GEAR UP Okanogan GEAR UP or “Gaining Early Awareness & Readiness for Undergraduate Programs” is a 7-year grant serving Okanogan 7-12th graders. GEAR UP’s vision is that all students are academically, socially, and financially prepared to pursue a sustainable future of their choice. Learn more about Washington State’s GEAR UP program by visiting the website: https://gearup.wa.gov/students-families
Our Objectives:
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Increase academic performance and preparation for postsecondary education.
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Increase high school graduation and postsecondary participation rates.
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Increase students’ and their families’ knowledge of postsecondary options, preparation, and finances.
Support Hours:
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3-4pm Monday-Thursday
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School-day-drop-in support is available. If the door is open--we're open!
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Schedule a special appointment for your family during or outside of the school day by contacting our GEAR UP Advisor.
Students can view our availability posted outside our door or ask a staff member to see updated hours on the GEAR UP Activities Outlook calendar. When in doubt, just ask!
Families may request a special appointment during or outside of the school day by contacting our GEAR UP Advisor.
Ways to Engage Volunteer, Host or Job Site or be a Guest Speaker!
- Family and community members can engage with GEAR UP Okanogan by volunteering, hosting a job site visit, or being a guest speaker! Interested? Complete this interest form and we’ll be in touch, soon!
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Employers can register for the Middle School's Career Demo Day HERE
GEAR UP Events
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October 7th Family Financial Aid & FAFSA Night
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Student Tools to GEAR UP
Self-Exploration
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SchoolLinks
Career Education
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Occupations In Demand Learn which fields are growing in counties across Washington.
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Career One Stop Leverage tools to explore careers and salaries, search for jobs, review resume examples, interview tips and more.
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Occupational Outlook Handbook: Browse information about hundreds of occupations, including average pay, job outlook, and career specific information.
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A Day in the Life Blog: Hear from professionals what a day at their job feels like.
Post Secondary Education Options
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Employment: Visit OK GEAR UP RM 107 for help searching for jobs
Scholarships
Students can prepare themselves for scholarship eligibility (and in some cases apply for them) as early as 7th grade! Check out a list of local and nationwide scholarship opportunities, updated monthly! Click here: Okanogan GEAR UP Scholarship Search
Explore other scholarship opportunities on these sites:
Writing College Essays
Not feeling confident? You can always forward your essay draft to GEAR UP staff via email! We’ll review and give you feedback within the week.
Meet the GEAR UP Team
Casey Ball, GEAR UP Advisor
Casey was born and raised in Spokane, WA. As a Running Start student, she expedited her college education and quickly completed her bachelor’s degree at Eastern Washington University. Soon after, Casey joined the US Peace Corps and began her volunteer service in Zambia, but an injury disrupted her plans! She earned her MBA online and began to serve the Spokane community explore their skills, interests, and educational options through workforce development. Casey has over 5 years of experience working in specially funded grants and student employment and is thrilled to be helping Okanogan students and families navigate sustainable career paths.
Contact Casey at cball@oksd.wednet.edu or 509-422-3770*3107
Jesse Villaraldo, GEAR UP Graduation Specialist
Jesse is a first-generation college graduate who courageously embraced the uncertainties and challenges of higher education. After graduating from Okanogan High School, he started his higher education journey at Wenatchee Valley College before transferring to Washington State University –Vancouver, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology with a minor in Criminal Justice. Initially focused on a career in law enforcement, Jesse’s perspective was transformed by a work-study position and volunteer work at a restorative justice program for youth. This profound impact of this experience shifted his career aspirations, leading him to pursue a path in social services. Today, Jesse wants to support the next generation of Okanogan students to discover their potential and help navigate their own higher education journeys.
Contact Jesse at jvillaraldo@oksd.wednet.edu or 509-422-3770*3129
