Primrose School of Athens

Our Staff

  • Ms. Amanda Snellgrove, Executive Director

    Ms. Amanda Snellgrove

    Executive Director

    My name is Amanda Snellgrove and I am the Executive Director for the Primrose School of Athens. My love for working with children began at a very early age. I began babysitting at the age of twelve and have found a way to involve children in every aspect of my career thus far. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Child and Family Development from Georgia Southern University, where I had my first experience with a quality child care setting.

    My husband, Paul, & I met here in Athens and have enjoyed raising our children in this community. My daughter, Jorja, is fifteen and shares my love of children. My son, Malak, is thirteen and loves all things related to the Bulldogs.

    I am honored to bring my passion, knowledge, and experience to the Primrose team. I have worked in every classroom from birth to five year olds. Prior to joining the Primrose team, I directed an accredited child care center. I look forward to getting to know your family and ensuring all the high standards of Primrose are being met and exceeded.

  • Ms. Kelly Brown, Assistant Director of Classroom Development

    Ms. Kelly Brown

    Assistant Director of Classroom Development

    Hi! I'm Kelly Brown and I'm so excited to be the Assistant Director of Classroom Development. I just moved to Winterville, GA from Indianapolis, IN and am loving it here so far! I worked for Primrose schools in Indiana as both Assistant Director and Director and have been in the Early Childhood Education field for about 6 years. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Indiana State University as well as a Child Development Associate (CDA).

    My husband is a Special Education teacher and is originally from GA, which is what brought us from Indy to here! We have 2 sweet daughters, Logan and Noelle, who attend Primrose. In our spare time, you can find us exploring the many things the Athens area has to offer, camping, hanging with our 2 dogs, and cheering on the Dawgs or the Indianapolis Colts! 

    I am so excited to utilize my knowledge and passion for education to develop relationships and assist in making classrooms the best that they can be! Please do not hesitate to let me know if you have any questions about your child's classroom. I look forward to being apart of this amazing Primrose family! 

  • Ms. Annie Harris, Assistant Director of Programs & Communications

    Ms. Annie Harris

    Assistant Director of Programs & Communications

    Hi! My name is Annie Harris! I am a recent graduate from the University of Georgia Terry College of Business! I graduated with a major in Business Management with studies in Human Development and Family Studies! I love the Primrose Schools Corporation so much! I started my journey with Primrose Schools at the age of 18 in my hometown of Cumming, Ga. Once moving to Athens I was so joyful to find the Primrose School of Athens, which was only 1 years old at that time! I have now been with this amazing school for almost 5 years. I started this amazing career with Primrose just as a support teacher and have now transitioned to an Assistant Director role. Primrose has helped me gain a love and understanding for the child development industry and the education management field. I have truly found my passion here. I cannot wait to continue this journey with my Primrose family!

    Hometown: Cumming, Georgia

    Child Care experience: Over 1 year

    Education Background: South Forsyth High School, Auburn University first semester in college, now attending the University of North Georgia-Oconee

    Favorite Food: Any Italian

    Favorite Weekend activity: Pool or Lake

    Favorite Childrens book: Knuffle Bunny

    Primrose Character I most relate to: Katie the Cat

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to connect to my students and make them smile everyday

  • Ms. Lilly Strickland, Food Service Teacher

    Ms. Lilly Strickland

    Food Service Teacher

    Hi, my name is Lilly Strickland and I’m so excited to be the food service teacher at Primrose School of Athens!

    I’ve always loved working with children and I began babysitting in high school and was a nanny for several years after college. For the past few years, I’ve been working in food service and I’m thrilled to be able to combine those two experiences at Primrose. I can’t wait to show kids how fun growing and eating healthy foods can be!

    I’m looking forward to getting to know more about you and your family!

    Child care experience: 10+ years

    Education Background: BS in Criminal Justice

    Favorite food: Tacos

    Favorite Weekend Activity: Hiking

    Favorite children’s book: The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting kids excited about healthy foods

  • Ms. Helen Alvarez, Pre-Kindergarten I Teacher

    Ms. Helen Alvarez

    Pre-Kindergarten I Teacher

    Hi, I’m Helen Alvarez. I wanted to tell you a little about myself. 

    I am 24 years old and I just moved from Los Angeles, CA. I graduated from California State University Northridge with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Development. 

    I have always loved working with children. I have been a Sunday School teacher, Toddler teacher, and Pre-K teacher. I love to teach because I get to witness the “ah ha” moments. I am able to impact the lives of the children I teach and make a difference. 

    During my free time I like to discover new hikes. The views and waterfalls I am able to witness here are amazing! I am so happy to be part of the Primrose family and I look forward to getting to know all of your children and be the best teacher that I can be for them. 

    Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

    Childcare experience: 4+ years

    Education Background: B.A in Early Childhood Development 

    Favorite Food: Enchiladas 

    Favorite weekend Activity: Spending time with my husband, hiking, and playing with my new puppy! 

    Favorite children’s book: Animal Boogie by Debbie Harter 

    Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin because like him, I enjoy the outdoors and we have the same birthday! 

    What I’m most excited about this school year: I can’t wait to be a part of your child’s pre-k experience! Being able to do all kinds of fun projects, explore, engage together and above all, form relationships with both you and your children.

  • Ms. Simona Barnett, Kindergarten Teacher

    Ms. Simona Barnett

    Kindergarten Teacher

    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!

  • Ms. Emily Baxter, Older Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Emily Baxter

    Older Toddler Teacher

    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

  • Ms. Nisha Blackwell, Early Preschool I Teacher

    Ms. Nisha Blackwell

    Early Preschool I Teacher

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

    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

  • Ms. Mallorie Boles, Young Infant Teacher

    Ms. Mallorie Boles

    Young Infant Teacher

    Hi! I’m Mallorie Boles and I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I graduated Winder Barrow High school and want to continue my education in childcare. I have imagined myself working with kids since I was very young. I believe school is a fun place full of learning about ourselves and the world around us.

    I am from a small town in south Georgia and am the youngest child of three. In my free time, I enjoy being with my friends, sitting by the lake, and reading whenever I can. I’m so excited to learn about you and your favorite books too!

    Hometown : Statham, GA

    Child care experience: 1 year

    Favorite food: Steak tacos

    Favorite weekend activity: Reading at the lake

    Favorite children’s book: The story of Ferdinand

    Primrose character I most relate to: Ally

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Connecting with my students through reading!

  • Ms. Addie Chapman, Infant Support Teacher

    Ms. Addie Chapman

    Infant Support Teacher
  • Ms. Lori Daniel, Young Infant Teacher

    Ms. Lori Daniel

    Young Infant Teacher

    Hi! I’m Lori Daniel and I wanted to tell you a little about myself. I was born in Gainesville, GA and moved to Athens at three years old.  I am married and have two adult children. At home, we have one dog, one cat, and two turtles. 

    Recently, I was a receptionist in a veterinary clinic. I am excited to be back with children. My favorite thing about working with children is seeing their face light up when they learn new things. 

    In my free time I like to craft and use my Cricut machine. My favorite place on earth is the beach and I love spending time with my family there. I’m so excited to start working at Primrose and get to know everyone!!

    Hometown: Athens, GA

    Child care experience: 20 years

    Favorite food: Chicken salad

    Favorite weekend activity: Crafting

    Favorite children’s book: The Kissing Hand

    Primrose character I most relate to: Erwin

    What I’m most excited about this school year :Getting to know everyone and  helping the children grow.

  • Ms. Aaliyah Diaz, Pre-Kindergarten Support Teacher

    Ms. Aaliyah Diaz

    Pre-Kindergarten Support Teacher
  • Ms. Christie Evans, Older Infant Teacher

    Ms. Christie Evans

    Older Infant Teacher

    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

  • Ms. Mary Grahl, Young Infant Teacher

    Ms. Mary Grahl

    Young Infant Teacher

    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.

  • Ms. Natalia Hernandez-Garcia, Early Preschool Support Teacher

    Ms. Natalia Hernandez-Garcia

    Early Preschool Support Teacher
    Apple of Our Eye

    Hi! I'm Natalia and I wanted to tell you a little bit about myself.

    My husband, my dog Cuzco, and I landed in Georgia from Madrid, Spain in summer of 2022 giving a radical change to our life. We will be in Athens for a few years.

    I am a social worker and have experience working with people with disabilities.  Although I have worked in schools, I have never worked in a childcare setting. Until now I had only cared for my nieces and nephews, so I am very excited to live this experience, which I know will be very enriching.

    On weekends you can find me on the streets of Athens getting to know new places to walk around, enjoying a concert or having a coffee with friends!

    Hometown: Madrid, Spain

    Childcare experience:  First time working in childcare

    Education Background: BS in Social Work.  MS in Disabilities

    Favorite Food:  Cheese with Anchovies

    Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with friends and family  

    Favorite children’s book: Kika Superbruja

    Primrose character I most relate to: Libby

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Learning from and enjoying working with children on a daily basis.

  • Ms. Emily Israels, Early Preschool Support Teacher

    Ms. Emily Israels

    Early Preschool Support Teacher
  • Ms. Paulina Juarez, Preschool Support Teacher

    Ms. Paulina Juarez

    Preschool Support Teacher
  • Ms. Hannah Keheley, Older Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Hannah Keheley

    Older Toddler Teacher

    Hello, My name is Hannah Keheley and I am so excited to be in the classroom with your kids! I have always had a passion for children and teaching. I have been working with children of all ages for the last 5 years. I began working with middle school students as an afterschool teacher. When summertime came, I spent my time as a camp counselor.

    I am currently pursuing a Nursing degree at Athens Technical College in hopes of one day being a Pediatric Oncology Nurse. I love having the opportunity to care for little ones which is one of the reasons why I love being apart of Primrose.

    During my free time you can always find me reading a book or planning my next Disney trip. When the weekend rolls around I am usually spending time with my family or my friends. I am so excited to be able to build relationships with you and your kids throughout the year!

    Hometown: Loganville, GA

    Childcare experience: 5+ years

    Education Background: studying Nursing at Athens Technical College

    Favorite food: Cookies

    Favorite weekend activity:  Spending time with my family and friends

    Primrose character I most relate to: : Og because I love to read!

    What I’m most excited about this school year:  I am so excited to build relationships with my students.

  • Ms. Brianna LaQuins, Pre-Kindergarten I Teacher

    Ms. Brianna LaQuins

    Pre-Kindergarten I Teacher

    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!

  • Ms. Isabella Lee, Young Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Isabella Lee

    Young Toddler Teacher

    Hi! My name is Isabella Lee, but I go by Bella. I am extremely excited to be working with your children and the staff at Primrose School of Athens! I’m originally from Gainesville,Georiga but grew up in Clermont, Georgia .

    I am enthusiastic about the work I do and working with such wonderful children and staff. My goal is to have a degree in early childhood education and make a difference in the lives of children everyday! 

    Hometown: Clermont

    Childcare experience: Six months

    Favorite food: Fried Pickles & Corn Nuggets

    Favorite weekend activitySpending time with friends

    Favorite children’s book: Where is the Green Sheep?

    Primrose character I most relate to: Molly

    What I’m most excited about this school year: What I’m passionate about most …. Loving and helping children grow!

  • Ms. Sasha Looby, Toddler Support Teacher

    Ms. Sasha Looby

    Toddler Support Teacher

    Hello!  My name is Sasha Looby and I'm excited to be working with the children and staff at Primrose School of Athens! I'm originally from Ohio and grew up in Suwanee, GA before moving to Athens to pursue a B.A. in English and a B.S. in Psychology.

    I'm passionate about the work I do and am excited to help the children learn and grow. I want to make a difference in the lives of the children I work with everyday. I look forward to getting to know you and your children.

    Hometown: Suwanee, GA

    Childcare experience:  One year

    Favorite food: Pasta

    Favorite weekend activity: Going on walks, reading, and watching movies with family and friends

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

    Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Having fun with the children

  • Ms. Samantha Maxwell, Early Preschool II Teacher

    Ms. Samantha Maxwell

    Early Preschool II Teacher

    Hi!  My name is Samantha Maxwell. I wanted to tell you a little bit about myself. I am a student at Athens Technical College studying early childhood education. I have always loved working with children and have been a nanny for the past few years. I have experience in all age groups from infants to 12 years old. In my free time, I enjoy swimming, gardening, painting, and spending time with my 2 cats.

    Hometown: Monroe Ga

    Childcare experience:  6+ years

    Favorite food: Mexican

    Favorite weekend activity:  Going to the lake 

    Favorite children’s book:  Green Eggs & Ham

    Primrose character I most relate to: Erwin

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

  • Ms. Genesis Mendoza, Explorers Teacher

    Ms. Genesis Mendoza

    Explorers Teacher

    Hello, I’m Genesis Mendoza. I wanted to tell you a little about myself! I am 21 years old and have lived in Georgia for 8 yrs. I am originally from Florida but I love it here in Georgia.

    I am currently in school at Athens Technical College for my Associate's degree in Early Childhood Care and Education and will graduate in the Fall of 2023. I have always wanted to be an Elementary school teacher because I enjoy teaching children and seeing their growth and success. The success and growth of all children is very rewarding to see and experience with them and their families.

    I am bilingual (Spanish and English). I love to run, go shopping, and dance in my free time. My favorite thing about working at Primrose is learning new things about childcare and building relationships with the students and their families

    Hometown: Miami

    Education Background:  TCC in ECE

    Favorite food: Steak tacos

    Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with loved ones and dancing

    Favorite children’s book: If You Give a Mouse a Cookie

    Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to work with children, see and celebrate their growth and successes, and meeting new students and their families.

  • Ms. Leslie O'Neal, Pre-Kindergarten II Teacher

    Ms. Leslie O'Neal

    Pre-Kindergarten II Teacher

    Hi! I’m Leslie O’Neal, I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I was raised in Lavonia, GA and have lived in the area all my life. I have a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Piedmont University and plan to further my education in the future.

    I find interest in how children develop certain skills and how their minds process things. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I love to cook, read, play with my dog, and go hiking when possible. I am excited to see your little ones grow and learn with my assistance and celebrate their milestones!

    Hometown: Lavonia, GA

    Childcare experience:  Two+ Years

    Favorite food: Mexican

    Favorite weekend activity:  Hiking and playing with my dog

    Favorite children’s book: Dragons Love Tacos

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og

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

  • Ms. Daniela Osorio, Preschool I Teacher

    Ms. Daniela Osorio

    Preschool I Teacher

    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.

  • Ms. Paula Pereyra, Early Preschool I Teacher

    Ms. Paula Pereyra

    Early Preschool I Teacher
  • Ms. Alexandra Pizzaro, Pre-Kindergarten II Teacher

    Ms. Alexandra Pizzaro

    Pre-Kindergarten II Teacher

    Hi! I wanted to take a minute to introduce myself. My name is Alex Pizarro.

    This is my second year teaching Pre-K. I have worked in many different classrooms throughout these years and I have obtained my Teacher’s Certification in Early Childhood Education. I plan on furthering my degree at Georgia State University. I am so excited to be a guide in your child’s education & development!

    Hometown: Buford, GA

    Childcare experience:  One and a half years

    Favorite food: Chicken Wings

    Favorite weekend activity:  Playing with my dogs

    Favorite children’s book:  The Kissing Hand

    Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Having a good connection with each student

  • Ms. Susannah Prather, Toddler Support Teacher

    Ms. Susannah Prather

    Toddler Support Teacher

    Hi!  My name is Susannah Prather and I wanted to tell you a little some thing about myself. I have lived in Georgia my whole life. I am the 3rd oldest in a family of 9 and I just got married this past February.

    I have been in childcare almost my whole life. If I wasn’t babysitting my little siblings, it was the neighborhood kids or in the nursery at my church. I have always loved watching little ones play, learn and grow. Their creativity, innocence and resilience is something I am honored to learn from them.

    I have a lovely cat Pibb and 2 geckos. I love trying new dinner recipes and DIY home projects. I am looking forward to working with this great staff to help nurture young minds and give each child the best day every day.

    Hometown: Athens

    Childcare experience: Two years

    Favorite food: Pizza

    Favorite weekend activity:  Movie night with my husband

    Favorite children’s book: Little Bear’s Little Boat

    Primrose character I most relate to: Katie

    What I’m most excited about this school year: To have fun and learn with these amazing kids, getting to know them and their families.

  • Ms. Megan Raines, Preschool II Teacher

    Ms. Megan Raines

    Preschool II Teacher

    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

    What I’m most excited about this school year: All the laughs and learning about my children

  • Ms. Sierra Springston, Preschool I Teacher

    Ms. Sierra Springston

    Preschool I Teacher

    Hi! My name is Sierra! I graduated from the University of Georgia in May of 2022, with my Bachelors of Science in Human Development and Family Science. I aspire of becoming a Child Life Specialist, and having the privilege of working at Primrose furthers those aspirations.

    I have been surrounded by children for as long as I can remember and have loved every second of it. Working with children provides a fulfilling sense of joy and creativity, that one can only get by doing so. When not helping with kiddos, I tend to find myself exploring local thrift stores and surrounding myself in nature. I enjoy picking up new hobbies and crafts that catch my interest, as well as experimenting with the old ones.

    I’m so excited to get to know each child I interact with at Primrose, as well as watch their minds grow and creativity flourish!

    Hometown: Covington, GA

    Childcare experience: 10+ years

    Education Background: BS in Human Development and Family Science

    Favorite food: Strawberries

    Favorite weekend activity: Thrifting & being out in nature

    Favorite children’s book: Junie B. Jones Book Series

    Primrose character I most relate to: Percy

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know the kiddos in my class and making friends at Primrose.

  • Ms. Elizabeth Taylor, Older Infant Teacher

    Ms. Elizabeth Taylor

    Older Infant Teacher
  • Ms. Yolis Ugalde, Young Infant Teacher

    Ms. Yolis Ugalde

    Young Infant Teacher

    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

  • Ms. Ainsley Wilson, Support Teacher

    Ms. Ainsley Wilson

    Support Teacher
  • Ms. Kimberly Wooten, Young Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Kimberly Wooten

    Young Toddler Teacher

    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

  • Ms. Courtney Wright, Early Preschool II Teacher

    Ms. Courtney Wright

    Early Preschool II Teacher

    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!!

  • Will & Ellen Beasley, Franchise Owner

    Will & Ellen Beasley

    Franchise Owners

    Meet Will and Ellen Beasley, proud Franchise Owners of Primrose School of Athens. The Beasleys are excited to bring the high-quality Primrose Experience to families of the Classic City.

    Will and Ellen’s connection to Athens goes back many years. Ellen is from Rome, Georgia, and attended the University of Georgia, where she earned a degree in Communications Sciences and Disorders through the College of Education. It was here where she met Will, who grew up in nearby Lavonia and graduated from UGA through the Terry College of Business. The couple moved to Atlanta after graduation, with Ellen getting a Master of Education degree and becoming a Speech Language Pathologist, and Will beginning a career in commercial insurance.

    After several years in the city, the couple moved back to Athens to start a family. At the same time, Will also was looking for a career change and wanted to start his own business. Once Will and Ellen began looking for child care options for their oldest son, Boyer, who was born in 2015, they saw a need in Athens they could help meet. These events, in addition to Ellen’s passion for education, led them to Primrose. The Primrose School of Athens opened in April of 2017. Will uses his business experience to manage the day-to-day operations of the school, while Ellen uses her experience in education to focus on the curriculum and child development. She also continues to work part-time for Athens-Clarke County School District as a Speech Language Pathologist. Will and Ellen now have three sons, who all currently attend Primrose Athens.

    “We know from personal experience with our own son how difficult it can be to find high-quality early education and care in Athens,” Ellen said. “We love partnering with parents to be an extension of the child’s home and focus on the Balanced Learning® approach as well as character development. We are blessed to provide everything Primrose has to offer to our own sons as well as to other families in the Athens area.”

    “We approach this as a team,” Will says. “With Ellen’s background in education and my experience in business, we play to our strengths to make Primrose School of Athens a fulfilling place for all of our families.”

    The Primrose School of Athens provides a safe, nurturing atmosphere where children can grow their Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts®. Primrose School of Athens is located at 180 Athens Town Boulevard. For more information, visit www.PrimroseAthens.com.

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