Measuring the Effectiveness of Rural Wisconsin Upward Bound Programs

This research evaluates the effectiveness of the rural TRiO Upward Bound programs of Wisconsin, namely University of Stevens Point, University of Wisconsin Superior and Wausau Department of Public Instruction. This evaluation focuses on how effectively the programs assist low-income and first-generation potential college students in completing their high school education and enroll in postsecondary education. The sample consists of 149 senior students between the ages of 17 and 18 from the three Upward Bound programs previously indicated, who graduated between the years of 2008 and 2011. The results indicate that the three Upward Bound programs produced higher graduation rates and a greater college attendance rates than their target high schools. The data collected regarding low-income status of the high school seniors provided evidence showing that if the funding was available, a greater number of eligible students would be able to be served. In sum, this research finds that based on data collected from 149 senior students who are participants in the Upward Bound and on data from their high schools that the three Upward Bound programs of Wisconsin are indeed effective.https://digitalcommons.snc.edu/collaborative_presentations/1000/thumbnail.jp