What is Freedom Schools?
Freedom Schools is a summer learning program that serves Kindergarten through 8th grade scholars.
For six weeks during the summer, Freedom Schools provides the scholars a safe, nurturing environment where they feel values, celebrated, and are given opportunities to improve their reading abilities. In the program, scholars develop positive relationships with learning and reading, while also providing an empowering environment to build each scholar's self-esteem.
Freedom Schools is a national program model within the Children's Defense Fund. The model is built on utilizing a daily Integrated Reading Curriculum with the scholars, civic engagement opportunities, parent engagement, and various educational field trips throughout the program.
Servant Leader Interns (current college students) are the teachers in the Freedom Schools program and are an active role model for the scholars, engaging them in the daily reading curriculum, and helping the scholars advocate for themselves and their communities.
“I learned how to work better with others. It has helped me because I am reading more. I love Freedom Schools”
- Freedom Schools Scholar, age 9
Program Activities
- Every morning begins with "Harambee!," a 30-minute activity to celebrate and affirm the value of each participant
- Children spend the morning hours in grade level reading groups. They read high-quality books and are engaged in learning activities that are appropriate to their developmental needs and interests
- Children receive two nutritious meals and a healthy snack each day
- Children are encouraged and supported to dream, set goals for themselves and cultivate positive attitudes and high expectations
- Families participate in required weekly sessions designed to promote the scholars' long-term academic success
- Children enjoy a variety of field trips each week
“I learned in Freedom Schools that you can be anything you want to be. I felt excited about the books we read”
- Freedom Schools Scholar, age 5
Our Role in Freedom Schools
United Way supports the Freedom Schools model, both as a funder and a collaborator, to empower scholars and improve their reading skills. Reading summer learning loss is critical to our work in building healthy communities throughout the Miami Valley.
We are proud to be a partner in uplifting scholars and their families through the Dayton Area Freedom Schools sites.
Site Locations
- Grace United Methodist Church at Louise Troy Elementary
- Omega CDC at Thurgood Marshall High School
- DECA Prep
“I learned how to read better. I feel good about the books we read and like doing the activities there”
- Freedom Schools Scholar, age 6
.png)