Cadence Academy Montessori, previously Smaller Scholars Montessori Academy, Gilbert offers families in the East Valley of Phoenix an exceptional Montessori education. Our school is open year-round and maintains low student-teacher ratios in our classrooms to ensure we are providing your child the best possible early educational experiences. We also offer a Private Kindergarten program.
The mission at Cadence Academy Montessori, Gilbert is to provide children with a Montessori environment that nurtures and encourages them to grow intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. We help children develop the foundational habits, attitudes, skills, and ideas which are essential for a lifetime of creative thinking and learning.

Another significant part of our curriculum is our Kind Child program. Kind Child is a year-long program for children ages two and older that helps our teachers nurture and strengthen every child’s social and emotional skills. We have found that when we focus on the emotional well-being of each child in our care, we strengthen our school as well. We are confident that Kind Child will continue to strengthen the culture of our entire preschool center by elevating every child’s feelings of happiness, improving their well-being, and enriching their friendships.
Our staff is dedicated to encouraging self-directed, competent, caring, and enthusiastic learners. All of our lead teachers are Montessori certified and have a bachelor’s degree. In addition, all teachers and assistants are CPR and First Aid certified. We provide on-going support and training for all staff members. We are extremely proud of our professional and caring team of teachers and administrators at Cadence Academy Montessori, Gilbert. They make a difference!
Arizona allows you to turn your state taxes into tuition scholarships for children attending private school. You can support your friends and family in their educational choices by making a donation to Arizona Tuition Connection. Your state tax liability is then turned into scholarships. By choosing this tax credit program, you take control of your taxes. For full details on all of the rules of donating and how your funds can be used, visit ArizonaTuitionConnection.com.
Destiny Nysten started her career over 10 years ago and has been advocating for the success of all children ever since. She believes every child deserves a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. Creating a positive, supportive space for both students and teachers is at the heart of everything she does. At home, she is happily married, and shares her life with three dogs, a cat, and a rabbit!She is a big foodie who loves trying new restaurants, a movie lover (especially scary movies) and anime. She is an animal enthusiast and also writes poetry in her free time. Destiny is proud to partner with families and staff at Cadence to create a school where children can grow, learn, and thrive every single day.
I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. I am a very proud mother 3 children and even more proud grandmother of 9grandchildren.I have 30 years plus experience in Early Childhood. My experience ranges from Director of Children Ministry, Manager/Instructor for Gymboree Play & Music, Pre-Kindergarten Lead Teacher and Senior Manager of Child Care Center at Harkins Theatre. (Infant- 12 years).In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, interior decorating, event planning and volunteering in the community. I joined the Cadence Academy Montessori Family in April 2022, as a Lead Guide for the Toddler Program. In November 2024, I gladly accepted the position, as Assistant Director. I am thrilled to be a part of The Cadence Academy Montessori family and to serve the children, families and community of Gilbert, AZ.I am totally excited to get to know all of you! We together are going to have a FANTASTIC school year and years to come!
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