Exterior of the LRC building

TRIO Barton County Upward Bound

Barton Community College first sponsored the Barton County Upward Bound (BCUB) Program in 1999. BCUB prides itself on serving students from diverse backgrounds who aspire to complete a college degree. Students attending high schools located in Ellinwood, Great Bend and Hoisington work year-round in preparation for their eventual college success. The Upward Bound program concentrates on building success by improving academic skills and involving high schools students in activities that will expose them to the world around us the workplace, careers, educational institutions, and the cultural aspects of our society. The cornerstone of Upward Bound is a supplemental instruction program that helps students by providing teaching and tutoring services before or after school or a combination of both. The supplemental instructional program is intended to enhance the instruction that students receive daily in their high school classes and emphasize the development of skills in the areas of mathematics, English, science and social studies. Check out a full list of services offered through the BCUB program. 

Barton County Upward Bound students participate in many fun activities as well. They engage in many community service projects that range from Big Brothers Big Sisters to Food Drives. They also go on college visits, cultural trips, and many other activities that are designed to help prepare them for the future. Additionally, students participate in a summer program where they are able to continue their education and experience what college will be like. At the end of every summer program they get to take a week-long trip to somewhere new and exciting.

Want to get started? Contact us at (620) 792-9291.

Calling all alumni! We would love to hear you! Join the BCUB Alumni Facebook group to reconnect with old friends and let us know what you are doing!        

What Is Upward Bound?

Upward Bound was created in 1965 by the Higher Education Act and is funded by the U.S. Department of Education.Barton Community College first sponsored the Barton County Upward Bound (BCUB) Program in 1999.  The program prides itself on serving students from diverse backgrounds who aspire to complete a college degree.  Students attending high schools located in Ellinwood, Great Bend and Hoisington have worked year-round in preparation for their eventual college success.

Barton County Upward Bound (BCUB) program is a TRIO program funded by the U.S. Department of Education with a grant in the amount of $250,000. 

Who is eligible?

Participants are chosen based on their family income and parent’s education level. All students must either have their family meet income guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Education or be potential first-generation college students.  Students must also attend one of the following schools: Ellinwood High School, Great Bend School, Hoisington High School.  We can not accept students who are currently in the 12th grade.

How much does it cost to participate in Upward Bound?

Nothing! All of our services are provided free of charge.  And students have the ability to earn a stipend each semester for attending BCUB sponsored events.

Do I have to attend Barton Community College?

No. Our goal is to help our participants attend the college or university of their choice.