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    Educational Talent Search (ETS) is a nonprofit, federally funded program designed to encourage students to complete high school and assist them in entering and completing a post secondary educational program. Educational Talent Search serves as a FREE planning and resource center for students who are interested in continuing their education and qualify for services.

    ETS services include, but are not limited to academic advising, test preparation, college and career planning, college visits, assistance in completing college admissions forms, career exploration field trips, financial literacy, financial aid assistance, and scholarship information.

    Educational Talent Search is funded through the US Department of Education TRiO programs. TRiO programs are designed to help low-income and first-generation potential college students prepare for and succeed in higher education.
     
     
     
     
     
    The program is designed to stimulate and motivate low-income, potential first-generation college students to complete high school and pursue and succeed in a program of post-secondary education. The Upward Bound Program is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Education. It serves students in the Blue Earth Area, Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial, Madelia, Mankato East, Mankato West, Maple River and Riverbend Academy high schools.
     
    Upward Bound services include:
     
    1.  Six week academic residential summer session with emphasis on basic and higher level skill improvement in math, composition, science and study skills as well as academic enrichment classes which may include photography, art, physical conditioning, robotics, rocketry, racquetball, volleyball, dance, chess, and speech.
     

    2.  Cultural, social, recreational and academic activities designed to foster personal growth and broaden student awareness and appreciation of the world.

     

    3.  Follow-up programs throughout the academic year offering tutoring, advising and guidance weekly to each student at the student's home school and one Saturday per month at Minnesota State University.
     
    4.  High school seniors are assisted with college selection and admission, entrance examinations and financial aid application.

    Upward Eligibility Requirements