What’s not to love about getting students legitimately excited about their futures? To further that cause, you might want to start thinking way ahead now about that one quasi-magical week in September that focuses extra energy on giving students the information and help they need to start working towards their dreams. National GEAR UP Week is the perfect opportunity for student planning, goal-setting, and career exploration. Last year, Manor Middle School (part of the Texas GEAR UP State Grant) hosted its first GEAR UP Week, providing an ideal opportunity to celebrate college-and-career readiness in a big way. The GEAR UP team even brought in some local professionals in fields that might interest students and spark their imagination. Stories were shared, and inspiration abounded.