OVER 300 ASHEBORO FRESHMEN VISIT A COLLEGE

CAMPUS IN NOVEMBER

By Atiya Ragin, Statesville Middle School, grade 8

On October 2, 2009, I was one of two students at my middle school to get the opportunity to be a part of the College Ad-venture Weekend at Appalachian State University (ASU). On the way there I began to think about what it may be like – if I would learn something, if this weekend would give me a better view of college, or would it be like another day of school just in another place. I was also afraid to meet other people.

During my stay at ASU, I learned a lot from the Diversity Scholars – Malia, Glen, Charlene, and Ivan – and had fun. I learned that just because I don‘t have a lot of money to pay for college, I can still go. There are scholarships, financial aid, loans, and lots of other things that will help me pay for college. I learned to be confident about going to college. I learned that you can have a college schedule that fits in with your work schedule or any other thing that is important that you do daily. I learned to be a leader and not to sink in to peer pressure.

Thanks to ASU‘s Diversity Scholars I am now confident and determined to get to and

through college and no one or nothing can stop me. No education provokes not

being able to afford things that I want and need. Why suffer when you have the

opportunity to prosper. Trying to make a good future, setting goals, and trying to

achieve them is wise, and wisdom magnifies itself. Be wise!

STUDENT VOICES: MY EXPERIENCE AT APPALACHIAN STATE

UNIVERSITY‟S COLLEGE ADVENTURE WEEKEND

NATIONAL GEAR UP DAY

IN BEAUFORT COUNTY

2

STUDENT VOICES : ASU’S

COLLEGE ADVENTURE

WEEKEND & ROLL CALL

2

FAFSA DAY 3

WELDON C ITY & GEAR UP

NC WELCOME AUTHOR

3

COLLEGE APPLICATION WEEK 4-5

ECU GEAR UP DAY ROLL

CALL

6

STUDENT HEALTH LEADERS IN

BEAUFORT COUNTY

7

STUDENT VOICES : HELPING

OUT IN ASHEBORO

7

COORDINATORS ’ CORNER 7

MESSAGE FROM GEAR UP 8

GEAR UP CALENDAR &

SHOUT OUTS

8

By Tylika M. Daniels (future college graduate) Statesville Middle School, grade 8

In October, I took a trip to Appalachian State University (ASU). Before I got there I asked myself why am I going and I know I don‘t have enough money to make it at all so what is the point?

Once I arrived to get on the bus I saw other kids I had never seen before. My stomach started churning. Right then and there I wanted to turn around and give up. Then we arrived on campus. The same kids I was afraid of started talking to me and quickly I made new friends.

The first day we ate on campus. The next couple of days we ate at our cabins. I liked the food A LOT! They did a way better job than I would have.

The last day was the day that really caught my attention. I remembered myself

saying I wanted to be a doctor all through elementary school. My middle school days

came and things changed. Today my whole outlook on college changed. It actually

surprised me how much money I would have to pay just for my books! I had to look

at the bigger picture and my future. I realized that it is not all about the money. It

is about if you want something really badly you will go for it no matter who or what

is in your way. Thank you ASU for changing my mind about going to college.

„THE PEAK‟ STUDENT NEWSLETTER

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

WINTER 2010 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2

This newsletter was produced with GEAR UP funds awarded to the University of North Carolina General Administration by the Office of Postsecondary Education, U.S. Department of Education (grant award PR#P334S050004).

© 2009 The University of North Carolina ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

By April Thompson, GEAR UP Coordinator, Asheboro City Schools

During the week of November 9-13, over 300 freshmen at Asheboro High School (AHS) had the opportunity to visit one of eight colleges as a part of the GEAR UP and Comet Connection Classes. The students prepared questions to ask of current students, professors, and college admission counselors. AHS students commented that they understand the importance of maintaining good grades, taking challenging courses, and exploring different colleges to find the right ―fit‖ to support their academic needs.

Students explored the campuses of Pfeiffer University, North Carolina Agri-cultural and Technical State University, Johnson and Wales University, UNC Chapel Hill, Elon University, Wake Forest University, North Carolina State University, and UNC School of the Arts. Each class was responsible for creating multi-media presentations to share their experience on campus with other students.

(Photo to the left) Mike Smith and Jordan conducting an experiment at NC State Uni-versity

ENCOURAGING STUDENTS TO REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL

INSIDE THIS ISSUE :

SUMMER ENRICHMENT:

THE SHELTON CHALLENGE FIRST YEAR AND TAKE II PROGRAMS! Are you interested in developing what it takes to be a leader? Have a week this summer to stay on campus at NCSU? Ask your coordina-tor for applications and more information. Also, you will need two people familiar with your academics and leadership to complete letters of reference. The FIRST YEAR PROGRAM is July 11-15 or July 25-30 and the TAKE II PROGRAM is July 25-30. GEAR UP NC

will sponsor up to 40 students total. Start early! Applications due to GEAR UP NC from coordinators by March 15.

‘THE PEAK ’ STUDENT NEWSLETTER PAGE 2

ROLL CALL!

"I had a great time! I was a little nervous at first but I'm so glad that I went! It was great meeting other students and I loved playing football! We learned a lot about doing college stuff online and looking up different colleges."

- Jacquell Stewart, Newton-Conover Middle School

"We had so much fun and we learned a whole lot!"

- Alexandra Coulter, Newton-Conover Middle School

"Saturday was really fun! I also learned a lot of about different college things. The activities were fun!"

- Hannah Starnes, Newton-Conover Middle School

"At first I really didn't want to go because I had made plans to go to the Appalachian State game and hang with my friends, but I am glad I did. I learned a lot and had a lot of fun!"

- Thomas Corpening, Newton-Conover Middle School

BEAUFORT COUNTY STUDENTS CELEBRATE NATIONAL GEAR UP DAY:

BENEFIT LOCAL LITERACY ORGANIZATION

By Chynna Bonner, GEAR UP Coordinator, Beaufort County Schools

In commemoration of 10 years of successful GEAR UP programs, September 18, 2009 was designated National

GEAR UP Day. PS Jones in Beaufort County joined thousands of GEAR UP colleagues and over 1.5 million

GEAR UP students in celebrating one of our nation's most successful college access programs. On National GEAR

UP Day, the students and staff of PS Jones showcased their alma mater with pride, and it was really nice to see.

Additionally, the students and staff made a college access chain to proclaim that "Education is our link to the fu-

ture!" Many students and staff purchased a link for only 50 cents during their lunch period and became a part of

history. During our Annual GEAR UP Pledge Ceremony on October 2, all proceeds were donated to Literacy

Volunteers of Beaufort County, a program that provides literacy services free of charge to Beaufort County resi-

dents. Mrs. Debbie Cook, Director, was present to receive the check and offered a caution to the GEAR UP stu-

dents to do well in school so that they will not need her services as an adult. Mrs. Catherine Glover, Executive

Director of the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce, was the guest speaker for the event and

echoed Mrs. Cook‘s sentiments. Mrs. Glover told the 8th grade class to take the GEAR UP Pledge seriously so they

would be successful in whatever field they choose to pursue.

College Adventure Weekend Appalachian State University, Camp Broadstone

Jasime Battle, grade 8, at PS Jones in Beaufort County writes her name, career goal, and what she aspires to be someday as part of the ―Education is our link to the future!‖

By Chou Khang, Newton-Conover Middle School, grade 8

The days I spent at College Adventure Weekend were fun. I learned a lot about Appalachian State University. I received tours from Glen, Ivan, and Malia. My group leader was Glen in Group #1. We toured the post office, meeting places, and the student union.

Overall, I learned a lot about college and what I needed to do to get into a college of my choice. I also learned that there are various opportunities to get involved in social clubs and organizations while in college. ASU has about 300 clubs and organizations. The library has about 15,000 books, which I thought was pretty amazing.

We learned so much more that I cannot even begin to recall it all at once. I had a great time and I hope I get the opportunity to attend again next year.

GEAR UP 8th graders at Appalachian State University‘s College Adventure Weekend located at Camp Broadstone in Banner Elk, North Carolina.

GEAR UP students participate in a trust fall team-building activity during College Adventure Weekend at ASU‘s Camp Broadstone this past October.

Daisy Vasquez Cleveland

Donte Poston Cleveland

Ja’Quaylan Woodruff Cleveland

Jorlandro Hopper Cleveland

Miguel Lopez Cleveland

Rashawn Petty Cleveland

Alyssa Miller Cleveland

Breyasia Hartgrove Cleveland

Courtney Brooks Cleveland

Courtney Bagwell Hyde

Dustin Eaton Hyde

Erica Johnson Hyde

Kajai Fonville Hyde

Patricia Harrison Hyde

Sundai Mann Hyde

Atiya Ragin Iredell-Statesville

Tylika Daniels Iredell-Statesville

Aleesta Clodfelter Lexington

Alexander Leng Lexington

Amber Tadlock Lexington

Bradley Drewitt Lexington

Devon Lyons Lexington

Getsemani Monsalvo Lexington

Jalain Charles Lexington

Jose Rocha Lexington

Tyler Trivett Lexington

Alexandra Coulter Newton-Conover

Chona Khang Newton-Conover

Hannah Starnes Newton-Conover

Jaquell Stewart Newton-Conover

Thomas Corpening Newton-Conover

Eric Green Weldon City

Ihsaana Brown Weldon City

Jovan Hunter-Flemming Weldon City

Shandrea Williams Weldon City

Shaquanda Williams Weldon City

William Myers Weldon City

CONGRATULATIONS to Camp Broadstone, the host of ASU‘s

College Adventure Weekend, and recipient of the 2009 Eleanor P. Eells

Award for Program Excellence from the American Camp Association. The

award is given to programs that encourage the development of creative re-

sponses to societal programs and promote the positive contributions the camp

makes to the well-being of individuals and society. Way to go!

STUDENT VOICES: MY EXPERIENCE AT ASU

PAGE 3 VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 2

By Michael Thompson, GEAR UP Coordinator, Weldon City Schools

November 5, 2009 was a wonderful day as Weldon STEM High School welcomed author Chad Foster. Not only was it a day for receiving a life changing message, but also an opportunity to showcase the

tremendous talents of our students. The Weldon STEM High JROTC presented the colors, while Laquinta Epps sang the National Anthem. After a brief welcome by Mr. Thompson, school spirit was demonstrated during roll call as representa-tives introduced their class and led them in welcoming Mr. Foster with a rousing display of school pride. The welcoming ceremony audience also enjoyed the performance of the best band in the land, our very own Weldon STEM High School Marching Band and Charger Dancers.

Sheldon Mba, STEM sophomore and Mr. GEAR UP himself said, ―Chad Foster inspired me to pursue my dreams and take every opportunity that comes my way.‖

When asked how she felt about the presentation, Interim Principal Cynthia Byrd stated, ―Having nationally renowned author Chad Foster motivate our students by sharing his own personal stories was a once in a lifetime experience that we will never forget.‖

After the assembly, Mr. Foster autographed each student‘s book, then met with a group of teachers to talk of how to imple-ment his ten day project based curriculum.

WELDON STEM H IGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WELCOME AUTHOR WITH A CELEBRATION

FAFSA DAY: SENIORS GET FREE HELP COMPLETING AND SUBMITTING

FEDERAL AID FORMS FOR COLLEGE

On Saturday, February 13, 2010, from 9:00 am until 12:00 pm at most locations, college financial aid officers

and other financial aid specialists will assist students and families in the completion and electronic submission

of their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms. The program is open to individuals who plan

to attend college in the 2010-11 academic year, and will be held at 118 sites across North Carolina. The

FAFSA Day program has grown to include sites in 97 counties across the state through a strong partnership

with the North Carolina State Employees‘ Credit Union (SECU). Many of the sites will be held at SECU

branches, especially in rural areas. FAFSA Day is a service of the College Foundation of North Carolina

(CFNC), North Carolina Association of Student Financial Administrators (NCASFAA), and the State Employ-

ees‘ Credit Union. For more information on FAFSA Day including site locations, go to CFNC.org/fafsaday.

Attention GEAR UP 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th grade students and families: FAFSA day is a service for high school seniors and their families, and others who

will be in college during the 2010-11 academic year. This program will not be beneficial to students who are not yet high school seniors, but College Foundation of

North Carolina (CFNC) offers many other free services on CFNC.org and through 866-866-CFNC, the toll-free phone number, to help North Carolinians in middle

and high school plan and prepare for college. You can also ask your GEAR UP coordinator what you can do now to be ready to complete and submit your FAFSA

during your senior year.

FAFSA DAY 2010

WHEN : SATURDAY , FEBRUARY 13

9:00 AM—12:00 PM

WHERE : 118 SITES IN 97 COUNTIES

CHECK SITE LISTINGS AT

CFNC.ORG/FAFSADAY

Weldon STEM High School students have their books signed by author, Chad Foster, during the welcome ceremony and discussion with the author.

Weldon STEM High School JROTC presents the colors during the welcome ceremony.

Chad Foster toured various GEAR UP NC high schools across the state this fall on a mission to teach students the importance of the ‗real world.‘ He spoke to students about

the successes they can achieve if they follow his 12 bottom lines as outlined in his book, ―Teenagers Preparing for the Real World: A Formula for Success.‖ During Mr. Foster‘s

presentation, all students received a copy of this book and had the opportunity for Mr. Foster to personally sign a copy of their book.

GEAR UP NC students will also receive a copy of Mr. Foster‘s second book, ―Financial Literacy for Teens: The Teen‘s Guide to the Real World of Money.‖ Weldon STEM

High School has even purchased additional books for the senior grade cohort so that all high school students have access to this positive message. Mr. Foster notes that ―All

students deserve the opportunity to pursue undergraduate programs and the level to which they are prepared, or ‗ready,‘ for that experience is critical to their ultimate suc-

cess.‖

Since September, Mr. Foster has spoken to GEAR UP high school students in Asheboro, Columbus, Craven, Graham, Granville, Hyde, Iredell-Statesville, Johnston, Lexington,

Martin, Newton-Conover, Washington, Wayne, Weldon City, and Winston-Salem/Forsyth counties and has trained GEAR UP Coordinators on how to use his curriculum

materials with their students. Mr. Foster will speak to GEAR UP students in Cleveland, Gaston, Rutherford, and Union counties this February.

GEAR UP NC H IGH SCHOOL STUDENTS LEARN FROM AUTHOR ‟S REAL WORLD AND FINANCIAL

LITERACY BOOKS

By Amber Cody, GEAR UP Coordinator, Graham County Schools

Robinsville High School in Graham County offered a host of college awareness events from college door decorating to a college fair for freshmen through senior students during GEAR UP & College Application Week 2009.

College door decorating contest. Each participating teacher and class adopted a college to promote on the door. Students had a checklist of information to include, so they had to research their school before they could decorate. Required information included admissions info, tuition, distance from Rob-binsville, top majors, etc.

College fair and mini ses-sions. The students to the right are posing with their project boards after having a college fair during lunch. Students researched colleges and acted as recruiters during the college fair. They really knew their stuff—some had even written to the colleges and requested brochures to hand out to students.

PAGE 4 ‘THE PEAK ’ STUDENT NEWSLETTER

SENIORS AT GEAR UP NC SCHOOLS SUBMIT OVER 3,000 COLLEGE APPLICATIONS

By Tanisha Francis, GEAR UP Coordinator, Martin County Schools

Roanoke High School in Martin County held its College Application Week event on Wednesday, November 18, 2009. A total of 38 seniors from the high school partici-pated, submitting a total of 70 applications. The following colleges and universities ranked as the top three recipients of applications from Roanoke High School seniors partici-pating during this week: Elizabeth City State University, Pitt Community College, and UNC-Greensboro.

The school counselor, Joy Roberson, and the GEAR UP coordinator assisted students with completing applications online at CFNC.org. The greatest benefit to students was the availability to complete applications with no charge, at an early date. Also, students benefited from having assis-tance available from the counselor and the GEAR UP coordinator if they needed any help.

NORTH CAROLINA COLLEGE APPLICATION WEEK 2009

MARTIN COUNTY‟S ROANOKE HIGH SCHOOL DOUBLES

THE NUMBER OF SENIORS WHO APPLIED TO COLLEGE

GRAHAM COUNTY STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN COLLEGE AWARENESS

ACTIVITIES: FROM COLLEGE DOORS TO COLLEGE FAIRS!

Seniors (from left) Adrianna Chance, Matthew Staton, and Adrian Ebron at Roanoke High School apply online to college using CFNC.org during College Application Week.

GEAR UP Coordinator, Tanisha Francis, looks on as counselor, Joy Roberson, helps senior Damian Silver with his college application during College Application Week at Roanoke High School.

Graham County students at Robbinsville High School‘s College Application Week college fair (from left) Julia Moore, Dillon Daniels, Brittany Buchanan, Tessa Lane, Lloyd Johnson, Jake Waldroup, and Kyle Williams.

Graham County students decorate classroom doors for College Application Week 2009.

This year, seniors in GEAR UP NC high schools submitted nearly 500 more college applications than during the previous year‘s College Application Week. Counselors and GEAR UP coordinators worked hard in our GEAR UP NC districts across the state to ensure that seniors had a CFNC account, completed their high school planner, wrote essays, and had all the information they needed as they completed and submitted online applications to the more than 110 North Carolina colleges and universities available on CFNC.org. A total of 3,000 seniors from GEAR UP NC high schools submitted applications during the 2009 event with the following districts increasing the number of submitted applications significantly: Asheboro, Beaufort, Graham, Lexington, Martin, Union, Washington, Wayne, and Winston-Salem/Forsyth. Congratulations to the class of 2010, school counselors, principals, teachers, and GEAR UP coordinators for making this possible. And get ready, class of 2011, for the biggest College Application Week yet in 2010!

TOP SCHOOLS RECEIVING

SUBMITTED APPLICATIONS

DURING CAW 2009

1 . NC A&T

2. ECU

3. CAMPBELL

4. ASU

5. GARDNER-WEBB

6. LENOIR-RHYNE

7. WINGATE

8. CENTRAL PIEDMONT CC

9. UNC-GREENSBORO

10. SHAW

11 . WAKE TECH CC

12. NCCU

13. UNC-CHARLOTTE

14. WINSTON-SALEM STATE

15. GUILFORD TECH CC

PAGE 5 VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 2

NORTH CAROLINA COLLEGE APPLICATION WEEK 2009

GOVERNOR PERDUE PROCLAIMS COLLEGE APPLICATION WEEK ACROSS THE

STATE : SPEAKS WITH SENIORS DURING CAW KICK-OFF EVENT

College Application Week 2009 images from left to right: The camera looks on as students apply to any of the more than 110 North Carolina colleges and universities through CFNC.org, Governor Bev Perdue speaks to individual students during a kick-off event at Grimsley High School in Greensboro, CFNC.org mousepads and materials available for participating students and schools.

ALL 116 NC SCHOOL D ISTRICTS PARTICIPATE

All 116 NC school districts in all 100 counties across the state participated in College Application Week 2009. The darker shaded counties represent districts that had all high schools participating, the lighter shaded counties represent districts with at least one high school participating.

The number of online college applications submitted through CFNC.org since the first event in 2005 has increased by over 45,000. This year‘s 2009 event surpassed a total of 50,000 submitted applications in just five days.

Governor Bev Perdue proclaimed November 16-20, 2009 as ―College Application Week‖ in the state of North Carolina and ―urges our stu-dents to visit College Foundation of North Carolina‘s website, www.CFNC.org, and apply to universities and colleges because apply-ing is the first step toward earning the degrees that will help them succeed in today‘s global economy.‖

The Governor also spoke to seniors at Grimsley High School on Mon-day, November 16, to kick off the 2009 College Application Week. The Governor spoke to students individually and then addressed the group on the importance of going to college and finding a relevant career. Counselors were on hand to answer students‘ questions about the CFNC application process and students were especially engaged in conversations with the Governor about their future plans.

Additionally, the Governor‘s Office issued a letter to all seniors en-couraging them to apply to college, noting that she would like for ―every student in North Carolina to have the necessary skills to pursue a meaningful career and to be able to compete in the global economy.‖

RECORD NUMBER OF COLLEGE APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED

On December 9, 2009 a total of 240 GEAR UP 8th and 9th graders from seven school districts ascended on East Carolina University with 30 chaperones to get R.I.P.E for success. The program stands for Reflect, Invest, Prepare, and Explore—all of the integral components for being successful in middle and high school, as well as, college. Students spent the entire day at ECU and learned from R.I.P.E. sessions including: Community Service: How it benefits you and your community, college admission require-ments, and taking interests and designing a career. The ―reflect‖ session offered students the opportunity to hear from an undergraduate Greek Life student panel with the focus on ―Coming Where I‘m from.‖ To conclude the exciting day, students and chaperones ate in the ECU dining hall and many stayed for the campus tour at the end of the

day. Congratulations to all participants for our biggest ECU GEAR UP Day yet! Now for our 2009 ECU GEAR UP Day participants Roll Call!

PAGE 6 ‘THE PEAK ’ STUDENT NEWSLETTER

GEAR UP DAY AT EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY GETS 240 8TH AND 9TH

GRADERS R.I.P.E. FOR SUCCESS!

Amari Heggi Beaufort

Amber Beacham Beaufort

Avery Respass Beaufort

Avondre' J. Jackson Beaufort

Daquan Daniels Beaufort

Darin Willoughby Beaufort

DeVante Gonzalez Beaufort

Emily Woolard Beaufort

Faith Benson Beaufort

Frederica Rome Beaufort

Hunter Jackson Beaufort

Kayla Booth Beaufort

London Godley Beaufort

Marci Toppin Beaufort

Markel Lodge Beaufort

Mary S. Frank Beaufort

Megan Mclawhorn Beaufort

Melissa Borunda Beaufort

Nicholas Alligood Beaufort

Shekida Keel Beaufort

Stefana Goffard Beaufort

Steve Foddard, Jr. Beaufort

Sunasia Woolard Beaufort

Tahyana Wooden Beaufort

Tori Paschall Beaufort

Tyquain Frazier Beaufort

Zandria Edwards Beaufort

Zemekias Booner Beaufort

Bria Griffin Beaufort

Amy McKeithan Columbus

Angel Britt Columbus

Ashanti Williams Columbus

Brandon Miller Columbus

Brandon Strickland Columbus

Brandy Willis Columbus

Braxton Scott Columbus

Brionna Smith Columbus

Brittany Coleman Columbus

Cordell Wright Columbus

Curtis Williams Columbus

Deshauna Mason Columbus

Jacqueline Evans Columbus

Jessica Stephens Columbus

Julius Ladson Columbus

Kristen Greene Columbus

Lagarris Mcleod Columbus

Marissa Collins Columbus

Michaela Shipman Columbus

Nicole Eady Columbus

Quaneicha Radcliffe Columbus

Savon Dawson Columbus

Shekinah Stackhouse Columbus

Stephanie Thompson Columbus

Taneisha Frink Columbus

Tarik Livingston Columbus

Teresa Antone Columbus

Xavier Hemingway Columbus

Zach Pettitt Columbus

Jahmal McMillan Columbus

Tanasia Johnson Columbus

Harvey Lesane Columbus

Genny Bellamy Columbus

Shalyn Rattley Columbus

Antonio Reese Columbus

Dwayne Morgan Columbus

Jahmesha McMillan Columbus

Freddy Perez Columbus

Forrest Powell Columbus

Irvin Braddy Columbus

Kayla Jenkins Columbus

Patra Bellamy Columbus

Octavia Williams Columbus

Aaron Russell Columbus

Brandi Rickett Columbus

Austin Pridgett Columbus

Myron Williams Columbus

Kevin Thompson Columbus

Stephanie Aguirre Craven

Karlee Anderson Craven

Douglas Backsay Craven

Austin Boyd Craven

Devonta Campbell Craven

Tony Campbell Craven

Alexandre Canada Craven

Shaquita Cos Craven

Claire Crawford Craven

Kyle Cunningham Craven

Jasmine Fonville Craven

Summer Hartley Craven

Cornequa Jordan Craven

Briana Keys Craven

Vanessa Lawn Craven

Ashton McKeel Craven

Brandon Medina Craven

Pablo Meza Craven

Devante Mitchell Craven

Robin Nobles Craven

Yasmine Oliver Craven

Bryan Pelfrey Craven

Christopher Phillips Craven

Aleena Piner Craven

Shadeia Powell Craven

T'keyah Reddick Craven

Zephron Richard Craven

Marquisha Richards Craven

Ruben Romero Craven

Nyeesha Roundtree Craven

Abby Rowe Craven

Ashley Santiago Craven

Tayanna Shaffer Craven

Eric Swinson Craven

Alexis Tetterton Craven

Kayla Townsend Craven

Nikki Vandiford Craven

George Walton Craven

Deanna Williams Craven

Tyasia Gatlin Craven

Zahair Cherry Craven

Issac Nobles Craven

Mariah Harris Craven

Joshua Cuthbertson Craven

Tichina Willis Craven

Asia Farrow Hyde

Dana Gibbs Hyde

Domanic Newman Hyde

Keondra Moore Hyde

Khaliah Johnson Hyde

Micah McCullor Hyde

Raylynn Ralston Hyde

Sabre Adams Hyde

Savannah Equils Hyde

Albony Grays Hyde

Antina Spencer Hyde

Courtney Bagwell Hyde

Daniel Shelton Hyde

Dreunia Cooper Hyde

Dustin Eaton Hyde

Erica Johnson Hyde

Fred Mills III Hyde

Geno Holley Hyde

Jaleel Spencer Hyde

Jasnee Mills Hyde

Josalynn Randalls Hyde

Kyle Mooney Hyde

Quantiajea Gibbs Hyde

Reggie Midgette Hyde

Rhett Cahoon Hyde

Samantha Lawrence Hyde

Shiayla Washington Hyde

Sundai Mann Hyde

Tiffany Clayton Hyde

Tyree Murray Hyde

Artez Allison Iredell-Statesville

Brendon Rich Iredell-Statesville

Breshania Bennett Iredell-Statesville

Danielle Houston Iredell-Statesville

Dartavius Martin Iredell-Statesville

Destine Nichols Iredell-Statesville

Destiny Stone Iredell-Statesville

Yasmine Mattox Iredell-Statesville

Elijah Baity Iredell-Statesville

Erik Chicos Iredell-Statesville

Garrett Meachem Iredell-Statesville

Isiah Young Iredell-Statesville

Iszeke Young Iredell-Statesville

Jamika Smyre Iredell-Statesville

Keynashia Carter Iredell-Statesville

Krupa Dabhi Iredell-Statesville

Malvi Joshi Iredell-Statesville

Markell Caldwell Iredell-Statesville

Matthew Jones Iredell-Statesville

Miriam Argueta Iredell-Statesville

Natalie Smith Iredell-Statesville

Nicolle McDonald Iredell-Statesville

Nigel Gordon Iredell-Statesville

Pierce Deter Iredell-Statesville

Sebastian Noguera Iredell-Statesville

ShaQuayla Sherrill Iredell-Statesville

Torrie Sharpe Iredell-Statesville

Marquis Willis Iredell-Statesville

Whitney Lipscomb Iredell-Statesville

Wilson Odom Iredell-Statesville

Zangheria Sandeep Iredell-Statesville

Everardo Anselm Iredell-Statesville

Laila Vazquez Iredell-Statesville

Rubi Arellano Iredell-Statesville

Madison Carson Iredell-Statesville

Tia Hunter Iredell-Statesville

T'Keyah Gentry Iredell-Statesville

Holly Michael Iredell-Statesville

Kellie Smyre Iredell-Statesville

Merilyn Thao Iredell-Statesville

Jakayla Russell Iredell-Statesville

Jose Lopez Hernandez Iredell-Statesville

Ana Saenz Iredell-Statesville

Gorge Serrano Iredell-Statesville

Cadidrea Atkinson Johnston

Cristal Fabian Johnston

Solieth Fabian Johnston

Edgar Flores Johnston

Tammy Freeman Johnston

Lizeth Fuentes-Ponce Johnston

Fernando Martinez-Fores Johnston

Jose Molina Johnston

Beatriz Moreno Johnston

Alexis Parra Johnston

Jessica Rodriguez Johnston

Alexander Shepherd II Johnston

Gabriel Tirado Johnston

Denasha Ve Johnston

Demonte Doyd Martin

Diana Castillo Martin

Dominque Williams Martin

Jaquan Durham Martin

Jodeven Wallance Martin

Krista Torres Martin

Kyara Carr Martin

Marilyn Andrade Martin

Marquise Howell Martin

Matthew Smith Martin

Slvo Amato Martin

Tachionia Battle Martin

Tisha Smith Martin

Trenton Toler Martin

Wesley Baker Martin

Clarissa Roberson Martin

Dega Jackson Martin

Glen Warren Martin

Jalen B. Ore Martin

Kiana Black Martin

Marissa Varnore Martin

Mical Farmer Martin

Michael Baker Martin

Mya Whitaker Martin

Natalia Rodriguez Martin

Shelkaylin Rhine Martin

Talya Purvis Martin

Tiffani Damren Martin

Tynesha Andrews Martin

Tyquesha Lawrence Martin

PAGE 7 VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 2

WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL „INFUSED‟ WITH AGGIE PRIDE: STUDENTS

LEADING GOOD HEALTH INITIATIVES!

By Chynna Bonner, GEAR UP Coordinator, Beaufort County Schools

Washington High School in Beaufort County was infused with Aggie Pride on the morning of November 16, 2009. After attend-ing the 4-H Force of 100 Leadership Training the weekend prior on the campus of North Carolina A & T State University, GEAR UP students Jaquez Columbus, Bria Griffen, and Charon Spencer returned with high hopes of getting the Washington High School community excited about health and wellness. The 4-H Force of 100 Leadership Training is funded by the Walmart Foundation and affords minority youth ages 13-16 with leadership potential to become a part of a team of 100 peer educators from across the state. As a member of the force, students use their creativity to help curb obesity, stroke, heart disease, and diabetes within their communities.

Ms. Bonner has a family history of diabetes and immediately recognized the value of this training and was excited to share the infor-mation with our GEAR UP students. Along with students, we met with the Principal to share some ideas for his approval. Russell Holloman, Principal of Washington High School, said he is glad to assist with this project in support of healthy living for the school community. Once the students returned, they met with the head of the school cafeteria to discuss meal options, decided to start a chapter of NAC (Nutrition Advisory Council) at school, and will sponsor a Wellness Week in the spring with the GEAR UP stu-dents, or 'Force Members,' serving as peer educators. Mr. Holloman along with Cafeteria Head, Ms. McCullough, will advise this new student organization. Also, one of our Physical Education teachers, Mrs. Rogerson, has volunteered to start a walking club when her basketball season ends. The Washington High Sschool community is well on its way to fitness and good health!

GEAR UP COORDINATORS ‟ CORNER

Graham County: “Students at Robbinsville High School organized a community service project this year. In lieu of having a float in the homecoming parade, some of the freshmen students pushed shopping carts around the parade route to collect donations for the Rathbun Center in Asheville. The event was advertised in the newspaper and had a tremendous response from the community. The Rathbun Center is a home providing free

lodging and support to families and patients visiting Asheville hospitals for treatment.” - Amber Cody

Union County: “Mike Minter, a former Carolina Panther, spoke at Monroe Middle School and Monroe High School on October 28, 2009. His message was to be successful you need dedication, determination,

and discipline.” - Darlene Hughes

Beaufort County: “GEAR UP Ambassadors rang the bell for the Salvation Army from 4-7 pm during the week of December 1. They had a lot of fun doing

community service!” - Chynna Bonner

Craven County: 320 freshmen at West Craven High School pledged to graduate from high school and attend school regularly at a ceremony in early November. Superintendent Larry Moser spoke at the event about the importance of graduating from high school and was quoted in the local newspaper article as

saying, ―I try to impress upon them that a high school diploma is everything.‖ - Sandi Ruger

Iredell-Statesville: [On the ASU College Adventure Weekend experience] “The girls met with me twice before they left for ASU. They wanted to be housed together, wanted to take cell phones, had never been to the mountains, and asked tons of questions. I met with them when they returned for 30+ min-utes. Excitement was in the air. Both girls enjoyed the experience and learned a lot. When asked what was most memorable, they said meeting different people. I asked them to write an essay about their experience at

ASU.” - Joann Graham

STUDENT VOICES: HELPING THE LOCAL BOYS & GIRLS CLUB IN ASHEBORO

By Risha Zahrro, President, GEAR UP After School Action Team, Asheboro High School

The GEAR UP After School Action Team at Asheboro High School worked together with the school's International Club to bring joy to a local Boys and Girls Club by throwing a Halloween carnival at their center. The GEAR UP group contributed by making posters for the games and purchasing half of the supplies that were needed. Also, students had to dress up in costumes in order to make the carnival more festive. The event was held October 30, 2009 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The students left immediately after school to quickly prepare for this event. Overall, the event turned out as planned and the children and the members all had a blast. The students‘ commitment and outstanding teamwork were definitely worth the joy that was brought upon these kids. Needless to say, a little hard work can benefit the lives of others.

Bria Griffen and Charon Spencer plan their next steps to educating Washington High School about health and wellness.

Graham County freshmen decorate their shopping carts for the homecoming parade to collect donations for charity (from left to right) Anissa Key, Kaylee Silvers, and Kendall Adams.

Beaufort County‘s GEAR UP Ambassadors ring the bell as volun-teers during the holiday season (from left to right) Sara Moore, Yamilex Rosado, Reagan Lee, and Lucy Wallace

Congratulations to Risha Zahrro, President, GEAR UP After School Action Team at Asheboro

High School who submitted the winning GEAR UP NC Student Newsletter title, ‘The Peak’

Encouraging Students to Reach their Full Potential.

In year four (2008-2009): GEAR UP NC met Objective 1: that 65% of 7th graders in GEAR UP schools will be at grade level for math by June 2009. We surpassed this Objective 1

goal and reached 71.1% of GEAR UP 7th grade students who are at grade level for math. Congratulations to GEAR UP students, staff, and partners for helping make this goal

a reality!

It is time for the GEAR UP parent and student survey collection! The following districts have surpassed the student survey return rate goal of 80%: Beaufort, Cleve-

land, Graham, Granville, Iredell, Johnston, and Martin. The following district has surpassed the parent survey return rate goal of 50%: Asheboro, Graham, and

Hyde. Please note that these survey return rate goals are mandated for all GEAR UP grantees by the U.S. Department of Education and reported in the Annual Performance Report.

Calling all ideas! Submit student voices, articles, and photographs about any GEAR UP activities you accomplish. Email to: jeconrad@northcarolina.edu

This newsletter was produced with GEAR UP funds awarded to the University of North Carolina General Administration by the Office of Postsecondary Education, U.S. Department of Education (grant award PR#P334S050004).

© 2009 The University of North Carolina ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

CFNC.ORG

CLICK ON GEAR UP

140 Friday Center Drive Room 240

Chapel Hill, NC 27517

Phone: (919) 843-3000 Fax: (919) 843-5465

E-mail: jeconrad@northcarolina.edu

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA

GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

Governor‘s Award for Excellence Nominee,

Chrissy Tillery

MESSAGE FROM THE GEAR UP STAFF

Programming

1/31 Fayetteville State University Winter College Expo for 11th grade students 2/13 FAFSA Day at local colleges for assistance completing and submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid February-March GEAR UP Day for 8th and 9th graders to the BRITE Futures Center at North Carolina Central University (dates range) March North Carolina College Access Conference (tentative; dates to be announced) 3/5 GEAR UP Day for 8th and 9th graders at Lenoir-Rhyne University 3/11 GEAR UP Day for 8th and 9th graders at Chowan University 3/15 The Shelton Challenge at NCSU FIRST YEAR PROGRAM and TAKE II PROGRAM applications & two letters of recommendations due to GEAR UP NC from the coordinators. (Students must submit applications to their coordinator prior to this deadline.) 3/27 North Carolina Area Health Education Careers Program (AHEC) Conference in Charlotte for GEAR UP students

College Readiness SAT 1/23 (Registration closed as of 12/15/09) 3/13 Registration Deadline: 2/2 5/1 Registration Deadline: 3/25 6/5 Registration Deadline: 4/29

ACT 2/6 (Registration closed as of 1/5) 4/10 Registration Deadline: 3/5 6/12 Registration Deadline: 5/7

Author Chad Foster High School Presentations

2/2 Gaston County Schools 2/3 Rutherford County Schools 2/4 Union County Schools 2/13 Cleveland County Schools

GEAR UP SHOUT OUTS !

COLLEGE BOARD Training: AP Potential &

Summary of Answers and Scores

The College Board will train our GEAR UP NC schools on how to use AP Potential and the Summary of Answers and Scores. According to the College Board website, AP Potential is a web-based tool that allows schools to generate rosters of students who are likely to score a 3 or better on a given AP exam using PSAT/NMSQT scores. It is an excellent opportunity to open the doors of rigorous coursework to even more GEAR UP students. The Summary of Answers and Scores (SOAS) report allows schools to take a closer, detailed look at each student‘s academic skills by providing a snapshot of student performance on each PSAT/NMSQT test question.

Trainings will be available regionally for GEAR UP NC schools in February and March. For more information, contact your GEAR UP Regional Director.

Dear GEAR UP students, parents, staff, and colleagues:

As we are fully immersed in the 2009-2010 academic year, and the fifth year of our current GEAR UP North Carolina grant, I hope that college readiness has become an integral part of your day-to-day activities. The new GEAR UP database should be offering administrators more opportunity to use data to make data-driven decisions. Your input, feedback, and continued reviews make our GEAR UP database a user-friendly system that could be used as a national model. It has also been a very busy year thus far, with student and parent survey administration and focus groups being conducted in each district. Additionally, six of our districts have collected data for an intensive longitudinal study to document the effectiveness of GEAR UP North Carolina. I am proud that we have protocol and procedures in place to stay on the cutting-edge of best practices in college access programs.

I am excited to announce that during the 2008-2009 academic year we finally met our 7th grade math objective with over 65% of GEAR UP North Carolina students at grade level for math. This shows that professional development and tutoring do pay off.

May 2010 bring you all continued success in preparing our students for college and our districts for program sustainability!

- Chrissy Tillery, Research & Evaluation Specialist, GEAR UP North Carolina

GEAR UP CALENDAR