Overview

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Mission Statement

The Abilene Christian University Upward Bound Program provides low income and first generation high school students with academic, cultural and personal support for the purposes of high school graduation, postsecondary enrollment, and lifelong success.

Goal Statement

The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education. 

Vision Statement

The Abilene Christian University’s Upward Bound Program in collaboration with local area high schools' guides and empowers, and educates students to become future social leaders ready to self-advocate, think critically and succeed in a diverse and global society.

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History

Upward Bound began at ACU in 1995 and continues to serve Abilene ISD’s students today. There are two components to the Upward Bound Program: The Academic Year which consists of SAT and ACT test preparation, Tutoring, College Connection, College Tours and a six-week Summer Academy with Summer Bridge course for graduated seniors.  Upward Bound serves 65 high school students, grades 9-12 in the Abilene Independent School District, which includes Abilene High, Cooper High and ATEMS. The purpose of our program is to increase the rate at which participants complete high school and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education. 

Where we come from

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. Educational policies initiated by President John F. Kennedy and continued with Lyndon Johnson regulating in the Higher Education Act of 1965. Title IV of this Act designated federal funds to assist disadvantaged students both with financial aid and academic assistance.

Who we Serve

Students enrolled in grades 9 - 12 at Abilene High, Cooper High and ATEMS.Students whose parent(s) have not completed a Bachelor's degree (First Generation student).Students who show an academic need and are recommended by a teacher or counselor.

Students whose family show financial need.

How do we determine financial need?

http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/trio/incomelevels.html