There is only so much you can learn about community and commerce from a textbook. This week, the third-grade math enrichment students from District 123 decided to see the real thing for themselves, trading their desks for a day-long tour of Oak Lawn’s most important landmarks.
The goal was simple: get into the heart of the village and see how it actually works.
The morning kicked off at Wintrust Bank, where the "math" part of math enrichment became very real. Students moved past the teller lines for a rare look inside the vault, sparking a big conversation about why saving money matters and how a local bank operates behind the scenes.
From there, the group headed to the Oak Lawn Police Department. The officers didn't just talk about safety; they let the kids get hands-on with their gear and take a close-up look at the patrol cars. The highlight for many? Stepping inside a real jail cell—an experience that definitely left an impression.
The tour wrapped up with a special invitation to Village Hall. Students were welcomed into the personal office of Mayor Terry Vorderer, who took the time to explain how local leaders make the big decisions that affect everyone in town. It wasn't just a lesson in government; it was a chance for the kids to see that their voices and their community leaders are accessible.
By the end of the day, the students weren't just tired—they were inspired. Teachers noted the day was full of "aha!" moments and big smiles, proving that some of the best lessons happen when you step out of the classroom and into the streets of your own backyard.
