Specifications include, but are not limited to: The Program objectives includes: ● Increase the academic performance and preparation for postsecondary education of GEAR UP cohort students; ● Increase the rate of high school graduation and participation in postsecondary education of GEAR UP students; ● Increase GEAR UP students, parents and their families’ knowledge of postsecondary education options, preparation, and financing. The School District of Philadelphia’s GEAR UP Program plans to offer engaging learning experiences for cohort students involving the following areas: ● Leadership Development and Mentoring ● College and Career Support ● Financial Literacy and Financial Aid ● Parent Engagement ● Academic Support and Tutoring ● Summer Programming Successful proposals for the Summer Programs will: ● Provide stimulating learning opportunities for students through focused and motivating learning activities in mathematics, writing, and multi-disciplinary studies with integration of technology. ● Design engaging activities that include hands-on activities and experimentation, exploration of technologies, and other planned activities. Successful programs will challenge participants with relevant content in mathematics, writing, exposure social recreation enrichment and related disciplines. ● Help students develop early awareness about the need to plan personally, academically and financially for college. Information regarding the college admissions process, standardized college admission tests, and financial aid should be emphasized. ● Make success in college an expected and logical outcome for all participants with particular emphasis on students from traditionally underrepresented populations. ● Foster a sense of accomplishment in young people relative to academic achievement and link the programs curriculum with core courses taken in high school if applicable; promoting the highest standards and the belief in all students’ ability to succeed in challenging core courses. ● Develop and promote career and educational aspirations by providing an opportunity for students to explore both personal and career goals, as well as to become familiar with various areas of study available at post-secondary institutions.