Summer Excellence Institute 2013 Orientation

This is a reminder that Summer Excellence Institute (SEI) 2013 Orientation is tonight, May 23, 2013 at 6:00 PM in the Whitfield Center. SEI 203 is mandatory for all participants planning on attending SEI. During this time, Upward Bound staff will review policies and procedures regarding SEI 2013, confirm paperwork for participants and answer any questions that you may have.

Hard copies are not distributed this year. Starting this spring, most documents will be online to limit printing usage. It will be the responsibility of both participant and parents to review and know the policies and procedures. The handbook will be hosted on our website here.

The Upward Bound staff is looking forward to seeing you all tonight. SEI 2013 is an awesome time and we are excited with helping you and your child get prepared for college. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Upward Bound at (816) 501-2438. For updates, follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook. 

Week 33 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 33

Week of May 20, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Cyber-Safety, Wednesday, May 21, 2013, 6:00 PM Permission Slips can be found here. 
• Summer Excellence Institute 2013 Orientation, May 23, 2013, 6:00 PM (REQUIRED FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS WHO ARE DOING SEI 2013.)
• May Stipends will be distributed week of May 28, 2013. 
• TimberRidge Adventure Center, Friday, May 31, 2013, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM (Mandatory for new students participating in SEI. It is included into summer classes.)

Cyber-Safety Activity

The Cyber-Safety workshop scheduled for Tuesday, May 21st. Participants will need to arrive on campus between 5:30-5:50PM and as the activity will start at 6PM sharp. After the presentation, we will watch the movie called “Trust” and have a short discussion at the end. Participants will need to be picked up around 10:00 PM. You can call the Upward Bound office at (816) 501-2438 should you have any questions or concerns. See below for the trailer for "Trust".

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of May will be distributed during the last week of May at the high schools before school is out. **

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School and online here.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Week 31 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 31

Week of May 6, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Last day of tutoring, Thursday, May 9, 2013
• An Ounce of Prevention,Wednesday, May 14, 2013, 6:00 PM
• Cyber Safety, Wednesday, May 21, 2013, 6:00 PM 
• Summer Excellence Institute 2013 Orientation, May 23, 2013, 6:00 PM (REQUIRED FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS WHO ARE DOING SEI 2013.)
• TimberRidge Adventure Center, Friday, May 31, 2013, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM (Mandatory for new students participating in SEI. It is included into summer classes.)

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Last day of tutoring is Thursday, May 9th. 
• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of April will be distributed during the May 4th Saturday Session. If you are not able to attend the Saturday Session, stipends will be distributed at tutoring and advising the following week.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School and online here.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Ruskin HS Students Awarded Scholarships!

It is that time of year where many students are receiving notice of scholarship awards. Being awarded a scholarship is not an easy feat. Years of maintaining high academic standards, involvement in extracurricular activities and demonstrating high character all play a huge part of being awarded scholarships small and large.

Two Upward Bound students from the class of 2013 were recently awarded scholarships that will help make their college education more affordable. Their hardwork and dedication to their educational aspirations haven't gone unnoticed.

Rose-Bertine Mercier, Senior, Ruskin HS

Rose was awarded the 2013 Kansas City Royals Scholarship through 20-20 Leadership. The scholarship is for $2,500 a year for four years for a total of $10,000. To qualify for the scholarship, Rose had to demonstrate strong leadership traits, have good grades, and be involved within her community. Rose will be attending the University of Kansas in fall 2013.

Mickell Tolbert, Senior, Ruskin HS

Mickell was named a Nightingale Scholar, which assist incoming nursing students at Avila University cover cost of tuition. To be named a Nightingale Scholar, candidates have to be nominated by a professional, be interested in the nursing field, plan on attending Avila University, demonstrate a financial need, and have a strong academic background. Mickell will have her education paid for entirely by being a Nightingale Scholar. Mickell will be attending Avila University in fall 2013.

Week 30 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 30

Week of April 29, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Saturday Session, May 4, 2013, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• TimberRidge Permissions Slips Due, May 4, 2013
• An Ounce of Prevention,Wednesday, May 14, 2013, 6:00 PM
• Cyber Safety, Wednesday, May 21, 2013, 6:00 PM 
• Summer Excellence Institute 2013 Orientation, May 23, 2013, 6:00 PM (REQUIRED FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS WHO ARE DOING SEI 2013.)
• TimberRidge Adventure Center, Friday, May 31, 2013, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM (Mandatory for new students participating in SEI)

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of April will be distributed during the May 4th Saturday Session. If you are not able to attend the Saturday Session, stipends will be distributed at tutoring and advising the following week.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Week 29 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 29

Week of April 22, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Saturday Session, May 4, 2013, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• TimberRidge Permissions Slips Due, May 4, 2013
• Summer Excellence Institute 2013 Orientation , May 23, 2013, 6:00 PM (REQUIRED FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS WHO ARE DOING SEI 2013.)

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of March will be distributed during the April 20th Saturday Session. If you are not able to attend the Saturday Session, stipends will be distributed at tutoring and advising the following week.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Week 28 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 28

Week of April 15, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Saturday Session, April 20, 2013, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• SEI 2013 Applications Due, April 20, 2013
• Earth Day with Gillis, April 20, 2013, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM 

Summer Excellence Institute 2013

Summer Excellence Institute 2013 applications are due on Saturday April 20th. Applications are important to the planning of Summer Excellence Institute. Participants who have not received an application, please contact an Upward Bound staff member immediately to receive an application. If you are not planning on participating in SEI 2013, also contact an Upward Bound staff member to discuss alternative summer participation. For any questions about SEI 2013, the application or any other Upward Bound programming concerns, please feel free to contact the Upward Bound office at 816-501-2438.

• Summer Excellence Institute 2013 is open to current freshman-junior Upward Bound participants.
• Orientation for Summer Excellence Institute 2013 is May 23, 2013 at Whitfield Centre from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM.

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of March will be distributed during the April 20th Saturday Session.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Week 27 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 27

Week of April 8, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Saturday Session, April 20, 2013, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• SEI 2013 Applications Due, April 20, 2013
• Earth Day with Gillis, April 20, 2013, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM 

Summer Excellence Institute 2013

Summer Excellence Institute 2013 applications are due on Saturday April 20th. Applications are important to the planning of Summer Excellence Institute. Participants who have not received an application, please contact an Upward Bound staff member immediately to receive an application. If you are not planning on participating in SEI 2013, also contact an Upward Bound staff member to discuss alternative summer participation. For any questions about SEI 2013, the application or any other Upward Bound programming concerns, please feel free to contact the Upward Bound office at 816-501-2438.

• Summer Excellence Institute 2013 is open to current freshman-junior Upward Bound participants.
• Orientation for Summer Excellence Institute 2013 is May 23, 2013 at Whitfield Centre from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM.

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of March will be distributed during the April 20th Saturday Session.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Week 20 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 20

Week of February 18, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• TRiO Day Celebration @ Emporia State University February 26, 2013

Rigorous Curriculum

Upward Bound encourages it’s participants to complete a rigorous program of study to help better prepare them for college. Below you will find what a student needs to take during their high school career to meet this standard. It is important to note that not every high school requires a rigorous curriculum for a student to graduate. Several Upward Bound students have come forward believing that their graduation requirements would meet college admission requirements. This is not true in all cases. Students need to understand that a rigorous program of study will not only prepare your student for college but in the majority of cases it will also meet college admission requirements.

As an Upward Bound participant — as a student who desires to attend college and succeed — completing a rigorous curriculum is vital.

Students who graduate high school and completes the rigorous curriculum listed below will be awarded “In Signum Rigorous” (The Medal of Rigor) to demonstrate their determination in college preparation.

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of January will be distributed during the February 16th Saturday Session.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found here and at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Week 19 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 19

Week of February 11, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Saturday Session February 16, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• FAFSA Frenzy February 17. 2013 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Obama Documentary February 18, 2013 1:00 - 3:00 PM
• TRiO Day Celebration @ Emporia State University February 26, 2013

Rigorous Curriculum

Upward Bound encourages it’s participants to complete a rigorous program of study to help better prepare them for college. Below you will find what a student needs to take during their high school career to meet this standard. It is important to note that not every high school requires a rigorous curriculum for a student to graduate. Several Upward Bound students have come forward believing that their graduation requirements would meet college admission requirements. This is not true in all cases. Students need to understand that a rigorous program of study will not only prepare your student for college but in the majority of cases it will also meet college admission requirements.

As an Upward Bound participant — as a student who desires to attend college and succeed — completing a rigorous curriculum is vital.

Students who graduate high school and completes the rigorous curriculum listed below will be awarded “In Signum Rigorous” (The Medal of Rigor) to demonstrate their determination in college preparation.

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of January will be distributed during the February 16th Saturday Session.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found here and at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Week 18 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 18

Week of February 4, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Saturday Session February 16, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• FAFSA Frenzy February 17. 2013 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Obama Documentary February 18, 2013 1:00 - 3:00 PM
• TRiO Day Celebration @ Emporia State University February 26, 2013

Rigorous Curriculum

Upward Bound encourages it’s participants to complete a rigorous program of study to help better prepare them for college. Below you will find what a student needs to take during their high school career to meet this standard. It is important to note that not every high school requires a rigorous curriculum for a student to graduate. Several Upward Bound students have come forward believing that their graduation requirements would meet college admission requirements. This is not true in all cases. Students need to understand that a rigorous program of study will not only prepare your student for college but in the majority of cases it will also meet college admission requirements.

As an Upward Bound participant — as a student who desires to attend college and succeed — completing a rigorous curriculum is vital.

Students who graduate high school and completes the rigorous curriculum listed below will be awarded “In Signum Rigorous” (The Medal of Rigor) to demonstrate their determination in college preparation.

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of January will be distributed during the February 16th Saturday Session.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found here and at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Week 17 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 17

Week of January 28, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• TRiO Day Permission Slips Due January 31, 2013
• Work Study Interest Form Due February 2, 2013
• Saturday Session February 2, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• Saturday Session February 16, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• FAFSA Frenzy February 17. 2013 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Obama Documentary February 18, 2013 1:00 - 3:00 PM
• TRiO Day Celebration @ Emporia State University February 26, 2013

Rigorous Curriculum

Upward Bound encourages it’s participants to complete a rigorous program of study to help better prepare them for college. Below you will find what a student needs to take during their high school career to meet this standard. It is important to note that not every high school requires a rigorous curriculum for a student to graduate. Several Upward Bound students have come forward believing that their graduation requirements would meet college admission requirements. This is not true in all cases. Students need to understand that a rigorous program of study will not only prepare your student for college but in the majority of cases it will also meet college admission requirements.

As an Upward Bound participant — as a student who desires to attend college and succeed — completing a rigorous curriculum is vital.

Students who graduate high school and completes the rigorous curriculum listed below will be awarded “In Signum Rigorous” (The Medal of Rigor) to demonstrate their determination in college preparation.

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of January will be distributed during the February 16th Saturday Session.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found here and at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Week 16 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 16

Week of January 21, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• TRiO Day Permission Slips Due January 31, 2013
• Work Study Interest Form Due February 1, 2013
• Saturday Session February 2, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• Saturday Session February 16, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• FAFSA Frenzy February 17. 2013 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Obama Documentary February 18, 2013 1:00 - 3:00 PM
• TRiO Day Celebration @ Emporia State University February 26, 2013

Rigorous Curriculum

Upward Bound encourages it’s participants to complete a rigorous program of study to help better prepare them for college. Below you will find what a student needs to take during their high school career to meet this standard. It is important to note that not every high school requires a rigorous curriculum for a student to graduate. Several Upward Bound students have come forward believing that their graduation requirements would meet college admission requirements. This is not true in all cases. Students need to understand that a rigorous program of study will not only prepare your student for college but in the majority of cases it will also meet college admission requirements.

As an Upward Bound participant — as a student who desires to attend college and succeed — completing a rigorous curriculum is vital.

Students who graduate high school and completes the rigorous curriculum listed below will be awarded “In Signum Rigorous” (The Medal of Rigor) to demonstrate their determination in college preparation.

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of January will be distributed during the February 16th Saturday Session.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found here and at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Avoid these 8 financial aid mistakes

Check out the article below from CBS' Lynn O'Shaughnessy that gives tips to avoid financial aid mistakes. 

This is the time of year when millions of parents and students are grappling with financial aid forms. It's also the time of year when many families make financial aid mistakes. 

Here are eight mistakes to avoid when completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which families must fill out to be eligible to get financial assistance at thousands of schools, and the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE, which approximately 20 percent of private institutions use.

1. Procrastinating. There is no federal deadline to submit the FAFSA, but state financial aid programs and colleges do impose aid deadlines. Check with schools on your child's list to see what their deadlines are, as well as your state aid program. You can find a link to every state's financial aid programs at the website of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.

A growing number of states offer aid on a first-come, first-served basis. It's OK if you have to submit your aid application with estimated tax information. You can use the IRS data retrieval tool to update the FAFSA after you've completed your taxes.

2. Failing to check for errors. When a parent or student makes mistakes on a financial aid form, it's highly likely that the household won't generate the right "expected family contribution." The information that a family shares on the FAFSA and the PROFILE calculates their EFC, which is a dollar figure that represents the minimum amount that a family can expect to pay for one year of school.

This might seem like a no-brainer, but parents don't always bother to correct FAFSA mistakes even when it can hurt them financially. Last year, more than 750,000 students notified about FAFSA errors by the U.S. Department of Education failed to revise their aid applications, which potentially cost them money. 

3. Including retirement assets. Don't include retirement assets on your FAFSA. I wish the aid application was clearer on this point. The FAFSA only wants you to divulge your non-retirement assets. If you include your IRA or 401(k) assets on the FAFSA, it could squash your chances for need-based aid.

4. Providing the wrong tax figures. Parents should list the federal income tax that they paid or will pay based on their 2012 federal tax return -- not the tax withholdings on their W-2 forms. The advice is the same for the students themselves.

5. Avoid blank answers. If the answer to a question is zero or not applicable, write "0" or "Not Applicable" on the online form. Leaving blank answers can cause miscalculations.

6. Don't inflate your education. Some institutions will award applicants brownie points if they are first-generation college students. If parents didn't graduate from college, select "high school" as the highest education attainment.

7. Failing to seek help. If you are overwhelmed by the process, seek help. You'll learn where you can turn for assistance by clicking on my recent post on FAFSA resources.

8. Failing to appeal a financial aid award. Schools don't broadcast this fact, but it is possible to successfully appeal disappointing financial aid awards. If the aid package your child receives is underwhelming, you can ask a college to reconsider the award. Just don't approach the school and announce that you want to "negotiate." Be diplomatic.

© 2013 CBS Interactive Inc.. All Rights Reserved.

Scholarship Winners to Date Announced!

Upward Bound at Avila University is pleased to announce our scholarship winners so far! Upward Bound provides a scholarship writing course during the summer before the student’s Senior year and continues to offer a writing lab two Saturdays a month for seniors to work on scholarships. While scholarship committees are still reviewing applications, we have had two students already be awarded some big scholarships!

Natacha Guthrie 

Truman High School 

Independence, Missouri

Natacha was awarded the Horatio Alger Scholarship ($5,000).  The Horatio Alger Missouri Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to students in the State of Missouri who have exhibited integrity and perseverance in overcoming personal adversity and who aspire to pursue higher education.

The Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans is dedicated to the simple but powerful belief that hard work, honesty and determination can conquer all obstacles. Today, through its Members, the Association continues to educate our nation's young people about the economic and personal opportunities afforded them by the promise of the American free enterprise system. Through its scholarship programs, the Association encourages students to pursue their own version of the American Dream. While providing scholarship opportunities, Association Members mentor the Scholars and underscore the importance of service to others. The Members work directly to provide promising young people with the support, education and confidence needed to realize their aspirations.

Ian Sisson

Ruskin High School

Kansas City, Missouri

Ian has been awarded several scholarships which are listed below.

• Sporting Kansas City Scholarship 2011 ($2,000)
• Sporting Kansas City Scholarship 2012 ($2,000)
• MU Diversity Award ($2,500) 
• SCLC Martin Luther King Award (amount unknown)

Week 15 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 15

Week of January 14, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Dell Scholars Program application due January 15, 2013
• Gates Millennium Scholars Program application due January 16, 2013 
• Saturday Session January 19, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• Kansas City Zoo Activity January 19, 2013 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• William Jewell College Campus Visit January 21, 2013 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM
• Saturday Session February 2, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Rigorous Curriculum

Upward Bound encourages it’s participants to complete a rigorous program of study to help better prepare them for college. Below you will find what a student needs to take during their high school career to meet this standard. It is important to note that not every high school requires a rigorous curriculum for a student to graduate. Several Upward Bound students have come forward believing that their graduation requirements would meet college admission requirements. This is not true in all cases. Students need to understand that a rigorous program of study will not only prepare your student for college but in the majority of cases it will also meet college admission requirements.

As an Upward Bound participant — as a student who desires to attend college and succeed — completing a rigorous curriculum is vital.

Students who graduate high school and completes the rigorous curriculum listed below will be awarded “In Signum Rigorous” (The Medal of Rigor) to demonstrate their determination in college preparation.

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of December will be distributed during the January 19th Saturday Session.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found here and at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com

Update: Change to Park University Campus Visit

To those participants signed up for the Park University Campus Visit on Monday January 21, 2013 from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, that activity has been canceled due to scheduling conflicts. To replace that activity, we'll be going to the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. The time and date will be the same as the Park University Campus Visit. 

To learn more about the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial, click here. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Upward Bound office at 816.501.2438 or upward.bound@avila.edu. 

Week 14 Announcements

Upward Bound—Avila University

Weekly Announcements 

Week 14

Week of January 7, 2013

Important Upcoming Upward Bound Information and Events

Important Dates

• Weekly tutoring resumes January 8, 2013 at Grandview HS and Ruskin HS
• Dell Scholars Program application due January 15, 2013
• Gates Millennium Scholars Program application due January 16, 2013 
• Saturday Session January 19, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• Kansas City Zoo Activity January 19, 2013 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• William Jewell College Campus Visit January 21, 2013 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM
• Saturday Session February 2, 2013 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Rigorous Curriculum

Upward Bound encourages it’s participants to complete a rigorous program of study to help better prepare them for college. Below you will find what a student needs to take during their high school career to meet this standard. It is important to note that not every high school requires a rigorous curriculum for a student to graduate. Several Upward Bound students have come forward believing that their graduation requirements would meet college admission requirements. This is not true in all cases. Students need to understand that a rigorous program of study will not only prepare your student for college but in the majority of cases it will also meet college admission requirements.

As an Upward Bound participant — as a student who desires to attend college and succeed — completing a rigorous curriculum is vital.

Students who graduate high school and completes the rigorous curriculum listed below will be awarded “In Signum Rigorous” (The Medal of Rigor) to demonstrate their determination in college preparation.

Tutoring

Participants at Ruskin HS will have tutoring in room 218 from 2:50 PM-4:20 PM. Participants at Grandview HS will have tutoring in room 113 from 2:35 PM-4:05 PM. 

• Participants are required to have at least 6 hours of tutoring per month. You can come and go as you please during tutoring to get tutoring hours.
• Tutors in math, science, English, and Spanish are available to help assist you in your efforts to improve.
• If you need additional help, contact the Upward Bound office with at least 24 hours notice to schedule individual tutoring on Avila's campus.

Stipends

Stipends will be distributed as checks starting in the 2012-2013 school year and will be given out at the second Saturday Session of the month.

**Stipends for the month of December will be distributed during the January 19th Saturday Session.**

Recruiting

If you know any students that are interested in applying for the Upward Bound - Avila University program, they are welcome to apply. Applications can be found here and at the counselors office at Ruskin High School and Grandview High School.

Office Phone: 816.501.2438
Office Fax: 816.501.2461
Email: Upward.Bound@avila.edu
Website: www.avila.edu/ub
Twitter: @UpwardBoundAU
Facebook: Facebook.com/AvilaUpwardBound
Blog: avilaupwardbound.blogspot.com