Home › About Us
The hearts behind Little Sprouts 🌱
Welcome to Little Sprouts Montessori! Family owned and operated since 1987, our school began its journey as the Montessori Schoolhouse, dedicated to raising independent, self-motivated students. In 2006, Nils and Angela took over leadership, beautifully nurturing our community for two decades. Today, that legacy continues as I step into ownership in 2026 honoring our rich history while cultivating a bright, fresh future for our littlest learners.
Amber Fitzgerald
Chief Executive Officer · Little Sprouts Montessori Schoolhouse
My story
My belief in the Montessori method isn't just professional - it's rooted in my own childhood. As a former student at Rogers Park Montessori School, I know exactly what it feels like to have your curiosity nurtured rather than managed. In 2021, my journey came full circle when I joined the team here at the Montessori Schoolhouse. This July, I am officially taking the reins as owner and director of operations. I am completely invested in this school, and I'm ready to protect and grow this space for our families, ensuring every child feels seen, capable, and valued.
My philosophy
I don't believe in standardizing children. My philosophy is built on absolute respect for a child's independence and natural capability. True education isn't about sitting still and absorbing facts; it's about giving children the freedom, tools, and respect they need to build their own confidence. My goal is to cultivate a fiercely independent, compassionate generation of thinkers.
Our incredible teaching team
Each guide brings unique gifts and a shared devotion to nurturing every child's potential.
Ms. Mahnaz
Lead Teacher
Miss Mahnaz is the true cornerstone of our schoolhouse family, bringing an elite level of expertise to Little Sprouts. She holds the prestigious Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) diploma with over two decades of dedicated classroom mastery. Deeply committed to the child-led Montessori curriculum, Miss Mahnaz also curates weekly booklists to introduce literature tailored to the children's evolving interests and current events, providing the students with a language-rich environment while also enriching their cultural awareness. As the leader of our Kindergarten skill-building program — which she single-handedly developed — she works closely with our "seniors" during their capstone year, nurturing the social independence, academic confidence, and leadership skills needed to transition seamlessly onto the next big chapter.
Ms. Bernardita
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Bernardita brings an elite level of international expertise to our classroom, backed by over 10 years of experience as a Lead Elementary Teacher in Chile and 5 years right here at Little Sprouts. She holds a demanding 5-year university degree in Primary Education, which she paired with an additional professional certification in English and linguistics. Because she spent over a decade guiding older children through critical developmental milestones, Ms. Bernardita masterfully bridges advanced educational science with the gentle independence of the Montessori method, making dual-language learning feel like an organic, joyful adventure for your child.
Ms. Ana
Executive & Classroom Assistant
Don't let the title fool you — Ms. Ana is an absolute powerhouse whose credentials and community roots run deep. She earned a rigorous 5-year university degree in Elementary Pedagogy, an advanced certification as a Certified English Teacher, and a Master's degree in Social Sciences with a concentration in History and Geography. Before joining Little Sprouts in 2006, she spent over 10 years as a Lead Elementary Teacher in Chile and built a rich second chapter right here in Springfield — teaching Spanish to children across the community. A certified Art Specialist at heart, Ms. Ana weaves creativity, language, and culture into every corner of the classroom. With two decades of hands-on Montessori experience, she has a rare gift for making daily Spanish immersion feel as natural and joyful as play — quietly laying the foundation for your child's lifelong academic success.
Ms. Janine
Classroom Assistant
Miss Janine has devoted most of her life to loving and educating children, whether it be her own or the wonder of others. Her greatest delight is to see a child learning…progressing in those lightbulb moments that change their world. Although new to the Montessori method, she treasures the steadfast focus and concentration it fosters in developing young minds and she is honored to play a small guiding role in the self discovery journey of “Little Sprouts”.
Ready to get started?
We'd love to meet your family. Apply today and take the first step toward a joyful Montessori journey.