Our Story

Founded in 1990, Springfield Montessori School began as a shared dream between Shashi and Vern, a dream fueled by passion, trust, and the belief that working together, they could create something special for children.

After years as a Montessori teacher, Shashi envisioned a school where children could learn in a high-quality, inclusive environment rooted in the Montessori philosophy. Vern, with his corporate experience and unwavering support for Shashi’s vision, helped turn that dream into reality. Together, they poured their time, skills, and hearts into bringing Springfield to life.

From the beginning, they worked side by side, Shashi shaping the educational foundation and Vern building the shelves by hand to hold the Montessori materials. That spirit of partnership carried them through the years as Springfield grew into two thriving campuses with more than 400 students, known throughout the San Francisco East Bay Area for its quality and inclusive education.

As time went on, their vision expanded beyond Springfield to how they could affect education on a global scale. After Vern’s passing in 2018, Vern Lal Global Foundation was established to honor his legacy and continue the mission of supporting education around the world. The foundation’s work began in Tanzania, Vern’s birthplace, and has since expanded to other countries, driven by the conviction that every child deserves access to education, which serves as the key to unlocking life-changing opportunities.

This is the story of two people who believed in each other, built something from the ground up, and whose vision continues to touch lives—both near and far. It is this same founding spirit of dedication, partnership, and vision that inspires us as we undertake projects and initiatives to transform education across the globe.