History Fair: An Investment in Your Students' Education

The nationally-recognized Chicago Metro History Education Center is a not-for-profit, independent organization established in 1977. Schools that participate in the Chicago Metro History Fair are asked to join the History Fair Partners Program for an annual fee which contributes to the overall cost of providing History Fair services to the school's students and teachers. The majority of History Fair schools include the HF Partners fee in their School Improvement Plan and annual school budget, but in same cases schools may need to secure support from community sponsors, local businesses, parents, or donor websites.

The $450 History Fair Partner fee entitles schools to the following benefits:

• Free school visit by History Fair staff (the one-time school visit includes either sessions with students or a 1.5 hour workshop with History Fair teachers, materials included)
• Free registration for students at regional competitions
• Free or at-cost registration for teachers at professional development workshops and invitations to all History Fair-sponsored events
• Free or at-cost educational materials for History Fair teachers and students
• Free coaching sessions where students can receive feedback on their projects from History Fair staff and trained volunteers
• Phone and email consultation for students and teachers
• Framed Certificate of Partnership

Exceptions to the $450 fee:

• Schools participating in the History Fair for the first time will be charged an introductory rate of $150.
• Special rate for schools that have both elementary and high school programs: $800 ($400 per school).

The following fee structure applies to schools that have not paid the History Fair Partners fee but still participated in the History Fair services and activities:

• School visit: $325
• Entry fees for participation at regional competitions: $50 per student, not project
  
• Teacher and Student Workshops: varies by workshop (generally $35-$150 range)

Schools in exceptional circumstances may apply for a one-time fee waiver. Please complete and return application.
Click here to download the History Fair Partners Fee Waiver application. (PDF)