Heard From OurPeridot Families

"Gretchen is an amazing Montessori guide. She set up, directed, and taught in our daughter's toddler program. Our daughter went to Ms. Gretchen at barely 18 months and stayed with her happily, until we moved about a year later. When we moved, the standard that Gretchen had set for our expectations of a Montessori school was difficult to find anywhere else. If we could commute from Chicago, for our child to continue with Gretchen — we would! Her classrooms feel calm and peaceful, allowing every child to flourish. Grace and courtesy are abundant among the children, guides, and assistant. Our daughter learned several new skills and grew confidence in Ms. Gretchen's classroom. She was happy to go to school in the morning and to tell us about her day, when we picked her up."

"Gretchen is a wonderful guide for young children. She is a devoted teacher who is sensitive to the needs of young ones. She is patient, kind, and respectful of the minds of children who are eager to learn about the world. The learning environment nurtures the mind and body by offering hands-on experiences for exploring and discovering. Families will no doubt be equally drawn to her passion."

"Gretchen — simply a true Maria Montessori protégé. You will not find a more dedicated, loving professional who always thinks "outside of the box", who prepares just the right amount of challenge, and who strengthens each student's abilities. At Peridot Montessori you will discover an environment that encourages and allows for the natural human tendencies to be nurtured and respected. As an educator and parent, I whole heartedly believe a Montessori education is truly one of the greatest gifts you can give your child."

"Gretchen is a wonderful teacher. She was Liliana's first guide/teacher at Cool Springs Montessori when we brought her in at 18 months and we are thankful that she was her first teacher. Liliana really latched on to her as did we because Ms. Gretchen was truly engaged as a teacher. She really cared about developing a sense of independence and respect for the kids following the Montessori principles. Ms. Gretchen took control over the classroom, but did not rule it. She let the kids be themselves but not be disrespectful."

"Ms. Gretchen taught our daughter for two years in the toddler class. Throughout the two years that Ms. Gretchen taught our daughter, she was very responsive to her needs and proved to be a very gentle, caring and nurturing person. She is very knowledgeable and shows great pride in the development and advancement of the children. She took the time to really understand and get to know our daughter in order to educate her with an individualized and tailored learning approach."

"Gretchen cares so much about the Montessori method and about the children that come into her life. She is incredibly dedicated — her ability to balance all aspects of her life and still be patient, present, and committed to each one of them is a testament to how hard-working she is. By sending your child to Peridot Montessori, you are ensuring that they receive a genuine Montessori education from someone who is truly knowledgeable, passionate, and committed. Your family is lucky to have the opportunity to learn from Gretchen."

"Gretchen was the "favorite teacher." My daughter still asks about her to this day. Miss Gretchen always made her feel special and loved. She made learning fun, and "being independent" and "cleaning up after" were priorities my daughter brought home and has helped to teach her much older siblings. I would highly recommend any endeavor Gretchen is involved in and I am sure her school is superior."

"We met Ms. Gretchen when our son was just 20 months old at Montessori Academy in Brentwood. She is very kind, nurturing and well grounded in Montessori concepts. She took keen interest in each child and helped them in their self development. Even after 5 years, our son has memories of her teaching him to wear his jacket all by himself. She has helped him and us in learning the importance of independence during the early years."

"As a Montessori teacher of 35 years and former Montessori administrator, I enthusiastically recommend Gretchen Podolny. She is an outstanding teacher and has a manner with children that encourages both independence and self regulation. She is kind, nurturing, and strives to recognize and meet each individual child's needs. Ms. Podolny established excellent collaborative and supportive relationships with families and co-workers."