Primrose School of Athens

Hello! My Name is Simona Barnett. I was born and raised in Hong Kong. I came to the U.S. when I was 16 years old. I enjoy my lifestyle here in the States. I have been married to my wonderful husband, Curtis, for over 3 years. We have a 16-month-old daughter, named Nova. She is full of personality and is definitely keeping us busy. We enjoy spending time together and going on different adventures.

I am a certified Early Childhood Education teacher in the state of Georgia. I have been teaching for about 10 years. I am passionate about teaching young children...they inspire me! I especially love watching how each child grows over a period of time. Children amaze me! I am excited about being part of the Primrose family.

Hometown: Hong Kong

Child care experience: 10 Years

Favorite food: Japanese

Favorite weekend activity: Rest and spending time with my family

Favorite children’s book: The Giving Tree

Primrose character I most relate to: Libby the lamb

What I’m most excited about this school year: Learning about my students and growing with them!

Hi, I’m Emily Baxter. I wanted to tell you a little about me .

My parents are originally from Mexico, but I was born and raised in Athens. My goal is to obtain a degree in Early Childhood Education and attend Athens Technical College to obtain an Associate and Bachelors degree in Early Childhood education.

I love working with kids! Watching children learn new skills, play each and every day as they interact with friends, and have fun brings me a lot of joy!

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, going on adventures, trips, and love doing and trying new things!

Hometown: Athens, GA

Child care experience: 4 years

Favorite food: Chicken

Favorite weekend activity: Watching movies and outdoor activities

Favorite children’s book: The Rainbow Fish

Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin the bear

What I’m most excited about this school year: watch children learn and discover new things as they play and learn every day

I’m Abbey Bernath, I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I am 21 years old and have always lived in Georgia. I have an Associates degree in Early Childhood Care and Education and graduate from Athens Technical College in May. I am starting at Piedmont this Fall to get my Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education.

I have always wanted to be an Elementary school teacher because I grew up watching my mom teach Kindergarten. She has been my inspiration while going to college for my degrees. While I’m going to college and working at Primrose, I also am a photographer and have my own business called Southern Things Photography. Starting my own business a year ago has given me an amazing hobby, where I can create special memories that will last a lifetime for people.

In my free time I love to be outdoors, go shopping, and do photography. I also love traveling and trying new things. My favorite thing about working at Primrose is learning new things about childcare and building relationships with the students.

Name: Abbey Bernath

Hometown: Jefferson, Georgia

Child care experience: First time working in childcare

Education Background: Associates in Early Childhood Education/ Currently working on Bachelor’s

Favorite food: Hibachi/sushi

Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with people I love and hiking

Favorite children’s book: Rainbow Fish

Primrose character I most relate to: Molly

What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to work with children for the first time and learn a lot from them

Hi, I’m Nisha Blackwell. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I was adopted from India. I was in an orphanage that had children with disabilities and it helped teach me about inclusivity. I have a big heart for teaching and connecting with children because of my experience in India. I was eight years old when I moved to Georgia.

I am working towards my Associates degree in Social Work at Athens Technical College. I would also like to get my Bachelor’s degree later.

In my free time, I love decorating and being crafty. I love traveling the world experiencing new cultures with my Mom. I also love going on exciting adventures like hiking, jet skiing, and outdoor activities with my boyfriend.

Hometown : Athens, Georgia

Child care experience: 4+ years

Education Background: Currently attending Athens Tech

Favorite food: Indian food

Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with my boyfriend and swimming

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

Primrose character I most relate to: Ally

What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to connect with students and families

Hi! I’m Josie Callahan. I graduated from the University of Georgia in December 2020 and have been working in childcare ever since!

Upon graduating, I found a daycare job to fill my time until I found a job in my field of study, but I soon discovered that I really enjoyed working with children! They make me laugh and you can learn so much from them everyday.

When I am not at Primrose, I spend my time making and recording music with friends, playing in my band, and flexing my creativity. I love helping kids grow confidence in their creativity and social skills and am so excited to get to know the children in my class!

Hi, I’m Kylah Chase, I wanted to tell you a little about myself! I recently graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelors in Human Development and Family Science. I love seeing what I have learned come to life every day in the classroom! After growing up with four sisters, the excitement of the toddler classroom feels like home to me.

When not at school, you can find me spoiling my pup, Goose. We enjoy long walks throughout Athens… and sometimes T.J. Maxx too. Some of my favorite hobbies include collecting records, reading books, and attempting to have a green thumb.

I am so excited to be a part of the Primrose Team, and especially the Older Toddler Classroom. There is something very special about the growth and development that occurs in 1-2 year olds. I am so grateful to be able to watch each of your little Tots' big personalities come to life!

I'm Haydee Concuan, I wanted to tell you a little about myself. I am from Dalton, GA, but my family is from Guatemala! I am a junior at the University of Georgia majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Spanish. I hope to one day become a Bilingual Speech Therapist! I have always been around children whether it was at Sunday school, babysitting or volunteering, I love being around children.

In my free time, I enjoy laying out by the pool, cycling, and hanging out with friends. I think children are so fascinating and love to see them in all stages of development plus they're very funny. I hope to learn more and grow at Primrose. I think Primrose's mission and values align with mine. I cannot wait to be more involved with this school to help in any way I can and get to know the amazing staff, families, and children who make this school what it is!

Name: Haydee Concuan

Hometown: Dalton, Georgia

Childcare experience: 5+ years

Education Background: CMSD Major with Spanish Minor

Favorite Food: Pasta

Favorite weekend activity: Hanging out with friends and family

Favorite children's book: Rainbow Fish

Primrose character I most relate to: Kati

What I'm most excited about this school year: Being a part of this school!

Hi, I’m Christie Evans.I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I have worked in Early Child Care for four years and I love working with children and helping them with their early learning and development.I am a Medical Assistant Graduate from the Medical Institute of Northeast Georgia.

I have two children.My son is Zachary is 16 and my daughter Logan is 25.We enjoy going to the movies, camping and just spending quality family time. My favorite hobbies are reading, swimming, camping, and travel.

I’m excited to be a part of this educational journey with the children here at Primrose Athens! I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.

Hometown: Monroe Ga.

Child care experience: 4+ years

Education Background: Medical Assistant certification through The Medical Institute of North East Georgia

Favorite food:Pizza

Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with Family and friends.

Favorite children’s book: All of the Dr Seuss books

Primrose character I most relate to: Og

What I’m most excited about this school year: Learning my students’ personalities and learning techniques

Hi, I’m Mary Grahl.

I recently moved to Athens from South Carolina to be near my son and his family.

I was in the child care industry for many years. The birth of my 9 month old granddaughter reignited the part of me that loved helping to nurture and be a part of children's learning experiences.

I am so excited to be a part of the Primrose team, and can't wait to get to know you and your children!

Hometown: Spartanburg, SC

Child care experience: 10 years

Education Background: Early Childhood Education & Psychology at Wofford University; Elementary Counseling at Baptist College of Charleston

Favorite food: Cantoloupe & Watermelon

Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with my granddaughter

Favorite children’s book: "Love You Forever" by Robert Munsch

Primrose character I most relate to: Og

What I’m most excited about this school year: Doing what I love…helping children learn.

Hi, My name is Brianna LaQuins hailing from Georgia’s illustrious lake country of Greene County! I am a 2020 graduate of The Fort Valley State University Receiving my bachelors degree in social work.

During my senior year in college I moved back to Greene County to be closer to my family. In that time I began teaching Georgia Pre-K in Oconee county. I learned so much from my introductory class and I am grateful for each lesson that they taught me. After seeing my class off to kindergarten I perused my career field And began working with the department of family and children services as a family development specialist. I enjoyed being able to help families come closer together in times where we need family the most. Recently I decided to take my social work background and pursue my future as an educator by enrolling into the GaTAPP program and getting my teaching certification. In my spare time I like to spend time hanging out with my friends, at home with family, tending to our small farm or somewhere listening to a podcast.

I am so excited to have the opportunity to teach Pre-K here at Primrose! This age group is at a point where they are so curious and soak up all the knowledge that they can. Thank you for allowing me to make a difference in your child’s future!

Let’s get to know each other! I’m Alyssa. I’ve spent the last 5 years in Athens, but I’m originally from Savannah, GA. I recently graduated from UGA with a Bachelors in Arabic and a Bachelors in Linguistics. In the future, I plan to return to UGA for my Masters in TESOL and World Language Education. I live here in Athens with my girlfriend and cat, Major. On weekends and during my free time at home, I’m most likely spending my time cooking, swimming, or painting to relax. I also love to try new restaurants around Athens with my girlfriend and friends and visit my home in Savannah when I get the chance.

I’ve been working with children for the last 8 years, most recently spending the last year in quarantine pods with 2, 4, and 5-year-olds. I love the energy and creativity that children bring to any situation. I always looked forward to school as a child, and I want to fuel that feeling for learning new things for my own students! Seeing their personal growth inspires me so much, and I can’t wait to get to know you, your child, and your family even better!

Hi! My name is Maeley Nitschke, I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I am currently a senior at the University of Georgia. I am working on my Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders, with hopes of becoming a speech-language pathologist one day. In my free time, I enjoy baking, reading, and spending time with friends and family. I also love to take my dog, Maximus, for walks/rides around town!

From a young age, I knew I had a passion for helping others learn, especially children. I have always enjoyed working with children either through babysitting, volunteering in church nurseries, or working at daycare centers in my hometown. I love how curious children are about the world around them. Watching them accomplish new things and grow as people is truly rewarding. I look forward to getting to know your children and your families this school year!

Hometown: Valdosta, Georgia

Childcare experience: 7 years

Education background: CMSD Major

Favorite food: Chicken nuggets

Favorite weekend activities: Spending time with friends and family, relaxing

Favorite children’s book: I Love You Forever

Primrose character I most relate to: Libby

What I am excited about for the next school year: Getting to meet all of our sweet students and families!

I’m Sofia Ortiz, I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I was born in Urbana, Illinois, but I grew up in a beautiful city called Queretaro, in Mexico. As long as I can remember, I have always loved serving others and working with children. I have a B.A. in Psychology. During high school and college I loved to volunteer and help children do their homework. I also love to listen to children and help with their emotion management. But being honest, I think I have learned more from them then they have from me.

I have always been fascinated with children because they are honest and know what really matters, they see the world with curiosity and wonder, and they have the power to fill those around them with joy and energy.

In my free time I love running, reading and cooking. I also love to spend time outdoors in nature. I'm a big animal lover. My family is a very important part of my life. I have two brothers, one sister and spending time with them, my parents and my boyfriend is my favorite thing in the world.

Hometown: Urbana, Illinois

Child care experience: 7+ years

Education Background: B.A. Psychology

Favorite food: Spaghetti

Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with my husband, cooking and reading

Favorite children’s book: The Little Prince and MOMO

Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin

What I’m most excited about this school year: creating bonds with my students

Hi, I’m Daniela Osorio. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I was born and raised here in Athens, Ga. I graduated from Clarke Central High School and continued my education at Athens Technical College. I received an Associate degree in Early Childhood Care and Education in August 2019. I have been working with children for the past two years and I can honestly say I love what I do. I love watching children learn and grow with the world around them. In my spare time, I love spending time with my family, traveling to new places and taking lots of pictures.

I am so excited to work and grow alongside your child and become a part of the Primrose family.

Hometown: Athens, GA

Childcare experience: 3 years

Education Background: Associates in Early Childhood Care and Education

Favorite food: Chick-Fil-A

Favorite weekend activity: spending time with family, traveling

Favorite children’s book: The Rainbow Fish

Primrose character I most relate to: Katie

What I’m most excited about this school year: I am excited to grow with the Primrose family and connect with all the children.

Let’s get to know each other.

I’m Taylor Perper; I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I recently graduated from UGA with a Master’s degree in Social Studies Education. I have lived in Athens for the past ten years with the exception of a year studying abroad in Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom. I have a cat named Willa who helps me relax in the evenings and I like to grow some of my own food! I really like growing hot peppers (the spicier the better!). I love to read and be outside and am happiest when I can combine these two things. I love working with students of any age, whether they be preschoolers or seniors in high school. My passion is not just for the subjects I teach but also for the people I am teaching. We are students our entire lives and I am thrilled to help with the first steps of a lifelong journey!

Name: Taylor Perper

Hometown: Savannah, GA

Child care experience: 1+ years

Education Background: BA in History, MA in Global Economics, MAT in Social Studies Education

Favorite food: Chick-fil-a

Favorite weekend activity: Hiking to a quiet spot to read

Favorite children’s book: The Little Red Hen

Primrose character I most relate to: Og

What I’m most excited about this school year: Helping my students be the best they can be!

Hi, I’m Megan Raines, and I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I’ve worked in child care industry for 6 years, three of those at Primrose. I moved from Kennesaw, GA to Athens over the summer.

I have a little girl, Isabella, who is almost one year old. I love spending all my time with her and going on adventures together. I love working with children, and I look forward to teaching yours!

Hometown: Gainesville, GA

Childcare experience: Six years

Favorite food: Crab legs & Pizza

Favorite weekend activity: Loving on my daughter and anything outdoors

Favorite children’s book: Pete the Cat

Primrose character I most relate to: Billy the Duck

Hi, I’m Jenny Rumely.

I have worked in childcare for over 10 years. I have an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. I love spending time with my daughter and my husband.

I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.

Hometown: Athens, Ga

Child care experience: 10 years

Education Background: Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education

Favorite food: Pizza

Favorite weekend activity: Hanging out with my family

Favorite children’s book: Goodnight Moon

Primrose character I most relate to: Megy

What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know the children as well as the parents

Here’s a little about me...

Hi, I’m Mackenna Simpson! I’m attending University of Georgia getting my bachelors in Marketing. I’m originally from Dallas Georgia, but recently moved to Athens for school. In my spare time, I love to travel with my family, paint and volunteer at my church back home. I love anything Disney. I visit Disney World on almost every vacation because It’s just so magical! Lastly, I love being an aunt! My favorite thing about working with children is that I get to be a part of shaping their lives.

Hometown: Dallas, Ga

Child care experience: 2

Education Background: Currently working on Bachelors in Marketing

Favorite food: Mickey Waffles and Capri Suns

Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with family (especially with my adorable nephew!)

Favorite children’s book: One Fish, Two Fish. Red Fish, Blue Fish

Primrose character I most relate to: Molly the Cow

What I’m most excited about this school year: To get to know all of the wonderful staff and kids!

Hi, I’m Emily Theisen, I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I am currently a student at the University of Georgia, studying Human Development and Family Science. I intend on getting my Masters in Occupational Therapy and hope to continue working with children in the future. Seeing kids grow is so rewarding, and I can’t wait to experience that here!

When I’m not at school or Primrose, I love picking up hobbies like crochet, piano, and reading. I love spending time with my family and friends, whether that’s a fun day trip or staying in and watching movies.

I am so excited to become a part of the Primrose School of Athens family!

Hometown: Suwanee, Georgia

Child care experience: 3 years

Education Background: Currently studying Human Development and

Family Science

Favorite food: Ice cream

Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with family & friends

Favorite children’s book: The Giving Tree

Primrose character I most relate to: Katie

What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know my

students and helping them grow!

Hi, I'm Yolis Ugalde! Let’s get to know each other…

My name is Yolis. I’m from Mexico, but I moved here 5 years ago. I started working with children in a childcare center in Michigan, and I fell in love with the job. I love their joy, the authenticity and being a witness of how they grow and develop. I love spending time with my family, taking long walks and learning how to do different crafts. I’m very happy to be part of the Primrose family and I can’t wait to see how much I learn about my students.

Hometown: San Luis Potosí, Mexico

Child care experience: 4 years

Favorite food: salmon

Favorite weekend activity: Long Walks

Favorites children's book: Cammy y Turrón

Primrose character I most relate to: Molly

Hi! I am so excited to begin this journey and become a part of the Primrose family. I wanted you to know a little bit about me and my background into becoming a teacher.

I was born in Lawrenceville but grew up in the Athens area. I have been in childcare since my sophomore year in high school. Specializing in ESOL classrooms and Kindergarten environments, I love watching the personalities of students develop alongside their knowledge in education. I am working toward achieving my Bachelors in Childhood Education.

Personally, I am a very positive and fun-loving individual. I am married to the love of my life, Blake, and we have a beautiful three-year-old little girl named Rosie. We love to travel and enjoy family time together.

I am overjoyed to get to know your families and children better as the school year continues. Together we will achieve everything possible to give you and your child(ren) the best experience Primrose has to offer. Thank you for your continuous support!

Hometown: Lawrenceville, Georgia

Child care experience: 3+ years

Education Background: Working to achieve Bachelors in Early Childhood Education

Favorite food: Tacos

Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with my family and traveling

Favorite children’s book: Chrysanthemum

Primrose character I most relate to: Billy

What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to watch my students grow and connect with them

Hello, my name is Kimberly Wooten. I wanted to tell you a little about myself. I was born in Athens and have lived most of my life in Oconee County.

I am married to my high school sweetheart, Alan. We have been married four years and have a precious baby girl named Margaret.

Family is most important to me.I spend most of my weekends at my family’s lake house.I enjoy photography, crafting, and reading.I have eleven years of childcare experience.I have worked with all age groups and am a certified paraprofessional.I am so excited to be working at such a great school!

Hometown: Bogart, GA

Child Care Experience: 11 years

Education Background: Certified Paraprofessional

Favorite Weekend Activity: Spending time with family at the lake

Favorite Food: Chicken

Favorite Children’s Book: Goodnight Moon

Primrose Character I Most Relate To: Erwin

What I’m Most Excited About This School Year: Getting to watch my students grow and learn how to be a good friend

Hi! I’m Courtney Wright. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

I am currently a student at Athens Tech, but I will soon transfer to Lanier Tech to study nutrition. For fun, I love to play disc golf at Sandy Creek, and I also love to go hiking with my friends.

I love working with the two year olds. I love getting to know and interact with my kiddos. I can’t wait to get to know your child & your family!!