Canterbury Schools

Nicole Bandera

School Director

Nicole began her journey in early childhood education right out of high school, working as a floater and support teacher. While she spent several years outside the field—leading a successful career in property management and later managing her family’s renovation and contracting company—her love for working with children never faded. After becoming a mother and finding herself drawn back to the world of early learning, Nicole returned to the classroom as a lead infant teacher. Her strong leadership and dedication quickly led to her promotion to Assistant Director, and soon after, to her current role as Director. Nicole finds immense fulfillment in supporting the social, emotional, and developmental growth of young children. She values the opportunity to contribute to building the foundation of lifelong learning for each student and is deeply committed to helping children meet milestones and overcome challenges in a nurturing environment. Outside of school, Nicole enjoys spending quality time with her husband and children. Her hobbies include watching sports, traveling, cooking, attending live music events, and hosting friends and family. She’s also an animal lover and movie enthusiast. Nicole wants every student, family, and staff member at Small Beginnings to know that her door is always open. She is fully invested in supporting the growth and success of the school community, and she is constantly seeking new ways to foster a positive and enriching environment for everyone.

Ms. Tatum

Assistant Director

Ms. Tatum joined Cadence Academy Preschool in 2024 as a lead infant teacher, bringing with her a deep passion for supporting children and families through every stage of early learning. Ms. Tatum began her career in early childhood education as an infant teacher at a Christian daycare while attending college. Since then, she has worked in a variety of child-focused roles each deepening her commitment to children’s development and well-being, and ultimately led her to Cadence Academy, where she found a strong connection with the leadership, staff, and families. Ms. Tatum loves early childhood education because of its power to build a solid foundation—not only academically, but emotionally and behaviorally. She finds joy in watching children achieve milestones and experience pride in their accomplishments. Outside of work, Ms. Tatum enjoys spending time outdoors, going to sporting events, and being with her fiancé and dog. She’s a proud Wisconsin native who frequently visits family back home. A lifelong athlete, she played softball and bowled competitively through school, earning a full ride bowling scholarship to college. She’s also an animal lover—especially fond of dogs and horses—and appreciates quiet moments of self-care like shopping, getting her nails and hair done, and connecting with nature.

Marion Troast

Lead Grade School Teacher

I have worked for Canterbury for 16 years. I started my career in 2000 as a Pre-K teacher and moved to the grade school program in 2003. I have seen many students pass through my classroom door and I am proud to say that I have given them the foundation to be successful students. I graduated from Bowling Green State University, have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, and hold a directors license in Kansas.

I have been married for 24 years and have 2 wonderful sons. I am proud to say my oldest son serves in the United States Army and my youngest is a Physical Education teacher and high school soccer coach. I have 2 wonderful grandchildren and a big dog named Boss. I enjoy shopping (especially for antiques) and attending sporting events. I am a crazy KU fan and love Kansas basketball!

When I was hired at Small Beginnings, the director said I want this job to be your career. I am proud to say I have done just that! The best part of my job is hearing from past families. Hearing that their child is successful in school makes my job extremely rewarding!