Measured

Impact that endures

At Freedom Scholars Learning Center, impact is not abstract. It is measured, experienced, and sustained by scholars, families, and the community.

Results

Literacy gains that change trajectories

FSLC delivers targeted, small-group literacy instruction that produces clear, measurable growth—especially for scholars who have been historically underserved. These are not projections. They are documented gains from scholars in our programs.

“Both of my children have attended FSLC, and it has been life-changing. My oldest gained confidence and leadership skills, while my daughter has embraced her identity and developed a love for reading. The program respects and nurtures the whole child, and I am grateful for the stability and growth it has given
my family.”

Charline Smikle
FSLC Parent
Evidence

Documented gains from scholars in our programs

Pre- and post-assessments from the Seed Sowers & Storytellers Afterschool Program show clear, measurable growth across every literacy skill. These numbers reflect focused instruction delivered consistently to scholars who needed it most.

93.4%

Reading fluency gains

Increase in words per minute and reading pace

70.4%

Decoding skill improvement

Measured through validated literacy assessments

75.7%

Average reading accuracy

Across all scholars in the program

Instruction built for real change

Every minute of instruction moves scholars toward real change

174

One-to-one intervention sessions

2,639

Minutes of focused literacy work

43+

Hours of independent reading logged

Growth

Acceleration when support holds

Early readers do not just improve. They accelerate when instruction is individualized, affirming, and consistent over time.

20%

From beginning to end of year

Scholars show 20% improvement from the start of the year to mid-year, then 103% improvement from mid-year to end-of-year. This compounding growth reveals what happens when literacy support is sustained.

103%

Growth compounds over time

Beginning to mid-year versus mid to end-of-year

Libraries

Books in homes, literacy beyond the program

FSLC believes reading must extend beyond program hours. By distributing books to scholars and families, we help build home libraries and establish lasting reading routines that persist long after the final session ends.

175 books distributed to scholars and families

86 books read and tracked during programming

Home libraries establish lasting reading habits

“My son has always been shy and has special education needs, so we were nervous about enrolling him. But FSLC exceeded every expectation. He has flourished socially and academically,
remembering books he read and sharing their meanings. The camp invests in children and families, providing online resources, field trips, and parent workshops. I have seen him become more confident, engaged, and creative. FSLC embodies the true meaning of living for these kids and fostering
community.”

Jessica Jischke
FSLC Parent
Growth

Whole-child development beyond academics

Scholars gain confidence, voice, and belonging

Transformation

What families and educators witness

Academic gains matter. But families report something deeper—scholars who once sat quiet now raise their hands. Scholars with learning differences find their place. Peer collaboration strengthens. Self-confidence takes root.

Research grounds our work

Freedom Scholars programs draw from the Children's Defense Fund Integrated Reading Curriculum and evidence-based literacy intervention frameworks. We partner with educators and university researchers to evaluate our work and strengthen it continuously.

Foundation

Why these results endure

These gains are not accidental. They come from deliberate design.

Elements

What makes the difference

Small group instruction keeps the focus tight. High educator-to-scholar ratios mean scholars are seen and known. Culturally reflective curriculum honors who they are. Consistent, year-round engagement builds momentum. Deep partnership with families extends learning beyond program hours.

“Our son has an IEP, and FSLC jumped right in to support his needs. He received help with reading and writing, and his confidence has grown tremendously. He even participated in his first rally and met the mayor—opportunities we never imagined for him. FSLC has become family, offering communication, parent nights, and a true village for raising children.”

Ana Wightman
FSLC Parent
Accountability

How we measure and report

Every number on this page comes from rigorous assessment conducted by Freedom Scholars staff. We do not estimate impact or project outcomes. We measure them, share them with families first, and use them to strengthen instruction.

Assessment built into every program

Pre-, mid-, and post-assessments track individual scholar growth across all literacy skills.

Data shared with families first

Caregivers receive transparent results so they understand progress and can reinforce learning at home.

Accountability through rigorous measurement

All gains reflect program-based assessments and progress monitoring conducted by Freedom Scholars staff.

Evidence that informs next steps

Results guide instruction, helping educators adjust support to meet each scholar where they are.

Want to support literacy, families, and community?

Get involved with Freedom Scholars Learning Center.