The Biloxi Public School District is taking advantage of a $30,500 grant to help prepare 8th graders and their parents for post-graduation choices and potential careers.

The grant, called “Gear Up Mississippi," has allowed 8th graders to take a college-entry ACT Explore test, to tour college campuses next semester, and to gauge their interest in career choices based on their personal interests – and find out how much those careers may pay in the future.

Parents of Biloxi's 430 8th grade students are now being asked to register for a meeting on Nov. 10 to discuss results of the ACT Explore test and to learn more about the Gear Up program. An Atlanta-based representative of ACT Explore also will be on hand to provide information about the test results.

To see a sign-up form for the meeting, which will include a free light dinner and child care, click here.

The reaction to the Gear Up program has been positive, said Susan Brand, a counselor at Biloxi Junior High School and former principal at Beauvoir Elementary School.

“Parents have been excited to discover what help is out there for them, and this program gives parents and students a good foundation toward understanding the world of college.”

Senior year is supposed to be a great experience for students and parents and students, Brand said, “but it can be a hectic time because there’s a great deal to learn about college in a short time. This program helps you prepare – whether you’re going to a two-year or four-year college.”

Another benefit of the ACT Explore test, Brand said, is a section that deals with career choices and personal interests.