Scholarship Information
BASE Camp Scholarships
Formerly known as the Oak Park Education Foundation (OPEF), we are a nonprofit organization dedicated to making high-quality STEAM education accessible to every young person in the Oak Park community. Our goal is to inspire a lifelong love of learning by bringing artists, scientists and tech experts into Oak Park's public K-8 schools. Our vision is that every child served by Oak Park Education Network has the opportunity to explore their curiosities, dream big, and find their passions through our innovative programming. Our strengths lie in professionals who share their passion for learning with our public school kids.
Full Scholarship Award Information.
To qualify for a Full Scholarship, students must attend an Oak Park District 97 school and meet the qualifications for free or reduced lunch.
Camp Tuition
Covers either two weeks of full-day camp or four weeks of half-day camp, based on the standard camp rate for the child’s grade level.
Additional Services
Covers daily lunch and Extended Day services, if needed. Extended Day options include early drop off from 8:00–9:00 a.m. and extended camp in the afternoon from 3:00–6:00 p.m. . Families will receive coupon codes to cover these services.
Important Note
Families who received a 2026 camp scholarship and registered, but did not attend camp without prior notification are ineligible for a 2027 scholarship. We understand that plans can change, so families must provide at least two weeks’ notice if they need to cancel to avoid affecting future scholarship eligibility.
"We love OPEN Programs. My kids are so excited each summer for BASE Camp and learn so much! They have also enjoyed Spoken Word programs during the school day."
Local D97 Parent
Oak Park, Illinois
Partial Scholarship Award Information.
Families with children attending Oak Park District 97 schools may qualify for a partial scholarship if their household income exceeds the reduced lunch eligibility limit but they are experiencing financial hardship due to extenuating circumstances such as medical illness, recent job loss, or other unexpected challenges.
Camp Tuition
50% of camp fees of either two weeks of full-day camp or four weeks of half-day camp, based on standard camp rates for the student’s grade-level. Priority is given to families demonstrating the greatest financial need.
Additional Services
Additional optional services including Early Drop-Off and Extended Camp are not covered by partial scholarships and must be paid for at the full rate.
Important Note
Families who received a 2026 camp scholarship and registered, but did not attend camp are ineligible for a 2027 scholarship. We understand that plans can change, so families must provide at least two weeks’ notice if they need to cancel to avoid affecting future scholarship eligibility.
Every Dollar Opens a Door.
OPEN's programs are free to students — and possible because of the generosity of our donors, partners, and community. Your support keeps STEAM exploration accessible to every child in Oak Park, regardless of background.