Upward Bound

The KCC Upward Bound program is designed to assist college bound high school students in overcoming barriers to pursuing a college education. KCC works cooperatively with Kankakee High School and St. Anne Community High School to offer the Upward Bound program to 78 students. The program is administered by KCC through a U.S. Department of Education grant.

Upward Bound services are offered during the school year at KCC and the cooperating high schools. During three weeks in the summer, students live and study at Illinois State University.

Services Include

Weekly supplemental classes at KCC
Homework assistance
Educational/cultural activities and trips
Opportunities for continued involvement after high school
Opportunities to begin earning college credit while in high school
Assistance with applying to college and applying for scholarships/financial aid
Small cash payments based on participation and progress

The purpose of Upward Bound is to provide academic and personal support to high school students who are preparing to attend college. During the school year, participants attend weekly study sessions and classes designed to help improve grades and skills that will be valuable during high school and throughout college.

Benefits of the Upward Bound Program

Achieve higher grades and learn study skills that will carry over into college
Get a first-hand experience of what college will be like
Identify which college majors and career paths might be right for you
Receive assistance with college and financial aid applications

Eligibility Standards

Participation in Upward Bound is open to high school students who:

Attend either Kankakee or St. Anne high school
Must be at least a rising and/or current 9th grader
Have an interest in enrolling in college after graduation
Maintain a minimum grade point averages of 2.5 (encouraged)
Meet federal income guidelines and/or live in a household where neither parent has a four- year college degree

Kankakee Community College Upward Bound