The TRiO program as administered by the Northwest Tri-County Intermediate Unit 5 has two separate divisions: Talent Search and Upward Bound Math and Science.
TRiO is a federal outreach and student service program designed to help low income and first generation students see the benefits and possibilities of a post-secondary education. The program through mentoring, career exploration, college visits, and guidance and direction in the application and financial aid process, helps students enroll and be successful in obtaining a post-secondary education.
The Talent Search program administers the following high schools: Charter School of Excellence (and Leadership), Erie High School, and Union City High School. The program is unique because of its early intervention building block; students in Union City Middle School, East Middle School, Wilson Middle School, and the Discovery Center (Charter School of Excellence) can participate in college and career awareness activities beginning as early as 6th grade.
Those who continue to the high school level receive more intensive college prep activities like study skills, test taking techniques, time management, tutoring and college access support (SAT/ACT prep, college application and scholarship completion, fee waivers). Students in grades 10 & 11 are able to participate in field trip experiences to various colleges and/or cultural events throughout the school year; a one week campus experience is offered each summer at Penn State Behrend.
Talent Search: works with approximately 538 students throughout the schools in Erie County
Upward Bound Math and Science: works with approximately 52 students (due to its higher academic requirements and commitment) focusing mainly on STEM careers
For more information on the TRiO program, please email info@iu5.org or call/text (814) 373-9489.
