9.12.08 Rogers: MSU ‘GEAR UP’ Student Assistance Program to Receive $1,684,000
Friday, September 12, 2008

U.S. Representative Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced today that Morehead State University (MSU) Institute for Regional Analysis and Public Policy (IRAPP) will receive a $1,684,000 federal grant to help disadvantaged middle and high school students and parents prepare for the college experience and offer additional tutoring in the areas of science and mathematics.  MSU IRAPP will operate as the facilitator for the six-county East Kentucky Regional GEAR UP project.

“Applying and attending college and taking university classes can seem like a daunting task for both students and parents, but with proper preparation and encouragement, our children can succeed in the post-secondary educational environment,” Rogers said.  “I am pleased to see this funding go to Morehead State University to give young people in our region a head start on the demands and rigors of college instruction and sound advice to our parents on preparing their children to succeed.  Our region will succeed or fail on our emphasis and diligence on helping young minds reach their potential.”

Funded through the U.S. Department of Education, GEAR UP is designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education.  GEAR UP funds are also used to provide college scholarships to low-income students.  Beginning in seventh grade, GEAR UP students participate in activities such as tutoring, mentoring, financial aid, college preparation workshops, college visits, career exploration, and summer enrichment programs.  This initial allocation of funding is the first of a six-year program beginning with over 2,000 middle school students and growing to over 12,000 projected middle and high school students in the counties of Morgan, Magoffin, Johnson, Pike, Martin, and Floyd.

As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rogers works to secure funding for important initiatives in the fifth Congressional district.