Seminole State College has released its annual progress report on the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) Dreamcatcher grant, which concluded in 2024 after seven years. The federal grant, awarded in 2017, provided critical college readiness, career exploration and academic achievement support to approximately 1,000 area students annually.
The Dreamcatcher GEAR UP grant funded six full-time positions, enabling SSC to deliver a wide range of services to students and schools within its five-county service area. Program offerings included college campus visits, free tutoring, career guidance, mentorship programs and financial aid workshops for students and families. The grant also supported scholarships for participants and provided partner schools with professional development, resources and guidance in implementing Individualized Career and Academic Plans (ICAPs).
To ensure equitable access, SSC provided students with 24/7 online tutoring services through Tutor.com. These services proved critical for academic success and preparation for college entrance exams, particularly for underserved communities. Students also benefited from unlimited ACT testing vouchers, which removed financial barriers to college admission tests.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, GEAR UP staff pivoted to online services, redirecting funds previously allocated for travel and in-person events toward postsecondary enrollment assistance. These adjustments ensured students continued to receive vital support during a challenging period.
The program achieved substantial improvements across key areas, including a 35 percent increase in the number of students completing pre-algebra by the end of eighth grade. Graduation rates among GEAR UP participants ranged from 98 to 100 percent, with 99 to 100 percent of students advancing to the next grade level on time. More than 80 percent of participants also reported plans to attend college, reflecting the program’s success in fostering aspirations for higher education.
The grant made a significant impact on partner schools, providing funding for equipment, professional development and individualized support for educators. GEAR UP coordinators worked closely with school counselors to streamline ICAP implementation, fostering academic success and enhancing college preparedness for students.
“This report showcases the tremendous impact of the GEAR UP Dreamcatcher grant on our students, families and community,” SSC Vice President of Finance, Grants and Enrollment Melanie Rinehart said. “We’d like to thank former GEAR UP Director Julie Hix for her five years of dedication and work on this grant. Her hard work played an essential role in preparing students not only for college, but also to enter the workforce. We are fortunate to have Julie continuing her service to SSC in her current role as Comptroller.”
In September of 2024, SSC received a new Believe and Achieve GEAR UP grant, backed by $6.5 million in federal funding over seven years. This grant will expand services to approximately 1,168 students across 12 school districts, introducing new program elements such as a partnership with Texas Instruments to provide advanced technology resources. The grant will also fund research in collaboration with CoBro Consulting to assess and enhance program outcomes.
For more information about Seminole State College’s GEAR UP program, visit sscok.edu.