A federally funded national initiative, LA GEAR UP (Louisiana Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is supported by the U.S. Department of Education, which gives grants to states or institutions of higher learning to create partnerships with high-poverty middle or high schools.

This is the second GEAR UP grant awarded to the State of Louisiana. In 2002, the U.S. Department of Education awarded Louisiana a six-year, $12.5 million GEAR UP grant, which became a seven-year, $15 million award. In 2008, LA GEAR UP began a second six-year grant, this time for $18 million, with a cohort of 6th and 7th grade students. This cohort has now transitioned to 10th and 11th grades.

In partnership with 12 Louisiana parishes, LA GEAR UP aims to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education.

2012-13 LA GEAR UP Schools