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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.
Seven 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, seven years later, Atlas has grown to serve nearly 80 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
Michael Gustafson - Head of School - Upper Elementary Teacher
Michael Gustafson - Head of School - Upper Elementary 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 four classrooms, eventually assuming the role of Head of School. Now, as we embark on our seventh year, Mike's passion leads him to the Upper Elementary classroom.
Eager to enhance his expertise, Mike looks forward to training with top Montessorians for his Montessori UE certificate. With six years of dedication to Atlas, from preschool to fourth 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 - Toddler Teacher
Michael Gustafson - Head of School - Upper Elementary Teacher
Michael Gustafson - Head of School - Upper Elementary Teacher
Meet Iara Gustafson, our Assistant Head of School. With three years of experience in the Montessori environment and raising three children of her own, Iara brings a wealth of knowledge and a nurturing, motherly touch to our community. Currently pursuing Montessori Toddler training, she is dedicated to elevating the educational experience for every toddler in her care. Iara's loving nature, attention to detail, and organizational skills make her the ideal guide for your little one's growth. Her commitment to ongoing professional development ensures a high-quality Montessori experience. Entrust your child to Iara's care, where they will be nurtured, inspired, and encouraged to explore the wonders of learning in a supportive and enriching environment.
Brianne Smith - School Administrator
Michael Gustafson - Head of School - Upper Elementary Teacher
Dorina Nimigean - Lead Primary Teacher
Meet Brianne, our devoted Lead Early Childhood Educator who is transitioning into a vital role as the School Administrator at Atlas Montessori. With a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and EEC lead certification, Brianne has been an integral part of our community since 2019. Stepping out of the classroom, she embraces the opportunity to bring her skills to a new capacity, offering more time and flexibility for her family.
Having previously worked in local public elementary schools and preschools, Brianne's experience uniquely positions her to contribute to Atlas's mission in this administrative role. Beyond her professional dedication, Brianne finds joy in family moments with her two children and beloved dog, Kane. Her enthusiasm for Early Childhood Education remains steadfast, and she is excited to continue shaping the Atlas experience from a different vantage point, ensuring the ongoing success and growth of our school.
Dorina Nimigean - Lead Primary Teacher
Christi George - Lower Elementary Lead 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
Christi George - Lower Elementary Lead Teacher
Christi George - Lower Elementary Lead 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.
Christi George - Lower Elementary Lead Teacher
Christi George - Lower Elementary Lead Teacher
Christi George - Lower Elementary Lead Teacher
Meet Christi, our experienced Lower Elementary Educator and a valuable addition to the Atlas Academy community. Christi embarked on her teaching journey as a lower elementary co-teacher at Andover School of Montessori after achieving her Elementary I AMS certification. Her dedication and expertise flourished during her 13-year tenure at Hill View Montessori Charter Public School in Haverhill, MA, where she served as a lead teacher and assistant teacher mentor, contributing to the data team and charter renewal committee.
Christi's commitment to professional growth led her to complete the Montessori Coaches training, resulting in her role as a consultant at Southern New Hampshire Montessori Academy in Londonderry, NH. Last year, Cambridge Montessori recruited her to lead a lower elementary class, and now, in her pursuit of a better work-life balance, Christi is thrilled to join Atlas Academy. With excitement, she looks forward to connecting with students and staff, bringing her wealth of experience and passion for Montessori education to our close-knit community.
Audrianna Som - Lower Elementary Associate Teacher
Audrianna Som - Lower Elementary Associate Teacher
Audrianna Som - Lower Elementary Associate Teacher
Meet Audri, an enthusiastic Lower Elementary Teacher at Atlas Academy, with a passion for education that has been evident since a young age. Audri's journey into teaching began as a volleyball coach for children with disabilities at Special Olympics, followed by a role at a daycare where she taught Pre-K. While initially studying Psychology in college, Audri is gearing up to return and pursue a degree in education.
This summer, Audri will embark on a new chapter as she undergoes training to become a Lower Elementary teacher at Atlas Academy. Alongside her commitment to education, Audri dedicates much of her time to training, exploring, and traveling with her two Australian Shepherd dogs. Her eagerness to create lasting memories and delve into the Montessori method aligns seamlessly with the ethos of Atlas Academy, and we are thrilled to have Audri as a valued member of our community.