NPC AWARDED $1.2 MILLION UPWARD BOUND GRANT
National Park College (NPC) was awarded a TRIO Upward Bound Grant last month to serve ninth through twelfth graders from the Hot Springs and Mountain Pine School Districts. The five-year grant is awarded by the United States Department of Education for $257,500 each year and will begin September 1, 2017.
Overall objectives for the grant are to help students be more successful in high school and better prepare for college. NPC’s Upward Bound program has chosen to target 60 low-income, first-generation students in two public schools in Garland County.
“Upward Bound allows Arkansas students to expand their educational and professional opportunities. This funding will prepare students for successful employment in the future," said Senator John Boozman, a member of the Congressional TRIO caucus.
Services will include academic tutoring, advice and assistance in secondary/postsecondary course selection, preparation for college entrance exams, information on financial aid programs and assistance in completing financial aid forms, guidance on secondary school reentry/GED, entry into postsecondary education, and financial literacy. Program services are divided into an academic year component and a summer component.
The academic year component includes after-school weekly tutorial services, weekly advising sessions, nine Saturday enrichment sessions, career exploration, and cultural activities. The summer component includes a six-week non-residential academy and Bridge Program. The Bridge program will cover the cost of tuition for two college classes for each student in the summer after high school graduation.
“Mountain Pine School District is very excited about the opportunities the Upward Bound program will give our students. We feel Upward Bound will prepare 21st century learners for the world after high school,” said Superintendent, Bobby Applegate.
Dr. Stephanie Nehus, Superintendent for Hot Springs School District said, “Hot Springs School District is very excited to partner with National Park College's Upward Bound grant program. Our district is committed to ensuring all students leave us prepared to be productive, contributing members of our community. An opportunity like this will allow students to gain an advantage by laying a foundation for future success.”
About TRIO
The Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) are Federal outreach and student services programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged background. TRIO includes eight programs targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to post baccalaureate. TRIO also includes a training program for directors and staff of TRIO projects.
About NPC
National Park College was established in 1973 and is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The College enrolls nearly 5,000 credit and non-credit students per semester. NPC is a comprehensive two-year institution offering associate degrees and certificates as well as continuing education, community services and workforce training.
