UAH receives .2M grant to partner with students in Limestone and Marshall counties — UAH received a $3.2 million grant from the Department of Education to partner with students in Limestone and Marshall counties. (Ben Johnson / Hville Blast)

The University of Alabama in Huntsville secured a $3.2 million federal grant that will help boost local middle and high school students’ access to the resources, career networks and pathways for success after high school graduation.

UAH will partner with students in Limestone and Marshall counties through the U.S. Department of Education’s Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP).

UAH secures $3.2M GEAR UP grant

Jobs Listed — University of Alabama in Huntsville will partner with Limestone County Schools and Marshall County Schools. (Hville Blast)

According to the Department of Education, the GEAR UP initiative “invests in high-potential students and vibrant rural and regional communities, expanding opportunities to prepare for and thrive in postsecondary education and career training.”

Through the duration of the grant—running from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2032—UAH will partner with approximately 700 students, supporting a single cohort from seventh grade through high school graduation.

Co-funded through a joint investment by UAH and Limestone and Marshall County school systems, the program provides academic enrichment, professional development for math educators, college and career planning, financial literacy and mentorship.

“By working alongside our local school partners, we are expanding opportunities for students to build on their academic strengths, explore career pathways, and elevate their postsecondary aspirations. Connecting early with these regional resources allows students to cultivate their talents and confidently shape their own futures.”

_{Dr. Bryan Samuel, vice president for Access, Connections and Engagement at UAH}

What’s involved in the GEAR UP program?

Middle School Students Chatting Around Desks In Cl 2026 09 22 05 48 15 Utc 1440 — Students at seven different schools in North Alabama will benefit from the GEAR UP program and UAH. (UAH)

GEAR UP activities will be co-designed alongside local educators, families, and community partners to align with student strengths and priorities. Key components include:

Academic tutoring
Family engagement workshops
Math educator professional development
Financial literacy
Work-based learning
Campus visits
Job shadowing

The program will include accelerating early success in ninth-grade Algebra I, broadening participation in financial literacy education and expanding pathways for high school graduates transitioning into college and postsecondary training.

In Limestone County, participating schools are: