The United States Department of Education has awarded a $1,437,685 grant to Alabama State University’s Upward Bound Math and Science program.

The Upward Bound Math and Science program, which is more than 30 years old, is a free initiative that helps low-income families work toward a college education in these areas of study.

The funds will be distributed over a five-year period and will support students in Lowndes County and Montgomery schools.

“We will service 60 students among those counties,” said Acquanetta Pinkard, ASU’s TRIO programs director. “Our goal is that by going to college, it can lead to a better life for these students and their families. It’s an honor to support them and see their college dreams realized.”

The grant will fund the following services for each participant, according to the university:

• School tutoring
• College and career exploration
• One-on-one academic counseling
• Bi-monthly supplemental instruction
• Six weeks of STEM-focused curriculum on the ASU campus during the summer
• Job shadowing opportunities with local partners, such as Hyundai

“I’m elated that Alabama State has another entity that can go into the public school system and offer these services to students,” Pinkard said. “This program is one of the only one of its kind in this area.”