ATU receives $6.1 million grant for K-12 program

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by Talk Business & Politics staff ([email protected]) ago 0 views 

Russellville-based Arkansas Tech University is one of 26 U.S. educational entities chosen for a Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) grant from the U.S. Department of Education beginning with the 2024-25 academic year.

The grant, expected to last seven years and total $6.1 million, will allow ATU to serve 1,157 students from the Clarksville School District and the Russellville School District. ATU is the lone educational entity in Arkansas that received a GEAR UP grant for the 2024-25 cycle.

Goals of the ATU GEAR UP program are to increase the academic performance and preparation for post-secondary education of participating students; increase the rate of high school graduation and participation in post-secondary education; and educate students and their families about higher education options, preparation and financing for success in post-secondary education.

Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim, ATU professor of curriculum and instruction, is the primary investigator on the grant.

“I am thrilled and deeply honored to be part of the GEAR UP initiative,” said Ibrahim. “It aligns perfectly with the university and the leadership mission to support young learners from diverse and economically challenged backgrounds, helping them to overcome barriers and realize their full potential. It is a privilege to contribute to such a transformative effort that promises to make a lasting impact on the lives of these students and their communities.”

Community partners that will assist in the implementation of the grant include the Clarksville School District, the Russellville School District, Boys and Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley Russellville location and Education Consulting LLC.

Dr. Tim Carter, dean of the ATU College of Education and Health, cited Dr. Heather Stefanski, ATU assistant professor of curriculum and instruction; Janet Wood, director of the ATU Office of Research and Sponsored Programs; and Kathleen Martin, grant coordinator in the ATU Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, for the roles they played in obtaining the grant.

The ATU GEAR UP office will be located on the ATU campus in Russellville and will consist of a project director, advisors, office support, professional development coordinators and student success coaches.