Classic Academy
The Kent State University Upward Bound Classic Program has been in existence since 1971 to promote college readiness and success.
Our Classic Program partners with Barberton, Warren G. Harding, Buchtel Community Learning Center (Akron) High Schools, East Community Learning Center.
Qualifications
We accept 118 total students from the target high schools of Barberton, Buchtel Community Learning Center, Warren G. Harding and East Community Learning Center.
Students must meet the following criteria:
- Plan to enroll in college to complete a degree upon high school graduation.
- Currently in or rising into the 9th or 10th grade
- Satisfy federal eligibility criteria
- Carry a 2.5 or higher cumulative GPA.
- Meet other program guidelines as outlined in the application process.
Services
There are two components to this program – Academic Year and Summer Institute.
- Academic Year
- Weekly Scholars' Institute meetings
- Saturday Engagement days
- Academic support, tutoring, mentoring and advising
- Financial Literacy
- Post-secondary preparation and campus visits
- Parent/guardian workshops
- Career and personal development
- Cultural immersion trips and activities
- Summer Institute
- A six-week residential program on Kent State University campus.
- Students attend targeted classes in the fields of math, business, language, science and electives.
- Students participate in intensive hands-on learning experiences and field trips.
- Students engage in social and cultural activities designed to provide a holistic learning experience.
Benefits
Program benefits include:
- Exposure to college majors, careers and expectations
- Opportunities to learn about college environments
- Intensive academic support
- Enrichment and skill development
- Field trips, college visits and research experiences
- Participation on the Parent Advisory Council
Application Criteria
To be admitted into one of the three Upward Bound Programs, students and families must meet the following criteria:
- Be a first generation college bound student (parents/guardians have not completed a four year degree) and/or
- Be considered low income based on the Federal TRIO Income Levels
- Attend one of the target high schools
- Have a desire to go to college
- Have a commitment to education
- Complete the application listed below
- Complete a Parent & Student Interview with the Upward Bound Administrative Staff
Upward Bound Applications
Please complete an online application today or contact the Upward Bound Office at 330-672-2920 to request a paper application.
- Upward Bound Classic Academy (serving Barberton, Buchtel [Akron], and Warren G. Harding school districts)
- Upward Bound Health Professions (serving Lorain, Ravenna, and Windham school districts)
- Upward Bound Math Science (serving Barberton and Canton McKinley school districts)