Program Spotlight: Break Through New Orleans

Breakthrough New Orleans (BTNOLA) is a tuition-free, year-round program consisting of a six-week Summer Academy and a monthly Saturday School program held on the Isidore Newman School campus. Students begin as rising 6th graders and make a seven-year commitment to BTNOLA.

During the summer, middle school students learn from their teaching fellows who are high school and college students. So the teachers are just a few years older than the students and the classes are small! Morning classes focus on math, science, writing, and literature. In the afternoon, those studies turn into fun enrichment classes such as cooking, dancing, soccer, you name it! Spirit is key at BTNOLA, so get ready to cheer,
sing, learn, and make life-long friends.

BTNOLA also hosts special Saturday Schools during the school year for students to remain in contact; as well as provide enrichment and informational workshops. From a School-Options fair, an art program that allows students to work with amazing local and national artists and STEM workshops to financial literacy programs; students, as well as parents,
receive valuable and resourceful experiences.

In high school, BTNOLA students receive academic and career advice; summer opportunities including volunteering, internships, and academic programs; social emotional learning and social justice education; and SAT/ACT test prep courses.

“Breakthrough is a life-changing summer program that I believe children everywhere should be exposed to. It is a rigorous academic experience that allows students to further their academic abilities, perform higher than their peers, and make the next school year just that much easier. Plus, you can meet other kids who share your same determination and drive to be something great! These people can even become lifelong friends. Their impact along with the fantastic, energetic, inspiring college students who teach over the summer shape students into scholars. Without Breakthrough, I do not believe I would be the person or student I am today. I can honestly say that it has changed my life for the better.”

Makayla Powell (16), current BTNOLA student

Want to become a Breakthrough student?

BTNOLA starts accepting applications in November. You can find details and the application form on their website at BTNOLA.ORG.

Want to learn more?

Follow them on Facebook (@BreakthroughNewOrleans), Twitter (@BTNOLA) and Instagram (@btnola).