Fuhrmann, who was the grant's primary author, realized the dire need for this type of program and wasted no time in bringing the ideas into the classroom. I'm terribly excited about the program. This gives us an opportunity to have a significant impact on a large number of children who might have been overlooked. In the program's first three months, two parent workshops have been held to introduce the GEAR UP project and to educate parents about their roles and responsibilities in preparation for the Iowa Test. We are teaching the parents the importance of becoming involved and their roles in the test-taking process.
Students do better when their parents are involved.
After-school tutorial sessions are being held for students in preparation for the Iowa Test and LSU education students have been tutoring GEAR UP participants on a daily basis. More projects, counselors, coordinators, participants and parents will be incorporated into the program in the next four years, Smith said. GEAR UP BR anticipates following a total of 1,750 students during its five-year duration. Even during the summer months, the students will have opportunities to stay focused on their education. Students who excel in leadership or demonstrate the potential of academic leadership during the school year will be invited to participate in the summer program.