Upward Bound

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What is Upward Bound?

Founded in 1965, Upward Bound (UB) is a U.S. Department of Education federal funded program for high school students from low-income backgrounds, who may be the first-generation in their family to complete a postsecondary program, or both. The primary objective of the program is to assist students in preparing for a postsecondary education.

Upward Bound assists in the development of the skills and motivation necessary to succeed both in high school and beyond. Helping students become successful in life is our mission! The services we offer help students reach their goals because in Upward Bound, college is not just a dream, but the plan. If admitted, participants will become part of a program of which they can be proud. If you have questions about Upward Bound, please contact our office.

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When is Upward Bound?

The program is year-round, but is broken into two parts:

1. During the academic year, participants meet at their school for advising with program staff, attend Saturday academic skills improvement workshops, and attend cultural field trips and college tours.
   
   
2. During the summer, Upward Bound participants attend the Summer Session program where students have an opportunity to experience campus life. They are involved in an intensive academic study program with an emphasis on various academic concentrations. Some participants will also have the opportunity for dual enrollment

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How Can Upward Bound Help You?

The program provides participants with college information, advising, academic enrichment classes, tutoring, encouragement and support to achieve one’s fullest potential. Upward Bound seeks to help students in the following ways:

• Encourages students to explore a wide variety of career and educational possibilities;
• Provides exposure to new experiences by providing students the opportunity to participate in a variety of cultural, recreational and social events and activities;
• Raises student awareness of the value of education and helps students to discover that learning can be fun and satisfying;
• Assists with developing their leadership skills and provides opportunities to exercise these skills;
• Encourages personal growth and development by helping students discover their uniqueness and individual strengths.

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Eligibility Requirements

Students that are interested in participating in the Upward Bound Program must meet the following criteria:

• Attend Clarksdale High School, Coahoma County High School, Madison Palmer High School or Northside High School.
• Meet GPA requirements.
• Meet federal criteria for low income and/or be a first generation college student.

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Statistical Data

The primary goal of UB is to increase the rate at which participants enroll in and complete postsecondary education programs. TRIO program research shows that Upward Bound students are four (4) times more likely to earn an undergraduate degree than those students from similar backgrounds who did not participate in a TRIO program.

Source: United States Department of Education Fast Facts Report for Upward Bound