The Life and Vision of Mrs. Neluka Tissera, Founder of JMS International Montessori
Every great school begins with a dream—and for JMS International Montessori, that dream belonged to the late Mrs. Neluka Tissera, a passionate educator whose life was dedicated to nurturing young minds through love, faith, and authentic Montessori principles.
A Calling from a Young Age
Neluka Tissera began her Montessori journey at the age of 19, drawn by an innate love for children and an unwavering belief in their potential. She trained and served at several renowned Montessori institutions in Sri Lanka, earning the trust of parents and the admiration of fellow educators. With every child she taught, she became more convinced of the transformative power of early childhood education.
The Birth of JMS International Montessori
On October 15th, 2003, with just three children and a heart full of purpose, Mrs. Tissera founded Jesus My Shepherd (JMS) International Montessori House of Children in Kanuwana, Ja-Ela. Her vision was simple yet profound: to create a nurturing environment where children could grow in independence, confidence, and faith—guided by the timeless methods of AMI Montessori education blended with essential preschool teachings.
What began humbly soon flourished. Today, JMS has grown into a respected institution, nurturing over 1,000 children and recognized by both the Western Province Education Department and the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), through its affiliation with St. Bridget’s Convent’s AMI training center.
A Heart for Every Child
Mrs. Tissera’s philosophy was rooted in love, discipline, and gentle guidance. She believed that every child was unique and deserved to find their own path with encouragement—not pressure. Over two decades, she touched the lives of more than 1,200 children, many of whom still remember her warm smile and patient voice.
To her, JMS was not just a school—it was her life’s work, her mission, and her family.
Faith as the Foundation
The name “Jesus My Shepherd” reflected her deep personal faith, which guided every decision she made. She instilled spiritual values into the daily rhythm of JMS, offering both Catholic and Buddhist guidance, depending on each child’s background. Her commitment to inclusive faith education created a place where love, respect, and grace could flourish.
Her Legacy Lives On
Though Mrs. Neluka Tissera has now passed away, her spirit remains deeply woven into the heart of JMS. Her legacy is not only in the walls she built or the curriculum she shaped, but in the thousands of little lives she helped blossom.
JMS continues to thrive under the direction of her family and dedicated team—carrying forward her vision, values, and unconditional love for children.
“She didn’t just build a school. She built a place where children are seen, heard, and loved.”
Forever in Our Hearts
At JMS International Montessori, we remember and honor Mrs. Neluka Tissera—a visionary, a mentor, and a mother to many. Her work continues in every lesson, every laugh, and every small hand learning to grow in grace.