Skip To Main Content

Proficient in Reading: Elementary - 25%, Middle School - 21%, High School - 28% | Distinguished in Reading: Elementary - 11%, Middle School - 8%, High School - 9% | Proficient in Math: Elementary - 26%, Middle School - 21%, High School - 20% | Distinguished in Math: Elementary - 6%, Middle School - 3%, High School - 8% | More information can be found on the Kentucky School Report Card for Nelson County School

 

Back to News

ECTC Upward Bound offers free trip to Fla theme parks

ECTC program offers STEM academy, free summer trip to Universal Studios

High-schoolers at Thomas Nelson and Nelson County could earn a free weeklong trip to Universal Orlando and The Kennedy Space Center through a STEM-oriented summer academy hosted in Elizabethtown.  

The Upward Bound Math and Science program at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College is accepting applications from students who attend LaRue County, Nelson County, Thomas Nelson, North Hardin and Washington County high schools, freshmen through graduated seniors.

The program seeks to serve 60 students this year who are first generation (neither parent nor legal guardian has a bachelor's degree or higher) or limited income (free/reduced lunch is an indicator).

The Summer Academy is six weeks of academic, social, recreational and cultural activities designed to motivate and prepare students. The Summer Academy will conclude with a week-long trip to Universal Orlando and The Kennedy Space Center, free for participants.

The UBMS program helps students generate the skills, motivation, and self-confidence necessary to succeed in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Students will experience mentorship designed to encourage student success to accomplish their education and career goals, UBMS Director Mindy Dye said.

“The process of transitioning from high school to college can be overwhelming but with the skills UBMS students are learning, we are confident they can accomplish anything.” UBMS Director Mindy Dye

Quick facts:

Who is eligible? 

  • Incoming freshmen for the 2023-24 school year through graduated seniors
  • Students on free or reduced lunch
  • First-generation college students (Mother and father do not have a bachelor’s degree)

Where is it?

  • The academy is on the campus of Elizabethtown Community and Technical College
  • Transportation is provided from the high schools to the campus

How long is it?

How do I apply?

  • Find full details on the application process here
  • Let your School Counselor know that you are interested in applying, or call Upward Bound Math & Science at ECTC 270-706-8578 or email at ectc.ubms@kctcs.edu.

Find full details on the ECTC UBMS site.

Share to FacebookShare to TwitterShare to LinkedInShare to PinterestShare to EmailPrint this page

Recent News

Wired for Purpose: How Jackson Taylor Found His Future in the Field
Wired for Purpose: How Jackson Taylor Found His Future in the Field

Thomas Nelson senior Jackson Taylor didn’t always know what his future would look like. But after discovering a love for hands-on work through the ATC and a job in the field, everything changed. Now, he’s graduating high school already employed full-time in a career he loves — and with a sense of purpose that’s grounded in hard work, trust, and resilience.

Anchored in the Sky: How the Right Place Helped Anna Simpson Take Flight
Anchored in the Sky: How the Right Place Helped Anna Simpson Take Flight

Nelson County senior Anna Simpson never imagined a local airport would shape her future — but it did. Through the Bluegrass Aerospace Experience, Anna not only flew and built a plane, she found a place that grounded her goals and gave her purpose. Along the way, she also earned an associate degree and proved that where you learn can change where you're going.

 

Fueled by People: How Relationships Powered Landon Alvey’s Journey
Fueled by People: How Relationships Powered Landon Alvey’s Journey

For Thomas Nelson senior Landon Alvey, success hasn’t just come from books or blueprints — it’s come from the people who believed in him. From tennis teammates to city engineers, Landon found purpose through connection. His story is a reminder that the right relationships can change everything.