DeSoto ISD Wins Federal Grant
The district will receive approximately $1.07 million for the first year of a seven-year college readiness program.
By Daphne Turner ·
DeSoto Independent School District received a federal Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs grant on Sept. 22. The award, titled GEAR UP 4 The Future, will expand college and career readiness resources for a new group of students and their families.
The U.S. Department of Education provided the notice of the award. The program is structured as a seven-year initiative running from Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2033. DeSoto ISD was awarded approximately $1.07 million for the first year. The total estimated value of the grant is $7.5 million over the full seven-year period, subject to annual continuation funding and federal requirements.
Dr. Calvin Green, the program director for College Driven GEAR UP, stated the initiative aims to create a clear pathway for scholars to see what is possible and to provide them with the tools to pursue those possibilities. The district intends to use the funds to ensure students have access to academic, college, and career readiness experiences before their senior year of high school.
Participating families and students are expected to receive academic tutoring and postsecondary planning services. The program will also include resources to help families manage financial planning for college and other educational pathways. Green noted that preparing students for life after high school requires sustained support and exposure that begins well before graduation.
The district's initial implementation plan identifies five roles to support the launch of the program. These positions include a project director, a college and career readiness coordinator, a family and financial advocate, a site coordinator, and a program assistant. Four of these positions are new grant-funded roles included in the current launch plan.
Specific information regarding participating campuses and the student cohort will be announced as implementation planning continues. The seven-year structure is designed to provide consistent support as students progress through their academic journey and begin making decisions about college and careers.
The award is currently moving through the district's formal acceptance and budget approval process. Green said the grant provides another opportunity to help scholars graduate prepared to take their next step with confidence.
