(817) 241-4141 info@orstx.org

 

 

Office Hours & Info

817-241-4141
M-Th: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Friday: Appointment Only

The Upward Bound Classic (UB) & Upward Bound Math & Science (UBMS) programs identify and assist individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. Each program provides academic support, career mentoring, college advising, and financial aid counseling to participants with the ultimate goal of ensuring they complete high school and enroll in and complete a program of post-secondary education.

The ORS Upward Bound programs are federal grant programs funded by the Department of Education that provide fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. The programs provide opportunities for participants to succeed in their pre-college performance and, ultimately, their higher education pursuits. Specifically, the UBMS programs are designed to strengthen interest & understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education and encourage students to pursue post-secondary degrees in STEM professions.

Upward Bound Programs are 100% funded by the Department of Education. For more information regarding Upward Bound Programs and all other TRiO Programs, visit the Department of Education website.

Our UB Programs serve students at Alvarado, Keene, Lancaster, Rio Vista, Southwest (Fort Worth), and Venus High Schools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to participate in Upward Bound Programs?
The Upward Bound Programs serve students at our target high schools who come from low-income families and from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree. The goal of the Upward Bound Programs is to increase the rate at which these students complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of post-secondary education.
What does it cost to participate in Upward Bound Programs?
Upward Bound is 100% federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education for a period of five years. There is no cost to students or their families to participate. In fact, students who actively participate are eligible for a monthly stipend during both the academic and summer components. There also is no financial cost to the target schools who partner with an Upward Bound Program.
What services do Upward Bound Programs provide?
  • Personal academic counseling
  • Tutorial services for STAAR exams & secondary education courses
  • Information on postsecondary education
  • Exposure to college campuses
  • Information on student financial assistance for postsecondary education
  • Financial literacy training
  • Assistance in completing college admissions and financial aid applications
  • Assistance in preparing for college entrance exams
  • Workshops for the families of participants
  • Summer college-going simulation program, focusing on math, laboratory science, composition, literature, and foreign language.
  • Field site visits
What schools participate?

Our Upward Bound Programs serve students at Alvarado, Keene, Lancaster, Rio Vista, Southwest (Fort Worth), and Venus High Schools.

How are Upward Bound Programs structured?
During the academic year, the Upward Bound Programs provide tutors and academic counselors for an after-school enrichment program at each participating target high school. Periodically throughout the academic year, the programs will host workshops for students and their families, and field trips to colleges, universities, and field site visits.

During the summer break, Upward Bound Programs host a 6-week Summer Program designed to simulate a college-going experience, focusing on math, laboratory science, composition & literature, and foreign language.

The Upward Bound Programs from Opportunity Resource Services are committed to serving students and their families by providing flexible, customized programming to meet each student’s needs. The goal of the programs is to supplement the activities and programs in which students are already involved. Therefore, ORS Upward Bound program staff will make every effort to accommodate each student’s schedule.

Program Services

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Upward Bound Schools

We currently have Upward Bound programs in the Alvardo, Keene, Lancaster, Rio Vista, Southwest (Fort Worth), and Venus high schools. Upward Bound Classic and Upward Bound Math & Science are available at all schools.

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After School Programs

Upward Bound programs provide academic support, career mentoring, college advising, and financial aid counseling to participants with the ultimate goal of ensuring they complete high school, and enroll in and complete a program of post secondary education.
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College Applications

We will assist you with applying for admission to any college, university, or trade/technical school, and then walk you through the next steps for successful enrollment.

Financial Aid Assistance

Students will work one-on-one with experienced Upward Bound staff to complete the FAFSA and other scholarships. Staff will also assist in navigating financial aid and choosing the best-fit college for them

Summer Program

Upward Bound programs host a free six-week summer program designed to simulate a college-going experience.   Students will have the opportunity to take a variety of classes focusing on math, laboratory science, composition, literature, and foreign language.

Student Field Trips

Students have the opportunity to explore and learn as they travel to different locations throughout Texas and the country. Activities include college visits, cultural experiences, hands-on learning, and more. These trips are focused on broadening students’ horizons and discovering new career paths.

Student Resources

The Upward Bound Programs offer a wide variety of educational resources and activities to help prepare students for a successful future in their education and careers.  This includes workshops, career tours, college visits, service projects, and more.

FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form completed by current and prospective college students.

Financial Aid Checklist

Use this checklist as a reminder of the steps to take when applying for financial aid.

 

Free Tuition Colleges

View this list of colleges that offer free tuition based on family income.

Community College Information

Discover the costs and admissions requirements for local Community Colleges.

Selecting the Right College for You

The factors to consider when choosing a college to ensure the school you choose is the best fit for you.

Unique Scholarships Resources

Students may be eligible for a number of unique scholarships from a variety of organizations.

Contact Us

Do you have any questions or comments?

 Would you like any additional information?

We would love to help! 

We will contact you as soon as possible.

CONTACT

817-241-4141

214 S. Ridgeway Dr.
Cleburne, TX 76033

HOURS

Mon-Thurs:
9:00a - 5:00p

Friday: Appointment Only

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The Upward Bound Program is committed to providing opportunities to all qualified people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic, creed, religion, political beliefs, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran’s status, or physical or mental disability. The Upward Bound Program is 100% federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education for $$297,601 annually.

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