  • Instructional strategy & techniques
KU Center for Educational Opportunity Programs