Partnership Grant Projects

IDEA Public Schools GEAR UP

IDEA Public Schools
Weslaco, Texas

The goal of IDEA Public Schools GEAR UP is simple: to become the number-one producer of underrepresented college graduates in Texas. The project's approach begins with a secondary curriculum, created through a partnership with Texas A&M University. This curriculum focuses on college preparation across all subjects through participation in Advanced Placement courses and monthly “Road to College” workshops. A high emphasis is placed on college field lessons and education through the integration of current curriculum with outings to university campuses, museums and historical sites. These excursions provide real-world exposure to educational leadership and college culture, encouraging students to explore postsecondary opportunities (including out-of-state and Ivy League universities) that they may never otherwise consider.

Program Highlights

IDEA Public Schools GEAR UP partnered with Rice University to develop a student leadership conference that hosted more than 500 students. The conference recreated the college experience through participation in team-building activities and collegiate sporting events.

The launch of the project’s first Duke TIP Talent Search provided ACT test prep to 278 students—20% of whom received state recognition for outstanding performance.

The project's newly-implemented summer programming fosters growth in academics—with a focus on improving math and engineering, as well as literacy. The most recent camp offered leadership workshops presented by the National Hispanic Institute to more than 600 students. Attendees were introduced to the work of Stephen Covey, author of author of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.

Years of Grant: 2012-2019
ESC Region(s): Region 1
Students Served: 1,500