Nationally, Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools sites are “safe, restorative learning spaces where children:

• are surrounded by caring adults and college age young adults from their community (at a classroom ration of 1:10) who share their enthusiasm for learning and reading, and commit to serving them as authentic mentors;
• read high quality books and are engaged in learning activities that are appropriate to their developmental needs and interests;
• begin each day with “Harambee!,” a 30-minute self-and-group affirming celebration and preparation for the work ahead;
• receive two nutritious meals and a healthy snack every day in the summer;
• are supported to dream, set goals for themselves, and cultivate positive attitudes and high expectations”