What's more exciting than a night at the movie theater? Easy—a night where parents and their TXGU kids get to learn together at a movie theater. Or at least, one school's version of a theater. 

In this latest installment of the Texas GEAR UP In Action series, Region One ESC GEAR UP schools worked with their grant partners to screen some pretty great educational films on the subject of college preparedness that focused on family themes and cross-generational edification in convenient novela form, no less. That would have been more than impressive in and of itself...but as expected of GEAR UP educators, some schools went above and beyond the standard TV strapped to a cart, and all the way to the red carpet.

The novela screenings became extra-luxe, extra-hyped events aimed at two generations in two languages, with added silver-screen accessories like pickles and popcorn. One school even outfitted the football field with a giant inflatable projection screen. With the most recent novela telling the tale of two brothers finding the funding and the motivation to get into college, and partners like IBC Bank handing out financial advice, these cinematic sensations delivered a one-two punch of filling hearts, minds, and even a few college-savings accounts. Take that, Michael Bay. 

Head to the Toolbox for more in-depth info and some downloadable goodies. It's better than any Academy Awards gift basket, guaranteed.