Breakthrough Providence At Wheeler

Wheeler and Breakthrough Providence

For nearly three decades, this innovative and inspirational program for Providence public middle school students has used the Wheeler campus as its home base for year-round programs to support bright students on their path to college while also providing an immersive experience for the next generation of young people interested in the teaching profession.
 

What is Breakthrough Providence?

Breakthrough Providence is a free summer program for Providence 7th and 8th-grade students that prevents summer learning loss and promotes academic and social-emotional growth. Since 1992, we have supported students and families from diverse backgrounds throughout the city of Providence.
 

Program Details for Summer 2025

Who: Providence 7th and 8th-grade students

When: June 30, 25 – Aug. 8, 25 Mon – Fri, 8AM – 3PM

Where: The Wheeler School, Providence, RI

Transportation: Free bus pickup in Providence

Meals: Free Lunch and Snacks Daily

Complete the Program and Earn $50!

Apply for Breakthrough Providence Summer 2025

• Digital Student Application
• Printable Student Application (English)
• Printable Student Application (Spanish)

The Beginning of Breakthrough Providence

Breakthrough Providence (BTP) at Wheeler was founded in 1991 by two Brown University students, Michael Goldstein and Jenn David, hoping to make a difference in the world. Having both taught at Summerbridge San Francisco while college students, Michael and Jenn felt that the City of Providence needed a program to support its youth.  With the support of Wheeler’s faculty and administration, BTP hosted its first summer in 1992, with just one class of rising middle school students from area Providence public schools.

Breakthrough Providence is part of a national collaborative and one of 24 affiliate sites.  Visit the Breakthrough website here to learn more about how to get involved in teaching, support, or apply as a student!