GEER Up Now Accepting Applications for Summer 2021

Parkland Program Offers Free Classes to Area High Schoolers

Parkland College's GEER Up program is returning this summer to help eligible area high school students transition to college with free credit-earning classes and is accepting applications.

Funded by the Governor's Emergency Education Relief Fund announced last year, GEER Up will serve an additional 50 students this summer, according to Lisa Lyne, program manager for Early College Services.

"We've been pleased with the success of the program so far," said Lyne. "It's important to us that our area students have the opportunity to prepare for college, no matter where they go."

GEER Up assists high school students interested in dual enrollment classes at Parkland College and who are facing increased financial hardship. The program provides eligible students up to $2,500 in assistance for tuition, fees, books, and technology in an award package determined by the student's chosen program of study.

While the program aims to expand access to dual enrollment classes for District 505's low-income, underrepresented, and first-generation high school students, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, Parkland College's efforts to serve these populations doesn't stop there.

"GEER Up ensures that our students are able to access and find success in Parkland career programs," said Lyne. "A major goal of the program is to help these students transition smoothly to higher education through academic support, access to academic advising, and financial literacy coaching."

The program requires that students take First Year Experience 101, which helps them with self-assessment, goal-setting, educational and career planning, time management, interpersonal communication, and personal development. In addition, students receive support from faculty mentors, and can choose to take additional coursework to earn credits.

Parkland College is currently accepting applications for the GEER Up program.

Summer Session 2021 begins on May 17. All high school students may apply, including 2021 high school graduates. Applications are available and submitted at parkland.edu/GEERUp. Academic advising is available to students upon application.

For more information, please visit parkland.edu/GEERUp or contact the Early College Office at earlycollege@parkland.edu or 217/353-2663.