Several community events are planned this month through the Boone County schools.

On January 20, at 5 p.m., Sherman High school will kick off a new grant program that will provide their students with extra help preparing for college and career planning.

According to a press release, the $18 million federal grant funds West Virginia GEAR UP, a six-year program aimed at “gaining early awareness and readiness for undergraduate programs.”

Simply put, the program helps students plan, apply and pay for training beyond high school.

Students and parents at Sherman High school can attend the West Virginia GEAR UP kickoff to learn about the program – and pick up dinner and some free tickets to the high school basketball games that follow the event. Those attending will also be eligible for door prizes.

Then, on Jan. 22, musicians and music lovers alike are gearing up for the annual All County Music Festival. This year it is scheduled to be held at the Scott High school gymnasium. The festival is a concert featuring jazz and strings.

Students will compete at the Oral Spelling Bee, slated for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24 at the Operations Complex, Foster.