abc7 education reporter leeann melendez tells us why. >> welcome to freedom school.body and the soul. here they learn not to be afraid to express themselves. >> some kids are shy so when they see other kids doing it it allows them to come out of their shell. >> the program is intended to build up their confidence while engaging them academically. >> that success does not elude them in math, science. >> reverend allen of third baptist church in san francisco's western edition neighborhood directs the program. for six weeks african-american students start by learning more about their culture and therefore themselves. here's seven-year-old shawney harris. >> i'm an older sister and a little sister and i'm an artist and i'm a leader. >> her mother said since she joined the program, her reading has improved. >> reading with her now i notice that she's a more confident reader. >> parents are encouraged to participate, and kids like that. >> they like to see mom involved with them. and i'm very involved, very hands-on in their schools. >> despite what it has to offer, the f