Meet Saleem Karmaliani and Dr. Salima Mithani – dedicated parents of three daughters and active owners and operators of Primrose Schools located in the northern, central and southern neighborhoods of twin cities metropolis. These schools are actively serving neighborhoods within and close to the cities of Arden Hills, Prior Lake, Richfield, Savage, South Minneapolis and ShoreviewPrimrose School of Prior Lake & Savage was the very first Primrose to open its doors in Minnesota in August 2006. With years of successfully serving the Prior Lake and Savage communities, the couple decided to organically grow into neighborhoods where the communities were still lacking high quality early childhood education and care. As a result they own <a href="http://www.primrosesouthmpls.com/" target="_blank">Primrose School of South Minneapolis & Richfield</a> and <a href="https://www.primroseschools.com/schools/savage/">Primrose School of Prior Lake and Savage</a>.As parents of young children themselves, Karmalianis understand the importance of starting early to shape a child’s educational foundation and character. The couple, sees first hand, the difference early childhood education makes in young lives as they have themselves witnessed how Primrose School has positively impacted their own children. "We knew we wanted to deliver the same high-quality care and education for other families," said Saleem. Recognizing how challenging it was to find a quality, early childhood development program for their own children, Karmalianis embraced and continue to promote the Primrose mission with a well-balanced educational experience for the families they serve through these schools.Saleem holds graduate degrees in Education and Public Policy, while Salima practices the field of Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine. Both are graduates of University of Minnesota and have been living in Twin Cities for 25 plus years. Together they have three daughters Cerena and twins Sophie and Sara. Karmalianis love sports and are die-hard fans of Gophers and Minnesota Vikings. The family loves to spend time outdoors and are frequent visitors to Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA).“Our mission remains consistent with the Primrose model: to provide our families with the premier well balanced early childhood development experience in a safe and loving environment. We know this is only possible with our parents and teachers’ continued partnership and support” said Saleem. His past experience in Education as well as working for the government in the field of Human Services for over 15 years is practically evident in his day to day operations in their schools. Between their schools, Saleem leads a dedicated and professional team of over 120 employees managed by 12 highly qualified and caring leadership team members. “When we were introduced to Primrose for our own children, we immediately became enthralled with the curriculum, instruction methodologies and dedication of the teachers to develop each child emotionally and cognitively,” said Dr. Salima Mithani. The couple recognized that Saleem's experience in education combined with Primrose Schools's philosophy would allow their family to establish a strong model of early learning in Minnesota where parents and children would feel comfortable and part of a family.Both Saleem and Salima volunteer for local community organizations in the field of education and public services. Dr. Salima Mithani also served as the board member and treasurer of their children elementary school's PTO.Primrose School of Arden Hills and Shoreview opened its doors in October of 2019, and our teachers have been enthusiastically teaching the exclusive Balanced Learning system with STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math) Program for children ages six weeks to 6 years old. Developed by and taught exclusively at Primrose Schools, Balanced Learning Curriculum blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a special emphasis on character development in the schools.We hope to see you around at the school. For more information about Primrose School of Arden Hills and Shoreview please visit our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PrimroseArdenHills/">Facebook</a> page. For pointers for parents please visit <a href="https://www.primroseschools.com/blog/">https://www.primroseschools.com/blog</a>

Franchise Owner

Meet Saleem Karmaliani and Dr. Salima Mithani – dedicated parents of three daughters and active owners and operators of Primrose Schools located in the northern, central and southern neighborhoods ...

Our Staff

I was born and raised in San Jose, CA and have been an educator for the last 15 years. My journey began as a classroom teacher where I taught Middle and High School aged students. My family moved to Minnesota in 2015 and as my children began to grow, I found a new passion for early childhood education. My husband and I have 2 wonderful boys who keep us constantly on the go with hockey and other activities. I have been with Primrose Schools since 2015 and am excited to welcome you to our new school for our families in the Arden Hills and Shoreview communities.Name: Tarah HaugerHometown: San Jose, CAChild care experience: 15+ yearsEducation Background: Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction and Bachelor's Degree in Human Performance and Sports Science Favorite food: Anything Italian!Favorite weekend activity: Watching my boys play hockeyFavorite children’s book: Oh! The Places You'll Go!Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin BearBest way to schedule time to talk: Call 651.340.0787 or email thauger@primroseshoreview.com

Mrs. Tarah Hauger

School Director

Ms. Cara Tonnell

Enrollment Specialist for Savage, Richfield/South Minneapolis, and Arden Hills/Shoreview Locations

I grew up in Hickory, NC and currently live with my significant other and our pet Rooney in Bloomington, MN. I've always had a passion for young learners ever since I started babysitting at a young age and have had many opportunities to educate young learners throughout my life. I graduated from Wingate University, NC and with my masters from University of Pheonix, TN in Early Childhood Education. I have learned so much about teaching through my journey with Primrose Schools for almost 10 years. What I love the most about Primrose is the passion, care, creativity, and joy each student and family all share with me each day I come to Primrose! I look forward to getting to know each family and staff!Name: Aarin Ledford Hometown: Bloomington, MNChildcare experience: 13 yearsEducation Background: Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and Psychology. Master's Degree in Early Childhood EducationFavorite food: SushiFavorite weekend activity: Hiking and CampingFavorite children’s book: Harry PotterPrimrose character I most relate to: Molly the CowWhat I’m most excited about this school year: Welcoming new and returning families and staff! Best way to schedule time to talk: Email me at ALedford@primroseSavage.com

Ms. Aarin Ledford

Education Coordinator for Primrose School of Savage/South Minneapolis/Arden Hills

Ms. Mackenzie Sailer

Director of Operations for Savage, Richfield/South Minneapolis, and Shoreview/Arden Hills

grew up near Atlanta, Georgia, home of Chick-fil-A, Delta Airlines, and of course Primrose Schools! I received my Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Liberty University. I found my home here in Minnesota, where I married my husband and had our daughter, who's now a toddler! I love teaching pre-k because there is so much discovery, excitement, and independence that shows itself in the classroom and beyond!I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.Name: KaleighHometown: Maple GroveChild care experience: 6 yearsEducation Background: Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood EducationFavorite food:Chick-fil-A!Favorite weekend activity: Taking a walk with my familyFavorite children’s book: Madeline or EloisePrimrose character I most relate to: Mia the MouseWhat I’m most excited about this school year: Learning new things with the students!Best way to schedule time to talk: Email

Mrs. Kaleigh Touw

Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

I was born and raised in Shoreview, Minnesota. I received my Associates degree In liberal Arts and Sciences in 2018. I have two older sisters that also work with kids in education. I have been working with kids of all ages for the last 3 years and have enjoyed every minute of it! During my free time, I love hanging out with friends and family and my two cats. Their names are Flora and Ahri. A big thing to know about me is I have been riding horses for about 16 years It’s a thing I always look forward to doing. I love that I get to continue working with kids and look forward to helping them learn every day.Name: Kate RogersHometown: ShoreviewChild care experience: 3+ yearsEducation Background: Associates Degree in Liberal Arts and SciencesFavorite food:PastaFavorite weekend activity: Getting outside and seeing my family and friends. I also love hanging out with my cats!Favorite children’s book: Good Night MoonPrimrose character I most relate to: Peanut the PonyWhat I’m most excited about this school year: Watching all the children, grow, develop, learn, and progress in their skillsBest way to schedule time to talk: Reach out via the Procare App

Ms. Kate Rogers

Assistant Toddler Teacher

Name: Lexi ChuteHometown: HugoChild Care experience: 3.5 yearsEducation Background: Bachelor's Degree in PsychologyFavorite food:Chicken FettucineFavorite weekend activity: Painting and DrawingFavorite children’s book: The Giving Tree by Shel SilversteinPrimrose character I most relate to: Molly the CowWhat I’m most excited about this school year: Teaching and watching my little friends grow!Best way to schedule time to talk: Message me on Procare

Ms. Lexi Chute

Lead Early Preschool Teacher

I was born and raised in Saint Paul, MN and moved to Cambridge, MN at the age of 12. Children have always been a passion of mine! In high school I took a 2-year child development class and worked with children in special education grades 1st-5th. I also took care of my 3 sisters most of my life; two of which have disabilities. While in school for nursing I was an assistant teacher and loving every second of it. I loved my job more than what I was going to school for and that’s when I realized teaching toddlers was what I wanted to do with my life! Some fun facts about me are I'm obsessed with coffee, but my favorite thing to drink is water, my favorite color is white, and my favorite thing is my Jeep Beatrice! I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.Name: Grace HamlinHometown: Cambridge, MNChild care experience: 3+ yearsEducation Background: Some college and CDA (almost)Favorite food: Pizza and Ice creamFavorite weekend activity: Taking a walk with my familyFavorite children’s book: The Giving Tree By: Shel SilversteinPrimrose character I most relate to: Og, because he stands for caring and my main goal in life is caring for others!What I’m most excited about this school year: Being with the children and teaching them new things!Best way to schedule time to talk: Email or message me on the Procare app

Ms. Grace Hamlin

Lead Toddler Teacher

I was born in Edina and raised in Chanhassen, MN. From the time I was a child myself, I had a love for children and an interest in working with them as a future career. Luckily for me, this interest never died from the time I was a kindergartener to today! After I graduated high school, I attended the University of Minnesota and attained my bachelor's degree in Child Psychology. I believe each child in my class brings unique strengths and abilities that they can share with not only one another, but me as well.When not teaching, in my free time I enjoy musical theatre, drawing, traveling, fitness, and quality time with my friends and family. Name: BrittHometown: Chanhassen, MNChildcare Experience: 6 yearsEducational Background: Bachelor's degree in Child PsychologyFavorite Food: Salmon, Sweet Potatoes, and ChocolateFavorite Weekend Activity: Relaxing and doing something creative!Favorite Children's Book: The Rainbow FishPrimrose Character I most relate to: OgWhat I'm most excited about this school year: Getting to know your children and watching them learn and grow together. Best way to schedule time to talk: Email or message on Procare!

Ms. Britt Cahlander

Lead Explorer Teacher

I am from Ramsey, Minnesota and attended Anoka High School. After graduation, I moved to Bemidji where I earned my elementary education degree from Bemidji State University. Following college, I moved to North Dakota and worked as a preschool teacher in a childcare center out there, however, I have decided to return home to Ramsey. Now, I am thrilled to be back home and working a job that I love!Name: CassieHometown: Ramsey, MinnesotaChildcare experience: 1 yearEducational background: Bachelor’s degree in Elementary EducationFavorite food: ice creamFavorite weekend activity: watching scary movies and shopping :) Favorite children’s book: The Day the Crayons QuitPrimrose character I most relate to: Ally the bunnyWhat I’m most excited about this school year: Watching the progress that students make over timeBest way to schedule time to talk: Email or messages on the ProCare app

Ms. Cassie Zezulka

Lead Preschool Teacher

I was born and raised in Stillwater, MN with my older twin brothers. I attended and graduated from Mahtomedi High School and the University of Wisconsin River Falls. I earned my Elementary Education degree and a minor in Spanish. I hope to be able to go back to complete my minor in Biology, a minor in Early Childhood and possibly another minor in Computer Science. I have worked with children aged 2 months – 18 years old and have absolutely loved every minute of it! Each age and experience has taught me a lot about teaching. I am so excited to be here and to get to know your child(ren) and you!Name: Margaret (Marg, Maggie, Mags)Hometown: Stillwater, MNChildcare experience: 3+ yearsEducational background: Bachelor's in Elementary Education and minor in SpanishFavorite food:Lahemmeshwi, tabouli (anything Lebanese or Mediterranean)Favorite weekend activity: Getting outside and seeing my family and friends.Favorite children's book: The Giving TreePrimrose character I most relate To: Og the BookwormWhat I am most excited for this school year: Watching all of the children, grow, develop, learn, and progress in their skills. Best way to schedule time to talk: Email or message in the ProCare app.

Ms. Margaret Kiel

Lead Infant Teacher

I grew up in New Brighton, Minnesota and I currently live in Lino Lakes. I attended and graduated from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. I provided 3 years of private-licensed childcare and have worked in child-care settings for almost 7 years, primarily with pre-school children and infants! I am so excited to be working at Primrose Arden Hills and getting to know you and your children! Name:Julie WhitingHometown: New Brighton, MNChild-care Experience: Almost 10 yearsEducation: Bachelor's Degree, Psychology Favorite Food: Shrimp pastaFavorite Weekend Activity: Taking a walk with my husband and English Bulldog!Favorite Children's Book: The Very Hungry CaterpillarPrimrose Character I Most Relate To: Billy the DuckWhat I'm Most Excited About: I am excited to continue watching our Infants grow, develop and learn while engaging in our daily activities!Best Way to Schedule Time to Talk: Email or ProCare message.

Ms. Julie Whiting

Assistant Infant Teacher

I grew up in Northfield, MN and currently live with my husband in New Brighton. I've had a deep passion for kids ever since I got my first babysitting job in middle school, and have had many opportunities to work with kids throughout my life. I recently graduated from Bethel University with degrees in Elementary Education and Spanish, and worked as a fifth grade teacher for a year before becoming a preschool teacher. I have learned so much about teaching and I love the joy and wonder kids share with me each day I come to Primrose! I look forward to getting to know you and your child.Name: Aleisha ThweattHometown: Northfield, MNChild care experience: 3 yearsEducation Background: Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Spanish LanguageFavorite food: LasagnaFavorite weekend activity: Hiking at state parksFavorite children’s book: You Are Special by Max LucadoPrimrose character I most relate to: Benjamin the BearWhat I’m most excited about this school year: Seeing the joy kids get from learning and being able to witness their creativityBest way to schedule time to talk: Email

Ms. Aleisha Thweatt

Lead Preschool Teacher

I grew up in Forest Lake, MN and currently live in Minneapolis on the U of M's campus. I graduated from Centennial High school in Lino Lakes and am currently entering my junior year at the U majoring in Sociology of Law, Crime, and Deviance with a minor in Business Law. I began babysitting neighborhood kids when I was 12 years old and have participated in childcare work every summer since. I am so excited to be working at Primrose with such an incredible team and group of kiddos!Name: Claire LaudiHometown: Forest Lake, MNChild care experience: 8 yearsEducation Background: Working towards my Bachelor's Degree in Sociology LCD at the University of MinnesotaFavorite food: Sushi Favorite weekend activity: Wake surfing and jet skiing Favorite children’s book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Primrose character I most relate to: OgWhat I’m most excited about this school year: Observing the kiddos gain confidence on the potty and in social situations Best way to schedule time to talk: Email: clairelaudi@yahoo.com

Ms. Claire Laudi

Assistant Early Preschool Teacher

I grew up in Oak Grove, MN in a family of six along with my dog (Bannon), cat (Cinnoman) and three horses (Ben, Taxi and Alandra)! I recently graduated from Bethel University with my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, Preprimary Education and Early Childhood Education. Teaching is one of the greatest joys in my life and I am thrilled to continue this journey at Primrose Schools!Name: Athena AaseHometown: Oak Grove, MNChildcare experience: 5+yearsEducation Background: Bachelor's Degree Elementary Education, Preprimary Education and Early Childhood EducationFavorite food: StrawberriesFavorite weekend activity: Longboarding Favorite children’s book: Bee Heartful by Frank J. SileoPrimrose character I most relate to:Erwin the DogWhat I’m most excited about this school year: Building relationships with each student and their families!Best way to schedule time to talk: Procare

Ms. Athena Aase

Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

I grew up and currently still live in Arden Hills, MN. I recently graduated from Adrian College (MI) with my Bachelor's degree in Physical Education and a minor in Health Education.I'm excited to work with kids and watch them grow every day!Name: Jessie, Jess, or JessicaHometown: Arden Hills, MNChildcare experience: 1 yearEducation Background: Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education and Minor in Health EducationFavorite food: StrawberriesFavorite weekend activity: Hula Hooping and spending time with friends, family, and my dogs (Coco and Basil)Favorite children’s book: Fox in Socks by Dr. SeussPrimrose character I most relate to: OgWhat I’m most excited about this school year: Building relationships with each student and meeting their families.Best way to schedule time to talk: Procaremessage

Ms. Jessica Abraham

Assistant Preschool Teacher