Children's Freedom School Program
Program Overview
The Children’s Defense Fund Freedom School® Program, hosted by Humanity Cares for All, Inc. (HCA), is a nationally recognized summer and after-school enrichment program designed to inspire a love for reading, strengthen self-esteem, and empower young scholars to make a difference in their communities.
Rooted in the historic Freedom Schools of the Civil Rights Movement, this program provides high-quality literacy instruction, cultural enrichment, and leadership development for students in grades K–2.
Through a dynamic and engaging curriculum, scholars will:
Develop strong literacy and comprehension skills
Build confidence and positive self-identity
Engage in social-emotional learning and character development
Participate in enrichment activities that promote creativity and critical thinking
Experience a nurturing, supportive, and empowering learning environment
Humanity Cares for All, Inc. (HCA)
HCA is committed to providing a safe, structured, and inspiring space where children grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Summer Enrichment Program
The Children’s Defense Fund Freedom School Program focuses on enriching students' academic and social development while strengthening connections among families, schools, and the community.
Key Program Components
- High-quality academic and character-building enrichment
- Parent and family involvement (weekly engagement opportunities)
- Intergenerational servant leadership development
- Nutrition, health, and mental health support
- Civic engagement and social action
Unlike traditional literacy programs, this curriculum focuses on fostering a lifelong love of reading rather than solely building reading skills.
Program Length: 6 weeks
Start Date: July 6, 2026
End Date: August 14, 2026
Schedule
- 8:30 AM – Breakfast
- 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM – Program Activities
Day in the Life of a Scholar
8:00 AM- 9:00 AM
Scholars start the day with a healthy breakfast, then transitions to gather for a high-energy morning celebration featuring a guest reader.
9:00 AM -12:00 PM
Scholars engage in interactive reading activities that strengthen literacy skills while exploring themes like leadership, conflict resolution, and social action.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Scholars enjoy lunch together while relaxing and building friendships within the Freedom Schools community.
8:00 AM- 9:00 AM
Scholars start the day with a healthy breakfast, then transitions to gather for a high-energy morning celebration featuring a guest reader.
9:00 AM -12:00 PM
Scholars engage in interactive reading activities that strengthen literacy skills while exploring themes like leadership, conflict resolution, and social action.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Scholars enjoy lunch together while relaxing and building friendships within the Freedom Schools community.
1:00PM – 3:00 PM
Scholars participate in enrichment activities such as arts, STEM, culture, physical activity, and workshops led by community partners.
3:00 PM
Scholars wrap up the day and depart. Our team meet to reflect on the day, share insights, and prepare to strengthen the next day’s scholar experience.
New Horizons Community Charter School
45-59 Hayes St., Newark NJ 07103
The Program Team
Dr. Robert L. DeVeaux, Executive Director
Debra Boone, Program Director
Ashley Paris, Site Coordinator
Servant Leader Interns (SLIs):
Akeem Kaswarra
Maurice Williams, Jr.
Mia Williams