Freedom Schools

Elev8 Baltimore’s Freedom Schools is a unique summer literacy program that prepares students to succeed in school and in life. The 6-week program immerses K-12 students in culturally diverse literature, all while having fun and mastering reading and life skills. Freedom Schools instills a lifelong love of reading in our scholars.


Volunteer with Freedom Schools to Make a Difference

Every year, volunteers from all walks of life—business people, community leaders, city council members and even Maryland’s first lady—join us to for a half an hour to read and participate with our scholars. If you have 30 minutes to spare this summer, come join us! Learn more about our volunteer reader program, including the sign up schedule, here

If you are a parent or caregiver and want to learn more, email us at info@elev8baltimore.com.

 

View some clips of our awesome scholars and leaders below.

Representation Matters

At Freedom Schools, our students can relate to our ground-breaking curriculum that elevates BIPOC and local authors–people who look like them. Our site leaders are often themselves graduates of Freedom Schools, and come back to the program to help give back to the community.

Students Fall in Love with Reading

We help students fall in love with reading, think critically, and gain a better understanding of our city. The experience at Freedom Schools is so meaningful that many students return year after year, even becoming counselors when they are old enough. 

We’re Investing in Future Leaders 

Freedom Schools give our young, future leaders the tools they need to succeed. The program is designed to empower students by giving youth an active role in designing the experience. Hear from Jada Jackson about her experience.
 

“Young people who participate in high-quality afterschool and summer programs improve attendance, gain confidence and try harder to learn.”

– Elev8 Baltimore