As a K-12 institution catering specifically to unique learning needs, The Cottage School celebrates 40 years of empowering remarkable students. Its mission, which remains, since the school’s inception in 1985, is clear. Building a sense of self for students with special learning needs through academic and experiential programming, preparing individuals to fulfill their true potential as confident, productive, and independent adults.
This milestone year is special as they open the new elementary campus in Roswell. It is home to over 60 eager learners and still growing.
Dr. Steve Palmer, the visionary leader, has always championed the power of early intervention, and response from community and families has been overwhelmingly positive. Palmer, is a dedicated educator and advocate recognized with numerous honors, including the prestigious Teacher of the Year and Disney's Teacherrific award. In 2019, he was named Greater North Fulton Nonprofit Leader of the Year. Having 30 years of experience serving students with learning differences, he is also a prominent figure on several educational boards, including as Chair/President of the Georgia Independent School Association and a board member of the Atlanta Autism Consortium. His vision is rooted in collaboration with the community to raise awareness and advance solutions for learners with diverse needs.
Growing up in Florida and understanding the philosophies that made Disney World the happiest place on Earth, Dr. Palmer fostered a similar ethos at TCS. He believes that schools, too, can be joyous environments for learning. His philosophy is simple: “We do not have to be here at TCS; we get to be here.” This shift in perspective cultivates a positive atmosphere for both students and staff.
One of Dr. Palmer's primary goals is for students to "Find Their Voice." He empowers them to advocate for themselves, highlighting that students with learning differences—are simply "smart kids learning differently." The secret lies in teaching them in ways that resonate with their unique ways of thinking.
At The Cottage School, students are encouraged to view their learning differences not as obstacles, but as advantages or “superpowers.” The staff works diligently to help students recognize and harness their strengths, fostering resilience for the future. They build relationships, inspire confidence, and ignite passion in the students.
Many successful individuals ranging from artists to entrepreneurs have navigated similar challenges and turned their differences into incredible opportunities.
The collaborative spirit among families and the TCS board ensures that every child feels valued and understood. With this board support, TCS is allowed to flourish and continue fulfilling its mission.
Dr. Palmer asserts, “It is not a mindset; it is a heartset.” Students with learning challenges can dream big and achieve anything when placed in the right educational environment. Guests often remark that TCS is truly magical, and this enchantment springs from the unwavering dedication
of teachers, staff, families, and board members. The priority is building a supportive community that feels more like a family than just a school.
Families frequently express their gratitude, stating, “TCS didn’t just save our child; it saved our family too.” The commitment to meet each child where they are and teaching them in the most effective way possible is a tailored approach; there’s no one-size-fits-all solution because smart kids learn differently, and therefore, we teach differently.
We leave you with a quote from Walt Disney: “First, think. Second, believe. Third, dream, and Finally, dare.” At The Cottage School they inspire students to dream big and dare to achieve those dreams. Remember, once a TCS Cougar, always a Cougar!
To learn more about The Cottage School, please visit: TheCottageSchool.org or one of the campuses: High and middle school campus at: 700 Grimes Bridge Road or The new elementary campus at: 1565 Holcomb Bridge Road
At The Cottage School, we encourage students to view their learning differences not as obstacles but as advantages or “superpowers.”