CDF Freedom Schools® in Washington, D.C.
CDF Freedom Schools® supports children, youth, and families after school and during summers at approved D.C. public schools. Multiple sites in Wards 5, 7, and 8 actively engage youth in education and belief in their ability to create positive change in themselves, their families, communities, and the world.
Inspiring Lifelong Learners
We boost scholars’ enthusiasm for reading and foster a positive learning experience through a research-based curriculum featuring culturally relevant books. The program also connects families with community resources. What makes our program unique is the focus on enriching the whole child. Students, youth, and families in our program gain access to:
- High-quality academic enrichment via our research-based, multicultural Integrated Reading Curriculum (IRC)
- Parent and family development through weekly meetings, check-ins, engagement activities, and competitions
- Civic engagement and social action lessons, culminating in our National Day of Social Action (NDSA) for collective social change efforts
- Nutrition, health, and mental health support, including knowledge and resources for accessing essential services
For more information, please contact Program Administrator Joy Masha at jmasha@childrensdefense.org.
Measuring Success
Explore the impact of CDF Freedom Schools in our 2023 Evaluation Report. With support from the U.S. Department of Education, our after-school and summer activities work alongside children and youth in Washington, D.C. Discover the outcomes and success of the program at the D.C. Dream Center-Southeast White House and the Social Justice School during Summer 2023.
