GEAR UP CT: Year 5 Evaluation—Partnership Survey Results

Abstract

CNA serves as the external evaluator of the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Program Connecticut (GEAR UP CT), a seven-year, US Department of Education-funded initiative to improve college and career readiness and outcomes for low-income students. This report summarizes findings from a CNA survey of GEAR UP CT students, parents, and staff from participating schools in the 2023–2024 academic year. The goal of the survey was to understand perceptions of GEAR UP awareness, implementation, and effectiveness approximately halfway through the program. Survey results for students and parents indicate a noticeable increase in awareness of GEAR UP services available and expectations for participating students to attend postsecondary institutions since the 2021 survey; also, staff are participating in more GEAR UP activities and professional development opportunities since the original survey. As GEAR UP students enter their senior year of high school, GEAR UP CT should continue to focus on the diverse portfolio of activities because it is making an impact on student, parent, and staff perceptions of participating students’ college and career readiness.