by Karina Beltrán
As an Educational Specialist with Pre-College Upward Bound (PCUB), Renda Crowe has had the unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the academic journeys of high school students. Her role is centered on unlocking the potential of high school students as they navigate the often challenging path towards college readiness. In this post, I’m excited to share some news and reflections on a recent initiative that has become a cornerstone of PCUB’s program’s success: the ACT Bootcamp. This year, PCUB took a proactive step in preparing our juniors for the ACT. Recognizing the importance of early preparation, PCUB encouraged students to take the ACT in December, a shift from the usual spring timeline. To support this, our Educational Specialist Renda Crowe organized an ACT Bootcamp after school on Tuesdays throughout October and November, specifically tailored for Blount County PCUB students at William Blount High School.
Bootcamp Breakdown: Structure and Success
The ACT Bootcamp is more than just a series of tutoring sessions. It’s a comprehensive, strategic program designed to equip students not only with the knowledge they need to succeed in the ACT but also with the confidence and skills that will serve them well beyond the test. The Bootcamp’s structure was both comprehensive and engaging. The program was divided into sessions, each focusing on a different section of the ACT – English, Math, Reading, and Science. Before diving into practice tests, students explored various tips and tricks for tackling each section. This approach not only equipped students with practical strategies but also helped build their confidence. Renda Crowe shared that one of the most rewarding aspects was seeing the direct impact of their efforts. The idea for the Bootcamp stemmed from a student’s request for help with ACT practice. Recognizing the wider need, Renda extended the invitation to all juniors in our program. The enthusiastic response confirmed the demand for such targeted support.
A Community Effort
In each session, students graded the practice tests and delved into the reasons behind missed questions. This process of review and correction is crucial for growth and understanding. Renda shared that she often recommended that students dedicate 15 to 20 minutes each night to studying through ACT.org or using the ACT study books provided by our PCUB program. Renda recognizes the invaluable role of community collaboration in the success of the program. Special thanks are due to Julie Brown at William Blount Library and Kim Duckett for their significant contributions. Their assistance in managing logistics was instrumental, ensuring the provision of a supportive and effective learning environment every Tuesday from 3:30 to 5pm.
Leveraging Past Experience for Current Impact
Renda credits her previous experience in private ACT tutoring and as a high school English teacher as key factors in the successful implementation of this boot camp. This rich background provided her with the comfort and confidence necessary for effective program delivery, enabling her to utilize her skills to their fullest potential.
Looking Ahead: Responding to Students’ Needs
The PCUB program is dedicated to adapting and responding to the changing needs of our students. With an increasing demand for tutoring services, we are actively seeking new ways to expand our support in the upcoming months. As we conclude this year’s Bootcamp and anticipate the upcoming ACT on Saturday, Renda is actively guiding our students to meticulously review the topics they have studied, emphasizing that their preparation is a reflection of the comprehensive and collaborative journey they have undertaken together.
It is our hope that by sharing the story of the ACT Bootcamp, we can provide valuable insights and inspiration to others in their educational pursuits. Here’s to empowering a greater number of students to achieve their utmost potential!
Thank you for reading! If you have any questions or thoughts, you can always get in touch with us through our Instagram at utk_ero or through email at mailto:utkero@utk.edu.
Renda Crowe is an exceptional Educational Specialist within Pre-College Upward Bound (PCUB). Renda is dedicated to serving Heritage and William Blount County.