The Equity & Justice Institute

CDF Freedom Schools Program

Since the summer of 2021, the Equity & Justice Institute has partnered with Children’s Defense Fund to offer the Freedom Schools^® program at Crossroads School.

The CDF Freedom Schools program integrates reading, conflict resolution and social action in an activity-based curriculum that promotes social, cultural and historical awareness. It builds scholars’ self-esteem, stimulates their love of reading and introduces them to enriching activities not provided by traditional school systems.

Over six weeks, program participants, known as scholars, read more than 50 developmentally appropriate books. These books reflect the scholars’ own images, convey their authentic history, culture, and heritage, and introduce them to adults and youths who make a difference in the lives of others. This offers the young learners encouragement to become involved in community engagement (service), helps them explore fundamental issues related to self-esteem and expands their capacity to self-actualize their goals and aspirations.

CDF FREEDOM SCHOOLS

Program Highlights

Served an average of 35 scholars from the Virginia Park community
Provided over 200 culturally relevant age appropriate books to children and families—each student received a set of books to start or build their home library
Provided an open space for scholars to learn and practice how they can make a difference through hope, education and action
Scholars participated in STEAM-based learning, Artivism, meditation and golf
Promoted a college bound culture with college campus tours

CROSSROADS SCHOOL CDF FREEDOM SCHOOLS SITE

Enroll in the Program

The Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools site at Crossroads School, runs June 16-July 25, 2025. To apply, please click the apply button below and complete the form, and a staff member will reach out to you.

For more program and enrollment information, please access our FAQs linked below. If you have any further questions, contact Cassandra Chase at chase@xrds.org.

Crossroads School CDF Freedom Schools Site

Administrative Team

List of 1 items.

Cassandra Chase

Director of the Equity & Justice Institute

CDF Freedom Schools

Voices of Scholars

“Freedom School is like a dream of love spreading around you. I would like to come back to Freedom School because every day I finish school, it makes me feel like I’m blessed to be in a house full of love.”
“I used to speak in a really low voice and now I speak in a louder voice. Like I am in action now.”
“The most important thing about Freedom Schools is that we are safe and have fun.”