Don trained as an attorney, earning his BA in Philosophy at Wheaton College before attending the University of Illinois College of Law. He learned of Montessori philosophy from his wife, Annie Carlson, and after reading more, realized his best educational experiences mirrored these methods. After many years working as a lawyer, he left his practice and came to MAGE where he worked for 4 years in the 3-6 classroom before training for the Middle School. He worked for 3 years at other Montessori middle schools but is happy to be back at MAGE as the Middle School Director.