America Reads and America Counts Programs
Since the programs began in 1998, over 600 Rensselaer students have worked in the Troy Public Schools and its Ark Charter School mentoring children in grades Pre-K through 3 in basic reading skills so that they will learn to love reading, and in grades Pre-K through 9 so that they will become proficient in math.

Capital Region Science and Technology Entry Program
Through the STEP program, 150 underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students in five area middle and high schools develop problem-solving skills and a broad knowledge base prior to entry into post-secondary schools. Funded by Rensselaer and the New York State Education Department, STEP aims to increase access to and retention in scientific, technical, engineering, and health professions by offering a range of after-school enrichment activities, summer programs, research opportunities on college campuses and industry, and career development experiences.

ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Camp
Rensselaer has been chosen as a 2008 site of the ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp (BHSSC). The BHSSC is a free, academic program of The Harris Foundation, which takes an active role in shaping education in students entering grade 6, 7, or 8. The program is named after Bernard A. Harris, MD, an accomplished NASA astronaut, physician and businessman; Dr. Harris, the first African American to walk in space, plays an active role in the Summer Science Camp program and other programs for underserved youths.

PREFACE Program
The Rensselaer PREFACE Program is a two-week residential summer experience for talented high school sophomores and juniors, who will enter 11th or 12th grade in the fall of the coming year and who have expressed a strong, early interest in pursuing a career in the engineering and technological professions. It is for high school students from groups that have been historically and traditionally underrepresented or underserved in science, engineering, and technological fields.

Rensselaer Saturday Scholars
The Rensselaer Saturday Scholars Program provides science, mathematics, and technology enrichment opportunities for Capital District students in grades 6-10. Among its goals are to develop learning and problem-solving skills by promoting hands-on activities for middle and high school students; to facilitate the use of scientific, mathematical, and technological knowledge; and to promote academic and personal excellence.

Summer@Rensselaer
In the summer, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute offers students the chance to take credit courses and academic short courses reflecting the ground-breaking research being conducted in our state-of-the-art facilities. Enrichment Programs and Sports Camps for elementary, middle and high school students allow today's youth — and tomorrow's leaders — to explore and begin to develop their passions and interests. Find out where you fit in!

Tutor-time Tutors
Begun by Rensselaer students in the fall of 2001, this reading and math tutoring program coordinated by the Office of the First-Year Experience is offered in association with America Reads and America Counts. Free tutoring services are offered for local students grades K-9 each Saturday in three locations including the Lansingburgh Library, the School 14 Cafeteria and Sunnyside Center.