Ivy Tech Awarded $1 Million Upward Bound Grant To Prepare MCS Students for College

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By: Jennifer Gasiorek—

Muncie, IN—Ivy Tech Community College has been awarded a $1 million Upward Grant from the United States Department of Education. The five-year grant will help prepare 60 ninth through twelfth graders from Muncie Central High School for college.

The goal of the grant is equip high school students from low-income families, potential-first generation college students and students who have a high risk of academic failure with the skills necessary to achieve academic success.

“We are focused on preparing young people to enter the workforce and obtain their career aspirations,” said Ivy Tech Chancellor Alex Huskey. “Funding from the Upward Bound Grant will help Muncie area students be more prepared for academic success and expand their professional opportunities.”

Upward Bound students will participate in academic tutoring, individualized college goal planning, cultural experiences, leadership development, and be eligible for a participant stipend. Program services will include both an academic year component and a summer component.  Applications will be available later this semester through Central High School.

Dr. Steven Baule, Muncie Central Superintendent said, “Muncie Central is committed to preparing our students to be productive contributing members of our community.  We are excited that Ivy Tech and Upward Bound have chosen us to partner with Muncie Central Schools to support the success of our students.”

About Ivy Tech Community College

Ivy Tech Community College is the state’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system.  Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering affordable degree programs and training that are aligned with the needs of its community along with courses and programs that transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.

About Muncie Central Schools

The Muncie Community Schools (MCS) serve approximately 6000 students from Muncie and the surrounding area. MCS provides a range of diverse opportunities for children as well as adult basic education. For more information about MCS events, programs or services, please contact Ana Pichardo, Director of Communications at 765-747-5210 orapichardo@muncieschools.org. Follow MCS on Twitter  @MuncieSchools and like us on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/MCS1Official.