Breakthrough Louisville

Our Story: Breakthrough Louisville

More Than a Summer Program: Growing Scholars and Future Teachers

Breakthrough Louisville is a free, six week summer academic program serving under-resourced rising 6th through 8th grade students while preparing the next generation of educators. Our dual mission is to help students build academic skills, confidence, and ownership of their learning while giving college students meaningful, hands on teaching experience.

Students receive 80 minutes of Math and 80 minutes of Language Arts instruction each day, five days a week for six weeks. Intentionally small classes allow Teaching Fellows to provide direct instruction and timely feedback while building strong relationships with students. Teaching Fellows also receive coaching and professional development that prepare them for careers in education.

Our impact is measurable. This year, 58% of students demonstrated growth in Math, with an average 13.9% increase from pre to post assessment. In Language Arts, 63% demonstrated growth, with an average 9.8% increase. Parents reported that their children returned to school feeling better prepared and more motivated to succeed.

Academic growth is supported by daily meals, reliable transportation, and meaningful experiential learning. Transportation was used by 80% of our students and, together with daily meals, helped create a safe and consistent environment that contributed to an 87% attendance rate. Experiences such as our Lemonade Stand and Poetry Slam build confidence, creativity, leadership, and a sense of belonging, giving students opportunities to see themselves as capable learners and leaders.

Since 1992, Breakthrough Louisville, formerly Summerbridge, has invested in both students and future educators. Donor support expands instructional time, provides experiential learning and essential student supports, and strengthens our Teaching Fellows through intensive coaching and, when needed, housing support.

By investing in students and future educators, your support helps us extend our impact beyond a single summer. Together, we open doors for students, strengthen educational opportunities, cultivate the educators of tomorrow, and contribute to a stronger educational ecosystem in Jefferson County.