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In 1st grade social studies, students have been learning about service providers in their communities.

Parent volunteers visited their children’s classrooms to present about their jobs, discuss the tools and skills they use, and answer our curious students’ questions.

In 1st grade social studies, students have been learning about service providers in their communities. Parent volunteers visited their children’s classrooms to present about their jobs, discuss the tools and skills they use, and answer our curious students’ questions. From doctors and attorneys, to singers, pilots, and more, the students were exposed to a wide-range of intriguing professions represented within our diverse parent community.

Mike Schur (SSDS ‘98) came to visit his son Charlie’s classroom to teach Ms. Pogrund’s students about his work as an architect. Mike brought along a special artifact that he’s held onto from his days as a Schechter student.

“I’ve always traced my early interest in architecture back to Mrs. Cantor’s 3rd grade ‘Famous Buildings of Chicago’ report,” he said. “This introduction to a field that brings history, people, place, creativity, and art together in impactful ways has since become a lifelong passion that I am lucky to practice daily.”

Mike is now an architect and strategist at Gensler, the world’s largest design firm. He leads the firm’s wellness practice with projects extending far beyond Chicago and spanning a range of markets, but primarily centered in education and healthcare.

“A key to my success has been the ability to think critically about complex challenges and articulate solutions through design and storytelling. My Schechter education helped me cultivate those skills.”

—Mike Schur

The Schurs are a third generation Schechter family. Mike’s grandmother is beloved former Head of School, Charlotte Glass.

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