Announces $1.84 Million Grant for Lafayette Parish School System

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Charles W. Boustany, Jr., R-Southwest Louisiana, today announced a $1,841,391.00 GEAR-UP Program grant for Lafayette Parish Schools to fund school enrichment activities, support services and teacher development for middle school students.

"The middle school years are critical for a child's development, and it can be a very tough time for many students," Boustany said. "As a member of the House Education and Labor Committee, I am committed to providing the resources our teachers need to effectively help all of our children. This grant highlights the good work our teachers and school personnel are doing."

The GEAR-UP Program targets disadvantaged children in grades 6-12. In Lafayette, more than 2,300 students will benefit from this grant through collaboration with higher education and museums, proven support services, research-based teacher professional development and transition activities to help students prepare for postsecondary education.

Burnell Lemoine, Superintendent of Lafayette Parish Schools, said, "This grant was a six year process, and it will make a tremendous difference for students from middle school to college. The GEAR-UP Program will allow middle school students to see different careers to help prepare them for high school. It gives these students a much better perspective of their many options available."

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