Countryside Day School Head of School, Michele Aspinall
A pivotal moment
In a pivotal moment for Countryside Day School, the Board of Trustees is excited to announce the appointment of Michele Aspinall as the new Head of School. Michele, a dedicated member of the Countryside community for over three decades, steps into this leadership role following the departure of Wendy Calise, who has guided the school for the past twelve years. While Wendy’s absence will be deeply felt, Michele is poised to lead Countryside into an exciting new chapter.
A lifelong resident of the North Shore, Michele grew up in Glenview and has called Northbrook home with her husband and their two children, now 18 and 21. “I knew when I started at Countryside in the late eighties that I’d be a lifer, so Jim and I made a conscious decision to find a home nearby,” she shared. Michele and her husband enjoy supporting local businesses, often visiting favorites like Eat Taco in Northbrook and Stormy’s in Northfield.
Commitment
Michele’s commitment to Montessori education runs deep; her children began their Montessori journey at Countryside and continued through Beacon Academy High School in Evanston. “Countryside felt like the perfect place for me and my family,” she said. “It’s a close-knit school that fosters strong relationships among students, families, and staff. This environment allows me, as a new leader, to witness the transformative power of education firsthand.”
A strong background
With an extensive background of 36 years at Countryside, Michele has worked closely with both Wendy and Annette Kulle, the school’s founder. Her experience includes instrumental roles in various programs, such as the internationally recognized All-Year Montessori class, and she has mentored countless educators in the Montessori community. “I am honored to carry the torch of leadership and continue the legacy of authentic Montessori education that Frank and Annette Kulle established over 57 years ago,” Michele remarked. “With the support of our dedicated parents, teachers, and students, I look forward to fostering a nurturing environment that upholds our core values.”
Groundbreaking partnership with the Montessori Center of Minnesota (MCM)
In addition to this leadership transition, Countryside Day School is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the Montessori Center of Minnesota (MCM) to establish a new AMI Teacher Training Courses at their North Lodge facility on the Countryside campus. This collaboration will launch satellite courses for both 0-3 and 3-6 training programs beginning in July 2025. Guided by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), known for its rigorous teacher training programs founded by Maria Montessori, this initiative aligns with Countryside’s commitment to mentorship and professional development for educators. “We are excited to embark on this vital collaboration with MCM and AMI,” Michele added. “Together, we will continue to honor the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori and provide exceptional training for future educators.”
As Countryside Day School looks to the future, the community is encouraged to support Michele in her new role and to engage in the exciting developments that lie ahead.
For further information, please contact:
Countryside Day School
847.498.1105
[email protected]
https://www.countrysideday.org/
