Who We Are

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Equipping Students and Educators to Change What’s Possible

At Breakthrough Collaborative, we’re reimagining what educational opportunity looks like—for students from underrepresented communities and for the next generation of educators who will guide them.

Founded in 1978 at University High School in San Francisco, Breakthrough has grown into a national network of 25 affiliates, united by a shared commitment to increase educational opportunity. For more than 45 years, we’ve worked to remove barriers to college access and build pathways into the teaching profession.

Today, that mission lives on through a movement of students and aspiring educators who are prepared to learn, lead, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.

Our Mission

Breakthrough Collaborative works with traditionally underserved students to achieve post-secondary success and equips aspiring leaders to become the next generation of educators and advocates.

We prepare students for college—and develop the educators who teach them.

Our Vision

We envision a nation where increased access to excellent educational opportunities propels students on their path to college and aspiring teachers on their path to the classroom.

A future where opportunity is expanded—and potential is realized.

What We Do

Sparking Student Success & Careers in Education

Through rigorous academic programming, personalized mentorship, and college-readiness support, we help middle and high school students build the skills and confidence to succeed in post-secondary education and beyond.

At the same time, we offer college students meaningful, hands-on experiences through our Teaching Fellowship—one of the largest and most impactful early teacher pathway programs in the country.

Central to our success is our “near-peer” model, which centers strong relationships between students and Teaching Fellows—fostering a culture of high expectations and support that drives student growth and prepares future educators to create transformative change in the classrooms of tomorrow.

Our Reach

Infographic of the US showing key stats in educational empowerment: 25 affiliates, 10,100 students, 270+ college partners, 1,100 teaching fellows, 200 coaches, 40,000 alumni, $45M+ network revenue—with location pins across the map.

Join Us

Every breakthrough begins with belief.

Whether you’re a student, an aspiring educator, a partner, or a supporter—there’s a place for you in the Breakthrough community.

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