Book Club for Parents (in Spanish): Parents of GEAR UP students meet once a week (Tuesdays) for coffee, pastries, and food for thought as we discuss this semester's title, Bless me, Ultima by Rudolfo Anaya. The book explores important topics such as family, education, and growing up. If you have suggestions for a book title for next year's club, please contact Victor Mercado, College Coach, (520) 307-2319.

It's Alive!: Where Social Studies Lives and Breathes: Students in Apollo Middle School's Social Studies classes are taking part in a new guest speaker series that is bringing Social Studies into the classroom. November's guest was Steve Leal, City Council Member for Ward 5. Students asked Mr. Leal a series of questions ranging from global warming to community service, the war in Iraq to Proposition 300, and many others. If you are interested in becoming a guest speaker, please
contact: Victor Mercado, College Coach, (520) 307-2319 or via e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Math Through Mariachi: Apollo students are taking part in the Math Through Mariachi class, which is based on an innovative math curriculum that addresses the 8th grade math standards and prepares GEAR UP students for Algebra I their Freshman year of high school. The majority of students are beginners in music and have their choice of playing the violin, guitar, and trumpet.

GEAR UP 3-on-3 Basketball: Students from Sunnyside and the Tucson Unified School Districts will square off in this exciting basketball tournament, Spring 2008 at The University of Arizona campus. College coaches will hold regular practices with students and discuss the importance of academics and athletics. Students will learn fundamental basketball skills, watch footage from inspiring sports films such as Coach Carter, Hoop Dreams, Hoosiers, Glory Road; students will also learn valuable lessons in teamwork and sportsmanship. We are currently looking for score keepers and volunteers.

Socratic Seminar for Teachers, Spring 2008: College Coaches Victor Mercado and Karen Rosales will host this exciting professional development opportunity. Teachers will learn how to use the Socratic Method in their classrooms to increase student engagement, improve reading comprehension, and promote critical thinking skills.

Mission to Mars Songwriting Contest: Congratulations Esgardo Robles, Jr. for being selected as Apollo Middle School's GEAR UP Mission to Mars songwriting contest winner! 

Victor Mercado, College Coach
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
(520) 307-2319