In August 2021, Education Research & Opportunity Center Pre-College Upward Bound (PCUB) Project Director Jonathan Curry was featured in a WBIR Channel 10 article where he highlighted the important work PCUB does. The PCUB program typically focuses on college readiness lessons, including tutoring, ACT preparation, career exploration, advising, and college campus tours. However, once a month, the program holds activity days to provide unique life experiences for the students. The news article highlighted one of PCUB’s monthly activity days that is implemented to build relationships and explore new activities around Knoxville, TN.
During this activity day, the students learned how to kayak in the Tennessee River. Many of them were first timers on the water but quickly learned and enjoyed the experience. The Tennessee River Line, an organization that celebrates the beauty of the Tennessee River Valley, facilitated the activity. The director of the Tennessee River Line emphasized the importance of introducing the students to the river and helping them understand the significance of waterways. Aside from the educational aspect, the activity day provided an opportunity for the students to relax and enjoy themselves, relieving the stress of the new school year. The students expressed their enjoyment and appreciation for the chance to get out of the classroom and spend time outdoors.