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​Meet Jeanine Masciola, the Upward Bound Advisor for Mount Shasta High School. Jeanine contributes to the organization of all things surrounding Upward Bound, including the Summer Program, College Tours, and the overall success of each student as an individual. It is safe to say that Jeanine has a personal relationship with each student in the program. She is continually looking out for their best interests and is determined to guide each student to their full potential. 

​Jeanine started working as the Mount Shasta Upward Bound Advisor in February 2018. She was unsure that she held the capabilities to succeed in this job yet was encouraged by several people who know her well. Jeanine is incredibly thankful for this encouragement because now she is so happy with her job. Her favorite part of her position with Upward Bound is aiding students to success. When questioned about this, Jeanine stated, "I love interacting with my students, helping them tackle issues that are important to them and answering questions they have about college or just life beyond high school. I've never enjoyed a job this much. What a joy it is to come to work every day, realizing you could actually impact another person's life for the better. It's an incredibly fulfilling career." This statement truly sums up Jeanine as a person. She is an incredibly caring and thoughtful individual with the hopes of helping people, especially her students, in every way possible. Jeanine has come to love every one of the sixty kids enrolled in Upward Bound. She goes above and beyond the description of her job, providing a safe place for students to express their concerns about their futures, and life in general.

 High School can be a daunting experience. It is the transition from childhood to adulthood, and many students feel lost and need guidance. Jeanine has truly guided students on a path to a bright future by assisting them in discovering their unique hopes and dreams. 
Outside of her role in Upward Bound Jeanine has twins, a boy and a girl who just turned twenty-one. Her daughter Colee is a senior at Simpson University, and her son Nate will be returning to college after a work break in the fall. Jeanine enjoys spending time with family, running, hiking, biking, singing, and photography. She volunteers in the annual melodrama production in Mccloud, a fundraiser for the museum, as well as volunteering as an assistant coach for the McCloud middle schools track and volleyball programs. This is yet another demonstration of Jeanines grateful and considerate nature. 
Jeanine is very enthusiastic about the future of Upward Bound. She is excited to announce that next year, there will be elective classes for students associated with the program. The course will focus on building leadership skills and will experiment with drone technology to help a local business solve a real-world problem. Her hopes for the future of Upward Bound include developing student leaders to provide input on the program and the creation of a mentorship program giving upperclassmen the opportunity to mentor underclassmen. 

​As a first-generation college graduate coming from a low-income family, Jeanine whole-heartedly believes that every student in Upward Bound has the opportunity for a brighter future. Growing up, Jeanine lived with her grandmother, who had only an eighth-grade education. Jeanine strived for success, taking every opportunity to gain knowledge. She powered through and dedicated herself to her academics. Jeanine attended Simpson University and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Education. 
With hard work and perseverance, Jeanine believes every student enrolled in Upward Bound can defy the confinements of college. Community involvement and dedication can often lead to scholarship opportunities. Jeanine is always happy to provide resources to students who aspire for college yet are destined to struggle with the funds. Jeanine's goal for the students of Upward Bound is that they leave the program a more confident and capable person than when they joined. She hopes that each is prepared to tackle the next phase of their life and can find a career and reach success in a way that brings them as much joy as Jeanine's job gives her. 

During week five of the Upward Bound Summer Program students from Mount Shasta, Dunsmuir, Redding, West Valley, and other neighboring counties went on a road trip together. From July 8th to July 12th students explored colleges throughout Oregon and Washington. All amenities were grant funded by Simpson University and UC Davis.  For a large majority of the students, it was their first time out of California, it was a brand new experience cultivated to inspire students to go to college. ​

​The next day, the 9th of July,  students toured the University of Washington. The 703-acre campus is located in the University District. A presentation educated students on the statistics of the college, including acceptance rate, requirements, and other important information. A guided tour around campus gave students a hands-on experience of what life as a college student is like. They learned about the social environment, the classroom environment, and the traditions of an average UW student. After the tour students ate dinner in downtown Seattle. For students from rural towns and small schools, this was a completely new environment for them. Chlorinated water, skyscrapers, homeless people on the corners, and a lot more diversity amongst people, introduced students to life in the city.  After dinner, Upward Bound students explored the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. A solid of the earth transformed into a beautiful exhibit of colors and creativity. The artwork was mesmerizing, every stroke of color was done with the uttermost care, it was as though the artwork came alive, making music and dancing. Next students ascended 605 ft in the air in the space needle. They peered down at the city they had just explored, the buildings that towered over them now far below them. On top of the world, students got an amazing view of the cityscape. For $0 students explored the most exotic tourist attractions in Seattle. Students settled down for the night at the Holiday Inn in Downtown Seattle.

On the third day, July 10th, students toured Seattle University Campus. Seattle U is a private Jesuit Catholic school with a much smaller population of students. It is located in east downtown Seattle. The campus has been recognized by the city of Seattle and EPA  for its commitment to sustainability through pesticide-free grounds, a food waste compost facility, recycling, and energy conservation program. The university’s most popular majors include Business, Management, and related Support services. After the tour students took a ferry across the bay to Tillicum Village where they discovered the culture of the Native Americans. A traditional lunch was served consisting of salmon, polenta and mushrooms, fresh salad, fruit, and a wide selection of desserts. A performance was put on depicting Native American culture through dance, song, and stories. After arriving back in Seattle students explored the rest of downtown in small groups with an advisor, they discovered Pike Place Market famous for its fishmongers, produce stalls, and local art, the sort of gross yet somehow awesome gum wall, and the first Starbucks ever created. 

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 It was with a sad realization that the trip was over when the bus began its descent home. Over the course of four nights and five days each and every student discovered a college where they could fulfill their passions, friendships between students from different schools were formed, and unforgettable memories were made. Without the generosity of the program Upward Bound, many of the students enrolled would be unable to visit and apply to colleges, let alone pay for them. Upward Bound redefines the definition of college by aiding students to reaching their dreams. 

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​This year twelve students enrolled in Upward Bound graduated Mount Shasta High School, Class of 2019.  Throughout their high school careers, these students were guided by Upward Bound. They were advised on their future and given college recommendations to suit their unique needs and interests. Grant funded trips gave these students opportunities to tour potential colleges.  

​The 2019 graduates of Upward Bound were all very successful throughout their high school experiences. Three of the graduates received the A-G award. Two were granted the CAASPP Silver Award for their outstanding test results. Three of the students were members of the Interact Club, and one was a member of the Key Club. Both of these clubs are community service based and strive to better Mount Shasta through trash clean-ups, volunteer work, and more. One graduate received the Golden State Seal Merit Award, for their mastery of high school curriculum. One graduate received the Presidents Award, and another won the State Seal of Bi-Literacy. 

​​Eleven of the twelve students received scholarships totaling at $49,000. Nine of the graduates are attending COS this fall. One has been accepted to the NY Times Gap Year Program, and the other two graduates are enrolled in South Dakota University and UC Santa Cruz. 
​Graduate D'Angelo Stewart stated, "Upward Bound caused many great moments for me, including making so many new friends and learning so many new things."  As said by graduate Kaden Biagi, "Upward Bound has opened up many different ideas for career pathways I would never have thought of and helped me visit and decide which college I wish to attend." Both of these graduates feel as though their enrollment in Upward Bound greatly improved their high school experiences.

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​  Mount Shasta High School and Upward Bound are very proud of their graduates and have high hopes for every one of their futures. It is sad to see them go. Upward Bound is a great outlet to build new friendships; throughout the program, students become a close community of aspiring individuals. This year Upward Bound will enroll twelve more students in the program and continue to guide each student to success. 

​Weeks two through four and six of the 2019 Summer Program take place in the classroom. Students spend Monday through Thursday 9:30-12:00 learning new techniques and concepts in core subjects, such as English, math, science, and foreign language. Local teachers specialized in core subjects proctor lessons, give lectures, and remain available to aid students throughout the week.  This year students are learning algebra and calculus in math, diseases in science, writing essays and paraphrasing in English, and American Sign Language. 

​From 12-12:30, Lunch is provided to students from local vendors and restaurants. After lunch from 12:30-2:00 students have optional time to work on their online classes. During this time they can get help from the teachers and resources available. 

​There are several reasons why students participate in an online college class during the summer. The main three reasons include becoming familiar with technology, earning college credit, and getting a headstart. By the time this generation of students reaches college, many of their classes will be online. For this reason, it is essential to familiarize students with the rapidly growing database of technology. By participating in online college courses, students have the opportunity to earn college credit and get a headstart on their credits to graduate. 

​The in-class learning techniques that take place during the Upward Bound Summer Program help students retain useful knowledge throughout the summer better preparing them for school come fall semester. Summer Programs allow students to expand their knowledge in core subjects while also participating in fun events and having a great summer. 

​During week one of the Upward Bound Summer Program students participated in online academic classes while living in the Simpson University Dorms in Redding California. There were many different classes to choose from. For example, there were courses on health, math, English, history, art, creative writing, and more. Students could choose their class based on their interests or their academic needs. Students were also introduced to writing college application essays to improve their ability for future reference. 

​Additionally, to the educational requirements of this trip, there were many fun, grant-funded activities offered to students.  Students participated in competitions and games that focused on building teamwork and leadership skills. Some of the activities were workshops put on by BrainStem, including building soda rockets and an egg drop competition. BrainStem also taught students the process of filtering water to make it drinkable. These workshops tested the student's knowledge in subjects like math and science, as well as forcing them to come together as a team.

​ Students escaped the heat at WaterWorks Park. They splashed down the Raging River, spiraled down the Cyclone, and the brave ones took on the scariest ride-the Avalanche.  During this expedition, students were given a lesson on the hydraulics of water, they learned about how waterslides work. 
Students also explored the ways of the river, taking on a whitewater river rafting experience. This opportunity also built teamwork skills as well as providing the students with a hands-on experience of the geological aspects of the river. 
On another occasion, students went to the Schreder Planetarium where they learned about black holes. The experience was very enlightening. 

​Every day students had time to work on their online courses. Students were offered help from teachers on campus and were provided with the best advice possible to fulfill their potential. Each week of the summer program brings new opportunities for students to expand their education as well as participate in fun activities and build new friendships. It is a program designed to educate students and provide them once in a lifetime opportunities they may not have had the means to experience. 

​During late March, Upward Bound students from Mount Shasta High School and Dunsmuir High School took on LA. The trip was entirely grant funded. The Upward Bound crew took a charter bus to Sacramento and caught a flight to Long Beach where they stayed in a four-star hotel. For many of the students, this was their first time flying, their first time to a big city. Without spending a dime, they got to experience incredible opportunities offering outlook into their futures. 

​The trip spanned four days. Each day was packed full, combining education with fun activities. On the first-day students toured UCLA and USC. Although the two colleges were very close in distance, they were very different. UCLA has a modern campus and city vibe. USC is a private school yet offers a great sense of community.  Students then visited the California science center and watched an IMAX movie on volcanoes.  After a long day, students watched the sunset at the Griffith Observatory and attended a planetarium movie. The film put into perspective just how insignificant the earth and the human race are in the entire universe. 
On the second day, students watched a presentation at the Long Beach Police Academy. The presentation described what it takes to be a police officer, the pros and cons, and the lengths it takes to get there.  The head of forensic science also explained her role in crime work. She stressed the critical role a forensic scientist plays in solving crimes; without forensic scientists, many crimes would go unsolved. Students also had the pleasure of meeting a K-9. Next, students visited the Long Beach dispatch center where they learned about the vital role of a dispatcher. Students then explored Huntington Beach, shopping, soaking up the sun, and playing in the ocean. The day was wrapped up with a volleyball game at the Walter Pyramid.  
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​The third day was the most anticipated and exciting. Students woke up at dawn and arrived at Disneyland right as it opened. Students broke off with their friends and went on rides, ate festival food, and explored the happiest place on earth. Students were guided on a tour around Disneyland by the Disney Youth Education Series. During the interactive class, students were taught how to understand their personal leadership skills and how to apply them to a team setting. They discussed the importance of diversity, brainstormed for creative ideas and solutions and learned the importance of communication, trust, and problem-solving. After the class ended, students were set free in the park. Students went on exhilarating rides, roamed the park, and watched fireworks over the castle. 

​The next day the Upward Bound crew traveled home. Over four days students formed unbreakable bonds, made unforgettable memories, built life skills, and possibly discovered their future colleges and careers. The LA trip is only one example of Upward Bounds ability to provide opportunities for students from low-income families. Upward Bound is consistently providing entirely grant-funded field trips for students in the program as well as guiding them to a bright future and helping them reach their full potential. 
As a student from a low-income family with big dreams for college, Upward Bound is constantly providing me with hope for my future. Upward Bound has given me resources, such as grammarly and net-tutor that have helped me improve my grades and overall participation as a high school student. I have always known that I want to go to college in a big city, where the streets are bustling and excitement is everywhere. Touring UCLA and USC on the LA trip made me realize that I would love to go to school in SoCal and live out my dreams of becoming a writer. 

​Mount Shasta offers an annual, entirely grant-funded Summer Program for students enrolled in Upward Bound. Each year provides unique opportunities; the main focus of the Summer Program is to combine education with fun activities and events. Students participate in an online course through COS and core classes in math, English, science, and foreign language. Activities vary on a week to week basis, and the program lasts a total of six week

​Week one students live in the dorms at Simpson University in Redding, California. They work on their online classes as well as participate in college-type courses. They experience life on campus. Cultural activities might include things like rock climbing at Simpson University, astronomy at the Mt. Lassen observatory, or studying hydro-physics/hydrology while whitewater rafting on the Trinity River.
Weeks two, three, four, and six focus on classroom time to provide academic support in core and online classes. During week five students take a five-day college road trip visiting 5-8 Universities. Previous trips have included the San Francisco Bay Area.

​Although the Summer Program is not mandatory, it is highly recommended, as studies have shown students increase their chances of attending college when participating in summer programs. Each year of the Summer Program provides new opportunities, but the primary purpose remains the same,  to combine a fantastic summer experience while helping students keep up with their education and prepare for life after high school.

Mount Shasta Upward Bound is a government program funded through grant funding and managed by Simpson University. It provides many opportunities for students to prepare for their future. Upward Bounds sole purpose is to introduce students to colleges while also providing tools to help them manage their role as a high school student. Upward Bound offers academic advising, tutoring, help to apply to colleges or trade schools and completing financial aid packets. It earns students credits toward college and can provide resources for scholarships.

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Mount Shasta Upward Bound has some unique benefits to its program. For instance, every month students get a set amount of stipend money that varies depending on their grades, for their participation. Upward Bound offers an interactive Summer Program that combines education with fun events. The Summer Program takes place from June through July. Every week provides a new opportunity; students take an online college course and receive academic assistance in English, math, science, and foreign language. Additionally, students will have the chance to participate in a wide range of activities like rock climbing and white water river rafting. Although the Mount Shasta Upward Bound program accepts a maximum of sixty students, it is always accepting applications to be put on a waitlist. Upward Bound sets students on the path to a bright future; it encourages students to excel and pursue their dreams.  ​