Paving the Way to College Success

TRIO Upward Bound, hosted by Anoka-Ramsey Community College-Cambridge Campus, is a federally funded pre-college access program. We serve 123 students from six local high schools who aim to pursue higher education. This program operates in grant cycles lasting five years, with Anoka-Ramsey hosting two grants: one serving three high schools in its 15th year and another serving the remaining three high schools in its 10th year.

Schools Served

TRIO Upward Bound caters to students from diverse backgrounds, hailing from the following high schools:

• Cambridge Isanti High School

• Braham Area High School

• St. Francis High School

• Princeton High School

• North Branch Area High School

• Mora High School

Program Components

The program focuses on three main components to assist students in their transition from high school to college:

1. After-School Study Sessions: Students participate in bi-weekly after-school session to meet with their TRIO Upward Bound advisor to explore colleges, careers, and strengthen their academic skills. With one on one support, students will receive support with their homework, scholarships and applying to college.

2. Saturday Sessions: About once month during the academic school year, student will partake in college preparatory activities, such as ACT prep, college visits and financial aid workshops. We are dedicated to helping students prepare for college academically and financially. However, preparing socially for college often gets overlooked, thus our Saturday Sessions are a way to help students meet new people and try new things like going to the Chanhassen Dinner Theater, bowling, snow tubing, volunteering and more!

3. Summer Program: Over 6 weeks, students will meet at the Anoka Ramsey Community College – Cambridge Campus to prepare for their next year subjects and attend our annual summer trip. No homework involved! Every week we have field trips to places like Valley Fair, college tours, waterparks and more! Overnight trip at a college dorm to help students experience what college could be like + more exciting field trips. Graduated high school students will have an opportunity to take a free 3-credit level college course at Anoka Ramsey Community College as a senior.

Eligibility Requirements

Students can qualify for the program in two ways:

1. Low Income: Students’ parents must earn below the Federal TRIO Programs Current-Year Low-Income Levels, determined by family size and taxable income at the time of program entry.

2. Potential First-Generation College Student: Students can also qualify if neither of their parents has earned a four-year degree.

Funding Necessities

To maintain its funding, the program requires that 67% of its students meet both eligibility criteria (mentioned above), while the remaining 33% can qualify based on either low income or potential first-generation college student status.

In summary, TRIO Upward Bound is a vital program that provides critical support to students from underprivileged backgrounds, helping them take the steps necessary to pursue higher education. It operates with a clear mission to break down barriers and empower students with the skills and knowledge they need to achieve their college dreams. By addressing academic needs, providing guidance, and offering opportunities for personal growth, TRIO Upward Bound is making a tangible impact on the lives of its participants and contributing to the goal of equitable access to higher education.

🐯 PHS Syllabus

🟦CIHS Syllabus

🛡️SFHS Syllabus

🐴MHS Syllabus

⛵NBAHS Syllabus

💣BHS Syllabus