SC GEAR UP Essay Contest winners were recognized at this year’s first GEAR UP Parent Night.  The first of four meetings scheduled for School Year 2013-2014 was held on Monday, November 25, in the Dillon High School Cafeteria.  Approximately 80 individuals were present including 9th grade parents, family members, students, and staff.  During this year’s National GEAR UP Week assembly in September, Judge James Lockemy challenged students to ask themselves, “Who Am I” and Mrs. LaDonna Pipkins, SC GEAR UP Regional College Coordinator, encouraged students to say to themselves, “Not impossible, but possible” as they make plans for their futures.  Following up on these presentations, ninth grade students wrote essays describing where they see themselves ten years from now and how they plan to reach their academic and personal goals.  The following winners received a certificate from SC GEAR UP and a monetary award sponsored by McLeod Medical Center-Dillon.  Mrs. Cindy Causey, Human Resource Manager assisted Mrs. Jayne Lee, Director of Student Services, Dillon School District Four with the following presentations:  1st  place winner, Tori Grimsley; 2nd place, L. J. Jacobs; 3rd place, Drew Covington; and three Honorable Mention awards to Timesha Clements, Nicholas Davis and Tyree Tart.  Mr. Lee Page, SC Graduation Coach introduced the ninth grade Student Council officers.  This year’s officers are Cali McRae, President; Del’Quaris Spears, Vice-President; Matthew Edwards, Secretary; and Martha Rowell, Treasurer.  Mrs. Jayne Lee shared with parents and students that the goals and objectives of the SC GEAR UP grant are to improve SC GEAR students’ academic performance and preparation for postsecondary education; improve SC GEAR UP students’ rate of high school graduation and participation in postsecondary education; and, expand SC GEAR UP students’ and their families’ knowledge of postsecondary education options, preparation, and financing. Parents were encouraged to become even more involved as we work together to meet these goals.    Mrs. LaDonna Pipkins shared information with parents about the numerous resources available through SC GEAR UP and partnerships with the SC Chamber of Commerce, SC Pathways, businesses and the community.  Mrs. Kim Jackson, 9th grade Guidance Counselor, Mr. Zack Hayes, Career Specialist and Mrs. Karen Stagg, English teacher and after-school lab tutor were also present to talk with parents and students.
Mrs. Cynthia Hulon, SC Graduation Coach provided an overview of the After-School College Prep/Academic Assistance Labs that are open to ninth grade students every Wednesday afternoon from 3:30-5:30 p.m.  A certified English teacher and a certified math teacher provide free tutoring and/or allow students to make up work missed in his or her English or math classes and receive additional help in needed areas.  Parents were asked to encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity and to assist by providing transportation for students.  Mrs. Hulon thanked everyone for their participation in Parent Night and for completing the SC GEAR UP Parent Survey.  She encouraged parents to communicate with the GEAR UP staff and share their thoughts and ideas for future meetings.  Before leaving everyone present received a delicious spaghetti dinner to take home and enjoy.