On Nov. 10, CSUF GEAR UP was recognized as an outstanding community partner by the Buena Park School District for contributing to significant impact for student success. CSUF GEAR UP was celebrated for its commitment to increasing college access and career readiness. Adriana Badillo, director of the CSUF Center for Educational Partnerships, which houses grant-funded programs for the university, accepted the award along with GEAR UP coordinator Briana Iniestra.
During the district meeting, Buena Park Middle School Principal Jay Bekkelheimer highlighted GEAR UP’s embedded mentorship, high-impact tutoring and professional development initiatives, noting that these efforts have positioned students and staff for long-term growth. Last academic year, CSUF GEAR UP sponsored ten teachers to attend the AVID Summer Institute, led campuswide college and career readiness initiatives, and provided the eighth-grade class with a STEM-focused field trip to an iFLY facility and the California Science Center.
CSUF GEAR UP serves the Class of 2029, and partners with Buena Park School District, La Habra City School District and Fullerton Joint Union High School District. The GEAR UP Class of 2029, currently freshmen at Buena Park High School and La Habra High School, is the first GEAR UP grant to serve these districts in CSUF GEAR UP’s more than 25-year history and continues the mission to prepare students to succeed in post-secondary education. Through advising, workshops and more, GEAR UP ensures that students and their families are informed about transitions to high school and beyond with confidence and a clear plan for their future.
As one of the longest-running GEAR UP programs in the nation, CSUF GEAR UP has served students and their families since 1999. As a federally funded initiative committed to increasing college access and equipping students for an evolving job market, GEAR UP programs strengthen local communities, the greater national workforce and contribute to economic growth.
Superintendent Julienne Lee emphasized the district’s commitment to meaningful partnerships that advance student well-being and academic success, reflecting the work between GEAR UP and Buena Park Middle School. CSUF GEAR UP is grateful to be recognized, along with four other organizations from BPSD, and remains committed to the mission of expanding access, opportunity and support.
For more information about CSUF GEAR UP, contact Keith Payumo at kepayumo@fullerton.edu. To learn more about the GEAR UP program nationally, contact the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships at 202-530-1135 or visit the website.