Three triplets—Haley, Kassidy, and Sierra—arrived at Valley High School, Las Vegas, facing challenges few students experience. Orphaned young, with their father imprisoned, and raised primarily by a grandmother who was unable to provide basic necessities, the girls struggled academically and socially.
Their participation in the GEAR UP program—a federal initiative helping low-income students while preparing them for college—proved pivotal. The trust they developed with GEAR UP advisors enabled the triplets to open up about their experiences, and from there, their academic progress took off.
Despite difficult circumstances, all three sustained GPA averages over 3.0, took advanced courses, joined school activities, and took on jobs, earning the admiration of peers and staff alike. Their graduation became a community celebration, highlighted by a surprise event organized by a local news squad recognizing their remarkable journey.
