The Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools program provides summer enrichment through a research-based and multicultural curriculum that supports children and families through five essential components: high quality academic and character-building enrichment; parent and family involvement; civic engagement and social action; intergenerational servant leadership development; and nutrition, health and mental health. The CDF Freedom Schools program incorporates the totality of CDF’s mission by fostering environments that support children and young adults to excel and believe in their ability to make a difference in themselves and in their families, schools, communities, country, and world with hope, education and action. High-quality academic enrichment is provided in Freedom Schools’ Integrated Reading Curriculum, which melds together culturally relevant literature and critical thinking through engaging lesson plans and hands-on activities. Parents and families participate in weekly workshops focused upon furthering both the educational and social development of their children. Throughout the program, Scholars (children enrolled in Freedom Schools) participate in community service and advocate for social justice in their community, which culminates in a project for the National Day of Social Action. In addition to offering a service for children in the community, the program provides an opportunity for pre-service teachers enrolled in Baylor School of Education to work as Servant Leader Interns (SLIs) and serve children from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

 For more information about Baylor Freedom Schools, visit the Baylor School of Education website https://www.baylor.edu/soe/index.php?id=941828 and http://blogs.baylor.edu/freedomschools/ or contact Dr. Lakia Scott via email at Lakia_Scott@baylor.edu or via phone at 254-710-6379.

Baylor’s 2018 Freedom School was held at Indian Spring Middle School June 13 through July 27, hosting 5^th, 6^th, and 7^th grade students. Plans for the 2019 program are still underway. This program is completely free and includes field trips, swimming lessons, and meals.

Impact data for the 2018 is still being compiled, however, results are promising. In 2017, the CDF program was held at Cesar Chavez Middle School with fifty sixth and seventh grade scholars who completed pre- and post-tests, demonstrating a one year and four months increase in instructional reading levels. Almost all students (93%) maintained or increased in their instructional reading level capabilities and did not experience summer learning loss. Surveys completed by students showed positive changes in their attitudes and character skills as well. The scholars also indicated that they were ready to engage in social action and academic activities after participation in the program. The following links highlight the National Day of Social Action in which students brought awareness to the chronic issue of child hunger.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8gBTZAqOsE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbBnBWwdH3E