Dear Colleague:

This is to confirm that the information previously communicated to you by the Council is correct. President Bush’s FY 06 budget proposes the elimination of TALENT SEARCH, UPWARD BOUND and GEAR UP. The total budget proposed by the President for TRIO for FY 06 is $369.4 million, a 56% cut. EOC’s, McNair, and Student Support Services are level funded.

It is now appropriate to unleash your communication to Congress from students, clergy, businessmen, parents and other community leaders opposing this Administration’s recommendation. It is also critical that you keep senior administrators at your college or agency informed of this information.

Finally, please make plans to attend the Council’s Policy Seminar, March 13-15 so that you have the opportunity to convey these views to your Members of Congress in person. (For more information go to http://www.coenet.us/leadershippolicyEDseminars.html .) Teams of Veterans Upward Bound and GEAR UP staff will be organized. It is very appropriate to bring alumni, parents and other supporters of TRIO and GEAR UP to the Policy Seminar so that your impact throughout the community can be demonstrated.

We will continue to provide you information and additional resources in the coming days and weeks.

Sincerely,

Arnold L. Mitchem President

Federal TRIO Programs