Akwaaba Freedom School

The Akwaaba Freedom School provides summer enrichment through a research-based and multicultural curriculum that supports children and families.

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

"I enjoyed this book so much because it taught me that love and friendship can be acquired from anywhere; it also taught me the power of true friendship can overcome some of the greatest challenges". (2/2)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Meet Natalya Green, a Graduate Research Assistant for Akwaaba Freedom School. Natalya's favorite children's book is Charlotte's Web by E.B. White. To find out more about Natalya, look at the team tab on our website!

#ufcoe #freedomschool #equityineducation

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Speaking about the book Natalya said, "Since I was a kid, I have loved to read. One of my favorite children's books is Charlotte's Web. I can remember reading it hundreds of times, despite my irrational fear of spiders". (1/2)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

"Like Mimi, my inspiration to become a doctor stem from observing the women in my community operate amid medical disasters. Their actions proved that at times when we lack the resources, we must be resourceful and make the best of every situation." (3/3)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Meet K'Lor Simms, a Servant Leader Intern for Akwaaba Freedom School. When asked about a children's book that she personally connects to, K'Lor chose Mimi's Village: And How Basic Health Care Transformed It by Katie Smith Milway.

#ufcoe #freedomschool #equityineducation

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

"However, the women in my community, especially my grandmother, used herbs and foods to tend to the innumerable illnesses in my community." (2/3)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

"...and allows students to understand the historical, geographical, cultural and human importance of Africa and the diversity of African countries and people". (3/3)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Meet AFS Team Members for Summer 2023! Sophia De La Cruz is a "Floater" of Akwaaba Freedom School. For a book that connects to AFS, Sophia chose Mama Miti by Donna Jo Napoli. To find more about Sophia, look at the team tab on our website!

#ufcoe #freedomschool #equityineducation

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

"The story encompasses themes of global citizenship, civic responsibility, role models, and care for the environment; empowers children to realize their ability to positively shape themselves, their families, their communities, and the world..." (2/3)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Speaking about the book Deandra said, "This book is quite affirming because it inspires children to believe in themselves and their abilities, instilling a sense of confidence, resilience, and empowerment to reach their full potential”.

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Meet Deandra West, a Site Coordinator of Akwaaba Freedom School. For a book that reminds her of AFS, Deandra chose I Believe I Can by Grace Byers. To find out more about Thacher, look at the team tab on our website!

#ufcoe #freedomschool #equityineducation

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

"Nothing gets me happier than when I see an engaging book that teach children about loving themselves just the way they are". (2/2)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Meet Thacher Loutin, a Site Coordinator of AFS '23. For a book that reminds her of AFS, Thacher chose Black Girl Magic: A Book About Loving Yourself by Zahra Bryan. To find out more about Thacher, look at the team tab on our website!

#ufcoe #freedomschool #equityineducation

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Speaking about the book Thacher said, "I love this book because it was written by eight years old Zahra Bryan, Black Girl’s Magic reminds girls that they do not need to fit into anyone else idea of what is perfect and beautiful". (1/2)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

"They must learn to communicate and support each other through the very real and stressful challenges of everyday life. A touching portrayal of love and communication, woven like a braid into an everyday family moment". (3/3)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Meet AFS Team Members for Summer 2023! Dr. Taryrn Brown is the Project Director of Akwaaba Freedom School. A book she feels is relevant to AFS is Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry.

#ufcoe #freedomschool #equityineducation

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

"Focusing through the lens of the often underrepresented black community, the book shares the story of a Dad and 5 year old Zuri, who learn to help each other through challenges presented when their regular routines are interrupted". (2/3)

[Akwaaba Freedom School @Akwaaba_FS]

Speaking about the book selection Dr. Brown said, "Hair Love is a beautiful story that touches on topics around family, self-esteem, pride, style, identity and culture". (1/3)