OUR MISSION IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE ...

1) Completing a four-year college degree brings substantial benefits both to the individual and the entire community.

2) Currently in Minnesota and Saint Paul, most students of color and low-income are less likely to graduate high school or go to college.

3) With coming demographic changes, this achievement gap carries significant future consequences for our society if not addressed.

4) Academic preparation is the most important factor for students getting to and succeeding in college. Students who pass honors courses like AP are much more likely to go on to college.

5) Students of color and low-income are under-represented in honors courses in SPPS, starting in junior high.

6) Attracting young, talented individuals to teaching is vital to maintaining a strong education system in the future.

7) Males and people of color are under-represented in the K-12 teaching profession relative to the student population. Breakthrough actively recruits teachers from these backgrounds.