GEAR UP Appalachianos

We, at GEAR UP Appalachian, are beyond proud to introduce these incredible Op-Eds written by three of our amazing GEAR UP L.E.A.D. Student Coalition scholars: Kassiti Hoke and Laurel Davis from Alleghany High School (Alleghany County Schools North Carolina), and Dreydon Conley from Robbinsville High School (Graham County Schools).

Through their words, you can truly see the impact that leadership, advocacy, teamwork, empowerment, and personal growth have had on their journeys as LEAD scholars. Each one of these students continues to inspire us with their dedication, passion, and commitment to making a difference in their schools and communities.

Watching these scholars grow into confident leaders, powerful voices, and change makers has been one of the greatest joys of the LEAD program. Their stories reflect not only their hard work and resilience, but also the bright future ahead of them.

Please join us in celebrating Kassiti, Laurel, and Dreydon for sharing their experiences and leadership journeys with such authenticity and heart. The future is truly brighter because of students like them! 💛🖤

✨ So incredibly proud of our L.E.A.D. Student Coalition Scholars! ✨

Our students continue to inspire us as they advance on their leadership journeys through our L.E.A.D. (Leadership, Empowerment, Advocacy, Discovery) Student Coalition Program 💛

As part of their Vote & Advocacy Quest, our scholars didn’t just show up... they stepped up. Many of them chose to go above and beyond by completing both quest options:
✔️ Attending board meetings, connecting with principals, DPI leaders, and community organizations
✔️ AND using their voices to advocate for causes that matter deeply to them

They shared their ideas, their concerns, and their experiences, including their journey with the L.E.A.D. program, demonstrating courage, confidence, and purpose.

This is what leadership looks like.
This is what advocacy in action looks like.

💥 A new generation of leaders is rising—and they are already making their voices heard.

Keep leading. Keep advocating. Keep shining.
We see you, and we are so proud of you! 💫



GEAR UP Appalachian
GEAR UP Burke County
Alleghany County Schools North Carolina
GEAR UP Burke County
Watauga County Schools
Yancey County Schools
Graham County Schools