Clinton OK - Clinton Public Schools celebrated a major achievement Monday afternoon, announcing they have been awarded a $34.7 million Oklahoma Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduates (GEAR UP) Grant. The seven-year grant aims to make college more accessible for Clinton students by covering tuition, books, and other essential expenses.

Through the Oklahoma GEAR UP V Grant, Clinton students will receive direct support services, including:

College campus tours

ACT preparation and testing

Career exploration and college prep courses

Assistance with college applications and enrollment

Funding for senior concurrent enrollment fees

One-on-one guidance from GEAR UP staff and university coaches

Additionally, Oklahoma GEAR UP will provide college access and financial aid information to Clinton students and families, including assistance with FAFSA completion and Oklahoma’s Promise.

The grant also benefits Clinton educators. Emergency-certified, alternatively certified, and first-year teachers will receive instructional coaching and professional development to improve student achievement, academic interventions, and math-focused assessments.

Lynn Walker, Clinton’s GEAR UP site director, highlighted the district’s distinction as one of only 13 in the state to receive this grant out of more than 500 districts. She noted that Clinton has been a GEAR UP partner since 1999 and is thrilled to continue for another seven years.