Breakthrough Overview
Breakthrough San Francisco is a college access and teacher training program based at SF Day School. In 2025-26, we’re serving over 250 students from across San Francisco; 84% will be the first in their families to attend a four-year college, while 89% are eligible for free or reduced-priced lunch. They make an eight-year commitment – from the summer after fourth grade until their high school graduation. Through our program, we work to ensure they are academically successful, on the path to college and celebrated for all pieces of their identity. We’re proud that 97% of students who’ve graduated from our program in the past eight years have gone on to college, including 89% at four-year schools.
In addition, through our summer teacher residency, we train outstanding college students for education careers. Each summer, our Teaching Fellows bring energy, commitment, and a willingness to learn; they’re trained and supported by a corps of Instructional Coaches, experienced professional classroom teachers who review their lesson plans, observe their teaching, and provide ongoing feedback. Because of this successful partnership, our Teaching Fellows leave the summer inspired and prepared; 36% of Teaching Fellows who’ve graduated from college in the past decade are currently working in the education sector, most as classroom teachers in urban public schools.
General Job Description
Instructional Coaches (ICs) are experienced and successful professional educators who provide content-specific support and mentoring for Breakthrough’s Teaching Fellows (TFs) and engage fully in the Breakthrough San Francisco community. Each IC manages four TFs, leading weekly department meetings, observing classes, reviewing lesson plans, and meeting frequently with individual TFs regarding their ongoing work. ICs also observe TFs in Advisory and help ensure that time is used productively. Overall, ICs support the growth and development of TFs, ensuring they are equipped to provide high-quality instruction to Breakthrough students.
