The Upward Bound program is a federally funded program designed to assist high school students in developing academic skills and provide personal support to successfully complete high school. The Upward Bound program serves seven area communities including: Westwood, Whiting, West Monona, Denison, Homer, MVAO, and OABCIG. Students meet with an Upward Bound Educational Coordinator each month to complete academic sessions with topics including:
- Academic advising
- Career search and exploration
- Financial aid assistance
- Individual mentoring
- Tutoring services
- Test prep
- Social skills
Upward Bound Summer Program
During the summer, Upward Bound students are invited to attend a six-week residential summer program. The summer program consists of four academic courses, elective sessions and group activities. The summer program is held on the Western Iowa Tech Community College Sioux City campus.
Eligibility Requirements
To participate in the Upward Bound Program, students must meet the following criteria:
- Enrolled in the 9th-12th grade at one of our service schools. Eighth grade students may apply during the spring semester before prior their freshman year of high school.
- Are first generation college-bound (neither parent has earned a four-year college degree).
- Meet the US Department of Education income guidelines.
- Have a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Funding Sources
The TRIO Upward Bound program is federally funded by the United States Department of Education in the amount of $288,933 per year for a period of five years (September 1, 2022 - August 31, 2027) and serves 60 students in the following school districts: Denison, West Monona, Westwood, Whiting, Homer, MVAO, and OABCIG.