Annual Appeal
At The Children’s School, we believe education is not just about knowledge — it’s about courage. It’s about inspiring young minds to encounter differences with curiosity, resolve conflicts with empathy, and take bold risks in their learning and lives. Joyful, active learning thrives in our classrooms.
But tuition alone does not cover the cost of a TCS education. Since our founding, we have been committed to making our programs accessible to a wide range of families. Each year, the generosity of donors like you enables us to keep tuition affordable while also extending financial aid to those who need it. Your support makes The Children's School possible!
Bridging the gap
Average tuition at TCS: $15,333
Annual cost of educating each student: $19,640
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Gap of $4,307 x 87 students = $347,709
Our Annual Appeal is our most important fundraising event and is critical for bridging the gap between tuition and the full cost of a TCS education. We depend on funds donated through the Annual Appeal to continue to provide an outstanding progressive education to all of our students.
Our 2025 goal: $125,000
Your gift to the 2025 Annual Appeal supports this year's operating costs, directly impacting the education and experiences of our students, including:​
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Hiring and retaining outstanding educators
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Maintaining our beautiful learning spaces
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Supporting arts education, including fine arts, performing arts, and STEAM classes​
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Bringing student learning outside the classroom through fieldwork, outdoor education, and nature play
Double the impact of your gift
We are excited to kick off our 2025 Annual Appeal with an incredible announcement: an anonymous donor has committed $25,000, and the TCS Board has added their own $25,000, to start us off with $50,000 in matching funds!
Here’s the exciting part: Every dollar you donate above what you gave last year will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000, doubling your impact! If you gave last year, please consider increasing your gift.
100 percent participation
We are also pleased and proud to announce that 100 percent of our board members and 100 percent of our staff have donated or pledged to donate to the Annual Appeal.​ Our goal is 100 percent participation from families of currently enrolled students, as well. Any amount you can donate is appreciated and helps us reach our goal!
Ways to give
Give Online
Donate securely online here: Annual Appeal
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Or save online fees (3-4%) by using one of the following:
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Give via Zelle
Send a gift directly through Zelle using:
(Please include “Annual Appeal” in the memo.)
Mail a Check
Mail a check payable to The Children’s School:
The Children’s School
820 Ontario, Oak Park, IL 60302
(Include “Annual Appeal” in the memo.)
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Employer Matching
Many workplaces will match your donation, doubling or even tripling your gift.​ If your employer participates, request a match for The Children’s School of Oak Park!