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New Mexico Higher Education Improves College Readiness Through Federal Programs

New Mexico has experienced an increase in high school graduation rates from 2014 to 2022, with approximately 76% of students graduating. Despite this progress, the state remains one of the lowest in national rankings for high school completion. The New Mexico Higher Education Department organized the GEAR UP West conference to address initiatives focused on improving college and career readiness.

New Mexico Reports Progress in College Readiness

The Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness in Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) New Mexico is a federally funded initiative that has been in operation since 2005, benefitting approximately 7,000 students each year.

In its third cycle, GEAR UP collaborates with seven school districts, including Bernalillo Public Schools and Taos Municipal Schools. The program emphasizes college preparation by fostering connections between students and local business leaders and supporting educators in equipping students for future educational and career pursuits.

Corine Frankland, Director of GEAR UP New Mexico, highlighted the importance of the program in providing diverse opportunities such as credit recovery, dual enrollment options, and college tours. Frankland noted that the program offers students a way to envision themselves as college students.

Program officials have observed that many families view college as an unattainable goal. In response, GEAR UP aims to connect rural and first-generation students and their families with financial aid resources, including The Opportunity Scholarship, which covers all tuition and fees.

During its current seven-year cycle, GEAR UP has contributed to a 9% increase in freshman college enrollment statewide. The recent GEAR UP West conference in Albuquerque attracted nearly 500 educators nationwide to share effective strategies. New Mexico officials are considering new incentives to encourage rural students to remain in their communities while pursuing 2- or 4-year college programs and to assume roles as community leaders.

This coverage is supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and KUNM listeners.

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