E2LA Summer Camp
Educate to Liberate Academy is a summer intensive for underserved high school students across Central Florida, designed to prepare the next generation of independent thinkers and ethical leaders.
We know that anti-intellectualism, defined as the rejection of knowledge, the dismissal of expertise, and the devaluation of higher education, creates environments where misinformation thrives. In today’s world, social media accelerates this crisis by shaping how young people understand themselves and the world.
We confront this by equipping students with the tools to navigate a complex digital landscape. Through media literacy and logical reasoning, they learn to evaluate sources, identify propaganda, and challenge misinformation with clarity and confidence. By cultivating responsible digital citizenship, we empower them to use their voices thoughtfully and ethically online while also affirming higher education as an accessible and viable pathway for their futures. Educate to Liberate Academy prepares students not only to navigate college, but to resist the pull of anti-intellectualism and thrive as leaders in their communities and beyond.
What is E2LA?
Educate to Liberate Academy (E2LA) is a residential summer intensive in Orlando, Florida, for underserved high school students across Central Florida. Over one transformative week, students engage in immersive workshops, collaborative projects, and dynamic discussions that sharpen their critical thinking, strengthen their media literacy, and empower them to become responsible digital citizens.
Program Dates
June 2026 (Exact dates TBD)
Who is eligible to apply?
E2LA is open to high school students who will be rising sophomores through rising seniors at the time of the program. Applicants must live in Central Florida, but students from other parts of Florida may be considered if they can arrange their own transportation to and from the program. Please note: E2LA does not cover the cost of transportation to or from the program. We especially seek students who are intellectually curious and come from underserved backgrounds.
Application Timeline
Applications for the 2026 program will open in December 2025. Check back for exact dates and details and sign up for the newsletter to be notified.
What do participants do?
During E2LA, students:
Build core skills in media literacy, logical reasoning, and responsible digital citizenship.
Work on collaborative projects, give presentations, and engage in structured debates.
Participate in meaningful dialogue and reflection about how ideas are shaped, challenged, and shared in the digital age.
Connect with peers in a supportive residential environment, building lasting friendships and a strong sense of community.
What will I get out of E2LA?
By participating in E2LA, students will:
Strengthen their critical thinking and media literacy skills.
Develop greater self-reflection and self-awareness around how beliefs are shaped through media consumption.
Become more empowered to recognize and resist misinformation, propaganda, and harmful digital trends.
Grow in their ability to be ethical community leaders and stronger students, better prepared for college.
Gain a network of peers who also value learning, curiosity, and leadership.
Cost
E2LA is designed to be low-cost and accessible to low-income students. There may be a small program fee to cover food, but all other core costs of participation will be covered.
Alumni Network
Participation in E2LA does not end with the summer. Students will join an alumni network where they can receive continued support, including guidance for seniors navigating the college application process.