Appalachian State University's Office of Rural Promise has been awarded a substantial $35 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education. This significant federal funding is designated for the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, known as GEAR UP, and will be administered over a period of seven years. The grant aims to significantly expand college access services for students and their families across six rural counties, which include Avery, Surry, and Yadkin.
The program is designed to deliver a broad spectrum of services to these communities. Corinne Smith, Deputy Director of the Office of Rural Promise, emphasized the tangible benefits for participants. She stated that students who meet a defined series of qualifications for admission to the UNC system are also guaranteed admission to Appalachian State University, providing a clear pathway to higher education for those in the program.
Smith highlighted the profound impact the program has already had on individuals. She recounted receiving numerous direct phone calls to her office from students, parents, and school counselors, many of whom were emotional. These callers, Smith noted, shared stories of how impactful the program was for their students, particularly because they "truly believed that they were not college material." This sentiment underscores the program's role in changing perceptions and building confidence among aspiring college students in rural areas.
A key component of GEAR UP's strategy involves early intervention and exposure to higher education environments. The program facilitates college campus visits for students beginning as early as 6th grade. This proactive approach helps younger students to envision the possibility of pursuing higher education earlier in their lives, fostering aspirations and providing guidance long before college application processes begin.
The effectiveness of these efforts is supported by recent data. According to available information, participating schools have achieved impressive graduation rates, standing at 98 percent. This figure notably exceeds the statewide average, indicating a significant positive outcome for students engaged in the GEAR UP program within these rural communities. The sustained federal investment through this seven-year grant is poised to continue these services, further supporting educational pathways and opportunities for rural students in the region.
