Primrose School of Apple Valley

Hi, my name is Mrs. Barber. I was born and raised in Tallinn, Estonia.  I have been married for 20 glorious years and we have 4 fantastic children.  I love to watch our kids playing football, lacrosse and swimming!  I also enjoy family road trips and relaxing at the beach.  Over the years I pursued many outlets to develop my skills as an educator through a variety of school based volunteer opportunities.  It was in volunteering at my children’s schools that I realized my passion for early childhood education.  I worked in early childhood education for 4 years.

I enjoy eating mango, avocados and drinking matcha green tea.

Favorite children’s book:  Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See?

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Clethen.  I have a Bachelors Degree from the University of Wisconsin – Superior in Sociology.  I have been working with children for the last 19 years.  I live in Inver Grove Heights with my husband and our 5 children. 

In my spare time, which doesn’t come often with 5 busy kids, I love being creative.  I do a lot of arts and crafts and I enjoy sewing.  I also enjoy listening to music and spending time outside with my family.

Favorite children’s book:  The Monster At The End Of This Book: Starring Lovable, Furry Old Grover.

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2019.

Hi, my name is Ms. Rustman.  I am originally from St. Peter Minnesota.  I recently moved to the cities to work at Primrose Apple Valley.  I have my B.S. degree in Early Childhood Education from St. Mary’s University.  I have always worked with children, starting with babysitting at age 11.  In my free time I like to bake, watch Netflix, go on walks and to read.

Favorite Children’s Book:  Love You Forever.

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2020.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Singewald. I’m originally from St. Peter, MN and now currently live in Eagan MN with my husband and our cats, Ollie and Luna.  I attended the University of MN and focused my studies in elementary education while there.  I have 3 years of experience working with children. I love anything Disney, and even had a Disney themed wedding!

In my free time I like to bake, play video games, and binge watch my favorite shows.

Favorite children’s book: The Stinky Cheese Man

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2019.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Wertheimer.  I have a B.S. degree in Business with a minor is psychology from Purdue University – Fort Wayne.  I have been working with children for 10 years.  In my free time I love going to sporting events and doing various activities with my husband and our two daughter (who also attend Primrose)!

Favorite children’s book: Corduroy

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Anderson.  I grew up in Roseville, MN and now live in Rosemount with my husband.  I attended the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse where I achieved my Bachelors in Sociology with a Child and Youth Care emphasis.  I have been working with children since graduating high school, about 13 years ago, and haven’t looked back since! 

In my free time I like to fly my drone.

Favorite children’s book: Green Eggs & Ham and Hop on Pop

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name is Ms. Callison! I grew up in a small town north of the cities. I have an Associates Degree in Literal Arts and Science.  I have 7 years of experience working with children.  We had what we called a “hobby farm”. On our farm we had pigs, ducks, chickens, cats, dogs, and my horse. There were animals everywhere! I knew teaching was where my passion lied at an early age. I always enjoy spending time with the youngest children in my family. A few of my favorite things include photography, animals of all sorts, hiking, and traveling. Iceland was hands down the best adventure I’ve had!

Favorite Children’s Author: Dr. Seuss

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Ms. Hall.  I originally grew up in Sartell, MN before moving to Apple Valley.  I have my Preschool CDA.  I also have a B.S. 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 8 years. 

Favorite Children’s Book: Nibbles the Monster and the Gerald and Piggy series books. 

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2020.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Jacobs.  I was born and raised in MN.  I have a B.A. in Elementary Education from Mankato State.  I have been working in the early education field for 20 years!  My favorite foods include all vegetables, chicken alfredo and anything I make with my children. I currently live in Farmington with my husband and 2 boys.  We also live with 2 cats and 2 Guinea pigs.  On the weekends we enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, playing catch and swimming.

Favorite Children’s Book:  Make Way For Ducklings

 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 9 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. Meyen.  I grew up in Maple Grove, MN and now live in Northeast Minneapolis.  I graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and have a Bachelors 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 2 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 Ms. Pritzlaff. I grew up in Lakeville, MN and I currently live in Eagan.  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 will graduate in 2023.  I have been working with children for 11 years. 

An interesting fact about me is that I played college hockey for Wisconsin – Eau Claire.  I have also run 6 half marathons and will be running my first full marathon this year!  I coach 15A hockey in my free time.  I love to go on runs and to golf.

Favorite Children’s Book: The Giving Tree

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2020.

Hi, my name is Ms. Proell. I am from Sauk Centre but currently live in Bloomington. I attended  St. Cloud State University and focused my studies on Early Childhood Education as well as Art Education. I have been working with children for 4 years.

I love to spend my time doing anything creative such as drawing, coloring, and painting. I also love to read, and watch movies. Something interesting about myself is that I can juggle!

Favorite children’s book: Chrysanthemum

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Mabel. I am from Brownsville, Texas. I have graduated high school, and currently attend Inver Hills Community College for Psychology. I am going on my third year. I have been working with children for about 10 years.

I have two cats at home, and one looks like Garfield. My favorite food is Pho! I like to spend my weekends hanging out with friends and family as well as doing homework!

Favorite Children’s Book: Green Eggs and Ham.

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Ms. Ash.  I grew up in Eagan, MN.  I recently graduated from Moody Bible Institute, in Chicago, with a Bachelor degree in Children and Family Ministry.  I have 8 years of experience working with children.  My favorite food is any kind of pasta!  In my free time I love to paint and hangout with my friends and family.

Favorite children’s book: Geronimo Stilton

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Loewen.  I received my B.S. in Elementary Education with a minor in Biology from the University of Wisconsin - Riverfalls.  I have been working with children for 9 years.  I have a beautiful baby girl named Ashlyn, who is my pride and joy.  I have a passion for painting and drawing.  I love eating sushi and bacon and on the weekends I go paddle boarding.  I am excited to better develop my teaching skills this year, 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 Mrs. Ross.  I have 7 years of experience working with children.  My favorite part of working with children has been watching them grown and learn!

An interesting fact about me is that I worked on an Alaskan cruise in Denali National Park for the summer of 2012.  Now my favorite weekend activity is spending time with my husband and taking our son to the park.

Favorite children’s book:  Cat in the Hat

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name is Ms. Saucedo. I currently live in Rosemount. I have been working in the preschool setting for 7 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 Mrs. Kuck.  I have a Bachelors Degree in Sociology from the University of MN – Duluth.  I have 10 years of experience working in childcare.  I live in Apple Valley, MN.  I spend my time going to the zoo and other fun places with my two children.  A few fun facts about me are that I was a gymnast for 15 years and I am an avid Harry Potter and Marvel fan!

Favorite Children’s Book: Dragon’s Love Tacos.

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2019.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Pendergast.  I live in Belle Plaine, MN.  I have an Associates of Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Education.  I have 12 years of experience in child care and I love teaching.  During my free time I enjoy cooking, watching movies, paddle-boarding, axe throwing, and finding a good patio to be in the sun!  I love spending time with my husband, husky, and cats.  I am also due with my first child and cannot wait to be a mom.  Bring on parenthood!

Favorite Children’s Book:  Achoo! Good Manners Can Be Contagious.

 I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2017.

Hi, my name is Kristen.  I grew up on the east side of St. Paul and I have been working with children for 20 years.  My experience includes working at a K-8 charter school in Northeast Minneapolis (ISD # 917) for 12 years, working in special education and at various childcare centers. I am close to completing my Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education.  I love spending time with my husband, going to concerts and traveling around the world.  We are trying to visit all of the baseball stadiums in the US and Canada.

Favorite Children’s Book: Paddington Bear.

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2018.

Hi, my name is Amanda.  I grew up in Rochester, MN.  I attended the University of Minnesota, College of Biological Sciences where I studied biology and biochemistry.

I have 2 beautiful and brilliant sons who attend school in ISD 196.  In my free time I enjoy running the trails at Lebanon Regional Park with my 2 dogs and practicing yoga.

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

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Faaumu.  I am a native Hawaiian from the island of Maui.  I have 6 years of experience working with children in the early childhood and school age setting.  I have a B.S in Psychology from the University of Oregon. I also have a Masters of Arts  in Elementary Education from Western New Mexico University.  Minnesota will be the 7th state that I have lived in since 2017.  In my free time I love spending time with my dog Leonidas, my husband, and our son at the park or pool.

Favorite Children’s Book: Are You My Mother?

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

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 4 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 one or going to an art fair with my family.  We had our first child April 2021 and she shares a birthday with her mom.

Favorite children’s book: Good Night Darth Vader

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Etterman.  I was born in Positano, Italy and moved to New York when I was 5 years old.  I have Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering and Associates degree in Social work and Psychology.  I have 9 years of experience working with children. 

My favorite Italian word is: Ciao, cause it is a great way to say Hello in my native language.  When I am not at work I can be found playing catch with my dog, Hamish Glenn.  He is my best friend and loyal ‘Spegetti” eater.

Favorite Children’s Book: Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

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 11 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 43 years. I grew up in St. Louis Park. I have been a childcare provider for nearly 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 Mr. Harding. I was born in Norway to a British Father and Norwegian Mother. I recieved a Bachelors Degree in Norway. I also have 2 years of experience working in Early Childhood Education.

Something interesting about myself is that I have hundreds of photos published online and in print, as well as in movies. My favorite weekend activity is to be lazy with my wife, dog, and cats.

Favorite children’s book: ​Hooway for Wadney Wat

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Flom.  I grew up in Inver Grove Heights, which was the ‘edge of the world’ at that time!  I have an Associates Degree from Oliver Thein Beauty School and I have been working with children for about 2 years. 

I have 2 grown sons and have been married for 35 years.  I love hanging out with my dogs, being outside, watching hockey, and football.  I am also trying to start my own craft business, knitting!

Favorite Children’s Book: Wheels on the Bus

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name is Muntifering.  I grew up in central Minnesota and am new to the Apple Valley area.  I am excited to start a new journey!  I have been around kids most of my life and helped my mom with her in home daycare as a teenager. 

I spend most of my free time with my nieces and nephews.  I also love going up north in the summer and ice skating in the winter.  I cannot forget to mention my 8 year old Siamese cat, who often acts like a dog!

Favorite children’s book: Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name is Mrs. 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 22 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. Rupnarain.  I was born in Winnipeg MB Canada and now live in Savage with my husband and daughter.  I have been working with children for about 2 years and I love watching them learn and grow.

My favorite foods are Hibachi and most Caribbean dishes!  I love spending time with my family, exploring MN state parks.  I also love baking and sharing large family dinners on Sundays.

Favorite children’s book: Love You Forever.

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.

Hi, my name is Nancy. I have my Early Childhood certificate from Inver Hills Community College. I have 12 years of experience working with children. 

I live in Faribault with my Fiancé and our son.  We are also expecting our second child soon. On the weekend we love to play outside and to go swimming.

Favorite children’s book: Dragons Love Tacos

I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.