Mrs. Laila Bandali

Laila is a visionary leader and an advisor to Ivy Kids Early Learning Centre, a venture she co-founded with her husband in 2003. Their journey into the world of early education was ignited by their desire to ensure their own children had access to the proven benefits of high-quality early learning experiences, fostering a strong foundation for lifelong knowledge acquisition and robust social skills.

Ivy Kids has flourished into a premier provider of early childhood education in the state of Texas, with an impressive network of 20+ corporate and franchised locations. With nearly 25 years of experience in early childhood education, Laila has held a wide range of responsibilities, including overseeing operations, shaping curriculum development, ensuring rigorous quality assurance, spearheading marketing efforts, conducting training programs, managing licensing, and maintaining compliance reporting.

Prior to embarking on her remarkable journey with Ivy Kids, Laila honed her skills as a chemical engineer, holding senior positions in the oil and gas sector. This background provided her with a solid foundation in establishing efficient processes, applying scientific methodologies, and optimizing operational efficiency—knowledge that has played a pivotal role in Ivy Kids’ remarkable success.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Laila has actively contributed to her community by serving on the boards of two organizations, where she has lent her expertise and time to meaningful causes.

Laila’s unwavering dedication to early childhood education and her profound impact on her community make her a true luminary in the field and an inspiration to all.

Toni McCain

My name is Toni, and I am thrilled to step into the role as the Center Director at Ivy Kids of the Heights! My journey with Ivy Kids began 10 years ago when I was just 17 years old. The classroom is where I initially cultivated a love for early childhood education, and motherhood is what deepened my passion for working with children. Witnessing their growth, curiosity, and eagerness to learn inspires me every day.

Beyond my passion for education, I am an avid animal lover, sharing my home with a lively Australian Shepherd and three cockatiel birds. I absolutely love being in nature, and you’ll often find me exploring the outdoors with my family, attending community events, or embarking on nature walks. Traveling to new destinations fuels my adventurous spirit and fulfills my desire for new experiences. I love indulging in the creative arts and personally dabble in acrylic painting and digital media.

At home, my days are often filled with boundless energy from my 3 children. I have an 11-year-old, 3-year-old and 4-month-old. Being a mother has deepened my appreciation for early childhood education, igniting the passion to shape young hearts and minds. I find fulfillment in knowing that I play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of world changers. I am genuinely excited to embark on this new chapter and am deeply honored to work alongside such dedicated educators at Ivy Kids of the Heights.
Together, I hope to foster a nurturing environment where every child thrives and discovers their limitless potential.