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Since 2000, GEAR UP Virginia has worked to transform the lives of Virginia families and their communities by increasing the number of Virginians who have access to higher education.

GEAR UP is distinctive in that it is organized around the fundamental premise that college and career readiness should begin early. By engaging students in the middle grades and supporting them through high school and beyond, GEAR UP brings a comprehensive and systemic approach that has a sustained impact on schools.

The 2014-2021 GEAR UP Virginia grant realized significant gains in several metrics, including:

A 34.6% increase in the number of students successfully completing Algebra II.
A 6% increase in high school graduation rates.
An 11% increase in advanced diploma rates.
A 15% increase in college enrollment compared to the statewide average for low-income students.
An 18% increase in enrollment in AP and Dual Enrollment courses.

The first GEAR UP grant awarded to Virginia began in 2000 and served 12 school divisions across the Commonwealth (Accomack County, Buckingham County, Cumberland County, Dickenson County, Grayson County, Lunenburg County, City of Norfolk, Northampton County, Nottoway County, Prince Edward County, Sussex County and Washington County). GEAR UP Virginia (GUV) received the maximum grant—$10.4 million over the course of 5 years, which was the highest amount of any state.