Primrose School would love to meet your family.
Contact UsMeet Amanda, Director of Education at the Primrose School of Apple Valley. Amanda has over 23 years of experience in the field of early childhood education. 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, Amanda became a School-Age Administrator for a childcare facility in Ohio. She continued in that role for five years, during which time Amanda became the Lead Preschool teacher with a brand new preschool that opened nearby. Amanda 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, Amanda 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, Amanda and her family relocated to Minnesota for her husband’s career. Shortly after moving to Minnesota, Amanda 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. Amanda is thrilled to be the Director of the Primrose School of Apple Valley.
Amanda and her husband Adam reside in the Rosemount community with their four children: Taylor, Brennen, Payton, and Anaka.
Amanda joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2015.
Meet Ms. Nelsen, Director of Operations at the Primrose School of Apple Valley. She holds a Bachlor's Degree in Elementary Education from UMD. She has 20 years of experience teaching in public school, creative play based child care 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
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2015.
Hi, my name is Mrs. Taylor. I have my B.S. in Sociology with a post-baccalaureate Teacher certification. I have 15 years of experience working with children and I have 2 teenagers of my own. My husband is originally from Australia so we like to visit every couple of years. In my free time I enjoy hiking and crafting.
Favorite children’s book: No, David!.
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2020.
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 Chef Guiosky. I was born in Louisiana and moved to MN when I was 7 years old. I lost my accent, but I kept the love for good Southern food. Lately my favorite food to cook has been Japanese cuisine. I have been cooking since I was 8 years old, starting as a hobby and growing into a career!
I enjoy spending my time with my son and wife. We also have 2 cats that are super friendly. Life is fun and full of learning every day for us!
Favorite children’s book: Jumping Mouse
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.
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 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 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 and exploring MN state parks
Favorite children’s book: Brown Bear Brown Bear, What Do You See?
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2022.
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 Ms. Ness. I am originally from Rochester. I recently graduated with a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with a focus on cild development and family sutdies. I have 8 years of child care experience.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, hanging out with friends, and walking my dog. I love being able to aide in children’s early development and see them accomplish big milestones as they grow.
Favorite children’s book: Good Night Moon
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.
Hi, my name is Mrs. Swedin. I have an Associates Degree in Literal Arts and Science and have been working with children for 10 years. I grew up in a small town north of the cities. We had what we called a “hobby farm” full of animals such as pigs, ducks, chickens, cats, dogs, and even my own horse. This experience taught me so much. I knew at an early age that teaching was one of my passions. Anywhere I went I was either playing with the animals or engaging with the children. A few of my favorite things include photography, goat yoga, horseback riding, 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 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 10 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 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 23 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 1 guinea pig. 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. 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. Montonye. I have been working in childcare for 5 years and I just graduated from Minot State University with a degree in Early Childhood and a minor in Special Education.
I am originally from Minneapolis, but have lived everywhere from North Dakota to Wisconsin, and most recently Missouri.
My favorite thing to do on the weekend is hang out with my new baby nephew who I love to pieces!
Favorite children’s book: Goodnight Moon
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.
Hi, my name is Ms. Waldeland. I grew up in Farmington, MN. I have 2 years of experience working with children.
In my free time I love cooking and baking. I also love playing games with and spending time with my family and friends.
Favorite Children’s Book: Where’s My Monster?
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.
Hi, my name is Mrs. Jackels. I am originally from Lakeville and have 8 years of childcare experience. I am currently working on my Doctorate for Physical Therapy and Child Development Associates Degree.
I have been in the Army National Guard for nine years doing Human Resources.
On the weekends I like taking my daughter to the zoo. My favorite foods are comfort foods and burgers.
Favorite Children’s Book: On the Night You Were Born
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.
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 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 one year and am very excited to be 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 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 10 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 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 11 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. 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. Saucedo. I currently live in Rosemount. I have been working in the preschool setting for 9 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. Froom. I grew up in Crystal, MN and lived in Las Vegas too. I have over 15 years of childcare experience.
I played basketball for 15 years and have coached & refereed.
I have a son named Lucas. We enjoy going to the cabin, fishing, and exploring new parks. I also like watching sports: football, hockey and basketball! My favorite food is pasta.
Favorite Children’s Book: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.
Hi, my name is Mrs. Kiehl. I grew up in Minneapolis and bought my first house in Apple Valley in 2021. I grew up helping my mom with her in-home daycare and have over 4 years of experience working in childcare centers.
I also joined the Apple Valley Fire Department in August 2022 after completing my fire certifications at HTC.
I enjoy playing softball, spending time with my husband and playing trumpet.
Favorite children’s book: Pizza Pat
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.
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 Mrs. Portz.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 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 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 will graduate in 2024. I have been working with children for 12 years.
An interesting fact about me is that I played college hockey for Wisconsin – Eau Claire. 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. Donnelly. I was born in Costa Rica and I grew up in Lakeville, MN. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Children & Family Studies from Metro State University and I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I have 10 years of experience working with children.
I have two dogs I love to obsess over. My favorite foods are pasta and donuts. On the weekends, my husband and I love to go hiking and biking, trying new restaurants, and going to our cabin in Wisconsin.
This fall we are expecting our first baby boy that we couldn’t be more blessed and excited for!
Favorite children’s book: If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.
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 5 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. Our second baby is due soon!
Favorite children’s book: Good Night Darth Vader
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2021.
Hi, my name is Ms. Spurgeon. I am originally from Port Charlotte, Florida (yes, I’m a Disney fan)! I recently moved to Minneapolis. I have 3 years of experience working with children.
A fun fact about me is that I had never seen snow until I moved to MN. It is REALLY cold here! In my free time I love adventuring to and exploring new places. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and trying new foods!
Favorite Children’s Book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
I joined Primrose School of Apple Valley in 2023.
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 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. Preusse. 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. 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. Ross. I have 7 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 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 4 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.
Meet Melisa and Vincent Schultz – proud Franchise Owners of the Primrose School of Apple Valley. Committed to excellence in every aspect of their school, this entrepreneurial pair is delighted to bring high-quality early education and care to the children and families in Apple Valley and the surrounding communities.
The couple first discovered Primrose Schools after learning that they were expecting their first child, Madelyn. Although Melisa and Vincent began their child care search early and toured many care facilities in the area, they both left each tour unsatisfied with the lack of basic care and the quality of education each location provided. Towards the end of their search, they visited a Primrose school and instantly felt a sense of family and trust that was missing from other options in the community. Once Madelyn was born, she was enrolled at the local Primrose school.
After a few months of Madelyn attending the Primrose school, Melisa and Vincent were impressed by the growth and development in her social, emotional, and cognitive skills. They began to realize and appreciate the positive impact the Balanced Learning® curriculum had on their daughter and family. Melisa and Vincent also discovered that they were completely aligned with the vision and mindset of Primrose, which is to provide high-quality education for all children to equip them for a brighter future.
“Vincent always had an entrepreneurial spirit and throughout our marriage would come to me with various ideas for our own business, but nothing ever felt quite right,” said Melisa. “We knew that whatever our business endeavor would be, it had to mirror our passion for making a lasting positive change in the children and families of our community. Finally, I asked him, ‘What if we opened a Primrose school?’”
They then investigated the process and ultimately turned their dream into reality in 2013 when the husband and wife team officially became franchise owners. Vincent and Melisa have spent hours working on the design of their school, poring over every detail to ensure it is optimized for the health and safety of every student. They believe that the environment they have created allows for the best possible learning opportunities for students. Melisa and Vincent thought of everything, including: a water filtration system for the school, an air exchange system to continually provide fresh air, and a special playground turf system that is softer and provides more cushion than other playground options.
Prior to joining Primrose, Melisa practiced medicine in Endocrinology as a physician assistant (PA-C) for six years. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in bacteriology with a business certificate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She then attended The George Washington University where she earned a Master of Science in Health Sciences degree and a physician assistant certificate. Vincent also attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in economics and received a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis. Vincent is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and was formerly an audit manager. He was also an assurance senior with a Big 4 accounting firm.
Melisa and Vincent are thrilled to partner with parents in Apple Valley and the surrounding communities. They are committed to providing children with a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn and grow into happy, confident adults. Primrose School of Apple Valley will offer the Primrose exclusive, research-informed, Balanced Learning® curriculum, which blends teacher-guided, child-initiated learning and play with a focus on character development in Infant through private Pre-Kindergarten classrooms. In addition, the school will provide before and after school programs and an education focused summer camp for students up to 12 years of age. At the school, Melisa will handle the day-to-day operations by working closely with parents, children, and staff to create a nurturing, supportive, and collaborative environment. Vincent will also play an active role in supporting the new school. Their children, Madelyn, Scarlett and Quintin attend the Primrose School of Apple Valley.
The Primrose School of Apple Valley opened January 2016 and is located at 15455 Embry Path. For more information, visit www.PrimroseAppleValley.com.