Dedicated to Success
The team at Wheatley Montessori School is dedicated to the success of your child’s education. While every team member works toward a common goal, each brings a unique array of skills and knowledge to our curriculum.
Meet Our Team
Learn more about our team members, below.
Colin Blassengale
Colin is Wheatley Montessori School’s lead primary Montessori educator. She is a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and African-American studies. Colin received her primary Montessori AMI certification from the Greenville Montessori Institute. She is the co-owner of Wheatley Montessori and a former lead guide at Pines Montessori School in Houston, Texas.
Sylvia Collins Blassengale
Sylvia Blassengale is director, co-owner and primary guide at Wheatley Montessori School. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and education from Spelman College, a M.Ed. in guidance and counseling from Clemson University, and a certification in primary Montessori education at the Montessori Live Educator Training Program.
Kestlyn Blassengale
Kestlyn Blassengale is the assistant director and primary assistant at Wheatley Montessori School. She is a graduate of Wofford College with a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy and English. Kestlyn received her master’s degree in fine arts in film at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. She is the co-owner of Wheatley Montessori School.
Bessie Downs
Bessie Downs serves as a classroom assistant and shares 41 years of expertise as an early childhood teacher, supervisor and director. During her career she has earned several state and national early childhood education certifications. Bessie loves children, and our students adore and welcome her kind, gentle and nurturing spirit.
Alexus Harris
Alexus Harris is Wheatley Montessori School’s classroom assistant. She is a graduate of Bethune-Cookman College with a Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies and is currently pursuing a nursing degree at ECPI University. Alexus also provides Spanish instruction and Montessori-based art lessons for our students. Alexus is a track coach for her alma mater, J.L. Mann High School, and she encourages our students and staff to stay physically fit and active.
Deborah Pitts Collins
Deborah Pitts Collins is Wheatley Montessori’s music education teacher. Deborah earned a Bachelor of Arts in music performance from Spelman College, a M.Ed. in music education from the University of Minnesota, and a M.Ed. in integrated teaching through the arts from Lesley University. She is a national board-certified teacher with more than 40 years’ experience on the elementary, middle and high school levels of music instruction. This is Deborah’s first opportunity working with preschoolers, and she finds them delightful, intelligent and energetic.