Creating Educational Opportunities for All Children
Poor children and children of color often begin school behind their peers. That’s why we work to advance equitable school funding, reduce the achievement gap, end the school-to-prison pipeline and expand after-school and summer literacy programs. We envision a public education system where every child has access to the opportunities they need to realize their full potential and build a successful path to adulthood. Supporters like you help ensure the voices of children in need are heard.
Join us.
By joining our email list, you will receive periodic updates on our work and how you can get involved to make a difference in the lives of children in need.
Students at CDF Freedom Schools.
“I am very grateful for a program that promotes cultural pride, cultural awareness, and education during the summer. That’s how to promote lifelong learning. Thank you and everyone involved for your time and effort you put into the Freedom School Program.”
—Patricia Nixon, parent, North Florida Freedom Schools site, Tallahassee, FL
Tallya Rhodes
“Having [the Beat the Odds program at] CDF to support me has been like a breath of fresh air. I didn’t know what to do on my own, but now I have so many people in my corner.”
-Tallya Rhodes, 2017 Beat the Odds Honoree
Students at CDF Freedom Schools.
“One ultimate goal [of CDF Freedom Schools] is for kids to actually be excited about learning and see themselves in what they learn and see the power and potential that reading has in their lives.”
—Dr. Lakia M. Scott, Executive Director, Indian Spring Middle School, CDF Freedom Schools site, Waco, TX, and Assistant Professor, Baylor University School of Education
Your Support Makes a Difference
We’re working to give every child what they need to reach their full potential. Every gift makes a difference in the lives of children. Please donate today.
Unlocking Children’s Potential
Every summer, more than 12,000 children in underserved communities will attend CDF Freedom Schools®, where they’ll receive six weeks of quality education and enrichment designed to improve their reading skills and foster a love of learning. Learn more about CDF Freedom Schools.
Honoring Incredible Young People
Beat the Odds® scholarship recipients have overcome tremendous adversity to achieve academic excellence and give back to their communities. Their stories are an inspiring reminder that none of us have a right to give up on any child. Learn more about the Beat the Odds program.
Creating a Better Future for All Children
Poor children and children of color often begin school behind their peers. With your help, we work to advance equitable school funding, reduce the achievement gap, end the school-to-prison pipeline and expand after-school and summer literacy programs. Learn more about our impact.
The Children’s Defense Fund works to eliminate discriminatory education policies and practices and the inequitable distribution of resources that undermine equal educational opportunities for all students. We focus especially on improving educational opportunities for poor children, children of color, children with disabilities, English language learners, children who are homeless, children in foster care and those returning from juvenile detention.