CDF Freedom Schools

Student Registration for CDF freedom School is full and now closed.

Enroll your elementary and/or middle school student in CDF Freedom School, our free reading summer enrichment program. Over the course of 6 weeks, scholars will fall in love with reading, increase their self-esteem, cultivate a positive attitude toward learning, and they will participate in civic and social action projects.

CDF Freedom Schools takes place June 10 – July 19

Open to those entering 1st through 6th Grade

The Worship Center’s Derby Campus
100 Derby Parkway
Birmingham, AL 35210

Paid Summer Internships are Available for College Students. Click the link below for full details.

Servant Leader Intern Application

What is CDF Freedom Schools?

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.

Why Do We Host CDF Freedom Schools Each Year?

Learn Even More About CDF Freedom Schools