Building Bridges to Success: 

Building Identity and Literacy Through a Holistic Approach

The Freedom Schools program in Robla School District places a strong emphasis on literacy through its Integrated Reading Curriculum, which highlights culturally relevant literature. Students engage with books by authors of color that feature characters and stories reflecting their own experiences and backgrounds, thereby improving their reading skills and fostering a sense of identity and pride. The program’s holistic learning experience ensures that students receive a well-rounded education by dedicating mornings to intensive reading and academic work, while afternoons are enriched with activities such as swimming, dance, and field trips. This comprehensive approach nurtures both the intellectual and physical development of students, creating an engaging and supportive environment for learning.

Strengthening Education Through Community Collaboration

A cornerstone of the Freedom Schools’ success in the Robla School District is its strong emphasis on community involvement and collaboration. Local leaders and educators, including guest readers, actively engage with students, sharing their passion for reading and learning. This community-centric approach is further strengthened by the district’s partnership with the Roberts Family Development Center (RFDC). Founded by Derrell and Tina Roberts, the RFDC is renowned for its dedication to supporting underserved communities through educational achievement, family support, and community development. The partnership between the RFDC and Robla School District is built on a shared vision of fostering academic excellence and social-emotional growth among students.

The RFDC plays a critical role in the Freedom Schools program, offering invaluable resources and expertise that ensure the program’s effective delivery and sustainability. This includes providing trained staff, coordinating community resources, and facilitating parental engagement. Servant Leader Interns (SLIs) are also integral to the program’s success, serving as classroom teachers and role models. These interns lead literacy-rich curricula, assist with meals, and chaperone afternoon activities, ensuring that students receive consistent, high-quality instruction and support throughout the day. The comprehensive support structure provided by the RFDC and SLIs has significantly enhanced the program’s capacity to address the diverse needs of students and their families, making it a model for community-driven educational excellence.

Learn More About Robla's Partners 

• Roberts Family Development Center: The Roberts Family Development Center (RFDC) in Sacramento provides holistic services focusing on academic support for PreK-12th grade, parent education, and community involvement. Since 2001, RFDC has impacted thousands of lives through its various programs, including Freedom Schools, after-school care, parent empowerment, mentoring, and community advocacy. The center aims to meet the individual needs of each family member, promoting education, community, and overall service.

• Children’s Defense Fund: The Children's Defense Fund Freedom Schools provide summer and after-school enrichment programs for K-12 students, focusing on academic support, character building, family involvement, civic engagement, and health. These programs use a multicultural curriculum to foster a love for reading, prevent summer learning loss, and empower students to believe in their ability to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

Meet the Team