Freedom School at FPCG!
It’s official. Our church has been designated as a 2010 Children’s Defense Fund Freedom School.
The acceptance letter affirmed FPCG as an organization with a demonstrated record of responding to the needs of children and their families in their communities.
While this selection is great news, you might not have a clue what Freedom School is and how this designation affects First Church and its summer program. Throughout the coming months the Mission and Outreach Committee will keep you informed of our progress as we launch this new and exciting program.
On Friday, Feb 12th at 6:30pm an information meeting will be held. Anyone interested in Freedom School and opportunities to be involved should attend.
Also invited are 2009 camp parents. Join us and you too can get excited about Freedom School!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Children's Defense Fund Freedom School?
CDF Freedom Schools program provides critical summer and after-school enrichment through a model curriculum that supports children and families around five essential components: high quality academic enrichment, parent and family involvement, civic engagement and social action, intergenerational leadership development, and nutrition, health and mental health.
Are there benefits becoming a Freedom School?
As a Freedom School site First Church's day camp will function as an enrichment program and access to the copyrighted Freedom School Integrated Reading Curriculum and training provided by the national office. Over the span of seven weeks Freedom School participants will develop a love for reading and strengthen their language arts abilities. During the course of the summer, children will read at minimum 52 books!
When and where will Freedom School take place?
Freedom School will operate at First Church, Monday through Friday, June 28 through August 13.
How does Freedom School affect Summer Day Camp?
As a Freedom School First Church's program will be limited to 50 children and program costs to parents will be greatly reduced. In addition to our Christ centered bible study, music, art, recreation, swimming and field trips the program will expand it services to include morning enrichment activities and weekly evening parent workshops.
Does this program cost more to operate?
The Freedom School budget is approximately $60,000, twice that of day camp. As a new program under the Creative Germantown Initiative, First Church's 501(c)(3), a significant part of the budget will be funded through grants. To date, $30,000 has been committed.