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Upward Bound

Funded by the United States Department of Education, the Upward Bound Program serves many students who attend Waite and Woodward High Schools in the Toledo Public School District. Upward Bound is a challenging, preparatory program for students who demonstrate the ability or desire to attend college.

About Upward Bound

Upward Bound, which was established in 1965, is the largest federal program (other than student financial aid programs) to help American high school students attain a post-secondary education. Currently, about 44,000 students participate in 563 regular Upward Bound projects around the country. At least two-thirds of each project’s participants must be both low-income and potential first-generation college students. Students typically enter the program in their freshman or sophomore year of high school and can remain a participant through the summer following high school graduation.

Projects provide students with a variety of services, including instruction, tutoring, and counseling. In addition to regularly scheduled meetings throughout the academic year, projects also offer an intensive instructional program that meets daily for about six weeks during the summer. The vast majority of Upward Bound projects are “hosted” by two-or four-year colleges.

Purpose

The Lourdes University Upward Bound Program is a pre-college program, which helps to prepare students, who are first generation and/or low income for post-secondary education.

Mission

Lourdes University TRiO/Upward Bound (UB) is committed to providing support to participants in their preparation for post-secondary education and to increase the rates at which these participants enroll in and graduate from college. Our program helps participants succeed by providing cultural and education opportunities to encourage both academic and personal growth. Fulfilling the mission is possible because of cooperation with academic departments and student services at Lourdes University.

Goal

Generate the skills and motivation necessary for success in completing high school and enrolling into post-secondary education.

Services & Benefits

  • Individual and Group Tutoring
  • ACT/SAT and OST Preparation
  • On-Campus Summer Program at Lourdes University
  • Academic Counseling and Workshops
  • Personal Counseling
  • Assistance with College Application
  • Fee-Waivers for College Entrance Exams
  • Meet New Friends
  • Traveling
  • Cultural Events
  • College/University Visits
  • In-School Tutoring
  • Leadership Development
  • Recognition Banquet
  • Stipends for Quality Tutoring Hours

Meet The Staff

Tonya Colbert

Tonya Colbert
Director

Office 419-824-3866
Work 419-360-9149
tcolbert@lourdes.edu

Candice Kwapich

Candice Kwapich
Academic Skills Coordinator

Office 419-824-3681
Work 419-360-9150
ckwapich@lourdes.edux

Lisa Hess

Lisa Hess
Advisor

Office 419-824-3864
Work 419-262-0795
lhess@lourdes.edu

Instructors

Kyle Briggs
Josh Flores
Sarah Goodman
Mariah Guthrie
Donna Kwik-Lefever
Caitlin McVicker
Terra Pettaway
Xeatha Rogers

History and Objectives

History of the Federal TRIO Programs

The history of TRIO is progressive. It began with Upward Bound, which emerged out of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 in response to the administration’s War on Poverty. In 1965, Talent Search, the second outreach program, was created as part of the Higher Education Act. In 1968, Student Support Services, which was originally known as Special Services for Disadvantaged Students, was authorized by the Higher Education Amendments and became the third in a series of educational opportunity programs. By the late 1960’s, the term “TRIO” was coined to describe these federal programs.

Over the years, the TRIO Programs have been expanded and improved to provide a wider range of services and to reach more students who need assistance. The Higher Education Amendments of 1972 added the fourth program to the TRIO group by authorizing the Educational Opportunity Centers. The 1976 Education Amendments authorized the Training Program for Federal TRIO Programs, initially known as the Training Program for Special Programs Staff and Leadership Personnel. Amendments in 1986 added the sixth program, the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program. Additionally, in 1990, the Department created the Upward Bound Math/Science program to address the need for specific instruction in the fields of math and science. The Upward Bound Math/Science program is administered under the same regulations as the regular Upward Bound program, but it must be applied for separately. Finally, the Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2001 amended the Student Support Services (SSS) program to permit the use of program funds for direct financial assistance (Grant Aid) for current SSS participants who are receiving Federal Pell Grants.

The legislative requirements for all Federal TRIO Programs can be found in the Higher Education Act of 1965, Title IV, Part A, Subpart 2 [ MS Word (217K) | PDF (188K)].

Link to US DoE TRiO Upward Bound https://www2.ed.gov/programs/trioupbound/index.html

2022-2027 Grant Cycle Objectives

Number  Objective 
47% of participants served during the project year will have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better on a four-point scale at the end of the school year.
41% of UB seniors served during the project year, will have achieved at the proficient level on state assessments in reading/language arts and math.
57% of project participants served during the project year will continue in school for the next academic year, at the next grade level, or will have graduated from secondary school with a regular secondary school diploma.
43% of all current and prior year UB participants who graduated from high school during the school year with a regular secondary school diploma will complete a rigorous secondary school program of study.
43% of all current and prior UB participants who graduated from high school during the school year with a regular secondary diploma will enroll in a program of postsecondary education by the fall term immediately following high school graduation or will have received notification by the fall term immediately following high school from an institution of higher education of acceptance but deferred enrollment until the next academic semester (e.g., spring semester).
21% of participants who enrolled in a program of postsecondary education, by the fall term immediately following high school graduation or by the next academic term (e.g., spring term) as a result of acceptance by deferred enrollment, will attain either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree within six years following graduation from high school.

UB Admission

Requirements:

  • Ninth and tenth grade students attending Waite or Woodward High Schools
  • Willing to take the rigorous College Preparatory Curriculum
  • Those who have obtain at 2.3 Grade Point Average (GPA)
  • Low income, Potential First Generation College Students, and those who have a high risk for academic failure (Failed previous OST in Reading Language Arts/Math, have below a 2.5 GPA, or have not completed Algebra 1 prior to the tenth grade)

Potential participants should complete and submit the Upward Bound Application (PDF).

Return Completed Applications

Woodward High School students should return all completed forms to Dr. Sarah Ramirez (school counselor).

Waite High School students should return completed forms to Robert Bailey (school counselor).

Admission Process

Once the Upward Bound Program has received a completed application, a review will be conducted by the Upward Bound Staff. Students who meet the requirements, will be offered the opportunity to interview (parent/guardian must attend) with the Upward Bound Director. Potential participants will then be granted a 60 day probationary period to utilize the services of Upward Bound. Immediately following the 60th day, a review will be completed by the Upward Bound Staff and Evaluation by the student to consider permanent participation with the Lourdes University Upward Bound Program.

Brochure (PDF)

POLICIES/HANDBOOK

It is very important to us that students applying to this program understand the essential aspects of the Lourdes University Upward Bound Program. We consider it a wonderful opportunity for all students. However, experience has taught us that the students who have most enjoyed our program came in with a basic understanding of its structure and purpose.

  • Upward Bound is an academic program and that academics come first.
  • This program will help me prepare for a four-year college while exposing me to the opportunities available on college campuses.
  • The program emphasizes respect. I understand this means to respect not only the Upward Bound Staff but also, teachers, tutors, students, and all others whom you may meet through the Lourdes University Upward Bound Program (LUUB).
  • I am expected to carry myself in the highest regard at all times.
  • The program includes a rigorous academic curriculum and as a participant, I must take a college preparatory curriculum while in high school.
  • I am expected to attend LUUB afterschool tutorials at least 4 hours each week.
  • I am expected to bring class/homework to afterschool tutorials and work will be given.
  • I may be excused for one extra-curricular activity throughout the academic year. (i.e. Students will be excused for one sport or other afterschool activity where they may be unable to meet the required 4 hours per week.)
  • Upward Bound is an academic program, which also includes a summer component, which I am expected to attend.
  • I will be expected to participate in scheduled Upward Bound social/cultural events, workshops and community service projects.
  • I will be expected to follow program rules, policies and regulations during my participation in the LUUB Program outlined in the LUUB Handbook.
  • Once I become a participant (60 days of full participation after start date), I am a participant until I graduate. Should I decide to withdraw myself from the LUUB Program, I am expected to immediately notify LUUB staff by submitting a written letter with both mine and my parent’s signature, date and reason for withdraw.
  • I will be expected to meet with Upward Bound Staff for advising purposes.

Handbook (PDF)

Bullying/Harassment Complaint Form (PDF)

Program Activities

ACADEMIC YEAR TUTORING

The Lourdes University Upward Bound Program offers afterschool tutoring at Waite and Woodward High Schools. During these hours, students will get help with homework and be provided supplemental instruction. Workshops encompassing a variety of topics (study skills, financial literacy, testing strategies, mental health, etc) will be provided.

Woodward: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday In-Person from 3:00-5:00 PM

Waite: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday In-Person from 3:00-5:00 PM

SUMMER PROGRAM

The summer component consists of six weeks of academic instruction (Math, Science, English & Spanish), college/university visits, cultural events, a Theater week workshop, and End of the Year Educational Excursion. Rising senior students will have the opportunity to participate in the Residential Immersion, which is a week-long simulated college experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the program cost?

As a founded program by the Department of Education, Lourdes Upward Bound is at no cost to students or parents/guardians

Do students have to participate in both components (Academic Year & Summer) of the program?

Yes, students will have to participate in both the Academic Year and Summer Program.  Lourdes Upward Bound excuses for one after school activity during the academic year.

If workshops, tutoring/advising sessions, and/or activities are cancelled, how will students be notified?

Parents/Guardians and Students will be notified through text and/or phone calls regarding the cancelation. Additionally, updates will be posted on Lourdes Upward Bound social media.

Does Upward Bound provide scholarships?

Although Lourdes Upward Bound does not provide scholarships, one of our priorities is to assist students in finding and completing scholarship applications.

Does Upward Bound provide transportation to cultural/social events?

Nearly all transportation is covered to and from Waite and Woodward.  If there is an event where students will have to be transported by parent/guardian notification will be sent out in advance.

Does participation in Upward Bound mean that I must attend Lourdes University?

No, Upward Bound is dedicated to finding the college/university that will best serve individual students needs as well as the best financial choice.

Can students work while participating in Upward Bound?

Yes, if students are able to dedicate four hours to tutoring each week during the academic year and able to attend the summer program. Upward Bound can provide letters to employers.

Do students receive high school or college credit for completing Upward Bound?

No, however students receive holistic experiences including, academic assistance, college preparation, cultural experiences, and social emotional learning.  Upward Bound will also assist students who would like to apply for College Credit Plus classes.

How often are student stipends paid?

Student stipends are paid monthly.  Depending on their attendance they can earn up to $40 a month.

Resources

SCHOLARSHIPS, FINANCIAL AID, and COLLEGE FIT FOR ME

PLEASE BE ADVISED-AVOID SCAMS:

  • You Don’t Have to Pay for Help Finding Money for College
  • You Don’t Have to Pay for the FAFSA
  • You Don’t Have to Pay for Help With Your Student Loans
  • You Don’t Have to Pay to Apply for or Receive a Scholarship

For more information: https://studentaid.gov/resources/scams

Scholarship Search Sites (Dropdown)

 You should visit each of the above scholarship search engines and set up a profile in order to begin searching for open scholarships!

Financial Aid Sites (Dropdown)

 College Fit for Me (Dropdown)

Community (Dropdown)

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