Breakthrough Greater Boston (BTGB) delivers research-based programs that intervene early (before 7th grade), extends learning time by an additional average 1,800 hours per student, and leverages a near-peer Students Teaching Students model. Through six years of intensive, out of school time programming from 7th-12th grade for traditionally underserved students, BTGB changes students’ academic trajectories and supports them along the path to college.
BTGB?s six-week, full-day Middle School Summer Program is the centerpiece of a student?s Breakthrough experience. In the Summer Program, rising 7th, 8th, and 9th grade students achieve academic gains designed to combat summer learning loss and prepare students for the critical transition to high school. Students attend core academic classes including English Language Arts, math, science, and social studies, and benefit from individualized mentoring, homework help, community building, social emotional learning (SEL), and engagement with their college-going peers. 9th grade students additionally participate in Leadership Academy, including an intensive leadership and High School Readiness course that teaches non-cognitive skills and concepts through the study of influential leaders. BTGB boasts an average class size of 6-8 students.
Simultaneously, BTGB builds careers in education through an unparalleled teacher training program for college students, who serve as full-time teachers in our Summer Program. BTGB intentionally recruits college students from diverse backgrounds that align with our 7th-9th graders?, and our innovative Students Teaching Students model creates near-peer relationships that inspire both groups of participants to succeed.
Beyond academics, BTGB is dedicated to developing the whole child. We assess student social emotional skills and weave opportunities for SEL into all aspects of programming by fostering a safe and supportive community; deep family engagement; use of Restorative Justice Circles; and tailored supports through group interventions and licensed mental health counselors.