The Wake Forest University Children’s Defense Fund Freedom School is a free six-week, literacy-based summer program for rising third through fifth-grade students. Through a culturally diverse curriculum, Freedom School encourages a love of reading and learning. With a theme of “I Can Make A Difference,” the Integrated Reading Curriculum affirms scholars with engaging literature and exposure to the broader community.

In classrooms of 10-12, college-aged students are hired to teach and mentor Freedom School scholars. Additionally, during the six-week instruction, parents of scholars are encouraged to be engaged in their child’s learning through informational meetings in the summer and multiple volunteer opportunities.

Spots for the annual summer program fill quickly. If you are interested in enrolling your child in the Freedom School at Wake Forest for subsequent years, please add your name to the waitlist.

Wake Forest University Freedom School is hosted by the Department of Education and is made possible with the help of collaborators including The Office of Civic & Community Engagement, Office of the President, and Office of the Provost

About Freedom School

Frequently Asked Questions