Upward Bound prepares high school students for success in high school and enrollment in college. Upward Bound provides academic, social, cultural and recreational activities designed to build the academic skills, motivation, self-awareness, and self-confidence necessary for success in college. 

This program has been in operation since February 2000 and takes place primarily on Los Angeles Harbor College Campus, and serves students from Banning, Narbonne and San Pedro high schools.  Upward Bound receives funds from the U. S. Department of Education.

Upward Bound students participate in an intensive six-week program during the summers of their high school years including the summer after their senior year.  In addition to its academic component, the summer program also offers numerous activities designed to increase self-awareness, self-confidence, and communication skills.  Students are also involved in an Academic Year Program throughout their high school years.  Typically, an Upward Bounder is enrolled in the program for three or four years.                                                                                             

1. Students must be a United States Citizen.       
2. Have a 2.0 grade point average or higher.        
3. Low Income (qualify for free or reduced lunch program).
4. Have a letter of recommendation from his/her counselor and one from a teacher.
5. Plan to go to College.
6. Plan to earn at least a Bachelor’s degree.
7. Official high school transcript required.
8. Must be between the ages of 14 and 18 years of age.                                                                                                         

The Goals of Upward Bound are as follows:              

• Improving students’, reading, and writing, math, science, test-taking, and study skills.
• Helping students explore career possibilities and the value of community service.
• Helping students develop self-confidence and self-awareness.
• Giving the students experience of cooperative living through self-governing residence on campus.
• Improving skills associated with relating to others, providing opportunities to learn about people from different cultures, and developing an appreciation for difference.
• Exploring Leadership potential and strengthening the commitment to self-improvement.

The Academic Year Program:

Upward Bound students remain active in the program throughout the school year.  They meet individually once a week with an Academic Year Counselor, who helps them with

Academic classes, college preparation, and career exploration.  The Academic year counselor also provides general support and advocacy for each Upward Bound student in the school.

Leadership Academy:

The Director in Saturday School teaches classes in Personal Development, Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence. Writing lessons, techniques for improving current Study

Skill habits, Time and Stress Management are offered in the Leadership Academy.

Weekend Workshops:  

Upward Bound will host weekend workshops during the school year to help student’s research and choose colleges, explore career possibilities.

Stipends:  

Students are paid $40.00 per month during the regular school year and $60.00 during the summer. Attendance is important. Absences reduce the amount of the stipend and delays the issuance of the stipend check. 

For further information – Please contact: Dr. Mary Ellen Maddox email

Note:  Updated:  May 2003