A Message From the President:
Dear Friends,
This year, we’re celebrating a very special moment: the 15th anniversary of Breakthrough Public Schools. It’s a milestone that stands as a testament to what a caring community and a bold vision can achieve.
What started as three single schools coming together in 2010 has grown into a powerful network of five K-8 campuses, serving approximately 3,000 scholars each year. But our true impact is best seen in our commitment to our scholars’ full journey, from Kindergarten to Career. Every Step. Every Stage.
We have an alumni network of over 3,300 graduates who are making a difference across the country and right here in Cleveland—a tangible sign of the long-term success you can help build.
The story below from one of our alumni is a powerful example of this mission in action. When you support Breakthrough, you’re not just funding a school; you’re investing in a community where every child is empowered to reach their full potential.
We hope you will consider making your first gift to Breakthrough Public Schools today, and help us continue this journey of transformation.
They Journey to a bright future begins with a single step.
For the scholars at Breakthrough Public Schools (BPS), that journey starts in kindergarten and continues long after they graduate. We are committed to supporting our scholars at "Every Step and Every Stage" of their educational and personal growth, and we're asking for your help to make it happen!
Cleveland has the highest child poverty rate in the nation, and that's why our work is so critical.
At Breakthrough, we believe that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. We serve economically disadvantaged scholars in grades K-8 across our five campuses, helping to build a foundation for a life of impact and opportunity.
Alumni Spotlight
Breakthrough scholar Aniya Lavender knows what it means to give back.
A 3rd year scholar at Bowling Green State University, Aniya is double-majoring in business analytics and international business with a minor in marketing. She first joined Breakthrough as a kindergartener and says the values she learned in her early years "laid the foundation for the person I am today."
This past summer, Aniya returned to Breakthrough as an IT intern. She says the experience gave her a new appreciation for the organization and helped her grow in confidence and leadership. "Most importantly, I felt the joy of giving back to the community that helped shape who I am today."
read aniya’s full story and see how your support changes lives.
At Breakthrough, we're going beyond traditional education to prepare our scholars for the future.
Our new Innovative Learning Labs will provide scholars with hands-on experience using cutting-edge technology. They'll develop skills in areas such as robotics and 3D printing, ensuring they're well-prepared for the digital world.
And thanks to our partnership with Motogo, our scholars are learning to build a real motorcycle engine. This year, thanks to generous sponsorship by Lubrizol, the program is expanding to the Glenville Campus. Click here to see the scholars in action!
Learning extends beyond the classroom with sports and after-school programs that keep scholars active, engaged, and supported. From Rainey Institute classes to Open Doors Academy activities, scholars develop teamwork skills, explore new interests, and grow in a safe and fun environment. On the field or stage, we’re committed to enriching every scholar’s experience!
Over the course of the year, over 600 scholars participate in sports, including:
- Flag Football
- Volleyball
- Basketball
- Cheer
- Track & Field
Our Girls Flag Football teams will be sporting a fresh look. We are grateful to the J. J. Watt Foundation who sponsored the new uniforms for all five Breakthrough campuses.
Through our partnership with Open Doors Academy, over 300 scholars across all five Breakthrough campuses enjoy homework help, enrichment, mentorship, and fun after-school activities in a safe, supportive environment.
At Breakthrough Willard and Midtown, over 50 scholars explore performing arts, music, and creative arts, building confidence and skills for lasting growth through our partnership with Rainey
Institute.
Public charter schools in ohio, like ours, do not receive the same per-pupil funding as traditional district schools, with a gap averaging about $1,500 per scholar.
Your donation will directly support the vital programs that make our "Kindergarten to Career" mission possible.
$50
buys school supplies for one scholar
$75
buys school uniforms for one scholar
$250
buys a computer for a scholar
$750
buys intramural athletic jerseys for one team
$1,000
Provides a year of after-school dance, music, art, or drama classes
$1,500
Closes gap funding for
one scholar
$2,000
Covers the cost of a Smartboard for one classroom
$10,000
Subsidizes teacher
professional development
$20,000
supports science curriculum
for one grade
$58,000
Helps us retain
talent + teachers
(avg. salary/benefits)
