The Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) works with community sponsors, parents, young adults and caring community leaders to forge a new vision for working with and educating children through the CDF Freedom Schools program.
The Freedom School Summer Program provides children and youth with a safe, engaging, and enriching summer experience that strengthens reading skills, builds confidence, and inspires a lifelong love of learning. Hosted by The Springfield Project in partnership with the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools® program, this six-week summer program combines literacy enrichment, leadership development, cultural empowerment, and hands-on learning experiences that help young people discover their potential and become positive changemakers in their schools and communities. Through culturally relevant books, daily reading activities, STEM exploration, arts programming, field trips, and social-emotional learning, scholars stay engaged all summer while developing the skills they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
Why Freedom Schools?
Freedom Schools are built on a nationally recognized model designed to prevent summer learning loss while helping children develop strong literacy skills, positive self-esteem, leadership abilities, and a commitment to community engagement.
2025 Program Impact
Last summer, Springfield Urban League Freedom School scholars achieved impressive results:
· Average reading growth of 10 months during the program
· 95% of scholars maintained or improved their reading levels
· Scholars read an average of 8.4 books during the six-week program
· 100% of surveyed parents said they would recommend Freedom School to another family
· Scholars reported growth in confidence, leadership skills, conflict resolution, and academic engagement
Freedom School helps children return to school ready to learn, lead, and thrive.
Program Details
Dates: June 15, 2026 – July 24, 2026
Location: Feitshans Elementary School
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Grade Levels: Kindergarten through 8th Grade
Cost: Free
What Scholars Can Expect
· Daily literacy and reading enrichment activities
· Culturally relevant books and curriculum
· Harambee morning celebrations
· STEM, arts, and creative learning opportunities
· Leadership development and character-building activities
· Weekly educational field trips
· Social-emotional learning experiences
· Opportunities to build friendships and confidence
· A safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment
Meals and Transportation
· Breakfast and lunch provided daily at no cost
· After-care available for eligible families (contact us for details)
To learn more or enroll your child, contact: Dylan Flowers @217-789-0830 or dflowers@springfieldul.org
Join us this summer for six weeks of learning, discovery, leadership, and fun!
Join us in creating positive change in the community.
