Hosted by Beyond Housing in partnership with Deaconess Foundation
WELCOME MESSAGE
Freedom School is a free, six-week summer program serving scholars in grades K–5 across the St. Louis region. Hosted by Beyond Housing in partnership with Deaconess Foundation, our program focuses on building strong readers, confident leaders, and joyful learners through culturally responsive education and meaningful community connections.
Program Highlights
Culturally Relevant Literacy
Scholars engage daily with diverse, high-quality books that reflect their identities, histories, and lived experiences.
Enrichment & Field Trips
In addition to reading, scholars participate in arts, STEM activities, social action projects, and exciting weekly field trips.
Free Meals, Supplies & Activities
Breakfast, lunch, books, and all program materials are provided at no cost to families.
A Joyful Learning Community
Freedom School centers joy, belonging, and care: creating spaces where children feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
Our Partners
Our Community Partnership
Freedom School is made possible through a strong partnership between Beyond Housing, Deaconess Foundation, and the Children’s Defense Fund. Together, we are committed to advancing literacy, equity, and opportunity for children and families throughout the 24:1 community and beyond.
Impact Teaser
Our Impact
Last summer, 96.6% of scholars across our Freedom School sites maintained or improved their reading levels, exceeding national program averages and demonstrating the power of culturally affirming literacy instruction.
Call to Action
Get Involved With Freedom School
Whether you’re a family looking for a meaningful summer experience, a college student seeking leadership opportunities, or a community member wanting to give back — there’s a place for you at Freedom School.