WHO WE ARE, HOW TO APPLY, FAQs

BECOME A BTSV STUDENT

 
 

Breakthrough Silicon Valley offers a seven-year journey of academic growth and personal development with the goal of helping your student succeed in college. We provide the resources and mentorship that build a strong foundation for their future. Each student will elevate their skills, enrich their learning, and engage in a community that’s committed to their dreams.

THE TOP THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT JOINING BREAKTHROUGH

Why consider btsv?

Thinking about a brighter future for your family? Aiming for a solid education? Or simply wanting your student to be the best version of themself? Whatever your goals, Breakthrough Silicon Valley can help you get there.

What is Btsv?

We're a seven-year journey that prepares students to thrive in high school and succeed in college. Get ready for life-changing summers and fun after-school sessions that help students grow academically and personally among a community of peers.

Our Teaching Approach

We do things a little differently here. Ever heard of “students-teaching-students?” It's about connecting your student with high school and college students who become their teachers, mentors, and role-models.

why choose us?

Personalized Support: Our program tailors academic planning and college counseling to fit your student’s needs.

Community Building: We organize events and activities that make your student feel a part of a team that's motivated to succeed.

Peer Mentorship: Extra layers of support come from Teaching Fellows and peer mentors, providing both academic and social support.

Family Engagement: We equip you, the family, with the tools and knowledge you need to become an effective advocate for your student’s education.

 
 

For FAMILIES: Fulfilling our commitment to you.

 

We have a proven track record of success of propelling students towards brighter futures. By joining BTSV you’re giving your student a stepping stone to real-world success.

Here are a few things you can expect:

  • Academic Excellence: 95% of our graduates enroll in four-year colleges.

  • Life Skills: From effective communication to exploring careers, students develop the tools they need to thrive.

  • Community & Belonging: Each student is welcomed into a community of like-minded peers.

  • Holistic Development: Our program reaches beyond academics to focus on emotional and social well-being.

Middle school is the foundation for a successful college experience and a fulfilling career. With a seven-year commitment, we're not just a part of your child's life; we're a cornerstone in their journey toward self-realization and lifelong leadership.


Your Future Starts HerE
Are You Ready to Make a Difference?


To Be Eligible for the Program

  • Currently a 6th grader* in an eligible school within San Jose Unified School District (SJUSD) or Franklin-McKinley School District (FMSD)

  • Ready to commit for seven transformative years

  • Motivated to do well in school

  • Identify as a first-generation college student

  • Demonstrate a compelling need for a no-cost, high-value program

  • Bring a genuine enthusiasm for learning

*BTSV often considers applications from current 7th and 8th grade students. Contact Eduardo Loeza for more information: eloeza@breakthroughsv.org

List of Eligible Schools

To be part of our Breakthrough Silicon Valley family, we ask for your long-term commitment. Here are the schools whose students are eligible to apply for our transformative program:

Franklin-McKinley School District:

  • Meadows

  • Ramblewood

  • Santee

  • Shirakawa

  • Stonegate

  • Windmill Springs

  • Dahl

  • Franklin

  • Hellyer

  • Kennedy

  • Lairon

  • McKinley

San Jose Unified School District:

  • Bret Harte

  • Castillero

  • Hoover

  • John Muir

  • Ohlone

  • River Glen

  • Willow Glen

If your school isn't listed above, unfortunately, you are not eligible for this program at this time. On a case-by-case basis, we may accept applicants from outside of these schools. Please contact Eduardo Loeza if you would like to discuss your child’s application: eloeza@breakthroughsv.org


Process AND Timeline

Your Path to Breakthrough Starts Here

After you apply, families may be contacted for interviews between January and April. Final decisions roll out no later than the end of April, leading to a warm New Family Welcome Orientation during the first week of May. Summer programs begin in late June, beginning a seven-year partnership with BTSV that will shape your family’s future.

Important Dates

All dates subject to change

  • Application Opens: October 2023

  • Information Sessions and Office Hours: October 2023 - February 2024

  • Application Deadline: February 23, 2024

  • Interview Dates: On a rolling basis between January-April, 2024

  • Decision Notifications: By End of April 2024

  • New Family Welcome Orienation: May 4, 2024

  • First Day of Summer: June 20, 2024

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the most common questions we hear from future scholars and their families. If your inquiry isn't answered here, let's continue the dialogue—please contact us at admissions@breakthroughsv.org.

ABOUT THE APPLICATION PROCESS

 

ABOUT BREAKTHROUGH SILICON VALLEY

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