The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology hosted Governor Mike Rounds today for South Dakota Gear Up graduation ceremonies. We take a look at the program and how it aims to help South Dakota kids.

Governor Mike Rounds spoke to the more than 220 students, who for the past 6 weeks, have taken part in the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Program or Gear Up. They've gathered at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology to get the skills needed to prepare for college.

Dr. Robert Wharton, the President of the School of Mines also spoke to the Gear Up graduates today. The participants are in grades 9 through 12, and some are college students. Nearly two-thirds are female and about 85 percent of the students are Native American.

Organizers say the time spent at the School of Mines pays off for the students in a big way. About 100 percent will also graduate from high school, 87 percent will go on to attend college and 9 percent will enter the military.

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