History of our School
CountrySide Montessori School at the Little Mulberry Park was founded by Hannelore and Bill Gottschalk who both felt a deep commitment to the true methods of Dr. Maria Montessori.
Mrs. Gottschalk, a native of Kiel, Germany, has been involved in the early education field throughout her adult life and holds a master's degree in child development and family living. She received her bachelor's degree in teaching German and French. In 2001, she completed her AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) Montessori primary diploma from the internationally renowned Lilian Bryan of the Atlanta Montessori Institute.
For almost twenty years, Mrs. Gottschalk owned and managed four nationally accredit
ed preschools in Kentucky, and was honored with receiving recognition from Senator Ted Kennedy. Mrs. Gottschalk served on the Kentucky Governor's Child Care Council for two appointed 2 year terms and served for many years as a NAEYC validator (National Association for the Education of Young Children). Upon coming to Atlanta in 1992, Mrs. Gottschalk trained directors and teachers in different capacities throughout the United States. She is also an adjunct instructor at the University of Georgia, teaching Child Development Associate Credential Courses.
Mr. Gottschalk has had distinguished careers as an Air Force B-52 pilot, Air Force Academy Liaison Officer, and businessman. He holds a master's degree in business administration and received his law degree in 1999. He now practices law in Gwinnett County. Bill and Hanne have three grandchildren, and one well loved English Springer, Bridgett.
In 1998 when visiting a Montessori school in Cleveland, Ohio, Bill and Hanne knew that this method of teaching young children was superior. Since that time, they enthusiastically envisioned opening a small Montessori school of their own.
In the winter of 2001, after an extensive search for a location, they found a beautiful site for the CountrySide Montessori School at the Little Mulberry Park. The beautiful campus is nestled among pines and maples on two wooded acres, ideal for nature discovery and wholesome, safe outdoor activity for young children.
This site will also be large enough for adding future classrooms to serve the community.
In early 2005 the school will open with one primary class. Additional primary classes and a toddler class will be added as the school community grows.
The campus is located near the new 900 acres Little Mulberry Park, less than a quarter of a mile from our doors.
