Fox Valley Collaborative

What is Upward Bound?

Upward Bound is a pre-college program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Our goal is to provide the support and resources to help students develop the skills, self-confidence and motivation necessary to succeed in higher education, careers, and adult life.

 

Program objectives:

• Assist students in achieving proficient levels on state assessment tests in reading/language arts and math.
• Ensure that students who enroll in Upward Bound continue participation until they graduate from high school.
• Ensure that students successfully enroll in a post-secondary institution after completing high school.
• Ensure that students who go on to a college, university or technical college will continue until they earn a post-secondary degree.

What services does Upward Bound Offer?

School Year Programming: (Sept-May)

• Weekly academic tutoring provided on-site at your high school.
• Monthly saturday programs, held at Fox Valley Technical College, consisting of academic enrichment, speakers, leadership activities, field trips, cultural programs, college tours, and more.
• Ongoing mentoring and support services

 

Summer Programming:  (June-July)

• 5-week (daily) summer program held at Fox Valley Technical College.  Students will participate in four academic courses, including Science, Mathematics, English, and foreign language.  Students will also choose from career or arts and culture electives.
• 1-week residential college immersion experience held at Lawrence University. 
• End of summer trip: Students successfully completing summer enrichment programs are invited to attend an out-of state trip to a major U.S. city.  The trip will focus on college tours, cultural activities, and fun!
• Students participating in summer programming may receive a financial stipend.

 

Other Benefits:

• Assistance with PSAT, ACT, or SAT testing.
• Assistance with college selection, application, admission and financial aid process.

 

Who is Eligible?

Eligible students must attend the Neenah, Menasha, or Appleton School districts.  Because this is a new program, only students in grades 9-10 are currently invited to apply. (8th graders may apply to enter summer program, after completing academic year.) Students accepted into the program continue participation throughout 4 years of high school. There are 60 slots available each year. If the program is full, eligible students may join a waiting list.

 

How much does participation cost?

There is NO COST to the participants. All expenses, including food, transportation, travel, and all related fees are paid for by the Upward Bound program. The only requirement from Upward Bound students and their families is a strong commitment to the program.