Meet Maduka | Early childhood Educator/preschool Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maduka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maduka, what inspires you?
I was born and raised in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where my earliest memories are filled with the vibrant sights and sounds of the city.
After marrying my husband in 2009, I moved to the United States, carrying with me the deep-rooted values and passion for learning that were instilled in me from an early age when I attended Montessori school as child. My journey in early childhood education started when I completed my AMI diploma in 2020 in Mumbai
My professional path has since led me to work with children in Singapore, Sri Lanka, and the USA, each experience enriching my vision and fueling my commitment to child-centered learning. The Montessori Method has always been a profound source of inspiration for me. Its emphasis on nurturing a child’s natural curiosity, fostering intense focus through meaningful activities, and promoting independence fascinated me. I witnessed how traditional education often stifled a child’s innate desire to learn, and this realization ignited my passion for a more holistic approach.
In 2013, my husband and I took our first concrete step toward this vision by founding Pacific Explorer Montessori. Our shared goal was—and remains—to create an environment where children can thrive, explore, and develop a lifelong love for learning. Today, every day at our school is a testament to that commitment, as we continue to honor the principles of the Montessori Method and inspire young minds to reach their fullest potential.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Pacific Explorer Montessori is a family-owned small business dedicated to providing a loving and nurturing learning environment rooted in the innovative philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori. As a licensed preschool, we take pride in our well-trained staff and developmentally appropriate curriculum, designed to support each child’s unique growth. Our school prioritizes open communication with parents, ensuring they are informed and involved in their child’s progress. Above all, we are committed to children’s safety and well-being by creating a secure, supportive environment where they can thrive.
We offer a unique preschool program that not only promotes academic excellence but also nurtures social-emotional literacy and independence, fostering self-confidence in every child. We believe that a well-rounded education extends beyond academics, emphasizing essential life skills that empower children to navigate the world with curiosity and resilience. Every child who has completed our three-year Montessori curriculum has demonstrated a high level of self-confidence, showcasing the effectiveness of our child-centered approach. By encouraging independence, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, we prepare our students to succeed in all aspects of life.
At Pacific Explorer Montessori, our commitment to quality education has been our guiding light even in the toughest of times.one of the hardest challenges we faced was the Covid 19 pandemic. During that time, we encountered unprecedented challenges that tested our resilience and resolve. However, thanks to the tireless dedication of our staff, unwavering determination, and steadfast support from the state, we successfully served the Torrance community throughout those trying months.

Today, even as we face ongoing challenges in the child care sector, our focus remains on providing a nurturing and high-quality educational environment for every young learner. We are devoted to ensuring that children and families continue to receive the support they need on their early learning journey. Our commitment to excellence is as strong as ever, and we will continue to adapt and innovate in order to meet the evolving needs of our community. 

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Having lived in the South Bay for the past 16 years, I truly admire and enjoy the serenity of its beautiful beaches in South bay. If I were to show someone around,
Day 1: Redondo Beach
Start at the Redondo Beach Pier—a hotspot for whale watching and stunning ocean vistas. Enjoy a seafood meal at one of the pier’s many restaurants before indulging in a scoop (or two) at Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, renowned for its classic, homemade flavors that have delighted locals for decades
Day 2: Hermosa Beach
Head to Hermosa Beach to savor authentic Mexican cuisine. Rosa’s Mexican Restaurant is a local institution, serving up traditional dishes since 1973 with a reputation for generous portions and heartfelt flavors
Day 3: Santa Monica & Malibu
Enjoy the quintessential California experience by visiting Santa Monica Pier. Then, make your way to Malibu Beach to relax by the ocean and dine at Duke’s, a local favorite celebrated for its scenic views and relaxed atmosphere.
Day 4: South Coast Botanic Garden
Take a break from the coastal bustle with a visit to the South Coast Botanic Garden. This serene escape offers lush landscapes and a perfect setting to unwind and appreciate nature’s beauty.
Day 5: Rancho Palos Verdes
For a taste of adventure, explore the scenic trails of Rancho Palos Verdes. The hikes here offer breathtaking views and a chance to observe diverse flora and fauna along the rugged coastline.
Day 6: Hollywood & The Getty Museum
Wrap up your trip with a cultural twist by strolling along the iconic Hollywood Boulevard of Fame. Then, enjoy a meal at Yamashiro Hollywood—an impressive Japanese restaurant known for its striking architecture and panoramic views. Finally, a visit to the Getty Museum provides a fitting cultural finale with world-class art and architecture.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The Montessori method of education has profoundly influenced my vision for early childhood education, ultimately inspiring me to establish Pacific Explorer Montessori. However, this journey was far from a solitary one.

My husband, Duminda Wijayaratna, deserves immense credit and recognition. For eleven years, his unwavering help and support in countless ways were the bedrock of Pacific Explorer Montessori. He was an integral part of making my vision a reality.

The initial spark of this dream was also ignited by the encouragement and guidance of realtor Mr. Suminda Sellahewa and Ms. Leslie White. They not only believed in our vision but also stood by our side, providing crucial support until Pacific Explorer Montessori opened its doors. Their support was a driving force.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the trust and partnership of the families who entrusted us with their precious children’s first steps in education. My deepest gratitude goes out to each and every family who believed in our mission and allowed us to be a part of their child’s formative years.

Finally, I want to express my sincere appreciation to the dedicated staff of Pacific Explorer Montessori. Their passion, commitment, and hard work were essential in creating a nurturing and enriching learning environment for our students.

I dedicate this shout out to my parents and my family who were there for me in every step of my life.

Website: https://www.pacificexplorermontessori.com

Instagram: pacific Explorer Montessori

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065128225557

Image Credits
Myself.