Upward Bound

FAMILY POTLUCK - MAY 6!!!

2011-04-15T07:19:00.001-07:00

THE WHOLE FAMILY is invited to celebrate the end of another UB school year at our ANNUAL FAMILY POTLUCK on FRIDAY, MAY 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ho-Chunk Three Rivers House, 724 Main St. in La Crosse.

UB provides some food, drinks, utensils. Please bring a dish to share (dessert, salad, chips, etc.) to share if you can. We'll have an activity for the whole family AND a short program honoring our graduating and continuing students.

Please RSVP (especially if you want a ride!) no later than May 1!

See you there!

Please evaluate your UB experience!

2010-12-09T12:38:00.001-08:00

UB students! Please follow this link to complete the first semester evaluation survey! You must complete this survey in order to receive your WINTER stipend (paid in March), so be sure to fill in your name where asked!

UBVB5!

2010-11-17T07:11:00.000-08:00

Team rules:
* At least TWO schools represented
* At least TWO GUYS and TWO GIRLS per team
* SIX players max per team
* UB students and UB alums ONLY!

Contact Ben with questions - 608 785-8527

OPTIONAL EVENT! 12th Night

2010-11-11T13:05:00.001-08:00

Our last optional event of the semester!

See Shakespeare's classic comedy, Twelfth Night, as performed by the UW-L Theater Department on Friday, December 3 at 7:30 p.m. in Toland Theater, UW-L Fine Arts Center (16th and Vine Streets).

You must sign up at tutoring or by email no later than Friday, November 19 if you wish to attend.

If you say you are going, we will get you a ticket worth $10 and we will expect you to be there! If you aren't there, we will deduct at least $10 from your stipend.**

If necessary, you may find a UB student to attend in your place to avoid the deduction. If you must find a sub, please email to let me know by December 2.

** Sparta and Tomah students - we will offer a ride from SPARTA only. It will leave from the Country Kitchen, 741 Avon Road at 6:30 p.m. and return when the play is done (probably about 10:30 p.m., but that's an ESTIMATE). If you sign up but don't show up and your absence means we could have saved money by renting a smaller vehicle, we will deduct part or all of the extra vehicle cost from your stipend in addition to the ticket cost.

Local students who attend should plan to be at the Toland Theater lobby no later than 7:15 p.m. You will meet a UB tutor there and get your ticket.

If you have any questions, please email. Here's more info about the play.

- cathy

p.s. Sometimes students can get extra credit in English classes if they go to an event and turn in a written summary of their experience. Ask your English teacher.

ATTENTION - UB ARTISTS!

2010-10-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

Prizes:
First place = $500
Second place = $250
Third place = $150
Two Honorable Mentions = $50 each

Entry Deadline
January 1, 2011

More details including entry information: www.thepumphouse.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=176:wild-things-prospectus&catid=59:app&Itemid=106

Project Girl

2010-10-26T05:34:00.000-07:00

Several UB summer students participated in a regional art project called Project Girl during the UB summer session.

The opening reception for this exhibit at the UW-L Fine Arts Center Gallery (16th and Vine Streets) will be THIS THURSDAY, October 28 from 5 to 10 p.m. Everyone is welcome and invited to attend!

The exhibit will be up through November 20.

UB GRADS! Please help!!

2010-09-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

It's time to start working on our Annual Performance Report (APR) and I need to hear from UB graduates! Our statistics on participants' enrollment in, persistence at and graduation from college will count heavily in deciding whether or not UB will continue past 2012!

Please complete the graduate survey at the UB web site. If you were in school but had to stop out because of money, grade, personal issues or whatever, please contact us! We can help you survey your options so you can get back on the college track!

If you've graduated recently, please email Cathy so we can share your great news with the rest of our UB family!

Our APR will probably be due in November or December, so NOW'S THE TIME to let us know how you are doing!

Thanks in advance for your help!

NEXT UB SATURDAY EVENT - PRESCRIPTION FOR CHANGE!

2010-09-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

PRESCRIPTION FOR CHANGE! Academic Skills for College-Bound Students

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16 from noon to 2:30 p.m. in 339 CARTWRIGHT CENTER, UW-L

Study skills * Time management * Organizing * Test taking

Do you need help organizing your notes? Could you use new ideas for time management? Does studying for a test leave you more confused?

COME TO THE UB STUDY SKILLS WORKSHOP!

Join Diana Moran, UB staff and a panel of UB graduates in exploring new ways to improve your academic skills.

Please RSVP by October 8.

Rides for Sparta/Tomah students leave the Sparta Country Kitchen at 11:15 a.m. and return at about 3:00 p.m.

This is a required UB event!

VISIT WESTERN TC - Thursday, October 7

2010-09-20T09:05:00.000-07:00

Western Technical College will host an annual College-wide Open House on Thursday, Oct. 7, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the La Crosse campus and regional locations in Black River Falls, Independence, Mauston, Tomah, and Viroqua.

Admissions information, program information, facility tours, and refreshments will be available at each location. New this year, the college will waive the $30 application fee for those who apply during the open house. The offer is available to high school seniors and older, who wish to apply to attend Western in Spring or Fall 2011, and they must apply in person.

The La Crosse campus will kick-off the Open House at 3:30 p.m. with a Ribbon Cutting/Grand Opening event for the newly completed Multicultural Center, located on the second floor of the Academic Resource Center, 400 7th St. N. All other activities will be held in the Lunda Center, 319 7th St. N.

The public is invited to attend anytime during the events, which are free. For details on activities, visit www.westerntc.edu/openhouse. For more information about additional Western Technical College programs and services, call 608.785.9200 or visit the website at www.westerntc.edu.

UB WILL EXCUSE JUNIORS AND SENIORS WISHING TO ATTEND THIS EVENT! You will be expected to attend UB tutoring from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Stipend Info

2010-05-21T12:36:00.001-07:00

Stipends have been delayed until TUESDAY. Here's Ben's revised schedule:

* Tuesday, May 25: Holmen (during lunch)
* Wednesday, May 26: Sparta (during lunch), Tomah (after school)
* Thursday, May 27: Logan (during lunch)
* Friday, May 28: Central (during lunch)

We will mail Ona and BRF.

See if you are missing any paperwork! Go to www.uwlax.edu/upbound/whosmissing.htm

TUESDAY TUTORING in La Crosse through June!

2010-05-07T10:09:00.001-07:00

Tuesday tutoring in La Crosse, from 5 to 7 p.m. in Wimberly Hall (211) will continue through June 1! Anyone is welcome to come. No stipends will be paid for attendance.

Thursdays at Holmen - cancelled

2010-04-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

Due to poor participation, extra tutoring sessions held on Thursday evenings at Holmen High School have been canceled for the rest of the semester (April 29 and May 6.)

We will still have required tutoring on Mondays in Holmen! Our last two sessions for the academic year are Monday, April 26 and Monday, May 3.

If you have any questions, please email Ben.

REMINDER: NO TUTORING NEXT WEEK!!!

2010-03-12T06:03:00.000-08:00

Because UW-L spring break is the week of March 15 through March 19, there will be NO Upward Bound tutoring next week. Some other UB programming (open gym on Wednesday, March 17, orientations, test make ups, etc.) will go on as scheduled.

As for tutoring - we'll see you back during the week of March 22!

CALLING ALL ARTISTS!

2010-02-19T10:38:00.000-08:00

Rep. Kind Announces 14th Annual Congressional Art Competition

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI) today announced the 14th Annual Congressional Art Competition, “An Artistic Discovery,” for high school students. Organized by Congressman Kind and his wife Tawni Kind, this event brings together high school artists from throughout western Wisconsin to recognize the tremendous talent of our high school art students.

“Every year Ron and I look forward to this art competition. It’s a great opportunity for us to get to meet these wonderful artists from western Wisconsin,” said Tawni Kind. “These students are capable of amazing things and this competition is a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase that to the nation.”

The first place entry will hang for a year in the U.S. Capitol along with the works of other student artists from across the country, the second place entry will be displayed in Rep. Kind’s Washington, D.C. office, and the third and four place pieces will be displayed in Kind’s La Crosse and Eau Claire offices.

The deadline for submitting entries is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 26, 2010. Art teachers throughout Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District have been notified about the competition and the rules for artwork submission.

On Saturday, April 10, 2010 from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. there will be a reception at the Black River Falls Public Library to recognize the participants. All student participants, their families and teachers are invited to attend the reception.

Anyone interested in entering the competition, or having questions about the contest guidelines, is encouraged to call Rep. Kind’s aide, Danice Stanton, toll free at 1-888-442-8040.

Congrats, Christina!

2010-02-15T12:14:00.000-08:00

UB senior, Christina Beeler, has won a La Crosse Tribune Extra Effort Award!!! Congrats, Christina!

Remember - deadlines coming!

2010-01-20T07:03:00.000-08:00

Please remember -

* Complete your Optional Events Survey by Jan. 22 (find link at www.uwlax.edu/upbound)

* Complete your first semester evaluation if you haven't aready! (find link at www.uwlax.edu/upbound)

* SENIORS! Complete and mail your summer survey and Community Service Book Stipend application form!!!

Plus - remember the UB ACT practice test coming soon to a school near you!

Watch your mail!

2010-01-08T05:58:00.000-08:00

Our second semester mailing just went out! Watch your mail for these exciting bits of information:

ALL Students:
* Second semester calendar - please use this calendar when scheduling work, appointments and other commitments
* Second semester overview - more details about UB programming
* Second semester optional events ballot - VOTE for the events you'd like UB to attend. Note - EXCEPT FOR THE JANUARY 30 EVENT (DJ Bash), your votes do not equal a commitment to attend!
* Flyer about ACT Practice Test - ALL UB students (except those who have been personally excused by Antoiwana, Paul or Ben) are required to participate

Additional info for SENIORS ONLY:
* FAFSA workshop info (UB's FAFSA workshop is Feb. 19 from 2 to 7 p.m.)
* FAFSA worksheet (be sure to complete this!)
* Summer info (options for UB graduating seniors this summer)
* UB Senior Community Service Book Stipend application (worth $100!)

If you do not receive your mailing by January 15, PLEASE call the UB office at 608 785-8539!

COLLEGE VISIT INFO will be distributed during the week of January 25!

Visit the UB website for more info.

Happy holidays ... and get ready for the UB ACT practice test!

2009-12-16T09:30:00.000-08:00

UB ACT PRACTICE TEST! All UB students are required to take this test (yes, even seniors who have already taken the ACT and been accepted to college) unless you have been personally excused by Antoiwana, Paul or Ben.

UB ACT PRACTICE TESTS will be given where you normally attend tutoring:

BRF HS - Friday, January 22 from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Holmen HS (room 141-updated) - Friday, January 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.*
Sparta HS - Friday, January 22 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Tomah HS - Monday, January 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
UW-L (La Crosse schools)* (room 339 Cartwright Center) - Monday, January 25 from 8:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

*ONALASKA STUDENTS - please use the online form or email Cathy to let us know whether you will attend the Holmen HS or the UW-L session.

If you would prefer to attend a session at a location other than that of your normal tutoring, please complete the online form by January 20, 2010.

If you are not able to attend at the scheduled dates and times, please email Antoiwana ASAP!

FREE DENTAL CARE FOR STUDENTS!

2009-11-18T06:54:00.000-08:00

Give Kids a Smile Day

For an appointment, contact Lois Gissal, Health Assistant, at 789-7700 ext. 7718 ASAP! (before Monday, December 14, 2009). OPEN TO FIRST 100 APPLICANTS ONLY!!!!

The La Crosse District Dental Society will be providing a day of free dental care for children in the La Crosse School District if children are:
* First-time participants in the Give Kids a Smile Program
* School aged (5 to 17 years old)
* Eligible for free/reduced school lunch
* Not receiving regular dental care

Screening date will be January 8, 2010 FROM 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Screening includes a free examination and x-rays with a follow-up dental appointment.

INTERESTED IN SCIENCE? Apply for this great event!

2009-11-16T10:27:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, January 12, 2010, Viterbo University will host its annual "Exploring Science through Forensics" Day for sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in science.

This is a full day of science, teamwork, sleuthing and fun! Participants will be put into teams, introduced to a case, given evidence and information and set loose in the Viterbo labs with the assistance of Viterbo University science professionals, to find out "who done it!"

You may get fingerprints and DNA or mystery particles and fingernails.

Teams will decide on a suspect and then prepare and present a PowerPoint presentation to the group. Top teams will win prizes ranging from cool college gear to scholarships!

This event is open to sophomores and juniors (and seniors who have applied or will apply to Viterbo). THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS DECEMBER 15!!!

APPLY ONLINE AT https://www.viterbo.edu/secure.aspx?ekfrm=50584 AS SOON AS POSSIBLE IF INTERESTED!

Students who meet the criteria will be admitted on a rolling basis. Students who do not meet the criteria will be admitted in December if space allows:

* Interest in a career in science, medical-related field, or field related to forensics (forensics, criminal justice, history for example)
* Year in school (sophomore minimum, junior or senior preferred) Note: If a senior, preference will be given to Viterbo applicants
* Ability to attend the entire day
* High school GPA above 3.0
* Diversity of high schools represented (we will strive to include students from different high schools in the region)

Applicants will be notified of their admittance to the program on a rolling basis (note: we will likely not be able to accept all applicants based on high demand for this program).

Students selected for the program will be required to:
* Sign a waiver form (if under 18, a parent or guardian must sign).
* Arrange transportation to the event (lunch and all materials will be provided free of charge).
* Obtain permission from teachers and guardians to miss school for this event.

College Visit Update

2009-10-22T06:44:00.001-07:00

The UW-Platteville trip is full. There is still space on the UW-Milwaukee Open House trip. You must get your parent permission form to UB before the trip. (The deadline for this was October 3!)

More Optional Events coming up!

2009-10-15T06:21:00.000-07:00

UB students will have more chances to sample some of the great theater and music our area has to offer:

* Friday, November 13 - FROZEN - 7:30 p.m. at UW-L Frederick Theater, Morris Hall (16th & State)

Sign up form for this event will start circulating on Monday, October 19 with sign up deadline Friday, October 30. Rides will leave Sparta Country Kitchen, 741 Avon Road, at 6:30 p.m. and return there at about 10:30 p.m.

"Angry, humane and compassionate, FROZEN is an extraordinary play that entwines the lives of a murderer, the mother of one of his victims and his psychologist to explore our capacity for forgiveness, remorse and change after an act that would seem to rule them out entirely."

* [Saturday, November 14 Career Day - NOT optional - info mailed soon!]

* Sunday, November 15 - SOUND OF MUSIC - 2:00 p.m. at SPARTA HIGH SCHOOL (506 N. Black River Street) Loosely based on A TRUE STORY!

Sign up form for this event will start circulating on Monday, October 19 with sign up deadline Thursday, November 5. Rides will leave UW-L Cowley Hall lot at 1:00 p.m. and return at about 5:15 p.m.

* Saturday, December 12 - A CHRISTMAS CAROL (the musical) - 7:30 p.m. at Toland Theater, Center for the Arts, UW-L (16th and Vine Streets)

Sign up form for this event will start circulating on Monday, November 9 with sign up deadline Monday, November 30. Rides will leave Sparta Country Kitchen, 741 Avon Road, at 6:30 p.m. and return there at about 10:30 p.m.

"A Holiday Classic! On Christmas Eve, Ebenezer Scrooge learns his stinginess and uncaring attitude could doom him to walk the earth as a spitit wearing a heavy chain of his own creation. But visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet to Come show Scrooge how to change his future."

College visits

2009-10-13T07:59:00.000-07:00

College visit sign ups are now closed. If you had your PARENT PERMISSION in by the extended deadline (October 9), you are on the list. If not, you will be on a waiting list.

More info will be posted Wednesday, October 14 at the UB website.

How to tell the difference

2009-10-13T07:49:00.000-07:00

FLU:
* Fever - sudden onset, 102-104 degrees, lasts 3 to 4 days
* Headache - usually
* Aches and pains - usually
* Fatigue - extreme fatigue and weakness lasts 3 to 4 weeks
* Exhaustion - usually
* Runny nose - sometimes
* Sneezing - sometimes
* Coughing - usually, can become severe
* Sore throat - sometimes

COLD:
* Fever - not usually
* Headache - not usually
* Aches and pains - slight
* Fatigue - mild fatigue and weakness
* Exhaustion - no
* Runny nose - usually
* Sneezing - usually
* Coughing - mild to moderate
* Sore throat - usually

Read more at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/coldflu.htm

Ben's Advising Schedule

2009-10-09T10:23:00.000-07:00

Ben is on the move! Here's his fall 2009 advising schedule. Remember, UB students are required to meet with a UB advisor at least twice per month in order to earn stipends!

LOGAN - in Commons or Career Center
Thursdays during school
Oct. 15 & 22; Nov. 5, 12, & 19; Dec. 3, 10, & 17

CENTRAL - in Commons
Tuesdays during school
Oct. 13, 20, & 27; Nov. 3, 10, & 17; Dec. 1, 8, & 15

ONALASKA - in Commons
Fridays during lunch
Oct. 16 & 23; Nov. 6, 13, & 20; Dec. 4, 11, & 18

***Ben will also attend La Crosse Thursday night tutoring on Oct. 22, Nov. 12, and Dec. 3***

SPARTA
Wednesdays at tutoring
Oct. 1; Nov. 4 & 18; Dec. 9

TOMAH
Wednesdays at tutoring
Oct. 14 & 28; Nov. 11, Dec. 2

BLACK RIVER FALLS
Wednesdays at tutoring
Oct. 14 & 28; Nov. 11; Dec. 2

HOLMEN
Mondays at tutoring, and Thursdays at optional tutoring as needed.

Watch for it!

2009-08-13T14:19:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, we'll mail info about the coming academic year at UB. Summer students will get summer letters, lists and an evaluation to mail back. Everyone will get a calendar, first semester and optional events survey and info about our first event of the school year on September 5 - our annual Welcome/Welcome Back picnic. Most info is available right now at our web site! College visit info will be distributed in early September - we're still working on a couple of great opportunities!

Questions? Email or call us (608 785-8539).

Oh, and the African American Cultural Alliance is hosting a Back to School Jam on August 29 from 5 to 10:30 p.m. for all middle and high school students FREE admission and FREE refreshments. It will be at CrossFire, 422 Main Street. For more inf: 608 792-3597.

SUMMER in CHICAGO!

2009-08-06T06:43:00.000-07:00

UB summer is over! After five intense weeks of classes and study, students spent the last week in Chicago - business and college visits, cultural exploration, etc. Check out this cool video - some people know how to take advantage of a situation!

See you on September 5!

Extra tutoring available!

2009-05-12T06:54:00.000-07:00

Please check the UB website for info about extra tutoring sessions and individual tutors available from now through the end of school!

Students who are coming this summer - watch for the Summer PUMP UP online and in the mail starting May 18!

FAMILY POTLUCK and MASKED BALL!

2009-04-28T09:03:00.000-07:00

THE WHOLE FAMILY is invited to our annual end of school year potluck. But, this year it will be on FRIDAY, MAY 8 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Three Rivers House, 724 Main Street in La Crosse (our original date conflicted with La Crosse schools' proms.)

UB will provide sloppy joes, buns, plates, utensils and beverages as usual. If you can, please bring some food to share.

This year, in addition to sharing great food and conversation, honoring and recognizing graduating seniors and continuing students and distributing info about the summer program, we're going to decorate masks. OR bring your own if you wish.

No RSVP necessary - just show up with a bit 'o food to share and a happy heart!

Congratulations, Danella & Avery!

2009-04-21T07:09:00.000-07:00

UB students Danella Fonza and Avery Van Gaard recently entered the Congressional Art Contest for the Third Congressional District (Wisconsin). Results were announced on Saturday, April 18 at an exhibit and reception hosted by U.S. Rep. Ron Kind and his wife, Tawny.

Danella received an Honorable Mention and Avery earned a third place spot!

Congrats!

There will be a La Crosse Public High School exhibit, including many of the CAC entries, at the Pump House in La Crosse, 119 King Street, from May 6 through May 30.

We're online publishing now!

2009-04-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

Hey - we're doing OUR part to save the planet! Our newsletter (from first semester) is now available at ISSUU, a wonderful online publishing site. Check it out and watch for the April edition later this month!

ATTN: JUNIORS!

2009-03-05T12:41:00.000-08:00

THERE IS NO ACT PREP SESSION TONIGHT!!!!!

NEW STANDARDS for UB students

2009-03-03T09:46:00.000-08:00

As colleges tighten their admissions standards, UB needs to make sure participants understand how important good grades are. So, UB is raising its own standards for students.

We will expect juniors and seniors to earn at least a 3.0 UB gpa every quarter with no Ds or Fs and we will expect freshmen and sophomores to earn at least a 2.5 UB gpa every quarter with no Ds or Fs.

Students who fall below these standards will be put on probation for at least one quarter and they will be required to attend extra tutoring sessions. Students who fail to achieve these standards after at least one quarter on probation will need to write a continuation contract.

EVENT CANCELLED!

2009-02-21T06:27:00.000-08:00

Our February 21 event, Ladder to Success, is CANCELLED.

We will distribute handouts for students and parents at tutoring.

Important info about ACT registration!!!

2009-02-13T06:30:00.000-08:00

JUNIORS - as you register for the April ACT, please DO NOT include the UB code! This is different than past years. Now that UB can access your scores online, you will be able to use this space to send your scores to another school. However, you MUST share your login info with Upward Bound staff. If you have any questions, please contact Antoiwana, Paul or Jessica or call the UB office - 608 785-8539.

Changes to UB schedule - HOLMEN

2009-01-29T06:28:00.000-08:00

HOLMEN STUDENTS - please note that there will be NO UB OPTIONAL TUTORING on Thursday, February 19 and Thursday, April 9. We WILL have required Monday tutoring those weeks!

Uh-Oh!

2009-01-25T15:19:00.000-08:00

Video Games Linked To Poor Relationships With Friends, Family

ScienceDaily (Jan. 25, 2009) — A new study connects young adults' use of video games to poorer relationships with friends and family – and the student co-author expresses disappointment at his own findings.
...
The research is based on information collected from 813 college students around the country. As the amount of time playing video games went up, the quality of relationships with peers and parents went down.

---

Read the whole report at link above.

Reminder - ACT practice tests!

2009-01-22T11:51:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that we are giving the ACT practice test tomorrow (Holmen ONLY) and Saturday (La Crosse/Onalaska) and on Monday (Tomah). Please plan to attend! (You are excused if and only if Antoiwana, Paul or Jess has excused you in person!)

If you cannot attend, please email Antoiwana ASAP! to make other arrangements!

The Black River Falls test originally scheduled for Friday, January 23 afternoon has been postponed!

Friday, January 23 MORNING (8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.) - Holmen High School

Saturday, January 24 MORNING (8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.) - La Crosse/Onalaska (in room 141 Wimberly)

Monday, January 26 MORNING (8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.) - Tomah High School

Change start date for summer UB

2009-01-22T10:41:00.001-08:00

Many of the schools we serve have called several snow/cold days pushing back the end of school. Therefore, we have changed the start date for this year's summer program!

Students attending 2009 Summer UB at UW-L should plan to move to campus on the evening of SUNDAY, JUNE 21!

In early February we will distribute summer paperwork. Students who seriously plan to attend summer UB who have their papers complete and turned in to us by the "Ladder to Success" Saturday event (February 21) will earn a $50 bonus stipend! Half will be paid in March and half will be paid after the first week of summer UB (in addition to regular stipends.)

This summer after all the classes and finals are done, we'll go to CHICAGO - one of the GREENEST cities in the country - for several days of business and college visits, site seeing and learning.

More soon!

ACT Practice Tests

2009-01-12T06:00:00.000-08:00

UB will give the ACT PRACTICE test this month to all students (except those who have been personally told by Antoiwana, Paul or Jess that they do not have to take this PRACTICE test).

* BRF students - Paul will contact you about your schedule

* Central, Logan and Onalaska students - Saturday, January 24 from 8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. in 141 Wimberly Hall on the UW-L Campus

* Holmen students - Friday, January 23 from 8:45 to 1:00 p.m. at HHS

* Sparta and Cashton students - Saturday, January 17 from 8:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at SHS

* Tomah students - Monday, January 26 from 8:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at THS

If you would like to take the test at a location OTHER THAN YOUR REGULAR TUTORING SITE, please complete the online "Alternate Site Registration Form" by Thursday, January 15!!!

Why doe UB give the ACT practice test?

Our grant with the U.S. Department of Education requires that we access participants' academic growth from year to year. We use your practice ACT scores to see if you are making improvement in important college prep subject areas. In addition, since most colleges use ACT test scores as one of the BIG THREE NUMBERS (ACT scores, cumulative grade point average and class rank) in determining admissions, we believe taking the practice ACT every year will help students become familiar with the test and (we hope) do better when they take the real test in the spring of their junior year.

If you are a JUNIOR, UB will offer ACT prep classes in February and March. We will expect you to register for and take the April 2009 ACT and in most cases we will provide you with a registration fee waiver worth up to $46!

Here's the official description from www.actstudent.org:

The ACT is a national college admissions examination that consists of subject area tests in English, mathematics, reading and science

The ACT Plus Writing includes the four subject area tests plus a 30-minute Writing Test. ACT results are accepted by all 4-year colleges and universities in the U.S.

The ACT includes 215 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete, including a short break (or just over four hours if you are taking the ACT Plus Writing).

If you want to learn more about preparing for the ACT, check out their web site: www.actstudent.org/testprep/index.html

LOTS of important info for second semester!

2009-01-07T08:37:00.000-08:00

Please check out the Upward Bound web site for LOTS of important info about second semester.

All UB students will receive a mailing soon. Look for it! It will have

* Info about the UB ACT practice test sessions
* Second semester calendar
* Info about second semester college visits
* A survey about second semester optional events

Seniors will also get information about
* The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
* Upward Bound FAFSA workshop
* Summer options

If you have not received mail from Upward Bound by Monday, January 12, please email Cathy or call the UB office, 608 785-8539.

Also, check the UB students' page for JUNIORS' UB ACT prep sessions starting in February!

NO UB TUTORING TONIGHT (Tuesday, 12/9)

2008-12-09T12:49:00.001-08:00

Because of the weather, no tutoring tonight BUT we ARE having tutoring Wednesday and Thursday night this week. (Unless we get another snow dump.)

UB Volleyball Tournament 12/30

2008-12-09T12:46:00.001-08:00

The 3rd Annual UB Volleyball Tournament will be held @ the REC on Tuesday, 12/30. It's going to be super fun, so mark your calendars now :)

Warm Ups begin at 12:30 and the games begin at 1:00. This event is open to UB alumni, staff, and students ONLY. Team Rosters are due Friday, 12/19...

6 people to a team:
at least 2 guys;
at least 2 girls;
and at least 2 schools (or universities) represented on each team.

Call the UB office at 608.785.8539 or e-mail Jess at thill.jess@uwlax.edu with questions or team rosters.

No tutoring this week - Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-24T06:05:00.000-08:00

How much is college really worth?

2008-11-18T16:23:00.000-08:00

A new US News and World Report article questions the million dollar value often given to a college education. However, it concludes:

Baum found that there are plenty of other rewards for a degree. The quality of the jobs college graduates get is far better, for example. College graduates are more likely to get jobs with health insurance. And it is easier for them to find and hold jobs. The unemployment rate for college graduates was just 2.2 percent last year, half the unemployment level of those with only high school diplomas.

There are lots of other nonmonetary benefits as well. College graduates are healthier, contribute more to their communities, and raise kids who are better prepared academically, studies show.

Other researchers have found that the payoff of a degree is especially lucrative for students from low-income families, since the education and credential give them a chance to break out of low-paying careers.

Read the whole thing at www.usnews.com/articles/education/2008/10/30/how-much-is-that-college-degree-really-worth.html?s_cid=et-1118

COLLEGE VISITS!

2008-10-28T06:26:00.000-07:00

Four major college visits are coming in just a couple of days! Go here (www.uwlax.edu/upbound/cvfall0809.htm) for all the details - who is going, ride times, schedules, etc. PLEASE DON'T BE LATE for your pick up time!

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30 - University of Minnesota-Twin Cities AND University Center Rochester (including Rochester Community and Technical College) and Mayo Clinic (thanks, Laurie!)

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31 - University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire AND University of Wisconsin-Stout

UPDATES!

- Maurena and Avery - you may leave at 7:45 a.m. from the Cowley Hall lot on Friday, October 31 to UW-Eau Claire (this is 15 minutes later than is on your info sheet).

- Nhia L. - come on DOWN! You are off the waiting list and on the visit list for the U of Minnesota on Thursday, October 30! Please be ready to leave from the Cowley Hall lot at 7:45 a.m.!

- Christina B. - you are ON the visit list for UW-Stout on Friday. Be ready to leave the Sparta Country Kitchen at 7 a.m. SHARP!

- Mai Chou H. - you are ON the visit list for the University of Minnesota on Thursday! Please be ready to leave from the Cowley Hall lot at 7:45 a.m. (or from the Valley View Mall lot (near the bank and sign at the southwest corner) by 7:55 a.m.

Career Day!

2008-10-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

Please remember to rsvp to your Career Day invitation by THIS FRIDAY, October 24! Please use the online form. Career Day will begin at 2 p.m. at Central High School (1801 Losey Boulevard S.) in the cafeteria just off the main parking lot. We will hear from several guest professionals about their careers and then go to China Buffet.

Dress = business casual please.*

Parents are invited to join us for both the program and the China Buffet experience BUT UB cannot pay for parents' meals.

Rides are available for Sparta, Tomah and BRF students - leaving the Sparta Country Kitchen (741 Avon Rd.) at 1:15 p.m. and returning at about 7:30 p.m.

* Business casual means neat and appropriate dress that is classic rather than trendy. For men, business casual means suit pants or khaki type pants, typically a button-down collared or polo shirt (tie is optional and a jacket can also be appropriate), and traditional black or brown shoes. Business casual for women means classic dress pants, a well-pressed dress shirt or blouse (traditional buttondown, collared is often appropriate), and a coordinating dress shoe. Also acceptable is a skirt and blouse or dress.

UB gets a shout out!

2008-10-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

At a recent conference at UW-L about institutionalized racism, Upward Bound was credited as one of the programs that wors to actively eliminate barriers to higher education.

You can read the short article here. Go UB!

Seniors! Multicultural Visit Day @ UW-L - Oct. 23

2008-10-14T11:08:00.001-07:00

THIS JUST IN! There will be a multicultural visit day for seniors on Thursday, October 23 at UW-L. We will have permission forms this week for those who want to go.

According to Vickie Sanchez, UW-L Admissions, Students who are interested can be excused from school. The event begins at 11:30 a.m. in the Ward Room and ends at 6:00 p.m. Lunch and dinner are provided, along with a tour, an admissions presentation, an introduction to the Office of Multicultural Student Services, a student panel, and a segment on financial aid.

Seniors - if you are a multicultural student and have applied or plan to apply to UW-L, this is a great opportunity for you! Ask Jessica, Antoiwana or Paul this week!

PSAT THIS WEEK!

2008-10-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

All UB juniors are required to take the PSAT. Most schools will give this test on Wednesday, October 15. Central High juniors will take it on Saturday, October 18. If you haven't yet signed up for this important test, talk to your guidance counselor RIGHT AWAY! Many UB students are eligible for fee waivers. If you have questions, please contact Jess, Paul or Antoiwana OR call the UB office - 608 785-8539.

Scholarship opportunity at UW-Oshkosh

2008-09-26T06:33:00.000-07:00

This just in - new scholarship at UW-Oshkosh for biology, microbio, chem and computer science majors:

PFG Scholarships (Proteomics and Functional Genomics) for Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry and Computer Science majors

Amount: *Up to $10,000 per year
Deadline: March 15 deadline for receipt of all application materials

Are you a research scientist in the making? Prepare yourself to do state-of-the-art research in diverse fields such as stem cell research, neuroscience, cancer, physiology, bioremediation, biofuels and alternative energy.

Receive up to $10,000 per year*, every year, in scholarship funds.

*(The exact amount of the scholarship will be based on your FAFSA level of need.)

Requirements for consideration for a PFG Scholarship ~ Applicants must be:

* U.S. citizens
* Admitted as full-time, first-year students at UW Oshkosh
* Have submitted a FAFSA demonstrating financial need
* Have a science or math ACT sub-score of 25 or higher
* Be a declared major in biology, microbiology, chemistry or computer science and interested in interdisciplinary studies requiring coursework in these fields

A new resource!

2008-09-24T06:15:00.001-07:00

College.gov is a new website set up by the U.S. Department of Education to help students prepare for college.

There's info for students, parents and adults who work with students about reasons to go to college, how to find a college and how to pay for it.

Check it out!

La Crosse Tuesday tutoring starts THIS WEEK!

2008-09-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder - Tuesday evening tutoring in La Crosse starts THIS WEEK! Some students are required to attend this session, but it's open to all UB students who may need extra help with an assignment or project or just want a couple of hours of good quiet study time with a team of expert tutors available just in case.

Tuesday tutoring will be from 6 to 8 p.m. in room 139 Wimberly.

Required UB tutoring for all students starts next week!

Optional events this semester

2008-09-16T13:01:00.001-07:00

The results are in from our first-ever survey about optional events. This semester UB students will have the option of going to one, two or three wonderful plays.

The Sunday, September 21 2:00 p.m. matinee production of To Kill a Mockingbird - we have purchased tickets for the 10 students who confirmed their participation. If you are interested in attending but have not let us know, please email Cathy and I'll see if I can get you a ticket. This week, we will call all confirmed students with meeting place and time.

On Friday evening, October 10, at 7:30 p.m. the Viterbo Theater Department will present the Thornton Wilder classic, Our Town. This is a must know for anyone interested in being literate in American arts and letters! We must know if you are interested in attending no later than Monday, September 29. Email Cathy or call 785-8539 (be sure to IDENTIFY YOURSELF!)

On Friday evening, December 12 at 7:30 p.m. the UW-L Theater Department will present one of Shakespeare's greatest comedies - A Midsummer Night's Dream. This is a funny, funny play and you should see it! We must know if you are interested in attending no later than Monday, December 1. Email Cathy or call 785-8539 (be sure to IDENTIFY YOURSELF!)

UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 13 EVENT!

2008-09-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

Because RAIN is forecast for tomorrow, we will just do the Ropes Course and NOT have the potluck picnic. Do not bring a dish to pass, but do arrive at the ropes course at 8:45 a.m. (Sparta, Tomah, BRF students - leave from Sparta Country Kitchen at 8 a.m.) We have an indoor location if necessary for the morning program and will end at about 1:15 p.m.

Pass it on!

LAST CALL - TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

2008-09-04T06:42:00.000-07:00

Not many of you returned the optional event form included in the mailing you received in August. However, most of those who DID return the form are interested in attending the La Crosse Community Theater's production of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. If you're not familiar with the story - a book by Harper Lee about courage, racism and doing the right thing in the Depression era south - you SHOULD BE!!! Here's the Community Theater's blurb:

Based on Harper Lee’s book of the same title and adapted by Christopher Sergel, To Kill a Mockingbird tells the tale of Scout, a young girl in a small southern town about to experience dramatic events that will affect the rest of her life. The play recounts how a local trial about controversial racial issues can divide a town. Scout must come to understand what it means to stand up for what is right.

Upward Bound will go to the SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 matinee which starts at 2:00 p.m. We will provide a ride for Sparta/Tomah/BRF students from the Sparta Country Kitchen (the usual place.)

This is the last call - If you DID return your form and indicated you want to go, please CONFIRM YOUR INTENTIONS by replying to this email OR calling UB 608 785-8539 by Monday, Sept. 8 at 7 a.m.!!!

If you didn't return your form, but you would like to attend, please reply to this email or call UB 608 785-8539 by Monday, Sept. 8 at 7 a.m.!

We will TRY to get tickets on Monday morning (the space is small and tickets may already be sold out). If you respond late, you probably won't go. If we are not able to get tickets, we will let you know. If we can only get a limited number of tickets, we will take the earliest respondents first.

Here we go! First semester news!

2008-08-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to start your Upward Bound adventure for the new school year?! Last week we mailed info about first semester UB to all students. If you haven't received your mailing yet, please contact Cathy or call the UB office - 785-8539.

Our first event of the new school year is the annual Welcome/Welcome Back picnic on Saturday, September 13. We'll start out at 8:45 a.m. at the UW-L Ropes and Challenge course (far north end of East Avenue). Please wear tennis shoes and no short shorts!

Then, we'll walk to Myrick Park for a POTLUCK picnic. UB will supply hotdogs, hamburgers, beverages, plates and utensils. Please bring a dessert, salad, bag of chips or fruit to share if you can. We'll be done at 2:30 p.m. Rides for Sparta, Tomah and BRF students will leave the Sparta Country Kitchen, 741 Avon Rd., at 8 a.m. and return at about 3:15 p.m.

STIPENDS - students who have not received their stipends for second semester (2007-2008) and/or summer will have one last chance to get them at this event! If you do not claim your stipend at the September 13 picnic, you will forfeit it!

SUMMER UB REMINDERS

2008-06-09T20:47:00.000-07:00

MOVE IN for most students is 6:00 pm on WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11th. We'll be living in Trowbridge Hall, as we have for the past 5 years.

COMPUTERS, TELEVISIONS, GAME SYSTEMS, & HAND-HELD GAMES ARE FORBIDDEN. Please don't bring them to campus.

For more helpful reminders, CLICK HERE.

See you Wednesday!

UB Picnic - May 10

2008-04-10T10:50:00.001-07:00

Get ready - the weather WILL cooperate!

UB's annual family potluck picnic will be Saturday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Shelter #2, Veteran's Memorial Park (West Salem).

As usual, EVERYONE'S INVITED! We'll have games and activities, honors and award for graduating seniors and continuing students, summer info and lots of fun!

UB will provide sloppy joes, buns, drinks, utensils, plates and cups (UB students - bring your UB water bottle!) Your family can bring something to share - from a bag of chips or apples to the cherished heirloom recipe for stuffed chicken wings or potato salad.

No need to RSVP this time (but we hope you WILL come!) See you there!

New Schedule (during break)

2008-03-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

UW-L has its spring break next week (3/17-21) and La Crosse high schools are off during the week of March 24. So, please note this revised La Crosse (UW-L) tutoring schedule for the next two weeks:

Thursday, March 20 - NO TUTORING
Tuesday, March 25 - NO TUTORING
Thursday, March 27 - NO TUTORING*

*Book club will meet from 5 to 6 p.m. (last one!)

If you have any questions, please call us at 608 785-8539

Bonus stipend for summer papers!

2008-03-03T07:05:00.000-08:00

You can earn a BONUS STIPEND by having ALL your summer paperwork completed, signed and turned in by Monday, March 10 at 4:30 p.m. This is the ABSOLUTE DEADLINE for when the papers must be IN the UB office. If you're mailing forms, get them in the mail ASAP!

If you've misplaced the papers you were given or mailed on February 23, you can get replacements at www.uwlax.edu/upbound/forms.htm

Do not ask Jess, Paul or Antoiwana for replacements!

The bonus stipend will be paid half during the week of March 17 and half on summer UB move in evening, Wednesday, June 11.

If you have any questions, please ask Jessica, Paul or Antoiwana, email UpwardBound@uwlax.edu or call us at 608 785-8539.

Xerox Technical Minority Scholarship

2008-02-15T09:28:00.001-08:00

Here is a link to another great scholarship opportunity!

Applicants must be academic high-achievers (3.0 or better GPA). Applicants must be US citizens or visa-holding Permanent Residents of African American, Asian, Pacific Island, Native American, Native Alaskan, or Hispanic descent. They must be enrolled as a full time undergraduate or graduate student in any of the following technical fields:

Chemistry

Information Management

Computing & Software Systems

Material Science

Printing Management Science

Laser Optics

Physics

Material Science

Engineering (Chemical, Computer, Electrical, Imaging, Manufacturing, Mechanical, Optical, or Software)

LA CROSSE TUTORING CANCELLED TONIGHT

2008-02-14T09:37:00.000-08:00

Because of continuing snow and messy travel conditions and the presidential visit to campus this evening, we are CANCELLING La Crosse tutoring for tonight, Thursday, February 14.

Happy Valentine's Day (and do your homework!) See you next week.

p.s. Book Club is also cancelled - we will reschedule.

SEND IT IN!

2008-02-05T06:57:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder to send in your second semester Upward Bound confirmations and sign ups including:

* Your RSVP for the February 23 Saturday event!
* Your college visit form!
* Your summer planning survey!
* Seniors only - your summer UB Bridge sign up!

NO HOLMEN TUTORING - FEB. 4

2008-02-04T11:37:00.001-08:00

Due to snowy conditions, Holmen tutoring is CANCELLED for tonight (February 4, 2008.)

Please be sure to do all your homework! and see you NEXT week, February 11!

January 30 - Wednesday tutoring CANCELLED

2008-01-30T06:27:00.001-08:00

Due to COLD! weather and school closings, tutoring for Sparta, Tomah and BRF students tonight (Wednesday, January 30) is cancelled.

But - HOMEWORK IS NOT CANCELLED! Pretend you are at UB tonight and do all your homework, then pretend you are your tutor and check it for errors!

IMPORTANT REMINDER/OPPORTUNITY!

2008-01-16T10:24:00.001-08:00

First, a reminder - the annual ACT practice test is coming up at the end of this week.

Saturday, January 19, from 8:30 to 12:30, UB students from La Crosse, Holmen and Onalaska schools should plan to meet in Wimberly 141 to take the test.

On TUESDAY, JANUARY 22 (note new date), Black River Falls students will take the test at their high school starting at 1 p.m.

Sparta students will take the test at Sparta HS starting at 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 24.

On Friday, January 25, starting at 9 a.m., Tomah students will take the test.

Those who are not able to attend on their scheduled day should contact us IMMEDIATELY to arrange another test date. If you don't show up to take the test and haven't made arrangements to do so by January 19, you will not EARN second semester stipends until you have taken the test.

Now, an important event coming up fairly soon.

Tuesday, February 19 at 7 p.m. - Harlem Gospel Choir - "The Harlem Gospel Choir is the most famous gospel choir in America and a pre-eminent gospel choir world-wide." Don't miss this chance to see this world-famous group in the intimate setting provided by UW-L's Valhalla Hall. Tickets will go on sale to the public on January 29, so we will need to know by MONDAY, JANUARY 28 whether or not you want to attend. Upward Bound will pay for your ticket ($10) but if you don't show up at the performance, the cost of your ticket will be deducted from your stipend. UB WILL PROVIDE A RIDE FROM/BACK TO SPARTA FOR THIS EVENT.

If you would like to hear the Harlem Gospel Choir as a guest of Upward Bound, please do ONE of the following by the **DEADLINE: MONDAY, JAN. 28:**

REPLY to this email with your NAME and, if you are Sparta, Tomah or BRF student, tell me IF YOU NEED A RIDE FROM/TO SPARTA

Use the form at the UB website (www.uwlax.edu/upbound/form.htm)

Call the UB office - 608 785-8539 - and talk to a human or leave a message (if you must leave a message, speak slowly and clearly with YOUR NAME and, if you live in Sparta, Tomah or BRF, WHETHER OR NOT YOU NEED A RIDE.)

See you at the test!

UB Practice ACT - January 19, 23, 24, 25

2008-01-02T11:25:00.000-08:00

As you know, UB must give the practice ACT test to all students annually. This is one of the assessment tools we use in reporting students' academic progress.

For La Crosse, Holmen and Ona students, the test will be given at UW-L on Saturday, January 19 from 8:30 a.m. to about 1 p.m.

Paul will give the test in BRF on January 23 at 1 p.m., in Sparta on January 24 at 1 p.m. and at Tomah on January 25 at 9 a.m.

If you can't make your school's assigned date, please email Paul asap! to arrange a different date.

Sara Spohn

2008-01-02T11:23:00.000-08:00

As some of you know, Sara Spohn, a UB grad ('02) from Tomah HS died following a weather-related car accident on Saturday, December 22. Our sympathy goes to Sara's family and friends. More info here.

Hot off the presses!

2007-12-19T08:24:00.000-08:00

Finally, the October-December 2007 UB newsletter, Update, is online. Read it here.

And have a happy holiday!

Interested in Working with Cars?

2007-12-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

Our intrepid reporter (Cathy) read this in Central announcements:

Attention Students Interested in Automotive Careers: Did you know there is a shortage of workers in the automotive industry??? There is a special program for students & parents interested in automotive careers on Wednesday December 12th from 5:30-7:30pm at Honda Motorwerks (500 4th St South; La Crosse).

There will be a tour of the dealership, short presentations about highlights of careers in the automotive industry (jobs in service & maintenance, sales, parts, finance & insurance) and representatives from Western Technical College. Refreshments will be provided.

Sign up by calling Ross Hemauer 784-6407.

Career Day Reminder

2007-11-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

Hey folks!

Don't forget that tomorrow is our Annual Career Day! We'll be meeting at 2 pm at the Central High School cafeteria -- BE ON TIME & WEAR PROFESSIONAL DRESS! Sparta riders are getting picked up by Mike at 1:15 at Country Kitchen.

Immediately following the event, we'll be dining at China Buffet, and then some students will attend On The Verge in the newly remodeled Frederick Theater in Morris Hall.

See you tomorrow!

Scholarship for WI Automotive Students

2007-10-29T17:23:00.000-07:00

Here's another great scholarship opportunity for Wisconsin students! The Wisconsin Auto and Truck Dealers Association is offering some fantastic scholarships for students studying to become automotive technicians or auto body repair people.

The scholarships are open to graduating seniors or currently enrolled automotive students in Wisconsin -- but hurry! The deadline is December 15th!

Two New Scholarship Opportunities

2007-10-17T12:23:00.001-07:00

1. Hmong National Development Scholarship -- available to new & returning Hmong students attending any college or university in 2008-2009. Applications are available here.

2. UW System Essay Contest for Returning Students
This year's topic: imagine yourself as a graduating senior with a young sibling who will be starting college next year. What advice would you offer to this brother or sister who is setting off on the path of a liberal education? What experiences should your sibling anticipate - or seek out - that might afford a richer comprehension of liberal education's ideals? The competition is open to any UW System undergraduate student with a current GPA of at least 3.4 who is also either:

A) currently enrolled in the UW colleges and has completed a minimum of 30 credits by the end of fall semester 2007, with at least one semester (fall 2008) as a full-time student remaining or
B) currently enrolled in a UW System comprehensive or doctoral institution and has completed a minimum of 60 credits by the end of fall semester 2007, with at least one semester (fall 2008) as a full-time student remaining.

Award: three scholarships for $2,000 each are available: one to a student from a UW college and two to students from the UW comprehensive and doctoral institutions.

Submission: All submissions are to be original essays, 1,000-1,250 words in length, double-spaced and type-written. Each essay must include a title page with the following: title of essay, student's name, major, institution, college and home address, e-mail address, telephone number, and the following statement: "I hereby affirm that this is my own work, an original essay, and agree that it will become the property of the UW System Board of Regents and that it can be reproduced in the public domain."

Submission deadline: electronic submission due by 4:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 1, 2008 to UW-L's Provost Office at provost@uwlax.edu

Essays will be screened by a committee of representatives from the academic colleges. A maximum of three finalist essays will be submitted to UW System. Final selection of winning essays will be determined by a group of judges from the UW System Advisory Group on the Liberal Arts. Recipients will be notified in spring 2008.

And here is the rest of it.

October 6 - Community Service

2007-10-05T06:46:00.000-07:00

We're excited about tomorrow's Community Service morning! Sites include Habitat Re-Store and a Habitat for Humanity house construction project (only if your Liability Waiver is completed and turned in!) plus Hixon Forest Nature Center bird seed sale, Highway clean up, and the Kane Street Community Garden!

Why should you come? Volunteer work looks great on your college or scholarship application, you may expand your network of adults who could provide career advice and mentoring and you will have a GREAT TIME!

See you at Cartwright Center, Port o' Call at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday!

October ACT deadline extended to 9/26

2007-09-21T07:05:00.000-07:00

Hey procrastinators, good news!

The deadline for registering for the October 27th ACT has been extended until Wednesday, 9/26. So, Seniors, there is still time for you to register to retake the exam! And remember: we have fee waivers available for anyone who still needs one!

You can register online at http://www.actstudent.org but you'll need to get a waiver number from us first... so give us a call! 608/785-8539

ACT WAIVERS AVAILABLE

2007-08-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

ATTENTION SENIORS!

If you are planning to retake the ACT in October or December, please contact us to get a fee waiver. That's a $42 value!

Even if you used a fee waiver last Spring, you can use another one this fall, thanks to a change in the ACT policy. Another change is that you may now register online -- woohoo!

I'm looking forward to getting lots and lots of calls and messages about this.

~Jess

Free Hugs!

2007-08-15T10:37:00.001-07:00

Some of you may have seen this already... but it's worth watching again! ~Jess

Honors & Citizens Trip

2007-08-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

Each year, UB invites students with honors, and those voted 'citizens' on a trip to celebrate their accomplishments. This year's trip will take place on Thursday, August 16th. We'll be going to Minnesota's Whitewater State Park, climbing the fire tower in Elba, and eating dinner at Rochester's Apache Mall. Students receive bonus stipends for attending, and as always -- the days' events are free.
Here is a list of the students invited on this year's trip. You might notice that we have people invited from every county we serve. Congratulations, folks!

Brandon Hansen (BRF)
Tarra Harrigan (SPA)
Kari Heal (HOL)
Matt Hicks (LOG)
Avon Lor (LOG)
Yer Lor (LOG)
Nikki Peth (TOM)
Jack Vang (LOG)
Peter Vang (HOL)
Kahoua Vue (HOL)
Cheri Xiong (CEN)
Pa Zao Xiong (HOL)
Tammy Xiong (HOL)
Tria Xiong (LOG)
Chris Yang (ONA)
Mai Tong Yang (CEN)

New Year Rising

2007-08-03T08:35:00.000-07:00

Oh, yeah! The new school year is coming and we're getting ready! Look for a mailing during the week of August 20. Your UB goodie bag will include a calendar for first semester, a survey (so we can plan staffing and programming to best serve you), info about the first UB event of the school year and much more. Visit the UB website for more details.

SUMMER UB GRADUATION

2007-07-18T20:41:00.000-07:00

Join us for the 2007 Summer UB Graduation Ceremony!

It will take place at the Cleary Alumni & Friends Center on the UW-L campus next Thursday, July 26th. We will have displays of student art work, a few presentations from classes, and of course a ceremony honoring everyone who has worked so hard to make our summer program a success (especially our students!).

We'll begin at 6:00 pm with the open house & the ceremony will begin at 7:00. Please join us!

Watch your mailboxes!

2007-05-16T07:31:00.000-07:00

The 2007 UB Summer Pump UP is on its way to your house. It'll contain important information about our NEWLY REVISED summer schedule, our theme weeks, our trip to Minneapolis/St. Paul & more.

Watch for it in the mail, and be sure to let us know if you have questions about anything in it.

UB FUNDING SECURED!

2007-05-11T10:39:00.000-07:00

This just in:

We just received word that OUR PROGRAM HAS BEEN FUNDED FOR ANOTHER FIVE YEARS!! Thanks to our staff & everyone who assisted with writing a grrrrrrrrrreat proposal!

Now, back to our regular pre-college programming!

ACT make up test

2007-03-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

Have you finish the Upward Bound PRACTICE ACT yet? Here's your chance to get this important requirement taking care of!

Monday, April 9 at 9 a.m. in room 340 Cartwright Center. Email Jess or call the UB office (785-8539) to let us know you are coming!

Saturday, March 31 - Be there!

2007-03-27T07:04:00.000-07:00

This program IS NOT the same as last year's or previous years' programs. We have a new presenter and new topics will be covered. Yes, it's the same High Roller, but doubtless there will be NEW SONGS played. We need to know NOW - please call us at 785-8539.

REPEAT: Summer paperwork is DUE NOW!!!

2007-03-22T07:49:00.000-07:00

We really, really, really need your summer paperwork NOW. We need to finish scheduling classes, reserving facilities and hiring teachers - all this depends on YOU!

If you need new paperwork, please email Cathy or download forms from the web site.

Summer UB will help you retain and enhance your academic skills so you'll be ready to excel in school next year. According to the Johns Hopkins Center for Summer Learning, "on average, students lose approximately 2.6 months of grade-level equivalency in mathematical computation skills over the summer months," and "low-income children and youth experience greater summer learning losses than their higher income peers."

Every summer thousands of parents pay big money so their students can attend summer enrichment classes. They know it will help students do better in school, improve their study skills and enhance their chances of success in college. Summer Upward Bound is FREE and our graduates tell us time and again that it really helps them be successful in college.

Don't let this happen to you! Get those summer papers in NOW!

Tutoring next week at Sparta!

2007-03-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

Mike Fitzpatrick (from BRF tutoring) will lead an OPTIONAL tutoring session in Sparta on Wednesday, March 14th from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.

Mike can do all sorts of math and other stuff ... but especially math. There will be no small group or study guides, just come and get some help. Stay for the full time or a few minutes.

So, tutoring at Sparta High School LMC, on Wednesday, March 14th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Summer Paperwork Due NOW!

2007-03-02T11:04:00.000-08:00

We are still missing summer planning surveys and summer paperwork from many of you. We must have this NOW so we can schedule classes, reserve rooms, hire teachers and tutors, plan meals and more.

Most of you have received at least two copies of the planning survey and one set of other summer paperwork. If you still can't find it, it's online at the UB website. Go to www.uwlax.edu/upbound/forms.htm and get either the .pdf version (requires Acrobat Reader) or the Word.doc version.

Do it this weekend and bring your completed papers to tutoring next week!!!!

UB TUTORING CANCELLED TONIGHT!

2007-03-01T10:43:00.000-08:00

Upward Bound tutoring has been cancelled for Thursday night, March 1 because of icy road conditions. Call the UB office, 785-8539, with questions.

SUMMER!

2007-02-20T12:28:00.000-08:00

Yea, I know. There's SNOW outside and it's cold.

But, summer is coming and with it, summer UB - UB's college training camp.

Paperwork is in the mail (unless you or your parent got one at the February Saturday event) and it's due back on March 1.

Here are some tantalizing details:

Move in on Sunday, June 17. We'll be in Trow again this summer - right in the middle of campus and convenient to everything.

Monday, June 18, classes will start but this summer, but the first day will be an orientation day - get to know where your classes are, who your teachers are, what they will expect from you, how to do meals with UB, etc.

This summer, there will be a new class to replace the college lecture series. It's a study skills workshop designed to hone and polish your reading, note-taking, time management, stress management and other skills. This class is for rising 10th and 11th graders. Seniors will learn all this and much much more in the Senior Seminar.

Another change this summer: all supervised study sessions will take place during the day. And arts electives have been replaced by optional arts and recreation opportunities.

Be sure you get your paperwork completed and turned in by March 1. More soon.

UW SYSTEM PLACEMENT TESTING

2007-01-24T08:29:00.000-08:00

If you are planning to attend most UW System Schools*, you will need to take a Placement test. Math and English tests are required, and Foreign Language placement tests are very strongly recommended... even if you're not currently enrolled in a language class.

You may sign up for Regional Placement Testing HERE; if you sign up soon, you will probably be able to take your test at UW-La Crosse, regardless of which institution you intend to attend in the fall.

As always, get in touch if you have any questions!

* UW-Parkside, UW-Stout, and UW-Whitewater will use your ACT scores to place you in Math & Engligh classes. You may wish to still take a foreign language exam.

MAKE UP PRACTICE ACT - FIRST DATE!

2007-01-18T05:54:00.000-08:00

If you missed taking the Practice ACT on Saturday, January 13, here is your first chance for a make up. You MUST take this test! A couple of you need to finish the test - this would be a great time to do that. (If you just need to finish one or more parts, you will probably be finished before 1:30.)

Monday, January 22 from 9 a.m. to about 1:30 p.m. in rooms 330 and 331 Cartwright Center at UW-L.

Please email Cathy if you plan to come to this test. The test must be taken by ALL UB students (yes, even seniors!) so we can compare your academic growth for our reports to the U.S. Department of Education. Plus, it's a great way to practice taking this important test.

JUNIORS: Paul will be offering a series of ACT preparation sessions starting on January 22 and continuing on Feb. 6, 8, 13, and 15. All sessions will be from 4 to 6 pl.m. in room 340 Cartwright Center at UW-L. BRF, Sparta and Tomah students will receive test prep on Wednesdays.

EXTRA TUTORING OVER BREAK!

2007-01-05T13:45:00.000-08:00

Take advantange of extra tutoring - finals are coming!

La Crosse tutoring January 9 and 16 from 4 to 6 p.m. in room 136 Wimberly

Black River Falls tutoring January 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the BRF HS library

Holmen (math only) tutoring January 11 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in room 139 HHS

And remember UB's ACT practice test for ALL UB students (yes, seniors, you too!) on Saturday, January 13!

Please complete the online reply form if you haven't yet told us whether or not you are coming.

Need help with your financial aid?

2007-01-05T07:20:00.000-08:00

UB students and graduates are always welcome to schedule appointments to discuss financial aid applications & review FAFSA materials. But what about friends, cousins, brothers, sisters, and others who aren't in UB?

Well, there's help for them, too! College Goal Sunday is taking place at Viterbo University on Sunday, February 11th at 2 pm; it's a chance for students and their families to get FREE PROFESSIONAL HELP with the sometimes confusing financial aid process.

Check out their website, read their FAQ, or volunteer to help that day. (psst, if you need community service hours, this could be a great way to get them!)

FREE MONEY!

2006-12-18T09:25:00.000-08:00

Now that our seniors have completed their applications and are receiving their acceptance letters, it is time to turn our focus toward financial aid and scholarships.

Most universities and colleges have January, February, or March due dates for their institutional scholarships (the ones given directly from the school itself). I’ve included info below for the UW-L process, and encourage you to check the websites of the schools that you are considering SOON… like maybe over the upcoming break!

*****

UW-La Crosse has made its freshmen scholarship opportunities available online recently, and APPLICATIONS FOR FRESHMEN ARE DUE FEBRUARY 15th.

Here is the list of scholarships for incoming freshmen – there are scholarships available for almost any major, and several others that seemed appropriate for a lot of our seniors.

Here is a link to information about the scholarship process, including the online application form.

Here is another link to various other scholarships that are not given out by UW-L, but can be applied toward the cost of tuition here.

*****

Good luck, and please get in touch if there's anything that we can do to help!

Senior Update!

2006-11-21T10:28:00.000-08:00

Seniors, just a quick reminder that IT'S TIME to get the last of those college applications turned in. I've timed it: the Wisconsin Technical College system application takes 11 minutes or less to complete. The University of Wisconsin system application will only take about 45 minutes, once you have your personal statement written. There's no time left to waste!

If you're done with your applications, pat yourself on the back. (pat, pat) And then get to work on some scholarships!

We're not alone....

2006-11-03T10:45:00.000-08:00

Check this out:

I just found another Upward Bound program that uses a blog to communicate with its students. If you aren't finding enough to keep you busy here, check out their sitee for some interesting links!

Hmong National Development Scholarship

2006-10-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

Several UB students and graduates have already received hard copies of the HND scholarship for the 2007-2008 school year. Just in case you want one & we missed you, here's the link.

It would be wonderful to see a La Crosse student on the list of recipients; last year, two St. Paul students were awarded. Applications are due November 17th.

Upward Bound changes coming ...

2006-09-25T22:43:00.000-07:00

The Upward Bound grant competition was published in the September 22, 2006 Federal Register. We now know that our grant application is due by November 6 and some potentially major changes are coming for UB in the form of final priorities.

Very soon we will no longer be able to accept students who have completed 10th grade. While we didn't accept many 11th graders, we have always had the ability to make decisions based on individual's needs. No more. In a short time (we think about a month from now), only ninth and tenth graders may be admitted to UB.

In addition, while all low-income students and those who would be the first in their families to attend college are "at risk" for not going to or graduating from college no matter what their academic achievement, the Department of Education has issueda new requirement that at least 30% of new students be ninth graders who have low grades or achievement test scores.

Finally, the Department will conduct a study in 2007-2008 (no program knows yet if it will be in the study or not) which will require programs to recruit twice as many students as it plans to accept and then have someone else choose who will get into the program and who will never be able to receive UB services (the "control group.")

To those of us who know UB works, this is like asking cancer patients to volunteer to receive a placebo instead of life-saving treatments. But this is now the rule.

Of course, the Bush administration has tried to "zero out" Upward Bound for the past three years, so this may all be moot.

But, if you're a new 11th grader and you're thinking about UB, it's now or never. Call us.

Wow!

2006-09-20T11:31:00.000-07:00

A UB blog!

This is exciting -- check back here for updates from the workshop that Antoiwana, Paul, and I just attended on admissions requirements and new majors available in the Univeristy of Wisconsin System.