Free Market Institute Blog
The International Freedom Scholars Program: Where Curiosity Meets Purpose
In 2014, Brookfield Academy introduced something truly distinctive - the International Freedom Scholars (IFS) Program. Developed by Mrs. Judy Werlin, (then Chair of the History Department), and myself, the program was designed to go beyond traditional global studies and reflect something deeper. It was designed to reflect Brookfield Academy’s core philosophy of freedom.
The IFS Certification is not just another academic credential. It represents initiative, intellectual courage, and a commitment to understanding the world in a meaningful way. At its heart is a simple but powerful idea: the sky is the limit. Students are empowered to pursue topics they genuinely care about, transforming curiosity into rigorous, globally focused research.
This work is not superficial. Each student conducts primary research, writes a 15-page thesis archived by the school, and presents their findings to the Board of Directors. It is a process that demands independence, critical thinking, and confidence.
The program aligns seamlessly with Brookfield Academy’s mission - to prepare students for college and life as responsible, constructive, and free individuals. Through four years of world language study, coursework in microeconomics, and internationally focused electives, students build a strong academic foundation. The IFS experience then elevates that foundation into something far more impactful.
What truly sets the program apart is its global lens. Students select three countries - often spanning different continents - and use them to explore their chosen topic. This comparative approach reveals a powerful truth, which is that freedom is not universal in its experience. The meaning of freedom in the United States differs from that in India or South Africa. By examining these differences, students develop a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the world and their place within it.
The topics themselves are as diverse as they are meaningful. Whether exploring access to education, voting rights, mental health treatment, media freedom, free trade, biodiversity, cancer treatment or even the impact of music therapy, each project reflects a personal connection. These are not assignments completed just for a grade. They are investigations driven by genuine interest and purpose.
The research process extends far beyond the classroom. Students conduct interviews (often on zoom), design surveys, and analyze real-world data. Through the International Freedom Seminar, they engage with Brookfield Academy’s freedom philosophy while examining historical context, cultural evolution, and the forces of globalization. The result is not just knowledge, but insight, and is paired with thoughtful, actionable recommendations.
International Freedom has given me the opportunity to explore an interest I have had in international affairs. Since it is a relaxed, but still structured environment, my classmates and I are able to discuss and dissect controversial topics through a freedom-oriented lens. I have been able to learn more about topics that I care about while learning from the others in their exploration of their countries of interest. I greatly enjoy the program. - Rachael Overland, Class of 2014
Alexis Wilson, Class of 2025 reiterated Rachael’s sentiment: I really appreciated the freedom with IFS- I liked the fact that I could work at my own pace and make decisions on my project freely. It felt very useful for preparing me for college. Honestly, I have no negative feedback on IFS- I loved it!
At Brookfield Academy, freedom is not just a concept. Through the IFS Program, it becomes an experience. These experiences take center stage during the International Freedom Scholars presentations to the Board of Directors, where students share their insights with confidence and clarity. Presentations this year are on April 21 in Patriots Hall College Room. Everyone is invited!
