Opening Minds with Inventive Learning.
Joyful, hands-on STEAM programs in every District 97 school — turning curious kids into confident creators.
Our Approach
Open minds, empower potential
Every child grows as a confident problem solver and change agent
Unite schools, experts & communities
Expert-led, locally connected, equitable and inclusive.
Joyful, hands-on STEAM exploration
In-school, after-school, summer and community programs from K–8.
Our Learning Pillars
Joyful, hands-on learning
Engaged, active and having fun.
Expert teachers & partners
Real-world experts in every room.
Accessible & inclusive
Every child welcomed; every voice valued.
Future-ready skills
Creativity to career awareness.
An Intentional Learning Journey, K through 8.
Every OPEN program is designed for where your child is — and where they're headed. From a first grader's first brushstroke to an 8th grader mapping their career path, this is one continuous journey.
In-School Enrichment
| Art Start | K-Gr 2 |
| Science Alliance | Gr 3-4 |
| VEX IQ Robotics | Gr 5 |
| Spoken Work Residency | Gr 6-8 |
After-School Enrichment
| Afterschool Enrichment* | K-Gr 2 |
| VEX Robotics Club | Gr 6-8 |
| Spoken Word Club | Gr 6-8 |
* Fee-based. Scholarships available.
Summer Programs
| BASE Camp* | Gr 1-8 |
| STEAM Fest | K-5 |
* Open to D97 and non-D97 families.
Our Strategic Commitments
High-quality learning
Best practice, measurable growth.
Equity in action
Every student, any background, can thrive.
An integrated approach
STEAM that reinforces core learning.
Secret Ingredient
Future-ready planning
Evolving with community needs.
D97 Portrait alignment
Creativity, agency, collaboration, wellness.
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.