Upward Bound Math & Science

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Upward Bound Math & Science

Similar to our Upward Bound program, Upward Bound Math & Science is a federally funded TRIO program designed to help first generation, low-income students graduate high school and enroll in the college of their choice. In this program, the Middle Georgia Center for Academic Excellence places a much heavier emphasis on math, science, and other STEM-related subjects.

Our goal is to help students graduate from high school, get accepted in their college of choice, and graduate with a degree in a STEM discipline. This program is not just for students who have particularly high STEM aptitudes – we also want students who are interested in math and science but may not be living up to their potential. STEM-focused careers are more in-demand than ever, and they are a wonderful path to success for students willing to put in the work. With this in mind, we hope to create a culture of interested students who want to participate and improve.

This program is hosted exclusively out of Westside High School. The Middle Georgia Center for Academic Excellence is appreciative of their support, as well as the support of the Bibb County Board of Education. We are also thankful for Middle Georgia State University’s generosity in allowing us access to their campuses and professors.

PROGRAM OFFERINGS

The Upward Bound program is comprised of two parts – the academic year and the summer session.

ACADEMIC YEAR

During the academic year, students receive after-school assistance with subjects like math and English, as well as test preparation for the SAT, ACT, and Georgia Milestones. A monthly Saturday session is held at Middle Georgia State University. Students also have the opportunity to participate in college tours, community service activities, and workshops for career guidance and college admissions.

SUMMER SESSION

In the summer session, program students attend a four-week non-residential, two-week residential program on the Middle Georgia State University Cochran campus that provides academic assistance and enrichment opportunities including cultural activities, workshops, field trips, and college tours.

In addition to the Upward Bound opportunities our math and science students enjoy, they also have some unique opportunities, including:

Career shadowing with STEM professionals
Competitions in STEM subjects
STEM tutoring by individuals with math and science degrees

Included in our Upward Bound Math & Science program are parent workshops in partnership with the Bibb School System. Each fall, the Middle Georgia Center for Academic Excellence hosts a financial aid workshop designed to assist parents with their child’s FAFSA application and answer any questions on financial aid, student loans, and scholarships.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

Upward Bound is a year-round program and students are expected to attend both the academic year and summer components, including all associated sessions and activities. Students enrolled in Upward Bound Math & Science are expected to:

Maintain at least a “B” average in all classes
Adhere to all policies set forth in the student handbook
Work hard
Keep a positive attitude
Stay open to possibilities and opportunities

Students will also be expected to provide their own transportation to our facility and the summer program location.

GET STARTED TODAY

Unmatched Educational Assistance Call 478-621-5342!

STUDENT ELIGIBILITY

Students interested in enrolling in Upward Bound must be:

Rising 9th graders and current high school students at Westside High School
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident

We will also closely examine an interested student’s 8th-grade state scores and past grades. Additionally, students must either be from a low-income family (based on federal guidelines) or a first-generation college student (neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree).

HOW TO APPLY

Prospective students and parents must complete an application and submit it with the following materials:

Most recent progress report
GA Milestone scores
Recommendations from an English teacher, math teacher, and guidance counselor

The Middle Georgia Center for Academic Excellence selects students based on their completed application, teacher and counselor recommendations, a review of academic records, and an interview with an Upward Bound staff member. For more information about Upward Bound, visit your school counselor or contact us at 478-621-5342 or info.mgcae@gmail.com.