Gear Up News

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It's National GEAR UP Week so we're celebrating the great work of our educators, students and families with programs across the country.   See More 2015-16 Highlights   News & Research Community College Students Face Longer Road to Completion A new survey reveals that a large percentage of associate degree earners — more than 31% — take more than six years to complete a degree, while 37% of four-year college graduates finish in four years. Students who attend for-profit schools take far longer to complete than not-for-profit colleges. College Is Still the Promised Land for High-School Students An annual survey of young adults shows that 90 percent of high-school students aspire to complete a college degree or certificate program. However, a lack of college guidance counselors, especially for low-income students, makes it difficult to make reality. The Importance of Pronouncing Names Correctly A study found that a teacher's failure to pronounce a name correctly impacts the world view and social emotional well-being of students which is linked to learning.   Resources Featured GEAR UP Resource: College Fit Toolkit Where students enroll can be just as important as if they enroll. Students are more likely to complete college if they attend an institution that fits their social, academic and financial needs. Use the toolkit and accompanying activities to learn strategies to explore the importance of college fit in every stage of the college choice process for students in middle school through 12th grade. NCAN'S Early Awareness Middle Grades Resources A compilation of resources for college access professionals and educators working with middle school students and their families. Next Steps for Students Affected by For-Profit College Closures Students who were attending for-profit colleges that shut down, such as ITT Tech, can be matched with experienced financial aid and academic counselors throughout the country who can provide critical guidance as they determine how best to continue their studies. Funding Opportunities   The Carpenter Foundation Grants within Jackson and Josephine Counties related to human services, education, arts, scholarships and other activities related to public interest. Board meets quarterly to review proposals.     Professional Development Oregon Public University Counselor Conferences Oregon's seven public universities are hosting a series of four counselor conferences to share information about new programs and policies as well as changes to federal and state financial aid. Cost is $25 and includes lunch. October 11 - Western Oregon University, Monmouth October 12 - University of Oregon, Eugene October 20 - Southern Oregon University, Ashland October 21 - OSU-Cascades, Bend Scholarships Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards Open to graduating high school seniors of Hispanic/Latino descent who have demonstrated leadership in the classroom and community and for their focus in various categories including: Business & Entrepreneurship, Community Service, Education, Engineering, Healthcare & Science, and Mathematical Science. Due October 2 College JumpStart Scholarship A merit-based scholarship that is open to 10th-12th graders, college students and non-traditional students that can express their goals for getting a higher education. Due October 17 Events College Goal Oregon Free events designed to help Oregon college-bound students and their families with the financial aid application process. Financial aid professionals will be on hand to help attendees complete the FAFSA and the OSAC scholarship application. Check their website for locations and dates.