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?
Shop, Enjoy, & Donate with Whole Foods
We are thrilled to announce that the the Whole Foods in River Forest will be donating 5% of their profits […]
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End of Summer Soirée for Scholarships
Both new and long-time supporters stopped by the historic home of Mary Jo & Stephen Schuler last Friday night to […]
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Building a Sustainable Future for OPEF Robotics
Over the years the VEX Robotics program has continued to grow, helping Oak Park middle school students gain valuable […]
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'A great legacy for the students at this school to uphold'
The following is a transcription of the remarks Faith Julian made at the dedication ceremony for the BASE Camp mural […]
Read More ›Events
Join us for these and other events throughout the year!
Summer's End Soiree
September 7, 2018- Luscious late summer gathering with food, drinks, and conversation.
Open House
November 3, 2018 - Join us for a family friendly fun day of science and art and learn a little more about OPEF and our programs.
Fundraising Party
March 15, 2019
Join us for a new kind of fundraising event coming to the 19th Century Club this spring.
Battle of the Bots
Date TBA - Exciting all-day competition for local middle school VEX Robotics teams
Spoken Word
Poetry Slam
DATE TBA
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."