Summer Residential

Summer Program Overview
The summer component is designed to promote both individual and group learning experiences; these elements are essential and inseparable in the project for improving self-esteem and motivation. Furthermore, the mandatory assignments in the students' schedules are balanced by opportunities for the students themselves to determine their academic programs. This freedom presents the occasion for learning academic responsibility, thereby providing a preparatory experience for postsecondary education.


During the summer, approximately 40-45 students are selected to attend Vassar College for five weeks of intensive academic work. An Associate Director and a staff of eight mentor/tutors are hired to live on campus with the students, and attend classes. All mentor/tutors have completed their bachelors degree or are in their junior or senior year of study. Four teachers are also hired to teach two interdisciplinary classes in Math/Science and English/Social Studies. Our faculty come from the college and high school ranks, with classes designed to give students a college type classroom experience.


Summer Activities
Students attend workshops on study and test-taking skills, attend nightly study groups, write reports and prepare end of term projects, including term papers and in-class group presentations. Because most of our students have never been away from home, we also program off campus activities to state parks and museums and provide entertainment activities on Friday and Saturday evenings.


Academic, recreational, and cultural activities that promote a student educational and personal growth are incorporated into our summer program, which is designed to advance students educational levels in math/science and English while providing them with a college experience.