SFCC’s two TRIO Upward Bound programs are strong partnerships with Camdenton and Eldon High Schools in the Lake of the Ozarks area and with Smith-Cotton High School in Sedalia.
Upward Bound is a federally funded pre-college academic enrichment program for first-generation students in grades nine through 12.
The Lake of the Ozarks Upward Bound (UB) program is housed at the State Fair Community College-Lake of the Ozarks campus with offices in Camdenton High School and Eldon High School. The UB Sedalia program is housed at Smith-Cotton High School. Both programs motivate participants to develop the skills necessary to complete high school and successfully obtain a college degree.
Enhanced academic performance and college readiness are key UB goals. The average Upward Bound student scores 25 on the ACT, which is 15 percent above the statewide average. UB participants have the opportunity to visit 30 different colleges and universities and experience what it might be like to attend some of the major colleges throughout the Midwest. Program graduates are currently attending 17 colleges across the country, and 78 percent of all Upward Bound graduates have proceeded to post-secondary programs of study the fall semester after graduating from high school.
Upward Bound, which is funded by the United States Department of Education TRIO program, provides free services and resources to 110 students at the three high schools. To be eligible, you must meet one of three criteria: a first-generation college student*, at risk for academic failure or meet an income guideline defined annually by the federal government.
Take a look at the services offered through Upward Bound; learn more about program qualifications and how to apply; and browse the useful links and resources Upward Bound staff have compiled.
*To be consider first generation, the applicant can’t reside with a natural or adoptive parent who has a bachelor’s degree.
