What is Upward Bound Rural?


  • Upward Bound Rrual is a free, year-round college preparatory program for high school students. It is 100% grant funded by the federal government. The goal of the program is to prepare low income, potential first generation college bound students for success in post-secondary education. Students attending a target school in George West, Sinton, or Odem must qualify in order to be selected. Once selected, students remain in the program until their graduation from high school and completion of their first summer semester of college.

Participating High Schools
George West ISD - George West Longhorn Football George West High School Sinton Pirates - Texas HS Logo Project Sinton High School Odem Owls - Texas HS Logo Project Odem High School



Eligibility Requirements

Students must be:
1. Low income and/or potential first generation college (neither
parent has a bachelor's degree)
2. At least 13 years old
3. Entering the 9th or 10th grade of high school
4. Be a student attending a target school
5. Be a citizen, national, or a permanent resident of the U.S.



Academic Year
From September through May, students attend classes on specified Saturdays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Instruction is offered in mathematics, laboratory science, English, reading, writing, speech, history/government, and life management skills which include study skills, career awareness, and related topics. Tutoring is also offered on Saturday class days.

Summer Component
Starting in June, the students attend a six-week summer program. Classes, cultural events, and field trips are held from Sunday evening through Thursday afternoon. The summer program offers instruction in mathematics, English, laboratory science, foreign language, life management skills, computer science and fine arts.

Bridge Program
After graduating from high school, qualifying Upward Bound Rural students enroll at Coastal Bend College for their first summer semester. Students are assisted with the admission and financial aid process, as well as their academic transition to college. In addition, tutoring, counseling, and various other services are offered.

Upward Bound Rrual is a free, year-round college preparatory program for high school students. It is 100% grant funded by the federal government. The goal of the program is to prepare low income, potential first generation college bound students for success in post-secondary education. Students attending a target school in George West, Sinton, or Odem must qualify in order to be selected. Once selected, students remain in the program until their graduation from high school and completion of their first summer semester of college.