Chattanooga, TN – According to the state officials, the seven-year grant, which will run from September 2024 through September 2031, is aimed at enhancing college readiness and success for students in Tennessee, particularly those from underserved and at-risk communities.
Administered by THEC, the GEAR UP TN program seeks to improve academic performance, high school graduation rates, postsecondary enrollment, and family awareness regarding higher education options, preparation, and financing.
The program is expected to serve around 9,000 students, starting with 1,600 seventh graders from the Class of 2030, who will receive support through their first year of college.
An additional cohort from the Class of 2031 will receive assistance through their senior year of high school, alongside 1,450 priority seniors receiving targeted services over the final five years of the grant.
This grant marks the fourth GEAR UP award secured by THEC since 2005, bringing the total investment to $109.7 million. Over the past three grant periods, GEAR UP TN has directly impacted more than 66,000 students across 39 counties statewide.