Free community program open to students from K-12th grade
FREEDOM SCHOOL
Freedom School continues and here we grow!
Rooted in the vision of Carter G. Woodson—who reminded us that Black history must never be a negligible part of anyone’s memory—we remain committed to the truthful, joyful, and empowering teaching of Black history for students of all ages. Everyone is welcome! Fun family events.
REGISTRATION IS OPEN YEAR ROUND. However, we encourage families to commit to consecutive Saturdays to take advantage of attendance incentives like gift cards and special field trip opportunities!
Students in grades K–12 will enjoy:
Engaging, interactive lessons
Nurturing, knowledgeable teachers that provide opportunities to explore powerful stories, movements, and leaders in Black history
Our Saturday sessions are 12-2 pm
Held in a welcoming space designed to support learning, growth, and community.
New: After-School Freedom School
Freedom School is growing! We’re thrilled to expand with weekly after-school classes in partnership with:
- 13th AV Dream Center, 922 24th St E, Bradenton
- Palmetto Youth Center, 501 17th St W, Palmetto
- Sarasota Housing Authority, 269 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota
These new programs bring even more opportunities for students to connect with Black history and culture throughout the week.
To register your children for after-school sessions, learn more, find out how you can join us, contact Edna Sherrell, Program Director, programdirector@asalh-manasotafl.org
ABOUT FREEDOM SCHOOL
Bridging the Gap
The Manasota ASALH Freedom School is a free, community-based program dedicated to enriching students' leadership skills while providing comprehensive education on Black history.
To bridge the critical gap in Black history education, we create 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.
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.
VOLUNTEER WITH FREEDOM SCHOOL
We love our volunteers! We have a range of opportunities available, all aimed at promoting truthful Black history education for youth. Volunteers are the heartbeat of our program, driving our mission to teach and inspire. Your support is crucial, especially in this critical time. Join us in making a difference today.
Volunteers are needed to:
- Assist with student registration and check-in.
- Prepare and serve lunch or snacks.
- Help as teacher aids with facility setup or breakdown, and possibly transportation.
Volunteers are required to undergo a Level 1 background check through the Office of Community Relations, Sarasota County Schools portal. Please submit your information for the Level One Volunteer.
Choose any of the Booker Schools when given a list of organizations. Check the "Volunteer" option in the next section.
Note: Even if your social security number is not accepted, continue to the end of the process. If you already have clearance as a school volunteer, please let us know: Programdirector@asalh-manasotafl.org
Thank you OUR Community PARTNERS
Growing with Community Foundation of Sarasota County
The expansion of our Freedom School is thanks to a $200,000 grant from the Marilyn G. Harwell Fungible Fund, a component fund of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. In addition, we received a grant through the Community Foundation of Sarasota County Allen Wirtz Nobbe and Jo Bowen Nobbe Fund in the amount of $10,000 to directly support the work at the Roy McBean Boys & Girls Club this summer. See the full grant release below.
Spreading the word with 96.5 WSLR
Read the article Mobile Freedom School Brings History to Life written by Jada Wright-Greene in July 2025 for 96.5 Fogartyville Community Radio.