Gear up idaho fiscal year 2025

The U.S. Department of Education's Office of Postsecondary Education awarded $5.0 million to the Idaho State Board of Education (operating as the Idaho State Department of Education) on October 1, 2025, under the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP, CFDA 84.334). This project grant funds a 6-7 year commitment to provide comprehensive support services to eligible low-income secondary students, including those with disabilities, across Idaho. The award supports academic advising, mentoring, financial aid information, counseling, and related supportive services designed to improve high school completion rates and prepare students for postsecondary education success.

Through this GEAR UP award, the Idaho State Department of Education will deliver outreach, academic support, and college preparation services to reduce student dropout risk and the need for remedial education at the postsecondary level. The department will also provide information to students and families regarding postsecondary education advantages and college financing options. Grant activities are scheduled through September 30, 2026, with the Idaho State Department of Education responsible for program administration, performance monitoring, and compliance with federal reporting requirements under 2 CFR 200.