Our Preschool Pathways Classroom
Our Preschool Pathways program provides a “bridge” between our Early Preschool and Preschool classrooms for children whose birthdays will ultimately miss the cutoff date for kindergarten entrance. By identifying those children early, we can help them stay with a consistent group of peers through preschool, pre-K and kindergarten.
Nurturing Active Minds, Healthy Bodies, and Happy Hearts®
Health & Safety
Some children are just weeks away from being ready for preschool, and those weeks matter. Preschool Pathways is designed for children who are right on the threshold, and our environment reflects that: structured enough to build the routines preschool requires, nurturing enough for children who are still very young. Our health and safety practices support both.
- Illness policy with no exceptions: Any child or staff member with a fever goes home and stays home until fever-free for at least 24 hours. No gray areas.
- High-touch surfaces sanitized throughout the day: Toys, tables, and shared surfaces are disinfected continuously, not just at opening and closing.
- Individual cots and blankets for every child: Each child has their own cot and blankets, laundered weekly. Nothing is shared.
- Handwashing built into every transition: Handwashing happens before meals, after outdoor play, after bathroom time, embedded into the daily rhythm so it becomes a natural habit, not a rule to resist.
- Ratios that allow real attention: Our classroom ratios give teachers the space to actively observe and respond to each child, not just keep order in the room.
- CPR and first aid certified, every teacher: Every staff member holds current infant and child CPR and first aid certification. All of them, not just some.
- Illness recognition training: Teachers are trained to spot early signs of illness in young children, with visual reminders in every classroom keeping it top of mind.
- A Safe School Plan in every classroom: Our customized Safe School Plan, developed in partnership with Burlington Police Department, is posted in every room and trained on recurrently, so teachers know exactly what to do, every time.
Our Preschool Pathways Classroom Teachers & Staff
Ms. Sophie Powell
Ms. Sophie Powell brings dedication, knowledge, and a strong commitment to children’s development to her role at the Primrose School of Burlington. She chose Primrose because she values the nurturing, structured environment provided for children and is excited to be part of a team that truly prioritizes their well-being and growth.
Ms. Powell has achieved an important personal milestone by earning both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, reflecting her commitment to education and lifelong learning. She is especially passionate about building strong relationships with children, families, and fellow teachers, and looks forward to continuing to grow her skills as an educator.
She values the positive connections she has formed with families and takes pride in supporting children through their developmental stages. Ms. Powell considers herself knowledgeable in child development and effective communication with families, helping create a trusting and supportive classroom community.
With her thoughtful approach and genuine care for others, Ms. Powell is excited to contribute to a positive learning environment where every child can feel confident, supported, and successful.
Ms. Tina Colbert
Ms. Tina Colbert is a Preschool Pathways faculty member at Primrose School of Burlington. She brings a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services with a focus on Child and Family Services, along with more than 14 years of experience caring for seniors in assisted living communities. In that role, Ms. Colbert supported residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia, developing strong skills in empathy, communication, attentive care, and understanding individual needs—qualities she now brings into the early childhood classroom.
As both a mother and educator, Ms. Colbert values hands-on learning, outdoor play, and helping children build independence through everyday experiences. She focuses on creating a classroom environment where children feel comfortable exploring new skills, practicing self-help routines, and learning through play and positive guidance. Ms. Colbert especially enjoys watching children gain confidence as they discover new abilities and celebrate milestones at their own pace.
Outside of school, Ms. Colbert enjoys painting and creating inspirational artwork for friends and family. She believes art can encourage confidence, connection, and a sense of purpose, and she enjoys bringing that creativity into her work with children as well.
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- A Smooth Transition Between Classroom Stages – including a consistent peer group and supportive structure for children needing extra time before Preschool.
- Confidence Development Through Familiar Environments – including continuity in routines and relationships that reduce transitions.
- Stronger Communication Skills Through Conversation – including guided discussions and activities that build vocabulary.
- Hands-On Learning That Reinforces Readiness Skills – including engaging activities that prepare children for the next level.
- Individualized Support for Developmental Growth – including teacher guidance tailored to each child's pace.
- Balanced Learning® That Builds Independence – including purposeful play and instruction that strengthen confidence and readiness.
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