Toolkits

Developed yearly by the statewide initiatives efforts of the Texas GEAR UP grant,  GEAR UP toolkits provide multimedia materials to any interested public school, university outreach office, community group or education partner about a variety of topics related to college and career readiness. Toolkits have been made available in past years via training sessions around the state with guidance counselors and college readiness directors. This website will be offering the archived materials and the newest toolkit in a downloadable format, making access more portable and available to a larger number of users.

Created for use in any public venue, the materials are designed to illustrate the many activities available for districts and post-secondary institutions when working with students and parents to plan and access information about college.

Available in English and in Spanish, the toolkits feature DVDs and print materials that make presentations to large and small groups an easier task.

GEAR UP Toolkits

The Texas GEAR UP program has developed a number of multimedia toolkits for statewide distribution over the years. Below is a brief overview of each toolkit's content and themes.

College Planning Portfolio (Released in 2006-2007)
Includes two different GEAR UP College Planning Portfolios: one for presenters, the other for students and parents. Presenter's Portfolio includes videos and resource materials that help students and parents prepare for college. The Student/Parent Portfolio is a handy tool for secondary students to collect materials they'll need in the college admission process.

Ready for College (Released in 2005-2006)
Stresses the importance of early planning and preparation for any student who wants to pursue higher education. Designed for use by secondary school counselors and other facilitators in meetings with students and parents.

Transitions (Released in 2004-2005)
Explores transitions students must make as they advance in their educational journey, including the transition from middle school to high school, and high school to college. Videos and resource materials are designed as discussion starters in meetings with parents and students.

Beyond High School (Released in 2003-2004)
Videos, discussion guides and reference materials that help educators encourage students to set personal and career goals and prepare for higher education.

Education Partners (Released in 2002-2003)
A sampling of successful partnership programs that schools in Texas formed with parents, businesses, universities and others in the community. Designed for administrators, curriculum directors and other district decision-makers, toolkit includes video highlights and background information for each featured program. 

Pathways to Success (Released in 2001-2002)
Toolkit materials explore parental involvement and college readiness. Videos are excellent discussion starters in meetings with parents and students.