Their parents have not completed a degree from a four-year college or university.
Are motivated to learn and work hard.
They love to learn and are intrinsically motivated.
They have a positive and respectful attitude.
Have proven academic potential.
They primarily earn A's and B's.
They may be enrolled in regular level or honors level courses.
Are willing and able to make a commitment to Breakthrough.
They have the time to commit to Breakthrough.
They have consistent attendance in school.
In addition, most Breakthrough students:
Live in the attendance area of Fulmore, Martin, Kealing, or Pearce;
Qualify for free or reduced lunch; and
Have parents who are invested in their education.
How to apply as a sixth grader
Breakthrough admits 45 6th grade students each spring and makes a six-year commitment to helping them get to college.
STEP 1: Students attend an information session at our target schools (Fulmore, Martin, Kealing, and Pearce Middle Schools and Allison and Zavala Elementary Schools) between February 6 and February 15. Parents/guardians are encouraged to attend these sessions to learn more about Breakthrough. Students and parents may attend any session at any campus. You can contact Brian Radley at 535-6587 for info session dates at Target Campuses.
STEP 2: Parents complete a short questionnaire and sign a release of information form for AISD. Parents may turn releases in at the Information Session or, if they are unable to attend, return it to their school counselor or to the Breakthrough office.
STEP 3: Breakthrough invites qualified students to attend an interview session in March.
STEP 4: Breakthrough will mail acceptance letters by April 6!
OTHER QUESTIONS aBOUT APPLYING TO BREAKTHROUGH
What if I’m a 7th grader or 5th grader? Because we are a six-year academic program, we recruit our students when they are in 6th grade and support them through high school graduation. However, in rare cases, we do have spots available for 7th graders. For 5th graders, keep us in mind for the following year! The Admissions process usually begins in February.
What if I do not attend a target school? Because Breakthrough provides intensive, school-year support, we work primarily with Fulmore, Martin, Kealing and Pearce Middle Schools. If you do not attend one of Breakthrough’s target schools, and are interested in applying, you should contact Breakthrough staff.
How long is the summer program? The summer program is a total of six full weeks. Remember, Breakthrough is not only a summer program; thus we expect you to be involved and committed to the program during the year as well. Remember: Breakthrough is a SIX-YEAR program!
What happens if I move from a school once I am accepted? As long as you live in the AISD attendance area, you will continue to be a BT student. Unless, of course, you or your parents choose to withdraw from the program.
Is there homework during the summer program? Yes! Our students get two hours of homework every day. This is because the program is helping you prepare for college.
How much does Breakthrough cost? Breakthrough is a free program that is made possible through the generous support of many foundations, businesses and community members. Students do not pay anything, but they do make a big commitment – to work hard and attend all program activities.
Is there transportation? Transportation to the University of Texas is provided through a partnership with Capital Metro. Breakthrough works closely with students and families to make sure that transportation will not be an obstacle for anyone.
Who are our teachers? Breakthrough teachers are exceptional high school and college students – only a little older than you! They know what it takes to succeed, and they want to share their love of learning. Breakthrough teachers are guided by professional teachers, and with an average of six students in each class, they are able to give lots of personal attention to their students.
What does it mean to be a “first-generation college student"? We define first generation college graduate as a student whose parents who have not completed a degree from a four-year college or university anywhere in the United States. If your parents have attended some college but have not graduated, you are considered a first- generation college student.
Who do I contact if I have more questions regarding student admissions? You can contact Brian Radley, Director of Middle School Programs at 512-692-9444.
