The Team

Antione Pickens-Cartez is a visionary educator and transformational leader committed to rebuilding education through culture, wellness, and equity. As the founder of CANDU Education Partners, he leads dynamic professional development experiences that challenge outdated systems and elevate what’s possible for schools.

With over a decade of experience in Saint Louis classrooms and athletic programs, Antione brings both lived experience and strategic insight to his work. He holds an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Educational Leadership from Northwest Missouri State University, a Master’s in Educational & Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri–Columbia, and certifications in K–12 administration and Health & Physical Education (PK–12).

CANDU’s signature offerings include:
- Culturally Connected Classrooms
- The Wellness-Driven Educator
- CANDU Leadership Lab
- MoveLab: Learning With the Body in Mind

Antione’s work is grounded in authenticity. He’s not just building a company—he’s building a movement to reimagine education from the inside out.

"Build the future of education—one teacher, one classroom, and one courageous conversation at a time."