College trustees hear report on Gear Up program

A federally funded program designed to help first-generation and/or low income students get ready for college was the focus of a report to trustees of the Northern Wyoming Community College District this week.

During their meeting, held at Gillette College this month, trustees heard information from Kristin Young, coordinator of the district’s Gear Up program.

College District President Dr. Walt Tribley provided more information in an interview with Sheridan Media.

He said students who don’t take those classes, who don’t pay attention, who don’t do well in their classes can find they aren’t eligible to attend the college of their choice.

He said Gear Up provides programming for grades K through 12 to help students in a variety of ways, like completing their homework and staying engaged in school. The program also helps students see what college is about.

Young is based at Gillette College, but Tribley said she serves students district-wide, at Sheridan and Gillette colleges and the Sheridan College Campus in Johnson County.

He said the program, which is funded by a grant through the University of Wyoming, serves about 200 students in all three counties. The current grant runs through 2024.

Tribley said Young works with local school administrators and faculty to provide the programs that students need for success.