Paving the Road Ahead: Improving Student Achievement, Schools and Communities REGISTER ONLINE The purpose of this conference is to highlight the importance of K–16 education/community partnerships and the accomplishments of Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). This national convening of over 2,000 GEAR UP project directors, college access professionals, and business and community partners is coordinated by the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP) and is planned in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Education.