News Summary
Arizona’s education leaders are urging continued support for GEAR UP to bridge the workforce skills gap, as federal budget proposals threaten its funding. With significant contributions and impressive success rates, GEAR UP has greatly aided thousands of students in preparing for postsecondary education, essential for meeting future workforce demands. The call for action comes as Arizona’s education community emphasizes the importance of aligned educational strategies for economic growth and job readiness.
Arizona Education Leaders Advocate for Continued Support of GEAR UP to Address Workforce Skills Gap
Arizona’s education system is facing significant challenges in meeting the demands of the workforce, prompting a call from business leaders for a coordinated approach to prepare students for high-skill jobs. This initiative coincides with discussions at the Pinal County Growth Summit, which is part of the Phoenix Business Journal’s 2025 Growth Summit series dedicated to economic development.
One of the pressing issues currently being debated is a federal budget proposal that suggests eliminating GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) and TRIO, both critical programs designed to improve college access for underserved students. The potential removal of these programs raises concerns among educators and community leaders about the ongoing barriers to educational access, suggesting that the challenges have not been fully addressed.
Since its launch in 2000, GEAR UP has provided substantial support to over 61,000 Arizona students who are facing economic and educational disadvantages. The program operates in 121 schools across 41 communities in Arizona, delivering long-term assistance to students from seventh grade through their first year after high school. GEAR UP combines direct services for students with systemic support from collaborations that include school districts, colleges, nonprofits, and local leaders.
Impact and Success of GEAR UP
Northern Arizona University has played a crucial role in GEAR UP’s success, securing four consecutive state grants totaling $91 million in federal funding and mobilizing local contributions that surpass $182 million. The program has shown remarkable effectiveness: participants boast graduation and postsecondary enrollment rates that exceed the state averages. Notably, 90% of students from high-poverty schools graduated on time or early, and 80% of these students applied to at least one postsecondary institution.
Furthermore, GEAR UP has facilitated an increase of over 20% in financial aid applications among its participants and has successfully engaged parents in their children’s educational journeys. The program has evolved continuously to meet the changing needs of students by providing services such as academic advising, career and college exploration, scholarship opportunities, tutoring, and mentoring.
Workforce Development Needs
With projections indicating that by 2031, over two-thirds of jobs in Arizona will require postsecondary education or training, the reliance on educational programs like GEAR UP is becoming increasingly critical. The program not only aims to enhance individual student performance but also seeks to create a supportive educational ecosystem through partnerships that emphasize accountability and sustained investment in workforce development.
As discussions around workforce development unfold, Arizona’s education community is being urged to maintain and bolster support for GEAR UP. Advocates present the program as a model of successful investment in student opportunities and as a vital contributor to economic growth. The need for a coherent strategy to equip students with the necessary skills for the future labor market remains at the forefront of educational and business leaders’ agendas.
As the Fastest Growing Companies Specialty Awards are set to be announced on November 13, 2025, the emphasis on aligning education with workforce needs will likely play a significant role in shaping the future of Arizona’s economy and its ability to cultivate a skilled workforce ready to meet emerging challenges.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Arizona Capitol Times
- KTAR News: Mesa Public Schools Job Fair
- K12 Dive
- KTAR News: Education and Business Leaders Commission
- Google Search: Arizona education workforce development
