GEAR UP SWV offers programs to help students thrive—in school and beyond. From on-demand tutoring and career coaching to leadership camps and how to pay for training after high school, these programs are designed to build confidence, open doors, and make success feel possible. Whether you’re a teacher looking for support, or a school partner wondering where to take a few questions, this page highlights the tools, resources, and contacts that can help every step of the way.
Need help figuring out which program is right for your students or school? Contact GEAR UP SWV Program Specialist Ashlei Collins at +13043845262 or mailto:[email protected].
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Tutor.com a service of The Princeton Review
Need a boost or just extra support with schoolwork? GEAR UP SWV students have free access to Tutor.com—anytime, anywhere. This online service connects students with expert tutors to build skills, stay on track, and feel confident about their future. Here’s just a few features included:
- 24/7 on-demand tutoring
- Test prep for ACT, SAT, and more
- Expert feedback with Essay Review
- Support in over 200 subjects, including math, science, and English
Tutor.com County Resources [“anchor link to Tutor.com section”]
Tutor.com for Students [“anchor link to Tutor.com section”]
Student Success Agency
Student Success Agency (SSA) connects GEAR UP SWV students with a personal “agent” who helps them reach their goals. Whether it’s school, college, or life planning, students get support from a caring adult—right from their phone. Here’s what students get with SSA:
- One-on-one mentorship from a trusted “agent”
- Extra-curricular coaching
- College and career guidance
- Access to the Summer Boss entrepreneurship program
- Internship opportunities and career exposure
- Life skills support through text, voice, or video
Career and College Clubs by the NCCEP
Career and College Clubs is a program by the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP) that helps GEAR UP SWV students build the confidence, skills, and knowledge they need for life after high school. Through hands-on activities and peer-led sessions, students explore careers, set goals, and prepare for their future—together. Here’s what students do in Career and College Clubs:
- Student-led activities
- Research-based
- College and career readiness
- Academic preparation
- Leadership development
- Professional etiquette
County Resources for CCC [“anchor link to CCC section”]
CoolSpeak
From unforgettable summer experiences to meaningful learning all year long, CoolSpeak empowers GEAR UP SWV students to stay motivated, build confidence, and plan for their future. As the nation’s leading youth engagement company, CoolSpeak connects with students in ways that stick—through energy, authenticity, and purpose-driven programs.
Summer Camp with CoolSpeak for the Cool Academy: Power of Youth
GEAR UP SWV partners with CoolSpeak to host a high-energy overnight summer camp where students grow as leaders, connect with peers, and gain tools to succeed—while having a blast.
- Dynamic workshops focused on self-awareness and leadership
- Engaging activities that encourage connection and motivation
- A safe, supportive space for students to reflect, grow, and dream big
Cool Academy[“anchor link to Cool Academy section”]
Financial Literacy Support
- Financial Literacy with MJ Bridges
Throughout the school year, CoolSpeak’s featured speaker MJ Bridges delivers a practical and powerful Financial Literacy program just for GEAR UP SWV students.
- Interactive lessons that teach money skills and financial mindset
- A relatable curriculum designed for middle and high schoolers
- Real-world tools to help students build confidence with money decisions
- FAFSA Workshops/Awareness
- Scholarship Research
Ashlei Collins is the Program Specialist with GEAR UP SWV. She can help with all of your special program needs. Reach out to Ashlei at +13043845262 or mailto:[email protected].
Am I a GEAR UP SWV student?[“anchor link to “Where is GEAR UP SWV section”]