Upward Bound

Apply to Upward Bound Today!

The Salem State University Upward Bound Program provides comprehensive program services to a select group of Lawrence Public Schools students. Please complete the application above to determine if you are eligible. We will be in touch to schedule an interview with our staff. All students must be low-income and/or first-generation college-bound students between the ages of 13 and 19. Furthermore, students must exhibit a positive attitude, a high level of motivation, and a desire to seek post-secondary education.

What does Upward Bound do?

Here are some of the ways that Upward Bound helps and supports students.

• Provides instruction in mathematics, laboratory science, foreign language, English composition and literature.

• Helps students prepare for college entrance exams, including ACT and SAT exams.
• Provides tutoring.
• Helps students fill out college applications.
• Provides information on post-secondary opportunities.
• Provides information on financial aid and helps families complete their FAFSA.
• Offers mentoring programs.
• Provides career counseling.

 Who is eligible for Upward Bound? 

High school students between the ages of 13 and 19 who are first-generation college students, academically "at risk, or from income-eligible families.

The Salem State University Upward Bound Program offers academic instruction, tutoring and enrichment activities throughout the school year and during a six-week summer program. Four weeks are spent on campus at Salem State; students reside in the residence halls from Sunday night through Friday 

afternoon. This schedule means that families typically cannot travel during the month of July.
 

The academic year component requires all program participants to attend after-school services. An individualized academic plan, "Plan for Success," is developed for each student based on his/her prior quarter school grades, standardized testing administered by target 

schools, teacher/tutor evaluations, and scores on any administered program testing. Each "Plan for Success" is designed to improve students' basic academic skills. Community service and mentoring opportunities are also offered. During the summer program, each student is required to participate in formal instruction in mathematics, laboratory science, composition and literature, foreign language, and English language instruction, if needed. Moreover, students also have the opportunity to participate in weekly workshops and various cultural and educational activities and field trips. This year we will be visiting the Newport Mansions!

What are the benefits of participating in Upward Bound?

Upward Bound helps students get to college. 86% of Upward Bound participants enroll in college after high school. Students will also gain important skills that will help them throughout their lives (such as time management, organization, and networking)

In addition to receiving academic support, career counseling and more, Upward Bound connects students from similar backgrounds, providing them with a support system that can last for years.

Salem State University Upward Bound Program at a Glance

Eligibility criteria: Two-thirds of students served must be low-income AND first-generation; the remaining one-third must be low-income OR first-generation. Students must show academic need for services. 

All students served must be between the ages of 13 and 19 and enrolled in target schools (any of the academies on the Lawrence High School Campus) at the time of acceptance into the program.

Program Requirements

All students must complete a minimum of four hours per week, including two hours of tutoring, one-hour of MCAS or SAT prep, and a one-hour personal development workshop. All students must maintain a minimum of a C average in all core classes or they will be placed on academic probation. All students must attend a six-week summer residential program at the university. During the summer program, all students must complete at least 125 hours of classroom instruction, including math through pre-calculus, lab science, foreign language, English composition, and literature.

Stipend

Students receive $40 per month for full participation in the academic year program and $180 for completion of the summer program.

Donations and Support

We are grateful for donations and support from the following organizations and individuals:

Pete Storpe
Stephanie Simmons
Lawrence Public Schools
Northern Essex Community College