| This longitudinal case study examined the effectiveness of the CO-OP Upward Bound Program activities from 2003 through 2008 applying cultural and social capital theories. The program was evaluated in order to give a local perspective to program implementation and operations in a community-based setting.;The participant researcher used mixed research methods to collect and analyze data, including: (a) collection of 5 years of archival performance data and other program documentation, (b) interviews of key informants, and (c) field notes of observation of program operations by the researcher. A total of 40 interviews were completed and included purposeful representatives of six stakeholder groups.;Findings reveal that the CO-OP Upward Bound Program was effective by successfully increasing the number of low income and first generation college students who enroll in and persist in postsecondary education programs. All or 100% of program participants who were expected to complete high school each year received their high school diplomas on time. All or 100% of the program's high school graduates enrolled in a program of postsecondary education in the fall semester immediately following graduation from high school. Of program graduates, 94% or more from each cohort year have persisted in a postsecondary education program.;CO-OP Upward Bound operated like an upper middle class parent by providing the type of information, activities, and guidance vital to the success of each participant, particularly in the areas of school advocacy, social and cultural awareness, and the provision of motivation and consequences to negative behavior. The participants' success in high school and college was supported by this program's particular combination of personal reward activities, social relationships, and bonds based upon a focus on a mutual goal without competition. Part of the success of the CO-OP Upward Bound program is its attention to alumni tracking and retention.;The Upward Bound program has an extensive history that has demonstrated an overall positive impact on the college going rates of underrepresented youth. The time has come to accept the established history of the program and to shift the focus from criticizing the program to maximizing the effects of the program. |
