Our Story

Unveiling the LSA-K Story in Catherine’s Words

Story of Little Scholars Academy

OUR STORY

Hello! I'm Catherine Doberstein, Proud Owner of Little Scholars Academy of Kannapolis.

My first center, Little Scholars Academy of Lake Norman, opened in 2011 in Huntersville, starting with just one class and one student. Through a nurturing environment and hands-on Reggio Emilia approach, it has blossomed into a thriving preschool beloved by the community.

After graduating from the University of Michigan in 2010 with a Bachelor’s in Children and Family Studies, I moved to North Carolina. While exploring schools to work in, I noticed a lack of independent preschools. The area was saturated with franchised daycares that didn’t fit my philosophy of what early childhood education should be. I knew I wanted to open my own school one day, so I took the leap.

Launching Little Scholars Academy allowed me to shape the warm, inquiry-based learning environment I envisioned. Over the past decade, I’ve been privileged to serve so many wonderful families.

My husband Ryan and I married in 2016, and now have two beautiful children, Brock and Anna. As a mother myself, I understand the trust required in finding care and education for your little ones. At Little Scholars Academy, our top priority is nurturing each child’s unique potential in a safe, caring atmosphere. It’s my life’s joy to help our Little Scholars blossom!

Please reach out if you would like to learn more about how our Reggio Emilia approach can benefit your child. I welcome the opportunity to partner with you in this important journey.

Warmly,

Catherine Doberstein

Owner – Little Scholars Academy

Catharine and Ryan Doberstein
LSAKannapolis_OurStory

We Are Inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach to Early Childhood Education.

This unique approach to education offers an environment geared towards the child and holds an image of children as being strong, powerful, rich in potential, and an integral members of the community. Children should be treated with the same respect as adults – honoring their choices and inspirations. We believe this approach allows your child to reach maximum potential, nourishing their curiosities and inquiring minds, and guides them in growing respect for their own self and the world around them.

Now Enrolling for the 2024-2025 School Year!

CALL US FOR MORE INFORMATION