'Education is key:' Meridian High School honors GEARUP students

Administered by Mississippi State University, GEAR UP also known as gaining early awareness and readiness for undergraduate programs gives educational opportunities for high school students encouraging them to attend college. The GEAR UP grant provides $3500 per student for their first year at a Mississippi college when they graduate from Meridian High School. This morning, Meridian High School honored their 8th through 12th grade students with a certificate.

“From 8th grade on to provide opportunities, information, training--whether it’s ACT or financial aid or scholarships, information about trade schools. It’s all about giving our students more opportunities when they leave high school," said College and Career Counselor Tiffanie Roberts.

Coming class by class, each student was able to receive a certificate while being cheered on by community members for encouragement. Meridian Community College representatives and Meridian High School’s Student Government Association helped capture the moment with signs and motivational chats.

“We have certificates for every student that says ‘I’m a GEARUP student and on the back of the certificate it tells a little bit about the benefits they have of being a GEARUP student,” said Roberts.

One student shared he is excited about receiving this grant to further his education.

“I’m excited I’m happy for it.I feel good, it just gives us something extra to put in. I plan on going to college at Jackson State and I’m majoring in athletic training,” said 12th grade student Jordan Young.

Meridian High School is one of three public school districts in the state to be awarded the GEARUP grant.