What We Do

Breakthrough’s Summer Program

Our six-week summer program provides a fun and comprehensive way to prepare your scholar for the upcoming school year and beyond. Our scholars today will be the decision-makers in their communities tomorrow.

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All You Could Ever Want in a Summer Program

Middle school students excited to explore the world participate in six weeks of fun, hands-on learning in Breakthrough Birmingham’s summer program, at no cost to families. Scholars sharpen their academic and social skills by participating in rigorous academics, engaging activities and weekly field trips that expand their horizons. By the time the school year rolls around, they’re not just ahead of the curve — they’ve made lifelong advocates in the Breakthrough family. Not only do our scholars have fun, our program is proven to increase attendees’ likelihood of college enrollment.

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Is Our Summer Program Right For You?

Breakthrough Birmingham proudly serves middle school students from all Birmingham and Talladega City Schools.

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Our Scholars:
  • Are rising 7th, 8th or 9th-graders;
  • Are currently enrolled at a middle or K-8 school or were enrolled at one of these schools the previous school year;
  • Qualify for free or reduced lunch;
  • Embody our core values of persistence, curiosity and a strong work ethic;
  • Inspire us every day with their determination and enthusiasm for learning.

Hear from Scholars

  • Breakthrough is where you make lifelong relationships that better yourself. It’s important to me because it has my attitude and the way I approach negative things in my life.

    Braelyn, 2020 Scholar

  • What I like about advisory, enrichment, and support time is [that I get] great help with things I didn’t even know I needed help with and I get to know my peers and teachers better.

    Kolbey, 2020 Scholar

  • Mr. Brian and Ms. Marissa, my advisory teachers, have been outstandingly gracious and kind towards me and others. Ms. Black and Ms. Jamaya are bring energy to my spirit as well as Ms. Karima. I enjoy having company with all of them, and they allow me to be my true self. I feel accepted for who I am, and I feel like others feel the same way.

    Shannon, 2024 Scholar

  • The best part of Breakthrough was making new friends and making connections with the teachers. This made me feel like I can have a positive relationship with the teachers at school.

    Aniya, 2024 Scholar

  • The bonds formed between my new friends, old friends, and teaching fellows. I genuinely feel connected to the people here, and feel like I belong in some way.

    Mason, 2024 Scholar

  • I wish that everyone knew that Breakthrough is an overall good program that provides us with knowledge and just critical thinking skills that help us out with college and in the real world. I also think that everyone should know that Breakthrough helps us with our school work when we are struggling and can’t find anybody to help us, they will make time out of their day and work together with us.

    Makenzy, 2024 Scholar

Our Scholar Selection Process

Throughout the Spring, our recruitment team works to identify motivated students who want to succeed. Our application and interview includes families in the process and ensures commitment to the multi-year journey of being a Breakthrough Scholar. Once selected, we welcome students into the Breakthrough family.

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