Pritesh Patel is the Founder and CEO of Blossom Peak Montessori School, bringing over 27 years of entrepreneurial leadership and operational expertise. Since 1997, he has grown and managed a successful portfolio of family-owned businesses across South Carolina, including convenience stores, grocery stores, and hotels. With a strong track record in scaling operations, managing teams, and driving long-term growth, Pritesh is known for his strategic mindset and results-driven leadership. Together with his wife, Toral Patel, he co-founded Blossom Peak Montessori School with a shared vision to create a nurturing, high-quality Montessori environment that supports the holistic development of every child. Pritesh applies his business acumen and commitment to excellence to ensure the school operates with structure, integrity, and purpose. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pritesh is dedicated to community service and regularly volunteers at the BAPS Temple. In his free time, he enjoys playing volleyball and pickleball with a close team of friends each week and enjoys watching comedy shows.

Yasheika Smith brings over 30 years of experience in early childhood education, having served in various roles including assistant teacher, lead teacher, and assistant director. A natural leader and mentor, she has trained fellow educators in a wide range of topics, always guided by a passion for nurturing young minds. Inspired by the Montessori approach, Yasheika is now expanding her knowledge of Montessori pedagogy and actively dedicating time to align herself with the core values and educational philosophy of Blossom Peak Montessori School. She is committed to growing in her practice and bringing Montessori principles to life in the classroom. Outside of her professional role, Yasheika cherishes time with her four children, Eric Jr., Cire, Aidan, and Sky,and her grandson, Ezri. She enjoys reading, relaxing in nature, and spending time outdoors with her family, whether it's cookouts or vacations at the beach.

Toral Patel is a dedicated Montessori educator and founder of Blossom Peak Montessori School. Her journey into Montessori education began fifteen years ago when she discovered the profound impact of the Montessori method while searching for a school for her son. This discovery sparked a lifelong passion for child-centered learning and development. Over the past twelve years, Toral has tutored students using Montessori principles, with a strong focus on individualized and experiential learning. Her classroom experience spans four years as both an assistant and lead teacher, giving her deep insight into child development and the importance of fostering independence, curiosity, and confidence in children. Toral holds the AMI Primary Diploma for ages 3–6, awarded by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), which represents the highest international standard in Montessori training and is guided by the authentic principles of Dr. Maria Montessori. She also holds an AMI Assistants Certificate for ages 0–3, further broadening her understanding of child development in the earliest years. Currently, Toral is pursuing a Master’s in Montessori Advocacy and Leadership from Loyola University, with a personal and professional goal of providing strong support to her teaching team and creating lasting value across the entire school community. Outside of education, Toral is a professional Indian classical vocalist. She has taught Hindustani Classical Vocal music through distance learning, launched her own music, runs two YouTube channels with children's and classical music, and has authored a book of original compositions. Toral also serves for BAPS, offering selfless volunteer service and community leadership. She is a proud mother of two children, Parth and Vedi, and finds immense joy in spending time with her children, family, and being in nature. With her rich blend of educational expertise, artistic talent, and commitment to service, Toral is uniquely equipped to lead Blossom Peak Montessori School in offering a nurturing and holistic learning environment for all children.

Wendy Burris brings over 16 years of experience working with toddlers and a deep love for early childhood development. She finds joy in the wonder and independence of young children and is continually amazed by their capabilities at such a young age. Her nurturing presence and patient guidance make her a cherished part of the Blossom Peak Montessori team. Though new to Montessori, Wendy is deeply inspired by the method and is currently undergoing Montessori training to further her knowledge and practice. She is excited to blend her experience with the principles of Montessori education to support each child’s growth. Wendy is a proud mother of four daughters, Samantha, Kendell, Addison, and Layce, and a loving grandmother to Harper. Outside of school, she enjoys fishing, horseback riding, playing horseshoes, collecting decorative cows, and spending quality time with her close-knit family.

Maureen Cherry has dedicated 30 years to teaching and nurturing young children, with a deep passion for the Montessori method. She has had the privilege of working with incredible children and families throughout her career, witnessing the transformative journey of children as they grow into confident, self-directed learners. Maureen finds joy in watching children evolve from being curious and eager to becoming independent critical thinkers. With a 0-3 Infant/Toddler Montessori Diploma from NAMC, she is excited to contribute her extensive expertise as the Assistant Director at Blossom Peak Montessori School. In her earlier years, Maureen graduated from fashion design school, worked as a runway model, and developed her own brand of women’s specialty wear. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Maureen is a proud mother of four, a grandmother to 23, and a great-grandmother to 7. Her family is a source of great joy, and she enjoys spending time with them, whether it’s visiting museums, attending parades, swimming, fishing, or shopping during trips to New York and Atlanta. Maureen’s personal hobbies include collecting rocks from various places, traveling, photography, sewing, crafting, and cooking. She’s also had some adventurous moments, including holding a snake and petting a calm llama, experiences that reflect her love for the world around her.