Middle School
Breakthrough Cambridge’s acclaimed middle school program is a fun, rigorous, year-round academic program with three components, a summer program, a school-year program, and year-round advocacy. Breakthrough Cambridge recruits in every public sixth grade classroom in Cambridge. Breakthrough Cambridge accepts students who are willing to make a six-year commitment to the program, are serious about pursuing the goal of college, and have a demonstrated need.
Student Applications
If you are interested in applying to become a Breakthrough student, please complete our application
2012 Student Application (English) (339 KB)
2012 Student Application (Spanish) (360 KB)
Summer Program
The summer program is the highlight of a student’s Breakthrough Cambridge experience. Young, smart, energetic teachers introduce middle school students to new and exciting topics in literature, math, social studies, science, and writing. With a student-to-staff ratio of 3:1, Breakthrough Cambridge classes are small and allow students to receive individualized attention. Summer teachers create engaging, student-centered classes that culminate in a hands-on final project. All students receive up to two hours of homework each week night, and receive a great deal of support from their teachers to complete all assignments. Each day’s schedule includes time for mentoring, homework help, recess, and community building.
School Year Program
During 7th and 8th grade, Breakthrough Cambridge students attend the weekly School Year Program (SYP). The main goal of the SYP is to continue inspiring excitement for learning for students during the school year. At the SYP, students take academic elective courses similar to those offered during the Summer Program. In past semesters, electives have included architecture, hip-hop poetry, genetics, and journalism.
Advocacy
BTC staff members are in continual communication with middle school students and their families to ensure that students are doing well both inside and outside the classroom. Breakthrough Cambridge staff members communicate regularly with Cambridge Public School teachers, counselors, and administrators in order to track student progress and ensure students receive the necessary services. Students who need additional academic support are matched up with high school and college students who serve as tutors in core subjects of math, literature, science, and social studies, as well as study skills and independent school entrance exam prep. Finally, Breakthrough Cambridge also employs licensed social workers during the summer and school year who meet with teachers and staff to help support students’ socio-emotional health.
