Upward Bound Program

Upward Bound Program

Program Type: Federal TRIO grant under U.S. Department of Education

Overview: A federally funded program designed to increase college access and educational opportunities for first-generation and/or low-income high school students. Focuses on college acceptance and attendance, supporting students through high school graduation.

Geographic Scope: Dorchester area, Boston, MA; Tech Boston Academy; Dorchester Academy

Capacity: Services 65 students from grades 9-12 each academic school year

Program Goals

• Increase rate of secondary education completion
• Increase college enrollment and graduation rates
• Provide fundamental support for college entrance preparation
• Support success in precollege performance and higher education pursuits

Core Services

• Weekly After-School Tutoring/Homework Sessions - Additional academic support from Upward Bound staff in all required courses, in collaboration with Boston Public Schools
• Tutor.com - Online tutoring platform with 24/7 access to real-time tutor support
• Homework Tracker - Tool created by Suffolk University Upward Bound to assist with assignment organization
• Supplemental Instruction - Intensive academic sessions in mathematics, science, English; SAT and MCAS preparation workshops
• College Readiness - College tours throughout school year, senior seminars on applications and financial aid, service learning, and resume development
• Summer Program - Six-week residential program on Suffolk campus including college courses, enriching social/cultural activities, service and vocational learning
• Monthly Saturday Sessions - Cultural awareness, life-based skills, and psychosocial maturity workshops (financial literacy, college affordability, S.M.A.R.T. goals, self-care, etc.)

Eligibility Requirements

• Live in Dorchester OR attend one of the target schools (Dorchester Academy or Tech Boston Academy)
• Fall within at least one of these categories:
- Income eligible (low-income family) - First-generation college attendee (neither parent holds a Bachelor's degree) - High risk for academic failure

Support Through Graduation

All students supported through graduation from high school.