The Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools® program is a free six-week long summer enrichment program with three hours of reading per day. The program helps children, we call them “scholars”, fall in love with reading, increases their self-esteem, cultivates positive attitudes toward learning, and reduces summer reading loss—one of the major challenges affecting the working-class’ children. The research-based curriculum includes culturally responsive books that reflect the scholars’ own images and caring and supportive college students that serve as Servant Leader Interns (teachers). CDF Freedom Schools successfully address summer reading loss and a related decrease in students’ motivation to read.

In addition to offering high-quality academic enrichment, CDF Freedom Schools supports children and families in the areas of parent and family involvement, civic engagement and social action, intergenerational leadership development, and health — physical, mental, and nutritional. With the support of caring adults and communities we will aid our children’s successful journey into adulthood.

Our goal is to ensure no child is left behind. That’s why we are working diligently to open CDF Freedom Schools throughout our great state.

Soon, you will have the ability to Adopt A School, Become A Partner, or simply make a donation. Yes! You’ll get an opportunity to serve our kids by being an instrumental part of their educational growth.

Your Support Will Provide…

• Six (6) weeks of summer learning

• Two (2) meals per day for our scholars

• Daily intense reading instructions

• Weekly field trips

• Jobs for five (5) college students

Information About Our 2026 CDF Freedom School Programs Will Be Available During the First Quarter of 2026.