How Stepping Stone Montessori Was Born
Stepping Stone Montessori is more than just a school; it’s a testament to the enduring power of love and the transformative spirit of education. Born from the memory of Uday, Aparna’s cherished brother and Nikhil’s beloved brother-in-law, the school embodies the values that defined his brief but extraordinary life.
Uday, tragically lost at the young age of 25, left behind a legacy of academic excellence and entrepreneurial ambition. His passing deeply affected those who knew and loved him, prompting Aparna and Nikhil to seek a way to honor his memory and spirit.
From this deeply personal journey emerged Stepping Stone Montessori — inspired by Uday’s first school experiences at age two, the school aims to nurture children with the same foundational values: love, respect, care, education, and growth.
Mission & Goals
Nurturing Future Leaders
Guiding each child toward a fulfilling future by fostering kindness, self-discipline, critical thinking, self-reliance, and self-esteem.
Unleashing Potential
Maximizing each child’s potential through engaging, creative programs, collaborative partnerships, and a dedicated staff.
Cultivating Responsible Citizens
Instilling respect and responsibility for oneself, others, and the world. Graduates emerge equipped to make a positive impact on society.
Empowering Families
Partnering with families to holistically develop each child’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical potential.
Meet Our Leadership
Our teachers are creative, understanding, and passionate. All Lead Teachers are Montessori trained/certified and experienced.
Aparna A. Banka
Hailing from India, Ms. Aparna completed her undergraduate studies before earning a Master’s degree from Birmingham University, UK, and later her CPA certification in the US. Her son’s transformative Montessori experience fueled her aspiration to establish SSMS.
aparna@steppingstonemontessori.comAnjana Yonzon
Ms. Anjana Yonzon, also known as Ms. Anjie, is an AMS-trained and certified Montessori educator with extensive experience as a Lead Teacher, Director, and Director of Education. She is passionate about creating supportive Montessori environments, mentoring teachers, partnering with families, and helping each child grow with confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
administrator@steppingstonemontessori.comCathy Mauragas
With over 40 years in preschool education and 25+ years as a Director, Ms. Cathy brings deep expertise in child development. She champions a holistic approach that embraces each child’s individuality and fosters essential life skills.
info@steppingstonemontessori.comThe Stepping Stone Difference
- Authentic Montessori Education
- Serving Children 6 Weeks – 6 Years
- Two Convenient North Georgia Campuses
- Low Teacher-to-Student Ratio
- Hot Catered Lunches Included Daily
- Quality Rated School
- Large Classrooms & Outdoor Learning Space
- Family-Owned & Operated
Family-Focused. Community-Driven.
For over a decade, Stepping Stone Montessori has helped hundreds of children develop confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning — in a safe, warm, and carefully prepared environment.
Trusted by Hundreds of North Georgia Families
Over a decade of excellence, recognized by our community and proven by the families who trust us every day.
What Children Gain from Montessori
Our graduates leave with more than academics — they leave with a deep foundation of life skills and character.
Independence
Children learn to work, think, and make decisions for themselves from the very first day.
Concentration
Deep focus and the ability to work independently for extended periods.
Problem-Solving Skills
Critical thinking and the confidence to find solutions independently.
Confidence
Real accomplishments build genuine self-esteem — not praise, but mastery.
Respect for Others
Grace and courtesy as daily practice, not just rules.
Love of Learning
Intrinsic curiosity and joy that lasts a lifetime.
Academic Readiness
Reading, writing, and math skills that exceed traditional benchmarks.
Leadership Skills
Self-direction and initiative developed through years of guided independence.
Our Educators
Every teacher at Stepping Stone is hand-selected for their passion, expertise, and commitment to child development.
Montessori Trained
All Lead Teachers hold recognized Montessori certifications (AMI or AMS).
Passionate About Child Development
Our educators genuinely love what they do — and children feel the difference every single day.
Ongoing Professional Development
Regular conferences, workshops, and collaborative learning.
CPR & First Aid Certified
All staff are trained and certified in pediatric first aid and CPR.
Background Checked
Every staff member passes thorough background checks before working with children.
Experience Why Our Children Are Happy to Learn
Space is limited. Schedule your personal tour today and see authentic Montessori education in action at both our Cumming and Suwanee campuses.
Book Your Tour Today