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About Freedom School
About Manasota ASALH Freedom School
The Manasota ASALH Freedom School is a free, community-based Saturday program dedicated to enriching students' reading and literacy skills while providing comprehensive education on Black history.
Mission & Purpose
The mission of the Manasota ASALH Freedom School is to teach the truthful history of Africans and African Americans in the founding, formation, and development of American society and culture to any child, from Kindergarten through 12th grade, in a free, community-based Saturday program.
Our purpose is to provide a truthful and comprehensive education on Black history, encompassing the rich and diverse narratives of Africans, African Americans, and the global African diaspora in the formation and development of American society and beyond. We welcome all children, from Kindergarten through 12th grade, to join us in a free, inclusive, and community-centered learning environment every Saturday.
With our primary objective being to bridge the critical gap in Black history education by creating an open and inclusive space for students to learn comprehensively about their heritage, the Freedom School serves as a beacon of truth and enlightenment in today’s climate of political polarization and ideological division. We ensure that all children have access to the complete, shared history of America and the global African experience.
Our Approach
- Inclusive Curriculum Development: We tailor our curriculum to encompass a wide array of perspectives and narratives within Black diasporic history, ensuring it captures the richness and diversity of experiences across African and diasporic communities. By integrating lesser-known stories and voices, we provide a comprehensive understanding of the past and its profound impact on the present and future.
- Interactive Learning Environment with Experiential Learning: Through engaging activities, discussions, interactive lessons, and hands-on experiences, we cultivate an environment where students actively participate in their learning. By encouraging dialogue and critical thinking, we empower students to explore and analyze historical events and their significance through firsthand engagement.
- Community Engagement: We recognize the importance of community involvement in education. Therefore, we actively collaborate with local organizations, historians, and community leaders to enrich our program and provide additional resources and opportunities for our students.
- Culturally Responsive Teaching: Our teaching methods are culturally responsive, acknowledging and embracing the cultural backgrounds and identities of our students. By incorporating culturally relevant materials and teaching practices, we create a learning environment where every student feels valued and represented.
- Holistic Approach to Education: We understand that education goes beyond academics. Therefore, we strive to nurture the holistic development of our students, fostering their social, emotional, and personal growth alongside their academic learning.
- Continual Evaluation and Improvement: We regularly assess and evaluate our program to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. By seeking feedback from students, parents, and educators, we continuously refine our approach and curriculum to better meet the needs of our community.
Through these approaches, we aim to not only educate students about Black history but also inspire them to become critical thinkers, engaged citizens, and advocates for social justice and equity.