Columbus Community is just one of 13 Iowa school districts selected for participation in an Iowa College Aid program that prepares underserved students for college and career success.

GEAR UP is a federal program to increase college and career access and readiness for low-income, minority, and first-generation students. GEAR UP Iowa supports students and families from seventh grade through the first year of college. This is the third time Columbus Community has been selected to apply for the grants which this time around will serve the high school class of 2027. Superintendent Jeff Maeder says the program can provide students a boost towards a college education, if they’re willing to put in the work, “The kids want to have to do it, too. It’s their choice how far they want to take it and how much they want to use it, but even one or two is worth it. So, if we can have one of two success stories at least out of every group, it makes it worth doing, especially for kids who wouldn’t be able to get where they are without it, so that makes it all worth it.”

Maeder says their successes include a student about to graduate from the University of Northern Iowa to become a teacher that wouldn’t have been possible without GEAR UP Iowa. He says, if approved as expected, the next program will begin with the new school year this fall. GEAR UP Iowa helps schools provide services that include college and career exploration, academic support, “soft skill” development, and assistance with college and financial aid applications. GEAR UP Iowa also places coaches in schools and provides resources for school counselors and other staff. When GEAR UP Iowa students enroll in college, they receive a scholarship.