The initial seeds of Prairie School of DuPage were planted over 12 years ago in 2011. With 11 students, a handful of visionary educators, and dedicated parents who believed there was a better way to educate our future generations. From those humble beginnings, we now have almost 100 students in 7 different classes. The grounds and school buildings are full of children learning, growing, and interacting with each other and nature in organic and nurturing ways. The excitement the students have when they are in school each day is palpable and the growth we’ve experienced over the past several years as more parents choose experiential, nature-based learning is heartening.
As we’ve grown, we’ve been fortunate enough to also grow our classroom space. We have been able to create much-needed functional, collaborative spaces connected to nature and tucked in the trees. In 2021 we added two new outdoor classroom spaces. In 2022 we transformed the garage on the middle school campus into a beautiful, modern visual arts studio and science space. In addition, we added a garden shed and rain barrel water system to the school garden. Our new Forest Pre-school and Middle School yurts were completed just in time for the start of the 2023-24 school year. These classrooms and flex spaces are used for classes, programs, and as an inclement weather shelter. Those who have had the opportunity to tour the yurts know how magical these areas are for our students.
Over the next year, our vision for Prairie School includes adding
Please consider making a contribution toward a sustainable future for Prairie School of DuPage. Your gift, in any amount, will help us reach these goals.
While a gift of any amount is greatly appreciated, consider choosing one of these EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES to make a difference in a child’s education, and support a sustainable future for Prairie School of DuPage!
Donor Circles
Consider giving within one of our Donor Circles for tribute or memorial opportunities, VIP experiences, and limited edition Prairie School Swag! In addition to the benefits listed below, all donor circle members will receive invitations to a VIP experience in conjunction with our upcoming community events.
Yurt Circle - $10,000+ - Yurt Circle donors will be recognized on a beautiful bronze plaque to be installed by the school's new yurts. Donors may make their gift a tribute or memorial gift that honors someone or something important to them. Yurt Circle members will receive invitations to a VIP experience in conjunction with upcoming community events.
Bench Circle - $5,000 - $9,999 - Bench Circle donors will be recognized on a new bench that will be installed on the school grounds. Donors may make their gift a tribute or memorial gift that honors someone or something important to them. Bench Circle members will receive invitations to a VIP experience in conjunction with upcoming community events.
Tree Circle - $2,500 - $4,999 - Tree Circle donors will be recognized on beautiful, natural wood signage under the new trees being planted around the yurts in the Spring of 2024. Donors may make their gift a tribute or memorial gift that honors someone or something important to them. Tree Circle members will receive invitations to a VIP experience in conjunction with upcoming community events.
Garden Circle - $1,000 - $2,499 - Garden Circle donors will receive a customized paver stone in one of our new gardens. Donors may make their gift a tribute or memorial gift that honors someone or something important to them.
Bulb Circle - $500 - $999 - Donors at this level will receive a limited edition Prairie School tote bag filled with limited edition Prairie School SWAG!
Seed Circle - $250 - $499 - The first 25 donors to donate at this level will receive a limited edition insulated Prairie School lunch bag
Gifts of any amount are greatly appreciated and will make a meaningful difference to Prairie School of DuPage. Thank you for your generosity and belief in the power of a nature-based education.
You can donate online, or send a check directly to:
Prairie School of DuPage, 1926 N. Main St. Wheaton, IL 60187
Group Gifting
If you’d like to combine your gift with friends or family members (aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc) to reach a certain donor circle, please reach out to giving@prairieschoolofdupage.org and we’d be happy to coordinate that.
Gifts that Honor
Tribute gifts are a thoughtful way to celebrate your child or grandchild’s birthday or special occasion. Memorial gifts serve as a special way to remember someone by honoring the memory of a friend or relative.
The school acknowledges your gift and notifies the honoree or appropriate persons that a tribute or memorial donation was made. The amount of your gift is kept confidential. Any tribute or memorial gift that falls within a Donor Circle will also allow the donor the ability to honor that special person(s) with a naming or message memorialized on our beautifully created plaques and signage.
Corporate Matches
Did you know that many companies will match your charitable gift? Reach out to your human resources department to see if your company has charitable giving matches and double your impact!
Prairie School of DuPage is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and all contributions are fully deductible.