Freedom School Summer Literacy Camp

In 2016, LifeWise StL became a proud partner of the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools Program. Established in 1995, Freedom Schools focus on nurturing literate and empowered children who are poised to positively impact themselves, their families, and the broader world. The program offers crucial summer reading enrichment to children who might otherwise lack access to books, countering summer learning loss and narrowing achievement gaps.

The vibrant curriculum not only aligns with the Common Core Standards but also incorporates STEM education. The instruction remains lively and relatable, thanks to a 10:1 child-to-teacher ratio.

The camp runs from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, spanning six consecutive weeks in June and July.

Who We Serve

140 low-income children who attend elementary and middle schools and reside in neighborhoods on the south side of St. Louis City (primarily in zip codes 63104, 63111, 63116 and 63118).

What We Do

Every morning begins with Harambee, which includes a read aloud, singing and chanting, announcements and a moment of silence. Scholars spend the next three hours on an integrated reading curriculum.

Afternoons include a variety of activities based on scholars’ interests and strengths to enrich and empower them. Typical activities include: visual and performing arts, field trips, fitness, nutrition and cooking, science education, drug and violence prevention education, social action and community service projects, and more.

Our program…

  • Provides engaging activities that nurture children’s minds, bodies and spirits. Children are introduced to a collection of books that reflect their own images and reinforce the CDF theme I Can Make a Difference.
  • Provides parents with the support and skills they need to help their children succeed. Parents are invited to serve as read aloud guests during Harambee, chaperone field trips, attend educational workshops and more.
  • Encourages children not only to explore the problems facing their communities, but also to become active in working toward solutions.
  • Provides healthy activities and nutritious meals to improve students’ health and promote their physical growth. Breakfast, lunch and snack are served daily.

Servant Leaders

The CDF Freedom School program is a servant leader incubator for two generations – the children served and the college students and recent graduates who teach and serve them. Training coordinated by the CDF Freedom Schools national office prepares the young adults to provide an enriching experience for the children they serve.

Training topics include:

  • Child Development
  • Positive Discipline
  • Diversity Issues
  • Team Building
  • Conflict Resolution
  • First-Aid & CPR Training
  • Safe Sanctuary Training
  • Emergency Protocol
  • Incident/Accident Reports

Contact Us

For more information, please contact Prescott Benson, Director of Young Scholars Program, at pbenson@lifewisestl.org or (314) 627-1241.