Palmer Park Preparatory Academy

President - Maurice Telesford (contact Maurice)

Maurice has been a high school science teacher for 16 years. He has taught chemistry, physics and computer science. Maurice has also served as the president for his district’s teacher union for the last eleven years. In that role, he sets the direction and vision for his local union, oversees the plan to achieve that vision, serves as the chief negotiator in bargaining their contract, and works hand-in-hand with the district administration to creatively address labor-management issues and concerns that arise throughout the year.

Maurice is the father of three daughters who all attend P3A.  Some of his hobbies include running, swimming, golf, and traveling.

Vice President - Jonathan Pulley (contact Jonathan)

Jonathan Pulley is a proud native of Michigan and a passionate advocate for equity, justice, and community power. His track record in philanthropy highlights a strong demonstration of Community Engagement, Education, workforce development and Employment that centers community voice, dismantling systemic barriers, and advancing equitable outcomes. Jonathan brings a human-centered approach to philanthropy—one rooted in lived experience, deep listening, and a commitment to co-creating solutions with those most impacted.

A graduate of Western Michigan University, Jonathan holds a B.A. in Public Relations and an M.A. in Educational Leadership. He is an alumnus of the Change Collective and was recognized as a 2023 Emerging Leader in Philanthropy. His work spans across Michigan, New Mexico, Louisiana, and Mississippi, where he has championed initiatives that prioritize justice, equity, and authentic community engagement.

Vice President - Ali Lapetina (contact Ali)

Hi, I’m Ali Lapetina—a mother to twins, teaching artist, visual storyteller, and Executive Director of Women of Banglatown, a neighborhood-based arts and culture nonprofit that centers immigrant and first-generation youth and community leadership. With over a decade of experience in community-driven placemaking and neighborhood programming, I’m passionate about expanding access to nature in the city through collaborative public art and green space projects, and supporting youth well-being through child-centered learning and after-school opportunities. 

I joined the P3A PTA executive board to help further build a vibrant Detroit Public Montessori School where all children have equitable access to hands-on, enriching education. My focus is on fundraising, organizing community events, and building partnerships and ecosystems to strengthen our school’s resources and opportunities—while fostering meaningful connections among families, neighborhoods, and citywide networks rooted in care and collective growth.

Treasurer - Mary Barton (contact Mary)

Mary Barton, CPA, is the President of Equitable Accounting Solutions, a Detroit-based firm that provides full-service accounting and advisory support to small, service-based businesses.

Mary is passionate about supporting women- and minority-owned businesses and actively gives back through mentoring and board service. She serves as Treasurer of the NAWBO Greater Detroit Chapter, mentors students through MICPA and Winning Futures, and sits on the Board of Directors for the Minority Accounting Career Resource Society (MACRS). Her leadership has been recognized with awards from MICPA, NAWBO, Enterprising Women Magazine, and Forbes.

Mary lives in Detroit with her husband and two sons—one entering Pre-K and the other entering 2nd grade this fall. She is excited to continue serving as Treasurer on the PTA Board and is committed to supporting the school community through transparent financial oversight, collaboration, and a shared focus on student success. With both of her children now attending the school, she looks forward to deepening her involvement and contributing to an inclusive, well-resourced, and engaging environment for all families

Secretary - Holly Harper (contact Holly)

Holly is the Administrative Assistant for a growing start-up in the process serving industry and is thrilled to serve as Secretary on the PTA Board. She’s the proud mom of two daughters—one currently in kindergarten at P3A, and another eagerly anticipating her start in Fall 2026. Holly is passionate about supporting students, teachers, and families, and is committed to helping build a strong, connected school community. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, and dancing. She looks forward to contributing her love of organization and meaningful connection to the PTA this year.