Excel Bound Program
The Western Connecticut State University EXCEL Program is an opportunity for middle school students to develop their academic potential and achieve their goal of admission into a post-secondary educational program upon completion of high school. The program serves Broadview and Rogers Park Middle 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 EXCEL Program, funded by the Danbury Board of Education, is a year round program serving up to 25 middle school students in grades 7th - 8th. This program begins recruiting students at the end of 6th grade to develop and strengthen their academic skills. EXCEL is a feeder program for ConnCAP/Upward Bound and upon entrance into high school, students automatically become a part of this program. ConnCAP/Upward Bound will continue to edify and focus their academic and social-personal needs throughout high school in preparation for entrance into a post-secondary educational program.
Over the course of the two years, each student participates in a three-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 four-week, nonresidential summer program is conducted on the campus of Western Connecticut State University. This summer program, in conjunction with ConnCAP/Upward Bound, is designed to prepare students academically and socially for the upcoming school year. Students are given English, to strengthen their Language Arts and Writing Skills; Math, to strengthen their Mathematical skills.
During the academic year, each student receives an academic advisor who monitors his or her academic and behavioral progress. Student progress is shared with parents at the end of each marking period, during Parent Conferences. The EXCEL Program works collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, and guidance counselors to assure that students will work towards their academic potential. The EXCEL Program 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.
In short, the Western Connecticut State University EXCEL Program stands for respect for others, respect for yourself, and the pursuit of lifelong learning!
*Please call our office to be advised of our income guidelines. The telephone numbers are located on the cover page.
