What Is Upward Bound?
Crowder College receives four grants from the United States Department of Education for Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math/Science Projects to serve 200 high school students attending Barton, Bates, Cedar, Dade, Jasper, Lawrence, and Vernon county high schools.
What Will I Do in Upward Bound?
Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math/Science students participate in the summer College Prep Academy, the Bridge, and the Academic Year parts of the program. You will be involved in a wide variety of sessions to prepare you for college, creative research projects, and many other activities. The purpose of Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math/Science is to give you the skills and motivation you need to graduate from high school and get your college degree.
You'll Help Me Get Ready for College?
The College Prep Academy, during the summer, offers you a six week college experience. You will live in the college dorms and get involved in a wide range of college preparation courses as well as group research projects or mini-courses. The Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math/Science activities will show you that you can succeed in college.
What's the Bridge?
For Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math/Science graduates ready to enter college in the fall, the Bridge will run at the same time as the College Prep Academy and will also take place at the college. You will attend at least one college class during the summer, and you will have all the privileges of the College Prep Academy.
What Do I Do During the School Year?
You will receive all the help you want and tutoring at Saturday school once a month at Crowder College. The Saturday program will give you a hand with high school classes and continue your work on your summer research projects.

Activities Include:

  • learning technical writing and data analysis
  • growth activities
  • academic and cultural trips
  • learning computer use
  • academic and career advice
  • preparing for the ACT
  • student success workshops
How Much Does All This Cost?
There is NO COST to you or your family, just some of your time and enthusiasm about your future.
Is There Anything for Parents?
Monthly parent meetings are held where special topics are presented by the staff or guest speakers. Topics include:
  • college costs
  • financial planning
  • time management
  • coping with teens
  • stress management
  • career possibilities
  • tough love
  • chemical abuse and dependence
  • computer use
  • health
What Are the Requirements to Sign Up?
Applicants Must:
  • be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • be currently enrolled in grades 9-11 (Freshman applicants will begin immediately.)
  • be committed to improving their academic abilities
  • be able to attend a summer residence program at