DeSoto Independent School District will celebrate National
GEAR UP Week from September 22–26 under the theme, “Planting
Seeds, Growing a Nation.” The weeklong series of activities is designed to
inspire students’ future planning, promote college and career readiness, and
engage families in meaningful educational experiences.
“National GEAR UP Week is an exciting opportunity for our
students to explore their potential and prepare for college and career
pathways,” said Dr. Calvin Green, Program Director for the College Driven
GEAR UP grant. “This week allows students to envision their goals and
understand the resources available to support their journey toward
post-secondary success.”
Week Highlights Include:
- September
22 – Plant the Vision: Goal Setting & GEAR UP Awareness (Student
Ambassadors Only)
Students will engage in
intentional goal-setting activities and learn how GEAR UP supports
long-term success. A service project planting outside will also take
place.
- September
23 – Branching Into the Future: Texas Career Day and Job Fair (Sophomores)
Students will engage with local employers during the Job
Fair from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM in the library, gaining insight into a variety
of career opportunities.
- September
24 – Rooted in Opportunity: Military Games with ROTC + PV Panther Night
(Purple & Gold Day)
Students will engage in hands-on
military-themed activities and explore military career pathways and leadership
opportunities.
Scholars are invited to attend an evening event Prairie View A&M
University Panther Engagement Night at DHS’ Nickels Auditorium(6:00–8:00
PM) will offer scholars and families the opportunity to meet PVAMU
representatives to learn about admissions, scholarships, and summer
programs.
- September
25 –Bloom at TWU
Students will embark on a college tour at TWU in Denton to
tour the campus and its programs and will have the opportunity to participate
in a Family Reality Fair that evening at 6:30 p.m.
- September
26 – DeSoto ISD Bleed and Gold
Students and staff are encouraged to show their
Eagle Spirit by wearing mums, Eagle paraphernalia, and show our Eagle
PRIDE!
“National GEAR UP Week helps us cultivate a college-going
culture and strengthen student engagement with their futures,” said Dr.
Anita Perry, Executive Director of CCMR, Counseling Services, and Advanced
Academics.
“By connecting students with colleges, career resources, and
real-world experiences, we are planting seeds today that will grow into
tomorrow’s success,” added DeSoto ISD Chief Academic Officer Stephanie
McCloud.
“DeSoto ISD is proud to provide students with meaningful
opportunities to explore college and career pathways,” said Dr. Usamah
Rodgers, Superintendent of Schools. “GEAR UP Week embodies our commitment
to preparing every scholar for life beyond high school.”
For more information about DeSoto ISD’s programs, services
and initiatives, please visit www.DeSotoisd.org.