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?
Announcing the 2017-18 VEX Robotics recruitment
District 97 middle school students interested in participating in the OPEF VEX Robotics program must attend a Student Interest Meeting in September at their school.
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Exciting changes for OPEF VEX this season
Exciting changes are coming to the OPEF VEX Robotics program this year that will make this season our most exciting yet!
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Learn More about Oak Park
One of the best things about BASE Camp is the way it connects students not only to each other, but […]
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OPEF VEX Robotics completes its 11th season
A look back at the 2016-17 season in which we served more kids in more ways than ever before.
Read More ›Events
Join us for these and other events throughout the year!
Summer's End Soiree
September 8, 201 7 - Luscious late summer gathering with food, drinks, and conversation.
Open House
November 4, 2017 - Join us for a family friendly fun day of science and art and learn a little more about OPEF and our programs.
Staszak Gala
2018 DATE: March 17th
Swanky cocktail party and fundraising auction at the gorgeous Columbus Park Refectory
Details to Come!
Battle of the Bots
2018 DATE: TBD
Exciting all-day competition for local middle school VEX Robotics teams
Spoken Word
Poetry Slam
2018 Date: TBD
Poets from Gwendolyn Brooks and Percy Julian Middle Schools gather on stage to showcase their poetry and writing skills
See Us In Action!
District 97 Teacher
"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."