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 sixth grade classroom in the Cambridge Public Schools, and distributes materials about the program for students to share with family members. 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.
The Summer Program
The summer program is the highlight of a student’s Breakthrough Cambridge experience. Young, energetic teachers introduce the middle school students to new and exciting topics in literature, math, social studies and science. With a student-to-staff ratio is 3:1, Breakthrough Cambridge classes are small to allow for students 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.
In addition to academic classes, students choose from a range of elective classes designed by teachers based on their skills and interests; past classes have focused on theater, debate, nutrition, and wilderness survival among other topics. Each day’s schedule also includes time for mentoring, homework help, recess, and community building.
Summer 2010 dates for students will be Tuesday, July 6 – Friday, August 13.
The School Year Program
During 7th and 8th grade, Breakthrough Cambridge students attend the Tuesday After-School Program (ASP) each week and can receive additional tutoring support at the Breakthrough Cambridge student center. The main goal of the ASP is to provide academic support to students during the school year. Teachers at the ASP help students with homework from school and provide additional math and literature enrichment instruction. Students also take elective courses in science and social studies, similar to Summer Program electives. In past semesters, electives have included architecture, hip-hop poetry, playwriting, and journalism.
Students who need additional academic support can go to one of seven satellite tutoring sites located throughout Cambridge. High school and college students serve as tutors in core subjects of math, literature, science, and social studies, as well as study skills and independent school entrance exam prep.
Advocacy
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. 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.
How To Apply – FAQ
How do students apply?
Students apply to Breakthrough Cambridge during the spring of their 6th grade year. Students from any Cambridge Public School, or from the Benjamin Banneker Charter School, are eligible. During January 2010, Breakthrough Cambridge staff will visit every sixth grade classroom in these schools to describe the program and pass out applications. Eligible students can also download an application (click here) or contact the office at 617-349-6647 to request one to be mailed.
All student applicants will be contacted for an in-person interview, which will take place in March 2010.
What is Breakthrough Cambridge looking for in applicants?
Lots of factors influence which students are accepted. Above all, we are looking for students who are motivated to attend Breakthrough Cambridge, have a demonstrated need, and are prepared to take full advantage of this opportunity. Students also need to be able to make a full commitment (see below) and be willing to complete two hours of homework every weeknight during the summer program.
How long is the commitment?
Students commit to attend Breakthrough Cambridge for two years. They attend the summer program for two summers, before 7th and 8th grades, and attend the weekly after-school program for two years, during 7th and 8th grade. Students who successfully complete their two-year commitment are eligible to apply for the Leadership Academy, an optional third summer of service learning and leadership.
What happens during the school year?
During the school year, Breakthrough Cambridge students meet once a week at the Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School for the After-School Program. At the “ASP,” students keep alive the community and spirit that was created during the previous summer. Students also take academic and elective classes, participate in Community Meeting, and receive support to assist with homework from school. In addition, Breakthrough Cambridge program staff follow-up closely with students’ academic performance at school and provide individualized tutoring and other support as necessary. Breakthrough Cambridge also hosts fun events during the school year, including field trips, holiday parties, and family workshops.
What happens when students complete the 2-year middle school commitment?
Once a student has completed the two-year commitment, he or she begins to receive the Breakthrough Cambridge high school services including tutoring, assistance finding internships, and college access help.
What if I have other questions?
Please contact the Breakthrough Cambridge office directly at (617) 349-6647 and ask for Sarah or Jennie, or email info@breakthroughcambridge.org.