Alumni spotlight: Gabrielle Cohen ‘11
Gabi has always been drawn to helping children learn and grow, and said that pursuing a career in education felt like such a natural path and even a calling. “I started working with children at a young age babysitting, nannying, serving as a camp counselor at Banner Day Camp, and gaining hands-on experience at my high school’s preschool program. These experiences solidified that teaching was the right path for me,” she said.
“I’m passionate about working with young children and fostering a love of learning from an early age,” Gabi added. “One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally, and knowing I play a role in fostering their curiosity, confidence, and development.”
After graduating from Glenbrook North High School, Gabi headed to the University of Arizona, where she earned her degree in Early Childhood Education with an ESL endorsement. She was an active member of Theta sorority, building lifelong friendships that continue to enrich her life today. Now living in River North, Chicago, Gabi teaches first grade at Central Elementary School in Riverside, IL. Before that, she spent five years teaching Kindergarten at Joyce Kilmer Elementary School in Rogers Park.
Outside of school, Gabi’s life is filled with dance and exercise, travel, and time with friends. “I’ve danced my entire life, and I still love taking dance classes whenever I can,” she said. Her travel bug has taken her to 14 countries, including four trips to Israel. “One of those visits was especially meaningful, as I participated in a bilingual summer program at a school in Tel Aviv, which deepened both my cultural understanding and my love for education,” she said.
Gabi has also found joy in fashion and design, and on weekends she works as a wedding planner assistant. “This work allows me to combine my love of design, organization, and helping others during one of the most special days of their lives,” she said.
When asked what she is most proud of, Gabi said, “...creating a life that truly reflects who I am and what I value. From building lasting friendships, many of which go all the way back to my days at Schechter, to landing my dream job in my ideal school and district, I’ve worked hard to turn my goals into reality. Each step has been a reflection of both personal growth and professional dedication, and I feel incredibly fulfilled by the path I’ve created.”
Looking back, Gabi said Schechter gave her the foundation to succeed both academically and personally. “Schechter instilled in me strong values, a sense of integrity, and a deep appreciation for the power of community. I learned the importance of being a kind, compassionate person and of contributing to something larger than myself. These lessons have guided me through high school, into my career, and beyond,” she said.
One of the most impactful experiences at Schechter came when she traveled to Israel in 8th grade with her classmates. “That trip, along with the daily immersion in Jewish life and learning, helped me form a strong sense of Jewish identity early on.”
Gabi said she continues to value the lifelong friendships she made at Schechter. “I still keep in touch with four of my close friends from Schechter, including one of my best friends since Kindergarten, Hannah Lynch, who just got engaged last week!” she said.
She also values the deep connection to Jewish culture, tradition, and community. “Schechter helped me build a spiritual foundation and a sense of faith that continues to guide me. I feel proud to be Jewish and grateful to have grown up in a community where that pride was nurtured and celebrated,” she said. “The Schechter community also taught me the deep importance of being Jewish and the strength that comes from being surrounded by a shared culture and values. It instilled in me a sense of unity and belonging that I carry with me to this day,” Gabi said.
“When October 7th happened, I felt the weight of that moment personally, even though I didn’t know anyone directly affected,” she added. “That’s the power of the Jewish community: no matter where we are in the world, we are deeply connected. The pain of one is the pain of all, and that sense of collective responsibility and shared identity was something Schechter helped shape in me. I see the global Jewish community as an extension of my family, and I’m proud to be a part of it,” she said.
Her advice to her younger self? “Be patient, because it will all work out in time,” she said. And for Gabi, it certainly has.
