Empowering students for success: PBSC’s Upward Bound Glades Region program soars

In almost three years since its inception, Palm Beach’s State College’s Upward Bound Glades Region program has already made a meaningful impact.

The program has helped 83 students, including 60 currently being served for the 2025 fiscal year, to pursue their dreams beyond high school.

Despite this growth, demand continues to outpace capacity: over 20 students are currently on a waitlist, highlighting the Glades region's strong interest in and need for college readiness support.

The program, a federally funded TRIO college preparatory program which started Sept. 1, 2022, supports and guides high school students from Glades Central and Pahokee High Schools, providing them with the academic, social and career resources needed to achieve their post-secondary aspirations.

It’s also a pathway to opportunity for students who might otherwise face barriers to higher education. By offering tutoring, mentoring, career counseling, and exposure to college life, students are building the skills and confidence needed to succeed after high school. The program’s emphasis on student-centered activities, combined with a supportive staff and a strong community partnership, ensures that every participant has the tools to reach their full potential. 

One such student is Marlen Prieto, who was a participant in the program during its inaugural year. Because of the support she received, Prieto graduated from PBSC this past Spring with an Associate in Arts degree.

“I couldn’t have done this without all the help that was offered to me and continues to be offered through this program,” said Prieto, who plans to continue her studies at PBSC and pursue a bachelor’s degree.

PBSC Upward Bound Glades Region Program Director Deidra Moreland says the program doesn’t just create opportunities for current students but for their future families.

“Upward Bound Glades Region has been a great addition and enhancement to the brilliant scholars already in this community,” said Moreland. “It has been an honor to connect with every family as it impacts generations to come.”

Comprehensive Support for Student Success:

Upward Bound Glades Region offers a robust array of activities tailored to prepare students for college and career success.

These include:
Online SAT/ACT Test Preparation: Equipping students with strategies and practice to excel on standardized tests. Time Management Skills for End-of-Year Exam Preparation: Teaching effective study habits and organizational strategies. College & Career Interest and Research: Helping students explore post-secondary options and align their academic paths with career goals. Study Habits & Test Taking Tips: Providing guidance on how to approach exams and coursework with confidence.

Summer 2025:
This summer, the program welcomed 10 new participants, further expanding its reach.

The program is focusing on a series of themes designed to engage students:

• Oh, the Place You Will Go!: Students create vision boards for college, career, and personal goals, encouraging them to visualize and plan for their futures.
• Who Are You?: Activities include resume building, essay writing, and scholarship research, helping students craft strong applications and understand their personal strengths.
• Talk About It!: Public speaking workshops and mock interviews prepare students for real-world communication and professional scenarios.
• Money Talk!: Financial literacy sessions focus on college and workforce budgeting, empowering students to make informed financial decisions.
• Get Prepared!: Intensive SAT and ACT strategies and preparation sessions ensure students are ready for these critical exams.
• Exposure and Experiences: College tours and community outreach initiatives provide students with firsthand exposure to higher education and civic engagement.

Looking Ahead

With continued federal support and growing community engagement, the program is poised to make an even greater impact in the years ahead. The program’s success is reflected in the enthusiasm of its participants and the growing waitlist, both of which underscore the critical role Upward Bound plays in shaping the future of students in the Glades region. For more information on PBSC’s Upward Bound Glades Region program, visit www.pbsc.edu/trio/upward-bound.php#UpwardBoundB 

To see photos from the event, view TRIO Upward Bound Glades Region summer enrichment component Flickr album.