Frequently Asked Questions for Students
- What is Breakthrough Silicon Valley?
- Who will teach me?
- How much does Breakthrough Silicon Valley cost?
- Is Breakthrough Silicon Valley for everyone?
- What commitments will I have to make to Breakthrough Silicon Valley?
- Is there homework?
- Is it OK to miss a few days of the program for vacation?
- Is there a dress code?
- Is lunch provided?
- How do I apply to Breakthrough Silicon Valley?
- When do I find out if I am accepted?
- What are the responsibilities of Breakthrough parents and guardians?
What is Breakthrough Silicon Valley?
Breakthrough Silicon Valley is a 6-year long academic and college readiness program for talented and motivated junior high and high school students. From 7th to 12th grade, students participate in a variety of summer and after school activities geared towards challenging students academically and preparing them for rigorous college–prep high schools and four-year colleges.
Read more about Our Program here.
Amazing high school and college students from all over the country who are eager to share their passion for learning with you.
Our “Students Teaching Students” model is an exciting way for you to learn. We have learned that middle school students, by working with teachers who are closer to their own age, become enormously engaged in their own education and take personal responsibility for seeking challenges in school.
How much does Breakthrough Silicon Valley cost?
Nothing. Breakthrough Silicon Valley is FREE for students. Due to the generous financial support of Applied Materials, San Jose Unified School District and numerous individuals, businesses, and foundations in Silicon Valley, Breakthrough costs nothing to participate. A student’s serious commitment to Breakthrough is their payment.
Is Breakthrough Silicon Valley for me?
Breakthrough students do not always have to get perfect grades in school, but they do have to have a strong desire to learn, to try new things, to take responsibility for their education and to have fun. Breakthrough students want to achieve academically and to be leaders. They want to succeed in high school and go to college. If this sounds like you, then Breakthrough might be for you.
What commitments will I have to make to Breakthrough Silicon Valley?
If you are accepted to Breakthrough Silicon Valley as a student, you are expected to actively participate in the summer and school year programs and activities while in middle school (beginning the summer after 6th grade), and in after school activities throughout each of your high school years. For more information on Our Program, please click here.
Of course! Breakthrough Silicon Valley is an academic program for students eager to discover and grow. Homework is an important part of learning. Two hours of homework each weeknight during the summer is expected of all BSV students. There is also homework for the school year program.
Is it OK to miss a few days of the program for vacation?
No. Daily attendance at Breakthrough Silicon Valley during the summer is mandatory, except in cases of serious illness. The summer program is very short and students who miss days will fall behind quickly. If your family is planning an extended vacation during the Breakthrough dates, you should not apply to the program. During the school year program, we may make exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
Is there a uniform or dress code?
There is no uniform but the program does enforce an appropriate dress code. If accepted, you will receive a student handbook outlining all our expectations.
Yes. We will provide breakfast, lunch, and a snack to all students during the summer program although you may bring lunch if you desire.
How do I apply to Breakthrough Silicon Valley?
There are four parts to the application: 1) Student Statement; 2) Parent Statement; 3) Teacher Recommendations; and 4) Student Information Release Form. Click here for more information and our application.
When do I find out if I am accepted?
Decision letters will be mailed out late March. Although we would like to accept every student into the program, we have a limited number of spaces.
What are the responsibilities of Breakthrough parents and guardians?
Families play an important role in the success of a Breakthrough student. That is why we say we don’t just accept a student into BSV, we accept a family. We depend on parents doing everything they can (within their means) to support their child’s education. Click here for more information on roles and responsibilities for parents/guardians.
Contact our Program Director Tina Briceno if you have additional questions.
