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Most Chicago teens spend their summer vacations lounging on the beach or hanging out with friends.  Some are lucky enough to find temporary jobs and earn extra money for the school year.But few teens would consider spending their vacation inside a classroom doing research.The Chicago Freedom School isn’t like other schools.  Teen fellows from around the city learn leadership skills and community organizing strategies.  With the guidance of staff members, fellows choose an independent project on a social issue affecting their community.  This fall, they will return to their high schools and neighborhoods with new tools they can use as positive forces for change.On this episode of Community, Media and You, we’ll hear how some teens spent their summer vacations from two Chicago Freedom School fellows, Alexandra Pate and Sandra Gonzalez.  We will also hear from the school’s youth organizer, Hilda Franco.

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Summer vacation is the time of year most high school students kick back and take a break from their more serious endeavors. The majority of students pass the time hanging out with friends or working seasonal jobs.Mikva Challenge’s Summer Government and Leadership Institute provides an alternative for the high schooler interested in getting involved with their government. Read the rest of this entry »