The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education. From entry into the project throughout high school and enrollment in college, participants are supported holistically and positively through a variety of evidence-based approaches and activities.
At the heart of Upward Bound’s commitment to building a supportive community is the
“No Discount Policy”
The “No Dis” policy means that a person may not “discount” themselves or anyone else. When someone in the community discounts themselves or others, it is the responsibility of individuals in the UB community to say “no discount,” or, “no dis.” This policy provides a safe and positive environment in which students, as well as staff, feel free to take risks and challenge themselves without fear.
Upward Bound also maintains the philosophy of “challenge by choice”, which together with the No Discount policy, gives students:
- The chance to try a potentially difficult and/or frightening challenge in an atmosphere of support and care,
- The opportunity to “step back” when performance pressures or self-doubt become too strong, knowing that an opportunity for a future attempt will always be available,
- The chance to try difficult tasks, recognizing that the attempt is more significant than the performance results,
- Respect for individual ideas and choices.
From Cowstails and Cobras II A Guide to Games, Initiatives, Ropes Courses, and Adventure Curriculum by Karl Rohnke, 1989, Project Adventure Inc.
