Specifications include, but are not limited to: GEAR UP is a discretionary grant program designed to increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. GEAR UP grantees serve an entire cohort of students beginning no later than the seventh grade and follow the cohort through their first year of college. Mental health services provided by qualified providers will support the objective(s) of the grant. Objective: 85% of students who enter their first year of college will successfully transition into their sophomore year. The selected firm will provide a comprehensive, turnkey scope of services to assist the district with its support of recent GEAR UP graduates that are in their freshmen year of college. Minimally, the scope will include the following deliverables and services. 1. Initial Assessments: Conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate the mental health needs, concerns, and goals of the college freshmen. This may involve evaluating their emotional well-being, identifying any pre-existing mental health conditions, and understanding their support systems. 2. Individual Counseling: Offer individual counseling sessions to address concerns such as stress management, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, homesickness, relationship problems, self-esteem, and other mental health challenges that may arise during the freshman year. 3. Group Therapy: Facilitate virtual and in person group therapy sessions, bringing together college freshmen who may be dealing with similar challenges or experiencing similar transitions. These groups can provide a safe space for sharing experiences, building connections, and developing coping strategies. 4. Psychoeducation: Conduct workshops, seminars, or informational sessions to educate college freshmen on various mental health topics, including stress management, healthy coping mechanisms, building resilience, substance abuse prevention, and the importance of self-care. 5. Referrals: Collaborate with other campus resources, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or community mental health centers, to ensure college freshmen have access to comprehensive care when needed. Provide appropriate referrals based on individual needs and preferences. 6. Outreach and Prevention: Create and implement outreach programs aimed at promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging proactive help-seeking behaviors. This may include organizing mental health campaigns, summits, awareness events, or partnering with student organizations.
