The Children's Defense Fund describes its Freedom Schools program as "an educational and cultural enrichment program that provides summer options for children where there are none and strengthens parent and community involvement in the year-round achievement of children."

Freedom Schools at Davidson College serves a limited number of children in primary and secondary grades.  The program integrates reading, conflict resolution, and social action in an activity-based curriculum that promotes social, cultural and historical awareness.  Davidson College students primarily serve as servant leader interns for the program at a local community site.

The K-8th grade scholar application for each summer session opens in February and closes in March.  Families are notified in early April about the status of their application to the program.