In 2011 Breakthrough expanded to Manor. Manor had its first graduating class in 2018 and we continue to be inspired each year by the success of our students! Despite being virtual the resiliency of Manor students have shown through as welcomed an average of 70 students a day throughout our virtual program. With our 24 teaching fellow who took on the challenge of a virtual summer, our teachers and students have been able to collaborate and share their stories together. The Manor site is so excited to share and uplift the stories of each of out students and we are glad to share it with all of you!
Director
My name is Ric Almeda and I'm blessed to be one of this Summer's Co-Director here in Manor. I am a first generation college graduate. I have a bachelor's degree in History from the University of Texas at Austin. I have been an educator in the Manor/Austin area for 7 years. Please enjoy the wonderful projects that our students have contributed this summer.
Director of Middle School Programs
Leslie Tucker is a proud graduate of Huston-Tillotson College with a bachelor’s degree in Education. She has been a child advocate and teacher in the East Austin and Manor communities for over 15 years. Leslie is honored to be a catalyst in making “firsts and lasts” – Breakthrough’s work consists of making first generation college students that will be the last in their families to navigate the higher education system alone. Her commitment to the community exemplifies her belief that our children’s education is the most valuable investment we can make.
Director
Krystal holds a Bachelor’s degree in Bilingual Education from St. Edward’s University. She brings experience through a career in Youth Development, Advocacy and Leadership. Before coming to Breakthrough, Krystal spent more than 12 years working with Austin ISD and The Boys and Girls in Austin, with the common goal of providing an opportunity where one can improve their lives, while also improving their community.
AmeriCorps Senior Leader/ Assistant Director
Hey everyone! I am a first-generation American and first-generation high school and college graduate from Austin, TX. I graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a minor in Legal Studies. I quickly fell in love with Breakthrough’s mission and have been involved with Breakthrough since 2017. I am so glad to be a part of this virtual experience!
AmeriCorps Leader/ Assistant Director
Hey Breakthrough! My name is Asia Hayes and I am so glad to have the opportunity to be a part of our FIRST virtual Summer as an Assistant Director! I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies and Spanish from The University of Alabama. Roll Tide!
AmeriCorps Senior Leader/ Assistant Director
Hey hi! I'm a former Breakthrough student myself and this is my second year working with Breakthrough at Manor. It's been an amazing experience. When I'm not living my best life at the Manor Summer Program, I enjoy watching television, cooking and fun exercise. I'm currently an actress and grew up in Austin, TX!