Texas Border Business
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34)announced over $62 million in federal funding for Region One Education Service Center (ESC) and The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley to be distributed over a span of seven years from the U.S. Department of Education’s Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). Specifically, UTRGV will receive $28,772,800 and Region One ESC will receive $33,818,400.
“Education is the great equalizer in our society — it bridges the gaps dividing us by background or circumstance and allows every one of us the opportunity to achieve our full potential,” said Congressman Gonzalez. Investing in the education of our young people means investing in the future of South Texas. I am proud to support programs like GEAR UP that provide crucial resources to help our low-income students achieve their dreams and build a brighter future for our region. These grants will ensure that students from our communities are prepared to succeed in college and beyond.”
GEAR UP is one of the largest and most successful federal initiatives designed to increase high-school graduation rates, college enrollment, and student academic achievement among low-income students through support initiatives, resources, and scholarships. It is a critical component of the ongoing efforts by Region One ESC and UTRGV to improve educational outcomes in South Texas. Congressman Gonzalez is a staunch supporter of GEAR UP and voted to pass the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, which funds this vital program.
