By Staff Reports

The Crenshaw County Commission recognized the efforts of GEAR UP Achieve, a federally funded initiative led by Auburn University to increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education, at the commission’s recent meeting, held Oct. 28 at the Crenshaw County Courthouse.

Commissioners Robert “Bo” Mount, Raymond McGough, Charley Sankey, Merrill Sport and Stallion Sasser presented a proclamation in honor of National GEAR UP Week to GEAR UP Achieve Region 11 School Liaison Susan Hudspeth. Crenshaw County

College and Career Coach Haley Kilcrease and Crenshaw County Board of Education Administrator Ashley Catrett joined Hudspeth in accepting the proclamation.

The goal of National GEAR UP Week, which was held Sept. 23 – 27, is to raise

awareness about the positive impact of GEAR UP in local communities. The initiative serves eighth grade students at three Crenshaw County schools – Brantley High School, Highland Home School and Luverne High School. 

The students, part of

a cohort that includes nearly 7,000 students in 29 counties across Alabama, will receive services from GEAR UP Achieve through their senior year of high school and into their first year of postsecondary education.

“It’s a pleasure and an honor to serve these students,” Hudspeth said. “To have the

support of our county leaders and local community means a great deal as we work together to make a difference in students’ lives.”

Established in fall 2023 at Auburn University, GEAR UP Achieve is a seven-year grant designed to help ensure greater postsecondary access and success for cohort students.

Scholarships to accredited institutions of higher education will be available to students who complete the GEAR UP Achieve program.

Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is a federally funded initiative designed to increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. With a range of services

offered, GEAR UP aims to support students, families and schools through access to rigorous coursework that prepares students for postsecondary success; assisting students in postsecondary preparation; advising students to support postsecondary

aspirations; and increasing funding awareness and helping to navigate financial aid.