Carolina Kids Child Development Center

Nicole Prendergast

Director

I have worked and trained in the Early Childhood Education field for 20 years, and am a Level Two, Six Point Administrator for North Carolina. I spent seven years as a teacher, followed by seven years as an assistant director. After becoming a school Director in 2016, I realized there is nothing else I would rather do. Working with children is an incredibly rewarding experience. I strive to create a warm and caring environment, and I am passionate about the relationships I form. Customer service is very important to me. I believe a great school starts with a strong foundation, which includes a team of dedicated educators who truly care about you and your child. Our ultimate goal is to give your child an exceptional education while forming lasting connections and becoming a part of your family.

My husband James and I have been married since 2003. Together, we have three wonderful children: Delaney, Caitlin and Lincoln. I was born in Charlotte and I have lived here my entire life. My childhood consisted of many weekend trips to the NC mountains. To this day, Mt. Mitchell is still my favorite place to go. In my free time, I enjoy shopping, running, hiking, bird watching, home-improvement projects and spending time with my family and friends.

Fun fact: I love to eat all types of hot and spicy food!

Hannah Twedt

Administrative Assistant

Hi! My name is Hannah, and I am excited to be your school’s administrative assistant! I have been a part of the Carolina Kids Cadence Education family since 2018. Early childhood education is a passion of mine that began when I was a little girl. Watching children grow and develop is an incredibly rewarding experience. After spending years in the classroom, I decided to transition to a role that helps keep the school running smoothly. Being an administrative assistant allows me to connect with everyone in the school and build meaningful relationships across the board. When I’m not at school, you’ll find me spending time with my husband, my son Kylo, and my daughter Amelia. We love going to family cookouts, cheering for Charlotte FC, and camping together. Thank you for being a part of our school community!

Chan Mendoza

Teacher

Hello Carolina Kids Families, I’m Chan Mendoza! It’s a pleasure to meet you! I am a mother of 2 boys, Enzo and Noah. My family and I moved to the USA from the Philippines back in 2020 as part of my husband’s work and we have been through 3 different states in 2 years (NJ>NC>SC); it’s been a fun adventure so far! Before Carolina Kids, I was also a teacher in a different pre-school within Fort Mill. Prior to that, I spent a few months in the food industry in Charlotte. Before our move to the US, I was working as an HR professional for General Motors and I’ve been in the HR industry for 8 years, straight after graduating from the University of Sto Tomas; one of the historical and premier Universities in the Philippines finishing a degree in AB Psychology. In my spare time, I love being with my family and having movie nights with them.

Grace Cooke

Teacher

Hello, I’m Ms. Grace. I am a 25-year-old, Rock Hill native, and currently in school for Early Childhood Education. I find inspiration in watching children grow and learn the world around them. My favorite thing is that “light bulb moment” when a child finally gets what they’ve been working towards. When I’m not in the classroom I spend my free time traveling, baking, and learning new things! I am excited to watch your little one grow and do amazing things this year!

Cydney Eish

Teacher

Hi I’m Cydney! I have worked in childcare for over 3 years. I love teaching science experiments, doing fun art projects, and helping children grow and develop into little people! I recently got married in March 2023 to my best friend and we have two cats, Goldie and Gatsby! I love traveling, especially to Disney World or anywhere in Florida. In my spare time I like to shop, stroll my cats around the neighborhood, and spend time with my family and friends! I love going to concerts and Charlotte FC games. I am so happy to be a teacher at Cadence and can’t wait to teach your little ones!

Madi Twedt

Teacher

Hi, my name is Ms. Madi, and I am excited to be your teacher! I’m a native to Fort Mill.  When I’m not in the classroom I enjoy spending time with my partner Kevin and my three boys: Beckham, Brayden, and Alias. In the classroom I enjoy dancing, singing, and doing crafts. When your child is with me, I will treat them as my own loving and caring for them unconditionally. I can’t wait to watch your little one grow and blossom.

Martiza Hurtado

Teacher

Hello, I’m Ms. Maritza, I am in my early 30’s. I’m a mom of five, four boys, and one girl. Being in the classroom is my happy place. I enjoy growing bonds with each child and being able to watch them develop into smart independent individuals. My favorite thing outside the classroom is to be outdoors and exploring. I love being able to make a difference and help others. Thank you for trusting me with your little one.

Brittany Smith

Teacher

Hi, my name is Brittany! I am so excited to be working with your precious kids. Children and education are my passion. I started teaching in 2019, starting as a 2’s teacher. On my free time I hang out with my daughter, Hattie. I love hiking and being outdoors. It is going to be a fantastic year!

Krissi Forte

Teacher

Hi my name is Krissi Forte. I am honored and blessed to work here at Cadence Education. I have been married to my husband Sam and have lived here in the Carolinas for nearly 35 years. The joy of my life has been being a mom to my four children and now Grammy to my 2 grandchildren….and one on the way! For 10 years I worked at Mothers Morning Out and Little Learners Preschool in Charlotte. I was also privileged to work with my Preferred Sitters serving veterans and their families. Walking my 2 dogs Cheyanne and Margo, playing Words with friends and crocheting are a few things I enjoy doing.

Sam Forte

Cook

I am a native of Massachusetts and I have resided in the Carolinas for 34 years. I’m married to my childhood sweetheart, Krissi, of 34 years, who is also a teacher at Cadence Academy. I am a father of 4 children, 1 boy and 3 girls, age 24 to 33 and a grandfather of 3. I trained in Massachusetts while attending the culinary arts program at Blue Hills Technical Institute. I also studied religion and music at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida. I have been in the food service industry for 30 years as a food service manager, restaurant owner, and chef. I also owned and operated a culinary school for children ages 3 to 11, “Short Order Chefs” in childcare centers in the area. An interesting fact about me is my real name is JUST THE LETTER “S”. I enjoy cooking at home for friends and family, playing the piano, and playing games on my phone, but mostly spending time with my wife and grandchildren. I have been a chef in other local childcare centers as well as being in the food industry, I was a minister and pastored in the area for 15 years. My ministry included overseeing the nursery, children, youth, and seniors’ ministries. For now, I enjoy preparing yummy meals to all my adopted grandkids here at Cadence Academy as I joke, sing, tell stories, and encourage the teachers, staff, and children. “Silly Mr. Sammy” and “Paw-paw “as the kids refer to him love what he does!