Marijane Schafer, Director of MCDC

Hi, my name is Marijane Schafer. I grew up in Michigan. As a child I loved to be out of doors, ride my horse, swim in the lakes and play in the woods. Both my parents were in the medical field and I thought that was where I would end up. I was visiting the children’s center at the hospital as a young college student and was introduced to Montessori. I was fascinated and began to observe Montessori Schools. I was hooked. Though I never wanted to be a teacher, this was very different.

When I completed my BA I went on to Chicago to take the Montessori Teacher’s training. What a wonderful experience it has been to watch children from 3-6 years old grow to love learning and develop poise and confidence to meet challenges as they go on into the world. I always love to see former students when they come back to visit.

Over the past almost 40 years I have had the privilege of being a part of so many families’ lives. I trained and interned in Chicago, taught for 8 years in Michigan and Solana Beach then founded MCDC in 1978. I taught for the 1st ten years of the school and since have sat daily in the Directors chair.

I have one daughter and 2 granddaughters who all live in Oregon. My wonderful husband, Lew, began working with me (no longer behind the scenes) when we opened the toddler program next door in 2006. Most of our time is spent at the schools but when we can get away we love to cruise or go on spontaneous road trips with our dogs in tow. We also enjoy epicurean pursuits (in other words we are “foodies”).

It is important to me to be very involved in the everyday operation of the schools so you will see me in the driveway at arrivals and dismissals keeping things moving and having a chance to say “Hi”. I am always available for you.

They call me Miss Marijane and “the Boss” but just plain Marijane is best.


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