The summer program is perhaps the most dynamic and engaging aspect of Upward Bound. For six weeks, participants take college preparation courses, are placed in a worksite through our career exploration component and live in the CSU, Chico dorms. This unique experience allows participants to experience college life and helps them prepare academically and personally.
Participants are placed in classes according to which classes they'll take the following school year. This method allows participants to have a significant head start amongst their peers when returning to school. Daily study hours are a required part of each participant's day, with knowledgeable tutors available for them. Each class is graded and those letter grades are sent to the student's high school and recorded as elective credits.
Community service is an important aspect of the summer program. Upward Bound students take part in the largest Bidwell Park clean up performed annually alongside the mayor of Chico and Friends of Bidwell Park, a volunteer group that works to preserve and beautify the park. Upward Bound students also work in smaller units to serve various groups including; raising money and collecting canned food for the local homeless shelters, collecting books for New Orleans libraries after Hurricane Katrina, and removing graffiti throughout the city.
Leadership, study skills, and responsibility are a few examples of skills and abilities that students learn through their participation in the summer program. If you would like more specific information regarding the summer program, please contact us at 530-898-5181.
What to Pack for the Summer Program
