Science & Technology Entry Program (STEP)

The Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) is a grant from the New York State Education Department that encourages students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields and other licensed professions. Once enrolled, students can participate as early as seventh grade and continue until they graduate from high school. Students in partner schools are also encouraged to apply. Through the Saturday Scholars’ Academy, Summer Scholars’ Academy, and the Transition to High School Mentoring Program, students engage in hands-on experiences that boost motivation and develop academic skills, guiding them toward careers or licensure in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and health-related fields. Active participants could also attend the annual New York State STEP Statewide Student Conference, held in Albany, New York. Over 250 students take part in STEP at Hofstra, and when surveyed, more than half expressed interest in a STEM field or a licensed profession. In recent years, 100 percent of the participating seniors have graduated, and most have enrolled in colleges and universities across New York and other states. Parents and guardians are encouraged to attend workshops and events and to join the Parent Involvement in Education (PIE) committee to help support student success.

Purpose
To enhance the participation of students in mathematics, science, technology, health-related fields, and licensed professions.

Mission
To motivate and encourage students from surrounding communities to pursue STEM and licensed professions using enrichment services and hands-on learning experiences.

Vision
To promote academic excellence in science, technology, and pre-licensure professions through quality support and mentorship.

Eligibility and Application

To be eligible for STEP, students must be:

• New York State residents
• Enrolled in grades 7-12
• Economically disadvantaged and/or
• In need of, or would greatly benefit from, academic enrichment or support in the STEM areas (to be determined locally)

Economically Disadvantaged:

• For the purpose of STEP, a student is economically disadvantaged if he or she meets the income eligibility criteria (2021-26 STEP Income Eligibility Criteria). The eligibility standards set forth apply only at the time of admission as a irst-time student to a STEP program. Once admitted, a student may continue to receive supportive services as needed, even if the family income rises above the current eligibility standards.
• Additional documentation of household income need not be collected to determine eligibility under economic disadvantage if the student falls into one of the following categories, and documentation is available to demonstrate:
• the student's family is the recipient of family assistance program aid or safety net assistance through the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance or a county department of social services; or is the recipient of family day-care payments through the New York State Office of Children and Family Services or a county department of social services;
• the student is living with foster parents, and no monies are provided from the natural parents; or
• the student is a ward of the State or a county.
• the student is eligible for free or reduced lunch at his or her secondary school based upon family income (verified by the school).

The selection of students will also consider factors such as motivation, academic grades, interest in mathematics and science, career interest in one of the New York state-licensed professions, and potential for success in the program.