Freedom School

Reading is the key to unlocking a child’s unlimited potential

Through the CDF Freedom Schools model, we empower our youth to excel and believe in their ability to make a difference in themselves, their families, communities, and the world with hope, education, and action.

Rooted in the Mississippi Freedom Summer project of 1964, the CDF Freedom Schools program is a six-week summer literacy and cultural enrichment program that enhances children’s motivation to read and makes them feel good about learning. At the same time, the program connects families to resources in their communities.

2025 Freedom School Details

Freedom School is open to rising 3rd – 8th grade students that attend a public school in the New Hanover County School District.  Our Freedom School will take place June 16, 2025 to July 25, 2025! Programming is free and runs on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and bus transportation in partnership with New Hanover County Schools.

*****6/4 UPDATE: Freedom School applications are closed at this time as all 200 Scholar spots have been filled! *****

Eligible scholars must be:

• Enrolled in New Hanover County Public Schools
• In rising 3rd to rising 8th grade
• Out of school by June 16 and not returning before July 25
• Committed to attending at least 90% of the program (no more than 3 absences)

Orientation Requirement

To lock in your Scholar’s spot, all families must attend one orientation session during the week prior to the start of the program. Sessions will be offered on June 10 at 5pm, June 11 at 10 am, and June 12 at 1pm — you’ll only need to attend one.