Upward Bound

The Upward Bound Project at the University of Arkansas at Monticello serves 54 low-income and potential first-generation college students from ten high schools in the five (5) county target areas consisting of Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Desha, and Drew counties of southeast Arkansas. Participants are transported to the university campus weekly on Wednesday/Saturday evenings for twenty-six (26) sessions during the Academic Year (September-May). A six-week residential program is provided during the summer. The project provides enhanced basic skills and enrichment instruction in mathematics from algebra through pre-calculus; composition and literature, Spanish, biology, chemistry and physics (including laboratory experiences); reading; art and music; and computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and using the Internet. As a result, all students are required to enroll in College Preparatory courses in their respective high school. Individual and small-group tutoring is provided weekly during the academic year and daily during the summer session. Academic and personal guidance and counseling is provided to all participants. A Bridge Program component exists for all seniors during the summer between their high school graduation and their enrollment in a postsecondary educational institution. The Bridge Program provides educational services and experiences that assist each participant in making a smooth transition from high school to college. A follow-up component will track former participants’ progress in postsecondary educational programs through completion of postsecondary study. Applications can be picked up at the local Junior and High Schools that we serve.