నాయకత్వం
Paatasala Educational Institute
The people who keep Paatasala running
No CEO, no payroll — just a dedicated team of parent-volunteers who lead by serving. Here's how we're organized.
Jyothirmayi
Founder & Director · Charlotte, NC
A passionate parent who saw a need and built something to meet it. In 2009, Jyothirmayi started Paatasala from a single classroom in Charlotte with a dream: that Telugu-American children should grow up fluent in their mother tongue.
Over Seventeen years that dream has become a thriving community of teachers, students and families across multiple US cities — still entirely volunteer-driven.
Watch the founder's speechTeams behind the scenes
Each team is led by volunteers who rotate as life and availability allow. We're a flat organization built on trust.
Jyothirmayi Kotha
Founded Paatasala in 2009 in Charlotte, NC. Leads the vision, curriculum design and overall direction.
Raghu Kotha
Helped establish Paatasala and continues to guide its growth and direction.
Anuradha Kintali
Mentors and supports all volunteer teachers across every grade and center.
Jyothi Chatta
Coordinates curriculum, teachers and classes for Grade 1.
Hima Pendurti
Coordinates curriculum, teachers and classes for Grade 2.
Sneha Yanamala
Coordinates curriculum, teachers and classes for Grade 3.
Murali Gode
Manages finances, fees and budgeting for the organization.
Devika Sata
Supports day-to-day operations and administration.
Venkata Chappidi
Supports day-to-day operations and administration.
Chandu Chitikam
Builds and maintains the Paatasala website and platform.
Suresh Alahari
Builds and maintains the Paatasala website and platform.
Want the full teaching team?
Our 40+ volunteer teachers are the heart of Paatasala. Meet them on the teachers page.
Meet our teachersPrinciples we live by
Servant leadership
Leaders are first volunteers. No paid staff — everyone gives their time freely.
Collective decisions
Major directions are decided together with input from teachers, parents and community.
Open to ideas
Anyone can propose new programs, events or improvements. We listen to every voice.
People first
Children, families and volunteers come before any process or policy.