Award-Winning Programs
Architecture Adventure
Architects design, build and explore the human-made world with K-8th graders.
Art Start
Artists animate the curriculum through visual and performing arts with K-2nd graders.
Geared Up
3rd-grade students engineer simple machines using specialized LEGOs.
Science Alliance
Working scientists conduct experiments and lead field trips with 3rd-8th graders.
Spoken Word
Middle schoolers find and cultivate their unique voices by reading, writing and performing poetry.
Vex Robotics
Tech experts work with teams of middle schoolers to design, build, program and compete with robots.
What’s New
Bingo Bash honoree says OPEF program transformative for kids, teachers
'Allowing teachers to see students for who they really are’ Buying a ticket to OPEF’s re-invented fundraiser not only allows you to support amazing enrichment programs in Oak Park schools, it also gives you a chance to celebrate an influential teacher who does so...
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Introducing the Bingo Bash Planning Committee
What does it take to pull off a bingo-themed party for 200 people and make sure your guests can win great prizes, enjoy yummy food and drinks, and support a great cause while having fun with friends and neighbors? The first, most important step is to deploy an...
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A Big Idea to SHINE
We know how important summer and extra-curricular activities are for children. It's a thrill to watch kids engage in active, hands-on learning, having new experiences and making new friends. We're fortunate that our donors have made our robust scholarship program...
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JOIN US FOR THESE AND OTHER EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR!
Summer's End Soiree
September 2019 – Late summer gathering with food, drinks, and conversation–all to benefit OPEF’s BASE Camp Scholarship Fund.
Super STEAM Saturday
November 2019 – Join us for a family friendly fun day of science and art and learn a little more about OPEF and our programs.
Battle of the Bots
March 2, 2019 – Exciting all-day competition for local middle school VEX Robotics teams
Bingo Bash
March 15, 2019 – Join us for Bingo Bash, a new kind of FUNdraising.
Respect The Mic Spoken Word Slam
May 7, 2019 – Middle School Spoken Word Club members gather at School of Rock to showcase their poetry and writing skills
See Us in Action!
“There isn’t any other part of our curriculum that is like this. It gives students a glimpse into a very specific world of science through a person who is making a career of it, but it also carries over into our everyday science units in school. I appreciate the time the scientists give this program.”
District 97 Teacher