Meet Mrs. Durbin, Director of Education & Training at the Primrose School of Apple Valley. Mrs. Durbin has over 25 years of experience in the field of early childhood education. She is a veteran of the preschool and childcare industry! While her passion for education began at an early age, her career in education started while she was earning her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education at the Ohio Valley University. While pursuing her education degree, Mrs. Durbin became a School-Age Administrator for a childcare facility in Ohio. She continued in that role for five years, during which time Mrs. Durbin became the Lead Preschool teacher with a brand new preschool that opened nearby. Mrs. Durbin played an integral part in preparing the Preschool to open and helped lead it to become known as one of the highest quality care options in the area.

In 2006, Mrs. Durbin met her husband Adam and relocated to North Dakota to begin their family. While living in Grand Forks, she became the first person to open and run a private, multi-site preschool and childcare. After successfully running the business for over seven years, Mrs. Durbin and her family relocated to Minnesota for her husband’s career. Shortly after moving to Minnesota, Mrs. Durbin was selected to be a Lead Preschool Teacher at a Primrose School. While in this role for two years, she fell in love with the wonderful opportunities, trust, and programs Primrose Schools has to offer. Mrs. Durbin is thrilled to be the Director of the Primrose School of Apple Valley.

Mrs. Durbin and her husband Adam reside in the Rosemount community with three of their four children: Taylor, Brennen, Payton, and Anaka.

Mrs. Durbin joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2015.

Meet Mrs. Nelsen, Director of Operations at the Primrose School of Apple Valley.  She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Minnesota Duluth. She has 25 years of experience teaching in public school, creative play based daycare centers, and Montessori based child care centers. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading, running (mostly after her sons), and anything near water. Her family consists of her husband, Trent, 3 boys and a pug named Duke.

Favorite children’s book: Miss Nelson is Missing

Mrs. Nelsen joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2015.

Meet Mrs. Taylor, Director of Enrollment.  She has her Bachelors of Science in Sociology with a post-baccalaureate Teacher certification.  She has 16 years of experience working with children in various settings.

Mrs. Taylor’s  husband is originally from Australia so she likes to visit every few years with her husband and her two adult children.  In her free time she enjoys hiking, reading and crafting.

Favorite children’s book: No, David!

Ms. Taylor  joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2020.

Meet Ms. Wertheimer.  She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business with a minor is psychology from Purdue University – Fort Wayne.  She has been working with children for 13 years.  In her free time Ms. Wertheimer loves going to sporting events and doing various activities with her two daughter (who also attend Primrose)!

Favorite children’s book: Corduroy

Ms. Wertheimer joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Meet Chef McElroy. He was born in Chippewa Falls, grew up in St. Paul and also lived in Pensacola, Florida. He’s worked with kids for 10 years.

Matt grew up surfing and playing baseball and football. He has 3 kids and enjoy fishing with them. My favorite foods are BBQ, seafood, and Middle Eastern.

Favorite children’s book: Green Eggs & Ham

Matt joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Bird. I’m from Sao Paulo, Brazil where I lived for 25 years. I moved to the US in 2020 to be an au pair, an exchange program that gave me the opportunity to live in Virginia and California before coming to Minnesota in 2024.

In Brazil I graduated with degrees in Early Education and Portuguese & Brazilian literature. I also worked as a Kindergarten teacher for 4 years, and have a total of 8 years working with children. My favorite hobbies are kayaking, hiking, camping, and reading.

Favorite children’s book: Alice in Wonderland

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Ms. Morales-Aguilar. I was born and raised in Minnesota and have lived here my whole life! I have plans to continue my education and I have one year of teaching experience.

My favorite meal is steak and asparagus. I also speak Spanish, and my favorite color is brown. I have a young daughter and we love being outdoors on the weekends, swimming, sledding, hiking, and going on long walks to explore nature.

Favorite Children’s Book: Goodnight Moon

joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Sanchez. I live in Farmington with my husband and daughter Valery. I have 8 years of childcare experience.

My favorite “go to” food is Chipotle and I often get the chicken bowl. I love to spend my weekends with family outdoors going to waterparks, going on walks and jumping on the trampoline. I also enjoy reading and loved the Twilight series.

Favorite Children’s Author: Dr. Seuss

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Ms. Florian. I was born and raised in St. Paul and I’m currently majoring in Psychology.

My favorite food is any type of Mexican food, especially enchiladas. I enjoy window shopping, writing, and spending time with friends and family. On the weekends I like to go out to eat with my friends after church.

Favorite Children’s Book: Love You Forever

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Ms. Foix. I am passionate about nurturing young minds and helping children grow into confident, intelligent adults. I believe every child has the potential to shine, learn, and develop essential life skills. I have 26 years of teaching experience.

My favorite foods are pizza and chocolate. I have three adult children and three Vizsla dogs. My favorite weekend activities are outside walks and enjoying time by the bonfire making s’mores.

Favorite Children’s Book: Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name Ms. Kubitza. I grew up in Burnsville and lived in Seattle for two years. I graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Developmental Psychology. I’ve been teaching for 8 years.

Some of my favorite foods are pho, ramen, and pizza and drinks like coffee and boba tea. My hobbies are collecting rocks and crystals, taking care of plants, and playing with flow stars. I also love spending weekends with family and friends, crafting, or going to concerts.

Favorite children’s book: Oh, The Places You’ll Go

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Ms. Mcwain. I grew up in Eagan and I recently lived in the Brainerd area for 12 years. I completed courses in Child Development with the Childcare Education Institute and I have 10 years of teaching experience.

My favorite foods are pizza and tacos. In my free time I like to watch my favorite tv show Vampire Diaries or watch MN Wild Hockey. I also enjoy spending time with my black lab and my friends.

Favorite children’s book: Dragons Love Tacos

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2026.

Hi, my name is Ms. Hall.  I originally grew up in Sartell, MN before moving to Apple Valley. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Human Services with an emphasis on Speech Therapy and a Minor in Psychology.  I was a nanny for 5 years and I have worked in childcare for 11 years.

In my free time I enjoy crocheting and catfishing with my family.

Favorite Children’s Book: There’s a Monster at the End of this Book

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2020.

Hi, my name is Ms. Kiihn.  I have my Associates Degree in Child Development from South Central College. I also have my Bachelors in Early Childhood Education from Metropolitan State University. I have 11 years of experience in early childhood education. Working with children is a huge passion of mine and I am always excited to learn and grow with the children in my care.

Favorite children’s books: Mercer Mayer Books, Dr. Suess Books and the Bernstein Bears Books.

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2017.

Hi, my name is Ms. Silva. My hometown is Rosemount and I’m currently attending Dakota County Technical College. I have one year of teaching experience.

I have a 6 year old stepson and a 1 year old son. My favorite food is any kind of pasta. On weekends I like to take my boys to the Minnesota Zoo!

Favorite children’s book:  Don’t Eat The Teacher

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Ms. Smith and I grew up in Lakeville. I went to Dakota County Technical College for my Early Childhood Youth Development certificate and graduated in 2018. I have 10 years of childcare experience!

I love going to my parents’ house on the weekends during the summer and spending time on the lake.

Favorite Children’s Book: Pout Pout Fish

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name Mrs. Novel. I was born in Mexico and grew up in a border town called Del Rio, Texas. I have my CDA in Infants & Toddlers and have 3 years of teaching experience.

My favorite food is tacos and I’m fluent in both English and Spanish. On the weekends, I love to go hiking with my or stay inside and play board games with my husband or friends!

Favorite Children’s Book: Have You Filled A Bucket Today?

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2024.

Hi, my name is Ms. Olson. I live in Rosemount and have been working with kids for 2 years! I have a degree in Language Arts Education from the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. I also have a certificate in dance.

In my free time I love to read, write, and stay caught up on all of the latest movies. I love to drink coffee at home with my two pugs!

Favorite children’s book: The Runaway Bunny

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.

Hi, my name is Ms. Childs. I grew up in Burnsville where I played lacrosse and hockey. I went all the way to Indiana to study psychology and play lacrosse. I have 2 years of teaching experience.

I have five cats named Addy, Scar, Vulpix, Loki, and Mikasa. I love lacrosse and have coached since I was 14 years old. I was also the varsity lacrosse coach at Shakopee for the past four years. In my free time I like to bake sourdough, go hiking, and make crafts.

Favorite Children’s Book:  The Big Red Strawberry

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Ms. Combs. I grew up in Alaska and North Dakota. I have a Bachelor’s degree in English and Classics from Gustavus Adolphus. I’ve been working with children for over 3 year and am very excited about teaching preschool at Primrose!

In my free time I like to spend time with my two cats Dusty and Otter, go on long walks, and watch Netflix or read.

Favorite Children’s Book: Hop on Pop

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Loewen.  I received my Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Biology from the University of Wisconsin – Riverfalls.  I have been working with children for 12 years.

I have two beautiful girls-Ashlyn and Mackenzie. I love painting and singing silly songs. I am excited to better develop my teaching skills, in addition to creating a positive, safe environment for my students.

Favorite Children’s Book: Nibbles the Book Monster

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2017.

Hi, my name is Ms. Saucedo. I currently live in Rosemount. I have been working in the preschool setting for 10 years. I have had my CDA since 2017. I have a passion for watching children learn and grow! My favorite food is pasta. My favorite weekend activities include hanging out with my friends and family. I also enjoy going shopping.

Favorite children’s book: The Bad Seed

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Ms. Schlukebier. I was born and raised in Minnesota. I recently moved back to Minnesota from Tennessee, where I also worked at a Primrose as a Pre-K teacher. I have 7 years of teaching experience.

I love to create bonds with my students and parents. On the weekends, I love being creative and being out in nature.

Favorite Children’s Book: Miss Maple’s Seeds

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Ms. Lopez and I’m from Walworth, Wisconsin. I attended the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and received my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.

During my free time, you can find me enjoying the outdoors hiking, running, or swimming. I like to attend fun events in the area like sports, concerts, and markets. I also love playing fetch with my cat Matilda.

Favorite children’s book: The Rainbow Fish

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2026.

Hi, my name is Ms. Meyen.  I grew up in Maple Grove, MN and now live in Northeast Minneapolis.  I graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and hold a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism.  I worked at a local newspaper as a sports reporter right out of college, until I realized that my passion was to work with children!  I have 3 years of experience working with children.

An interesting fact about me is that I have a twin brother, which made growing up extremely fun.  My favorite weekend activity is doing anything outdoors or binging a new TV show with my roommates.

Favorite children’s book: Good Night Moon

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Negoski. I grew up in Lakeville, MN and I currently live in Farmington.  I have a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice from the Wisconsin University – Eau Claire. I am now pursuing my M.S. in Elementary Education from Liberty University.  I have been working with children for 13 years.

An interesting fact about me is that I played college hockey for Wisconsin – Eau Claire and before that Minnesota Made Machine Orange!. I have also ran 7 half marathons and one full marathon. Running is my favorite thing to do. I coach hockey in my free time and love to go on walks with my husband and dog!

Favorite Children’s Book: The Giving Tree

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2020.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Anya. I have degrees in both elementary education and child development. In 2019 I moved to Shenyang, China to teach English. I stayed there 6 years and met my husband there. I also adopted two pets while there: a dog named TJ and a cat named Apollo. I have 10 years of teaching experience.

I am very excited to be back in Apple Valley with my family! My favorite foods are tacos, burritos and nachos. On the weekends you can find me reading a good book while cuddling my dog.

Favorite Children’s Book: Pippi Longstocking

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Mr. Downs.  I grew up in Farmington, MN.  I hold my B.A in History from the University of Minnesota.   I have 6 years of experience working with children.

I am a Vegan and enjoy eating vegan pizza.  On the weekends you will find me playing with my little ones or going to an art fair with my family.

We had our first child in April 2021 and she shares a birthday with her mom. Our second child, a boy, was born in February 2024!

Favorite children’s book: Good Night Darth Vader

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Ms. Antonakos. I was born and raised in Maryland and recently moved to Minnesota. I attended Anne Arundel Community College in Maryland and am finishing my education at Inver Grove Community College. I have worked in child care for 4 years.

When I’m not at work or school, I love to travel and recently visited Hawaii with my best friend. A fun fact about me is that I was born on a leap year so I’ve only had 5 real birthdays!

Favorite Children’s Book: Pete the Cat Goes Camping

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2025.

Hi, my name is Ms. Bravo and I am originally from Houston, Texas. I recently moved to Minnesota and I have 1 year of child care experience.

In my free time I love to play pickleball with friends and look forward to finding some new pickleball courts in Minnesota! I also like to take my dog, Dino, on nature walks.

Favorite children’s book: Pete the Cat: Too Cool for School

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2026.

Hi, my name is Ms. Brodil.  I have lived in Apple Valley my entire life!  I studied Early Childhood and Youth Development at the Dakota County Technical College.  I have been working with children for 12 years.

I love animals so I have 2 big dogs and a cat.  I love to read stories and do crafts in my spare time.  I am excited to work at Primrose School of Apple Valley, with my mom, Mrs. Brodil!

Favorite Children’s Book: Giraffes Don’t Dance

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Brodil. I have lived in Apple Valley for 45 years. I grew up in St. Louis Park. I have been a childcare provider for 25 years and additionally have taken some college courses. My favorite food is salads. I love history, creative writing, art, animals, and of course children! I also enjoy spending time with my family.

Favorite Children’s Book: The Giving Tree

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Ms. Perez Garcia and I live in Faribault. I have my CDA (Child Development Associate) degree and I  have 1 year of teaching experience.

My favorite food is hamburgers! I love to read, workout, and watch movies and tv shows in my free time. I am also fluent in Spanish!

Favorite children’s book: Llama Llama Red Pajama

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2026.

Hi, my name is Ms. Gilbertson and I was born and raised in Edina. I currently attend the University of Minnesota for Medical Lab Sciences. I have 3 years of childcare experience.

A fun fact about me is that I was a gymnast for 16 years. My favorite food is sushi. On the weekends I love to hang out with my dogs and be at home!

Favorite Children’s Book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2026.

Hi, my name is Ms. Lear and I have 27 years of experience working with children. I grew up moving often, later graduating from University of Wisconsin with a bachelor’s degree in Child Development.

I love gardening, walking and discovering new shops and cafes. Some of my favorite foods are giant salads and specialty meats and cheeses.

Favorite children’s book: Chrysanthemum

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2026.

Hi, my name is Ms. Raj. I have a Masters Degree in Family and Consumer Science along with an Associates Degree in Child Development with a focus on infants and toddlers. I have over 23 years of experience working with children.

I have a daughter who is an Assistant District Attorney in California.  In my leisure time I love to hike with my boyfriend, Terry.  I also like to write, read, go on walks and spend time with my cat, Bala.

Favorite children’s book: The Giving Tree

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2017.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Rosas and I have 19 years of experience in both teaching and childcare. I’m from Owatonna and now live in Burnsville with my husband. I received my Child Development Associates Degree.

I love fruit and my favorites are mango and berries. I have 5 grandchildren, and on the weekends I enjoy running and being with my family. We enjoy getting outside as much as possible when it’s warm!

Favorite Children’s Book: The Monster at the End of the Book

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2026.

Hi, my name is Ms. Ross and I’m from New Prague! I attended North Dakota State University and Valley City State University in North Dakota for biological and health sciences. I am also in the Air National Guard and I have 4 years of teaching experience.

An interesting fact about me is that I trained and competed in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. My favorite weekend activity is exploring new parks with my son Buck.

Favorite Children’s Book: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2026.

Hi, my name is Ms. Ross. I have 8 years of experience working with children.  My favorite part about working with children has been watching them grow and learn!

An interesting fact about me is that I worked on an Alaskan cruise in Denali National Park for the summer of 2012. In my spare time I like to spend time with my friends and my son.

Favorite children’s book:  Cat in the Hat

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name Ms. Schultz and I have 4 years of teaching experience. I was born and raised in Minnesota, but I’ve also spent some time living in Wisconsin and Virginia.

In my free time I enjoy singing, playing piano, drawing, and walking my dog while listening to the birds and taking pictures of flowers. I also love spending time with my friends and traveling to see my family who live all over the country!

Favorite children’s book: No, David!

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2026.