The Parris Foundation is proud to offer TRIO Programs that make a significant difference in the lives of first generation students by helping them qualify for, attend, and graduate from centers for higher learning.
These programs offer the guidance students need to succeed, which includes everything from improving GPAs, making a seamless transition to college, choosing the right career path, or even going back to high school to finish a GED.
We’re proud to help disenfranchised neighborhoods through our TRIO Programs, which are 100% federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education. This means all services are FREE to participants. With the support of program advisors and mentors, our goal is to cultivate success for students and adults alike.
From their first day in a TRIO program until graduation, our mentors guide students to achieve meaningful academic goals
These federally-funded programs help address barriers to education – issues that are at the heart of The Parris Foundation’s purpose to provide outreach and educational services to disenfranchised communities.
For decades, TRIO programs have demonstrated a significant positive impact on increasing college enrollment and graduation rates for first-generation students, financially disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities.
Thanks to The Parris Foundation’s participation in various TRIO Programs, we have already had the privilege of witnessing students achieving their dreams of graduating from college, courageously becoming the first in their family to do so.
What TRIO Programs are
- Are first-generation to earn a college degree and eager to attend college
- Would like support with every step of the college application process, from college essays all the way to picking first classes
- Would like the opportunity to explore how their talents and passions align with future career paths
- Need help understanding FAFSA, financial aid, scholarships, and all the potential ways to pay for college
If you’re a student who matches the above qualifications, then The Parris Foundation is ready to help you receive the education that unlocks opportunities for you and your family.
TRIO Programs are for students who…
Upward Bound offers:
- Academic enrichment that includes tutoring and mentoring, study skills development, and college preparatory courses
- College readiness support, including college exploration, financial aid assistance, and career guidance
- Supportive communities from both peers and parents
- Summer enrichment programs that educate and inspire
Locations:
- Alief ISD (Hastings & Taylor High School)
- Fort Bend ISD (Hightower & Marshall High School)
- Fort Bend ISD (Dulles & Willowridge High School)
TRIO Educational Talent Search offers:
- Academic advising to help students identify how to achieve success
- Personal counseling to help students overcome self-doubt and learn how they can accomplish their goals and aspirations, both educational and in life
- Inspiration from college campus tours, educational field trips, or summer programs to help students to imagine what their life could be in a world filled with opportunity
Locations:
- Alief ISD
- Spring Branch ISD
TRIO Upward Bound Program
TRIO Educational Talent Search
Whether you’re a student or an advisor, reach out to let us know you’d like to leverage our resources to make the college process easier — and more fun!
To qualify for one of the TRIO programs, there are certain qualifications students have to meet, such as grade level and location. Based on your criteria and your academic goals, we’ll help you decide which program is the best fit for you.
We work with students from the time they begin the program to the time they first transition to college. In addition to meeting with them on a weekly, monthly, or quarterly basis at their school, we also offer engaging activities for learning in between.
Find your path to college with three easy steps
Our mentors and academic advisors are here to support you with:
College Readiness
Equipping students with the academic skills, study habits, and time-management strategies needed to excel in college
Financial Literacy
Teaching students essential money management skills, including budgeting, saving, and understanding financial aid and student loans
AP & CLEP Test Prep
Providing study resources and guidance to help students pass AP and CLEP exams, earning college credits while still in high school
SAT & ACT Test Prep
Offering test-taking strategies, practice exams, and personalized coaching to boost scores on these critical college entrance exams
Tutoring & College Mentoring
Connecting students with academic support and mentors who guide them through the college preparation and application process
Scholarship Application Assistance
Helping students identify, apply for, and secure scholarships to reduce the financial burden of college tuition
College Admission Assistance
Supporting students with college selection, application completion, essay writing, and interview preparation to maximize acceptance chance
Career Exploration
Exposing students to various career paths, helping them understand job market trends, and aligning their interests with future opportunities
Academic Advising & Coaching
Providing personalized guidance on course selection, goal setting, and college readiness to ensure students stay on track for success
Get support on a variety of topics
- Interactive Workshops for Students and Parents
- 6-Week Summer Enrichment Program
- Educational Field Trips
- Community Service Events
- In-Person College Visits
- Guest Speakers
Expanding worldviews outside the classroom
Click through to the application that best represents your location and academic goals. We’ll then reach out personally to discuss what the path to college looks like for you!
