Louisiana GEAR UP!, an offshoot of the Louisiana Systematic Initiatives Initiative Program, is featuring Glen Oaks High School’s Explorers Club on its Web site (http://www.lasip.org/lasip-lagearup/?page_id=501).

As part of the Louisiana Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP!), the Glenn Oaks High club sponsored a College Knowledge Night this for freshmen and their parents earlier this school year.  Presentations were given by local colleges, such as Louisiana State University, the Baton Rouge Community College, Southern University and Capitol Area Technical College.  Other speakers included representatives of Upward Bound and the school’s graduation coach.  About 70 students, parents, staff and volunteers attended the event. 

GEAR UP! Is located in 61 schools across the state, working with students now in the eighth and ninth grades through their 2013-2014 academic year.  Participating schools were selected through a competitive process based on eligibility for free/reduced lunch, district ACT scores, percentage of students requiring remedial courses and geographic location.  For more information, call the state office at (225) 342-4253.

Explorers Clubs are extensions of Summer Learning Camps throughout the academic year that reinforce peer leadership skills, a focus on community service, encouragement of attaining personal goals and support for academic growth.