Washington, DC—Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced that he secured $1,773,690 for students in Starr County through the Upward Bound program. The grants are awarded through the U.S. Department of Education and support high school students from low-income families and families in which neither parent holds a bachelor's degree in preparing for college. The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which students complete secondary education and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education.

“School has always been a top priority for our students in South Texas. However, many students often do not have the resources to succeed in achieving that next level of higher education,” said Congressman Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “That is why I have been working diligently to secure federal funding that supports our students and their dreams. The Upward Bound program is an essential resource for families in our district. It helps provide additional instruction and support to students who are pursuing college and other postsecondary schooling. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue fighting for our children—our students—who deserve to pursue their passions now and into the future. Thank you to all the teachers, parents, and mentors who help guide them each day.”

More specifically, Congressman Cuellar secured:

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (students in Texas-28)—$1,320,479

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Upward Bound Program—La Grulla is designed to service 60 eligible secondary school students. The program will enable students to gain the academic skills and motivation necessary for success in education beyond high school. Program participants will be recruited from the Starr County, Rio Grande City Consolidated Independent School District La Grulla High School. 

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Upward Bound Program – Rio Grande City is designed to service 60 eligible secondary school students. The project is designed to provide the skills and motivation necessary to complete a program of secondary education, and to enter and succeed in a program of postsecondary education. The project participants will be recruited from the Starr County, Rio Grande City Independent School District Rio Grande City High School. 

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