The ConnCAP/Upward Bound Program is a year round program serving 100 Danbury High School students in grades 9th - 12th. The program begins recruiting students at the end of 8th grade to develop and strengthen their academic skills over the next four years. However, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are also recruited into the program. Over the course of the four years, each student participates in a ten-day Great Hollow Wilderness School experience in New Fairfield, Connecticut. Students develop self-confidence and goal setting skills, as well as learn the importance of team work and social-personal responsibilities. These skills are developed through technical rock climbing, canoeing, caving, backpacking, and meeting the challenge of a high rope course.

1967

State of Connecticut Department of Higher Education, and the University of Connecticut

The Western Connecticut State University ConnCAP/Upward Bound Program is an opportunity for high school students to develop their academic potential and achieve their goal of admission into a post-secondary educational program. The program serves Danbury High School students in families where neither parent has completed a 4-year college degree and/or low income families whose taxable income is within our eligibility guidelines.* The ConnCAP/Upward Bound Program is a year round program serving 100 Danbury High School students in grades 9th - 12th. The program begins recruiting students at the end of 8th grade to develop and strengthen their academic skills over the next four years. However, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are also recruited into the program. Over the course of the four years, each student participates in a ten-day Great Hollow Wilderness School experience in New Fairfield, Connecticut. Students develop self-confidence and goal setting skills, as well as learn the importance of team work and social-personal responsibilities. These skills are developed through technical rock climbing, canoeing, caving, backpacking, and meeting the challenge of a high rope course.

A mandatory six-week, nonresidential summer program is conducted at Western Connecticut State University. This summer program is designed to prepare students academically and socially for the upcoming school year. Students are given an introduction to the major courses they will be taking in the fall. Career and college counseling courses are offered, as well as supplementary classes which address issues effecting today's teens. Students participate in educational and cultural trips, college tours and attend an annual college preparatory conference entitled S.T.A.R.S. (Students Together for Academic Results and Success). During the academic year, each student receives an academic advisor who monitors their academic and behavioral progress. Student progress is shared with parents at the end of each marking period, during Parent Conferences. The ConnCAP/Upward Bound Program works collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, and guidance counselors to assure that students will work towards their academic potential. Tutoring and various workshops such as Study Skills, S. A. T. Preparation, and Financial Aid Awareness are offered. The ConnCAP/Upward Bound Club involves students in their school and community through community service, thereby enabling the facilitation of a sense of community and unity developed over the summer.