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College Bound — Upward Bound Program
At Lower Lake High School, College Bound is powered by Upward Bound — a federally funded program with deep roots in the Civil Rights era, established during President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society as part of a national commitment to expanding access to higher education for all Americans.
More than half a century later, that mission is still alive and well at LLHS. Upward Bound exists because we believe that being first in your family to go to college, or coming from a low-income household, should never be a barrier to a college degree. It should be a story worth telling.
What Is Upward Bound?
Upward Bound is a college-going program designed specifically for first-generation college students and low-income students — those who have the potential and the drive to succeed in higher education but may face additional obstacles getting there.
The program goes beyond traditional college prep. LLHS's Upward Bound has a 21st Century Education focus that includes:
- Social and environmental justice — understanding and engaging with the world around you
- Media literacy — thinking critically about the information and media you consume
- Critical thinking and dialogue — developing the skills to question, analyze, and communicate effectively
These aren't just add-ons. They're central to the program's belief that college is about more than a degree — it's about becoming an informed, engaged, and empowered person.
What Does the Program Look Like?
Upward Bound is a significant commitment, and that's intentional. The program includes three components:
Daily Elective Class
Students participate in Upward Bound as a daily elective during the regular school day, building college readiness skills, exploring academic and career pathways, and developing as thinkers and leaders.
Weekend Workshops & Field Trips
Throughout the school year, students participate in workshops and field trips that extend learning beyond the classroom — including college campus visits, cultural experiences, and community engagement activities.
Six-Week Summer Program
Participation in the summer program is mandatory. This intensive six-week experience is one of the hallmarks of Upward Bound nationwide and provides students with focused academic enrichment, college preparation, and community-building in an immersive setting.
Who Is Eligible?
Upward Bound at LLHS is open to students in grades 9–12 who meet federal eligibility criteria, which are based on first-generation college student status and/or household income. If you're not sure whether you qualify, reach out to our Outreach Manager — the conversation is free and there's no commitment to apply.
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Why Upward Bound?
Upward Bound has one of the longest track records of any college access program in the country. Participants nationally graduate high school, enroll in college, and complete college degrees at significantly higher rates than their peers who did not participate. For students who are navigating the college process without a family roadmap, the guidance, community, and structure of Upward Bound can make all the difference.
If you're a first-generation college student, or if college feels like a goal without a clear path to get there, this program was built for you.
How to Apply
Interested students and families should reach out to our Upward Bound Outreach Manager directly to learn more and begin the application process. Spots are limited, so we encourage students to connect early.
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