History
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 language education, both German and French. In 2001, she completed her AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) Montessori primary diploma from the Montessori Institute of Atlanta. For almost twenty years, Mrs. Gottschalk owned and managed four nationally accredited preschools in Kentucky, and was honored with receiving recognition from Senator Ted Kennedy for excellence in early childhood education. 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
Specialties
We specialize in authentic Montessori education for young children, serving children between the ages of 21/2 and 7 years. In accordance with the high standards of AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) established by Dr. Maria Montessori herself, we provide an environment that is intellectually stimulating, peaceful and empowering. children develop self -confidence by learning about Practical Life activities, the Sensorial work, Reading and Writing work,Geography, Science, cultural and Math areas, and foreign landuages. Kindness and respect for one another and the world we live in are practiced on a daily basis. We have gardens with flowers, fruits, and vegetables so that children understand the food chain and how to care for our earth. Our teaching staff is multicultural, coming from Europe, South America, and Asia. We want the children to develop a love for learning which will serve them for the rest of their lives.