Breakthrough SJC Celebrates Milestone 21st Summer

This summer marked a significant milestone for Breakthrough San Juan Capistrano, as the tuition-free academic enrichment program celebrated its 21st summer. 

There were 105 students in grade 7 - 9 who participated in the Summer Academic Institute during an intensive five-week session, which blended academic rigor with a deep sense of community connection. Breakthrough SJC also served 20 rising college freshmen and 30 rising high school seniors in the Breakthrough Bridge program.

Hosted by St. Margaret's Episcopal School, Breakthrough SJC is dedicated to closing the opportunity gap for motivated students from underserved communities. The program provides year-round academic support and college access services, but its summer program remains the heart of its mission, offering students the chance to build academic skills, cultivate confidence, and forge relationships that last well beyond the classroom.

This year’s summer cohort was supported by 23 teaching fellows alongside six instructional coaches. Together, they created a dynamic learning environment in which students tackled core subjects like math, literature, and science, while also engaging in electives and team-building activities that emphasize personal growth and leadership development.

According to Executive Director Jessica Deller-Hubbard, this summer was a beautiful time to witness the expansiveness of the Breakthrough impact and St. Margaret’s influence. Among the 23 Teaching Fellows, 46% were Teaching Fellows returning to serve another year. Five of the 23 Teaching Fellows were St. Margaret’s Alumni. St. Margaret’s community also supported Breakthrough this summer by providing three homestay homes for four Teaching Fellows to reside in during the summer while they served. “It’s beautiful to see how our community is able to come together, and stay together, to support Breakthrough SJC,” said Mrs. Deller-Hubbard. 

One of the highlights of the summer was Visitors’ Day, when community members were invited to witness the program in action. Attendees listened to compelling speeches from Breakthrough students and participated in a panel discussion with students and staff. The day offered a window into the transformative impact of Breakthrough and highlighted the essential role of community support in sustaining its mission.

Beyond its summer programming, Breakthrough SJC remains active throughout the academic year. The organization offers weekly tutoring for middle and high school students, college counseling for students and their families, and support for Breakthrough alumni currently enrolled in college.