Climb the Ladder of Success with ECTC Upward Bound | ECTC

Climb the Ladder of Success with ECTC Upward Bound

April 7, 2023

Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC) is proud to have its Upward Bound Math Science (UBMS) program, a transformative educational program aimed at preparing high school students for college success. The program focuses on students from low-income families or those who will be first-generation college students. Upward Bound provides opportunities for students to achieve academic success, explore potential career paths, and develop critical life skills.

The program offers a wide range of services to students, including academic tutoring, college and career counseling, and enrichment activities. Through these services, students gain a deeper understanding of their academic strengths and weaknesses, receive guidance on college applications and financial aid, and enhance their personal and leadership skills. Upward Bound also provides a summer program where students engage in a six-week residential experience at ECTC to learn more about college student life. This allows students to immerse themselves in a college environment, take college courses, and get a head start on their academic journey.

ECTC's Upward Bound Program has demonstrated its effectiveness in preparing students for college success. Many Upward Bound participants have gone on to pursue college degrees, entered the workforce, and become leaders in their communities. The program's dedication to its students and commitment to their success has made it a valuable asset to the Elizabethtown community and surrounding areas.

ECTC's Upward Bound Program is an excellent option for high school students who are serious about their academic future. The program's comprehensive services, experienced mentors, and hands-on summer program prove to be the perfect recipe for students who want to excel in their academic journey. ECTC Upward Bound is a program that Elizabethtown can be proud of, and one that will continue to provide opportunities for low-income and first-generation college students for years to come.

ECTC Upward Bound program is a federally funded program that provides academic and enrichment services to first-generation and low-income students in the Elizabethtown, Ky., area. The program aims to help students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college and beyond.

The Upward Bound program offers a variety of services, including:

  • Tutoring and academic support
  • College counseling and financial aid assistance
  • Enrichment activities, such as field trips, guest speakers, and workshops
  • Social and cultural activities

The Upward Bound program is free to participants. To be eligible, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a first-generation college student (neither parent has a bachelor's degree)
  • Be low-income (based on family income)
  • Be a resident of the Elizabethtown, Kentucky area
  • Be enrolled in a high school in the Elizabethtown, Kentucky area
    • LaRue County HS
    • Nelson County HS
    • Thomas Nelson HS
    • North Hardin HS
    • Washington County HS

Highlights of the program include structured weekly activities throughout the school year, a summer enrichment program, and a variety of field trips to college campuses, businesses, and industries among others that demonstrate real-world math and science applications. Trips to Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay or other amusement parks to learn about the science and math involved in building roller coasters and water slides or even a trip to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Alabama are possibilities for UBMS participants.

Students in the UBMS program have an opportunity to earn money. UBMS students may receive a monthly stipend when they participate in scheduled activities, school visits, and meet academic performance standards.

ECTC is a community college in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. It is one of 16 two-year, open-admissions colleges of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS).

ECTC offers associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas in a variety of fields, including associate in arts, associate in science, business administration, information technology, criminal justice, automotive technology, health care, and more. The college also offers student services and a variety of non-credit courses, such as English as a Second Language (ESL) and workforce development training.

ECTC has four campuses: the main campus in Elizabethtown, the Fort Knox campus, the Springfield campus, and the Leitchfield campus. The college also offers online courses.

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