our story
My wife and I have four children, and we’re trying to build the best school we can for them—and for as many local families as possible.
Nine years ago, we opened Atlas Academy with nothing but a garage full of Montessori materials and a vision. Before that, I was teaching Kindergarten at Brookside Elementary in Dracut, where I spent four years and earned my Master’s in Education.
One day, when our first child was just one year old, I left Brookside on my lunch break and started driving around looking for a place to start a school. I came across a small building on Sladen Street in Dracut, saw a number on the door, and called it. The owner picked up, and—to my surprise—she agreed to let us give it a try. We rented the space, showed up with a U-Haul, and unloaded everything we had collected, hoping someday we’d have a school. There were boxes on the floor, ceiling tiles missing—but in that room, we convinced our very first parent to let us teach their child.
Now, nine years later, Atlas has grown to serve over 60 students across six grade levels, from toddlers through 6th grade. In the fall of 2024, we opened a fifth classroom: our Upper Elementary program for 4th through 6th grade. I (Mr. G) am now completing my Montessori Upper Elementary training and serve as the classroom teacher. At the same time, Mrs. G stepped into the classroom for the first time as the lead guide in our Toddler Community, while training at one of the best Montessori toddler programs in the country.
We’re still growing, still learning, and still building. Our long-term dream is to one day move to a larger location and open a Montessori Middle School and High School—the first of its kind in Massachusetts.
What drives us is simple: we’re building the school we want for our own children—and offering it to others who believe in the same thing.
Our Leadership and Teachers
Michael Gustafson - Head of School - Upper Elementary Teacher
Iara Gustafson - Assistant Head of School - Infant & Toddler Teacher
Iara Gustafson - Assistant Head of School - Infant & Toddler Teacher
Meet Michael Gustafson, the visionary Head of School and now the Lead Upper Elementary (UE) teacher at Atlas Montessori. In 2018, Mike founded Atlas as a heartfelt endeavor for his first child, who was just a year old at the time. Beginning as the toddler teacher, Mike played a pivotal role in Atlas's growth to five classrooms, eventually assuming the role of Head of School. Now, as we embark on our ninth year, Mike's passion leads him to the Upper Elementary classroom.
Eager to enhance his expertise, Mike has almost completed his training with top Montessorians for his Montessori UE certificate. With nine years of dedication to Atlas, from preschool to sixth grade, Mike brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Thrilled to shape and elevate the UE program, Mike is committed to creating the highest quality Montessori experience for our students as they continue their educational journey at Atlas.
Iara Gustafson - Assistant Head of School - Infant & Toddler Teacher
Iara Gustafson - Assistant Head of School - Infant & Toddler Teacher
Iara Gustafson - Assistant Head of School - Infant & Toddler Teacher
Meet Iara Gustafson, our Assistant Head of School. With six years of experience in the Montessori environment and as a mother of four, Iara brings a wealth of knowledge, warmth, and a nurturing touch to our community.
Iara completed her Montessori Infant/Toddler Teacher certification in 2026, an important milestone that deepened her understanding of the unique developmental needs of young children. Her specialized Montessori training strengthens her ability to thoughtfully guide toddlers as they build confidence, independence, and a love of learning.
Iara is passionate about elevating the educational experience for every child in her care. Her loving nature, attention to detail, and organizational skills make her an exceptional guide during these important early years. Her commitment to ongoing professional development reflects her dedication to providing a high-quality Montessori experience.
With Iara, children are nurtured, inspired, and encouraged to explore the wonders of learning in a supportive and enriching environment.
Dorina Nimigean - Lead Primary Teacher
Iara Gustafson - Assistant Head of School - Infant & Toddler Teacher
Dorina Nimigean - Lead Primary Teacher
Meet Dorina, an integral part of the Atlas Academy community since 2019, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Armed with degrees in Earth Science from the University of Bucharest, Montessori education from Northeast Montessori Institute, and OG Dyslexia Therapy from Keene State College, Dorina possesses a versatile skill set to cater to diverse learning styles.
Her passion for education extends beyond traditional subjects as she incorporates her love for nature, books, music, and dance into captivating lessons, activities, experiments, and games for her students. Dorina's teaching philosophy resonates with Maria Montessori's quote: “The child should love everything that he learns, for his mental and emotional growths are linked.”
Beyond the classroom, Dorina embraces a rich tapestry of interests, including travel, orienteering, dance, reading, cooking, gardening, and spending quality time with friends. Her multifaceted approach to education and vibrant personality make Dorina a cherished member of our community.
Shawna Harrison - Lead Primary Teacher
Audrianna Som - Lead Lower Elementary Teacher
Dorina Nimigean - Lead Primary Teacher
Shawna Harrison brings over two decades of experience as a Montessori Primary Teacher to Atlas Academy. Her extensive background includes owning and operating her own Montessori program and serving as a Montessori Teacher Trainer. Shawna holds certifications as both a Montessori Primary and Montessori Lower Elementary teacher, reflecting her deep commitment to the Montessori philosophy and pedagogy.
With her wealth of knowledge and experience, Shawna is excited to join a school community that values children’s joyful experiences and academic achievements while holding them in the highest regard. Her passion for creating enriching learning environments makes her a valuable addition to our team.
Audrianna Som - Lead Lower Elementary Teacher
Audrianna Som - Lead Lower Elementary Teacher
Audrianna Som - Lead Lower Elementary Teacher
Meet Audri, an enthusiastic Lower Elementary Teacher at Atlas Academy with a lifelong passion for working with children. Her journey began as a volleyball coach for children with disabilities through Special Olympics, followed by teaching Pre-K in a daycare setting.
Audri is completing her Montessori Elementary Teacher certification in 2026, further strengthening her understanding of the Montessori method and how to thoughtfully support children through their elementary years. Her dedication to growing as an educator reflects her enthusiasm for creating meaningful, engaging learning experiences for every child.
Outside of the classroom, Audri enjoys training, exploring, and traveling with her two Australian Shepherds. We are thrilled to have her passion, energy, and commitment to Montessori education as part of the Atlas Academy community.