On Wednesday, May 1, the West Kentucky Educational Cooperative (WKEC) hosted a powerful regional event at the Paducah Innovation Hub in celebration of GEAR UP Works Day, as officially proclaimed by Governor Andy Beshear. The day honored 25 years of the federally funded GEAR UP program, which supports college and career readiness for students across the Commonwealth.
Over 60 students from across West KY GEARUP districts participated in STEM demonstrations and student-led showcases, highlighting how the GEAR UP grant has transformed their educational experiences and future pathways. Guests toured hands-on exhibits, spoke with students and educators, and learned how this grant has provided critical tools and opportunities for postsecondary success.
Dr. Susan Beatty, Director of West Kentucky GEAR UP, addressed attendees and partners, emphasizing the significance of the work being done in our region:
“Our GEAR UP grant at WKEC is about learning. It is about providing pathways for students to get an early start to gain skills and knowledge so they can improve their lives through a variety of higher education options.”
“We want all of our students to have access to a variety of postsecondary training—from 4-year and 2-year degrees to certifications in trades and job-ready training,” she continued. “And we don’t just want them aware of opportunities—we want them to feel equipped and empowered to succeed.”
The West Kentucky GEAR UP grant, led by the West Kentucky Educational Cooperative (WKEC), is a 7-year, $9.5 million federally funded initiative designed to increase postsecondary awareness, access, and success—especially for students in rural and low-income communities.
Since 2018, WKEC GEAR UP has served over 10,000 students in ten West Kentucky school districts:
Ballard, Caldwell, Carlisle, Crittenden, Fulton County, Fulton Independent, Hickman, Mayfield, McLean, and Paducah.
Through this grant, students have benefited from:
STEM education and hands-on learning experiences
ACT prep and dual credit opportunities
College visits and job site field trips
One-on-one college and career counseling
Financial literacy education for students and families
Collaboration with WKCTC, Murray State University, the Challenger Learning Center, MasteryPrep, and many others!
The program aims to address workforce needs and create a stronger future for students and the region.
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