Meet our Leadership Team
Nicole Gallahue
Regional Principal, Star Preschools
Nicole Gallahue is the Regional Principal for Star Preschools, where her leadership is fueled by a deep passion for nurturing young learners and supporting educators. A Massachusetts native, Nicole earned her Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education from Curry College and her Master’s in Educational Administration from UMass Boston.
With extensive experience in both public and private education, Nicole brings a well-rounded understanding of child development and school systems. She is Infant, Toddler, and Preschool certified and holds Director I and II certifications.
Nicole’s leadership is rooted in classroom experience and her dedication to building safe, nurturing learning environments where children thrive and families feel supported. She values strong relationships with families and considers it a privilege to support children’s growth.
Marybeth Hogan
Curriculum Coordinator, Star Preschools
Marybeth Hogan brings a strong foundation in early childhood education to her role as Curriculum Coordinator for Star Preschools. Inspired by her mother, who worked as a paraprofessional in preschool classrooms, Marybeth discovered her calling early on.
As Curriculum Coordinator, she combines her experience as an educator and a parent to design developmentally appropriate, engaging experiences for children. Marybeth is passionate about partnering with families to build strong foundations and joyful learning environments that spark creativity and curiosity.
Katie Gerdin
Principal, Little Stars South Dennis
Katie Gerdin serves as Principal of Little Stars Learning Center in South Dennis. Originally from Pittsfield, MA, she earned her Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Cape Cod Community College after a successful career in healthcare.
Katie draws inspiration from family members who were teachers and her own desire to support children with varying needs. With over a decade of teaching experience, she is dedicated to fostering inclusive, nurturing classrooms. As Principal, Katie brings leadership, compassion, and a deep commitment to early learning.
Bobbi Cote
Administrative Assistant, Little Stars South Dennis
Bobbi Cote is the Administrative Assistant for Little Stars Learning Center in South Dennis. Bobbi discovered her passion for education while volunteering at her child’s school and hasn’t looked back since. Originally from Buckfield, Maine, she moved to Cape Cod in 2018 and soon joined Little Stars, becoming one of the school’s first employees.
Bobbi holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and is pursuing further education in early childhood development. She brings warmth, dependability, and dedication to her role and is a valued member of the leadership team.
Nina Trible
Principal, Starboard Academy Plymouth
Nina Trible is the Principal of Starboard Academy in Plymouth. She began her career in early childhood education in 2009 and has held roles as a preschool teacher and assistant principal across Star Preschools before stepping into the role of Principal.
Nina is a proud mother of two and finds great joy in leading a team of educators dedicated to children’s learning and development. With a background rooted in family childcare, Nina brings energy, care, and experience to her leadership.
Danielle Faria
Flex Principal, Star Preschools
Danielle Faria serves as the Flex Principal across all Star Preschools locations. A Cape Cod native, she holds an Associate Degree from Cape Cod Community College and a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education from Bridgewater State University.
Danielle has worked in nearly every role in early education, from classroom teacher to administrator, and is truly a jack of all trades. Her leadership style is compassionate and collaborative, and she brings a nurturing presence to every school she supports. Danielle is passionate about connecting with children, families, and educators alike.
Anna Kitchin
Administrative Assistant, Little Stars Sandwich
Anna Kitchin is the Administrative Assistant at Little Stars Learning Center in Sandwich. Originally from Goldsboro, North Carolina, Anna joined Star Preschools in 2022 after relocating to Cape Cod with her husband. She began as an infant teacher and now serves as part of the leadership team.
With a love for reading, baking, and exploring, Anna brings warmth and organization to her role. She is passionate about creating safe, loving spaces for children and looks forward to continuing her growth within Star Preschools.
Robin Purtell
Principal, Starboard Academy Marshfield
Robin Purtell is the Principal of Starboard Academy in Marshfield and brings extensive experience in the field of early education. A lifelong Massachusetts resident, Robin has worked in early childhood education since 2012. Her career has included roles as a teacher, curriculum coordinator, and program director.
Robin’s personal experiences growing up inspired her to ensure that every child has a safe and supportive place to grow and learn. She is passionate about building strong connections with families and staff and is excited to lead the Marshfield team.
Rachael Medeiros
Administrative Assistant, Starboard Academy Plymouth
Rachael Medeiros is the Administrative Assistant at Starboard Academy in Plymouth. Born and raised on Cape Cod, Rachael previously worked for six years at a pediatric office in Sandwich, where she developed a strong foundation in communication and family care.
While preparing to return to school to become an ultrasound technician, Rachael remains committed to her role at Star Preschools. She is passionate about supporting young learners and building meaningful relationships with families.
Adriana Roque
Assistant Principal, Starboard Academy Plymouth
Adriana Roque is the Assistant Principal at Starboard Academy in Plymouth. A Plymouth native, Adriana began her career in early childhood education in 2005 and has worked in various early education programs across the South Shore.
Adriana is passionate about celebrating each child’s unique personality and growth. She brings warmth, dedication, and a strong educational background to her role and is committed to building strong partnerships with families.
Amber Bransfield
Principal, Little Stars Sandwich
Amber Bransfield is the Principal at Little Stars Learning Center in Sandwich. A lifelong resident of Whitman, MA, Amber has been working in early childhood education since the age of 16.
Currently pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education, Amber is passionate about creating a safe, engaging environment where children thrive. She is excited to continue building meaningful connections with families, children, and staff.
Lisa Duggan
Assistant Principal, Starboard Academy Marshfield
Lisa Duggan is the Assistant Principal at Starboard Academy in Marshfield and brings over three decades of experience in early childhood education. A native of Abington, MA, Lisa studied Early Childhood Education at Quincy College and has dedicated her life to nurturing young learners since 1991. Her background also includes work in senior home care as a CNA, highlighting her lifelong commitment to caregiving. Lisa now lives in Rockland with her husband David and is a proud mother to her daughter Kelsey and a devoted grandmother to Mia, Damien, and Dylan.
Lisa is inspired every day by the curiosity, joy, and growth of her students. For her, teaching is not just a profession, it’s a source of happiness and purpose. She finds joy in each child’s discovery and believes that while she teaches her students, they teach her just as much in return.
Kate LaFrance
Assistant Principal, Little Stars South Dennis
Kate LaFrance is the Assistant Principal for Little Stars Learning Center in South Dennis. She first joined the school in 2021, initially drawn by the opportunity to be close to her daughter. What started as a convenience quickly became a calling. Originally from Springfield, MA, Kate moved to Cape Cod in 2015 and now lives in Dennis with her husband Chris, their daughter LE, and their cat Sprout.
Kate’s background blends experience in both healthcare and education, bringing a nurturing and responsive presence to her role. She finds joy in watching children grow, learn, and light up with discovery. Now in a leadership position, she is excited to give back to the school that has meant so much to her family by helping other families feel supported and connected during these foundational years.