Teachers & Staff

Ms. Lilli
Ms. Lilli is from Graham, NC where she lives with her husband and 2 daughters. She also has two dogs (Cooper and Willow) at home. Lilli attended Appalachian State University where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, with a concentration in Diversity Studies. Ms. Lilli likes to ride horses and rode competitively while in college. She also loves to cook, hike and spend time with her family. Ms. Lilli has wanted to be a teacher since she was young and finds joy working with small children each day.

Ms. Taylor
Ms. Taylor is from Whiteville NC and has been working with children since 2014. She has two beautiful girls, 2-year old and 7-year-old, who have also been a part of the Primrose family. Ms. Taylor has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She also attended Southeastern Community College where she obtained her associates degree in early childhood. In her free time Ms. Taylor loves to read all different kinds of books. Ms. Taylor enjoys working with children and seeing their “Light Bulb” Moments.
Ms. Arielle
Photo Coming Soon
Hello, I’m Ms. Arielle! I was a military child but moved here from Delaware in 2013. I am married with 2 children, 17-year-old Lesi and 5-year-old Arie. I have worked in childcare for 22+ years. I was a kindergarten teacher for 9 years, and for the last two years I have gone back into Early Childhood Education as a coach.
Childcare Experience: 22+ years
Education Background: Graduated from University of Delaware with a BA in Early Childhood Education with a focus in Adolescent Literature
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Seeing the world through young children’s eyes and creating bonds with families
Favorite Children’s Books: “The Book with No Pictures” by BJ Novak
In My Personal Time: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends as well as drawing/painting.

Ms. Shambria
I’m Ms. Shambria, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Charlotte, NC but currently reside in Durham, NC where I live with my little family.
I am engaged and have a beautiful daughter at home. I am also, the oldest of 3 children. I’m currently enrolled at North Carolina Central University for Graduate School. I have worked for numerous childcare facilities and have also nannied for various families in the past. I want to work with children because I love impacting future doctors, teachers, presidents, and more through innovative ways they can remember.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: Bachelors Degree in Sociology
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Impacting the future generation.
Favorite Children’s Book: Rainbow Fish
In My Personal Time: I love to travel, sing, dance and get crafty.

Ms. Amber
I’m Ms. Amber, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am originally from Shallotte, NC and love working with children each day.
I have my Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education from Shaw University. I have a son named Brayden and a daughter named Amron, who are the light of my life. I love to help children grow and ensure children feel loved and cared for when they are with me each day.
Education Background: Bachelors in Early Childhood Education
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Learning and understanding each child individually.
Favorite Children’s Book: Any Dr. Seuss book
In My Personal Time: I enjoy watching scary movies, walks at the park, and spending time with my children and watching them grow.

Ms. Rosa
I’m Ms. Rosa, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am originally from Mississippi but have lived in NC for the last seven years. I currently live with my fiancé and son in Timberlake. I also have a sweet kitty named Lola.
I have my High School Diploma from Richland High School, and I am currently in school to receive my degree in Early Childhood Education. I began pursing childcare because I love being able to help children hit each milestone throughout their time with me.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Childcare Experience: 2 Years
Education Background: High School Diploma. Working towards my degree in Early Childhood Education.
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Seeing them accomplish new milestones.
Favorite Children’s Book: Green Eggs and Ham
In My Personal Time: I love to do yoga and spend time with my little family.

Ms. Tiffany
I’m Ms. Tiffany, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I live in Goldston, NC with my 5-year-old little boy.
I have my Early Childhood Education Credential from Sandhills Community College, and I also graduated from Manicurist and Nail Technician School in 2024. I love guiding children through learning because I love seeing each child reach their full potential throughout their time with us.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Childcare Experience: 8 Years
Education Background: Early Childhood Education Credential
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Watching them grow up and seeing what I have taught them being applied in class and in life.
Favorite Children’s Book: Kissing Hand, When God Made You, Rainbow Fish and Our Diversity Makes Us Stronger
In My Personal Time: I enjoy spending quality time with my family, buying sneakers, doing nails, & attending church.

Ms. Amanda
I’m Ms. Amanda, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Mebane, NC where I live with my husband and our son, Liam and our dog Sonny Girl.
I have been working in the childcare field since I graduated high school. Working with children always puts a smile on my face, no matter the age.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: Associates in Early Childhood Education
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: I love watching children learn new things and seeing how they process everything.
Favorite Children’s Book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
In My Personal Time: I absolutely love spending time with my family.

Ms. Shanta
I’m Ms. Shanta, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Burlington, NC, but currently live in Knightdale. I graduated from ACC with a certificate in Early Childhood Education. I have worked on and off in childcare, taking a break in between positions to raise my children. My family consists of my significant other, two daughters, and 10-year-old granddaughter named Savanna, whom I love spending time with. I also have a dog and a cat, Cookie and Tom.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: Certificate in Early Childhood Education
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: I love watching them learn and grow.
Favorite Children’s Book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
In My Personal Time: I love going to museums and watching horror movies.

Ms. Jennifer
I was born and raised in Durham, NC. I currently live with my mom, dad and older brother, Stephen. We are also animal lovers, with over 30 animals ranging from snakes to sugar gliders.
I graduated from Voyager Academy HS and started EMT schooling. I have over 6 years experience nannying children from infant to teenagers. My passion for teaching led me to begin a full-time career with children.
Education Background: High School Diploma
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: The smiles and giggles when you interact with them because they feel comfortable around you.
Favorite Children’s Book: Green Eggs and Ham
In My Personal Time: I love to ride horses, take long walks with my dogs and cook.

Ms. Anna
I’m Ms. Anna, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am Mexican American, born in Durham NC, but currently residing in Creedmoor NC.
I have two siblings, an older brother and older sister. I am also an aunt to 3 nephews & 2 nieces, which has given me years of experience working with small children. I am a graduate of South Grandville High School, and I enjoy doing make-up and lounging.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: High School Diploma. Working towards a degree in Early Childhood Education
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Watching them develop their unique personalities.
Favorite Children’s Book: The Giving Tree
In My Personal Time: I love going to Carowinds.

Ms. Tamia
I’m Ms. Tamia, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Pittsboro, NC where I live with my two girls and significant other. I have 2 beautiful daughters, a 13-year-old and a 3-year-old who both share the same birthday. I am also the second oldest of eight siblings. I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: Bachelors in Fashion and Retail
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Building relationships with the families and watching the children grow.
Favorite Children’s Book: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom & Brown Bear Brown Bear
In My Personal Time: I enjoy spending time with my family.

Ms. Elena
I am Ms. Elena, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Durham, NC and have 2 siblings.
I enjoy doing anything crafty. I especially enjoy knitting, crocheting, painting, etc. I also love going camping with my sweet dog. I have a Bachelors degree from Appalachian State University. I love getting to be silly with the kids and seeing where their imaginations take them.
Education Background: Bachelors in Women’s and Gender Studies
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Their imaginations
Favorite Children’s Book: Stellaluna
In My Personal Time: Relaxing with various types of arts and crafts.

Ms. Rosa
I’m Ms. Rosa, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Chapel Hill, NC where I reside with my dog, Oreo. I grew up as the youngest child with 1 sister and 2 brothers. I also have 2 nieces and 2 nephews, whom I cherish.
I graduated from Chapel Hill High School, and I would like to begin working on my degree in Early Childhood Education. I have been working in childcare for the last 7 years, which has been so rewarding to witness them learn through teachable moments each day.
Childcare Experience: 7 Years
Education Background: High School Diploma. Working towards my degree in Early Childhood Education.
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Seeing them learn new things each day.
Favorite Children’s Book: The Rainbow Fish
In My Personal Time: Spending quality time with my family and friends.

Ms. ShQuaia
I’m Ms. Sh’Quaia, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Warrenton, NC where I lived with family consisting of my mom, dad, brother, and dog (Lucky).
I have been working in childcare for about 15 years now. In my free time, I like to spend time my friends and family, going to parks, shopping, or trying new foods. I attended Wake Technical Community College and received my Associates degree in Early Childhood Education. Children enjoy exploring the world and I love being part of that!
Education Background: Associates in Early Childhood Education
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Kids are so much fun and full of joy.
Favorite Children’s Book: Charlotte’s Web
In My Personal Time: I like to spend time with family and friends. I also enjoy shopping and trying new foods

Ms. Katerra
I’m Ms. Katerra, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I was born and raised in Durham, NC. I have 2 children, Courtney and Emory. I also have a French Bulldog named LayLay.
I have my Early Childhood Credentials from Durham Technical Community College, and I am pursing additional education from NCCU for Elementary Education. I have been working in childcare for over 10 years, including raising my own children. I love coming to school each day to help little ones expand their knowledge.
Childcare Experience: 10 Years
Education Background: Certificate in Early Childhood Education
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Watching them expand their minds.
Favorite Children’s Book: Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes
In My Personal Time: I enjoy writing poetry, reading and traveling with my family. I especially love going to the beach!

Ms. Daija
I’m Ms. Daija, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Virginia and worked with infants and toddlers for about a year before coming to Primrose.
I am the oldest of 8 children and have 4 brothers and 3 sisters. In my free time, I love to teach, dance, draw, and paint. Working with children is great because each day brings new things, and I feel like the kids teach me something new every day. I feel lucky that the children in my care, as well as their parents, trust me to bring them joy and make them feel loved throughout the day.
Education Background: High School Diploma. Working towards a degree in Early Childhood Education.
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Watching them grow and smile. I love seeing them develop into amazing little people.
Favorite Children’s Book: The Rainbow Fish
In My Personal Time: I enjoy drawing and painting.

Ms. Jennifer
I’m Ms. Jennifer, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Mebane, NC where I live with my Fiancé and cutie little Pitbull, Kali. I have an older brother and sister, with me being the youngest of three. I have two nephews and 1 niece, and I love spending time with them. In my free time, I love to lounge and watch movies with my little family.
Education Background: High School Diploma. Working towards a degree in Early Childhood Education.
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Watching them learn new things and seeing the gears turning in their little heads.
Favorite Children’s Book: No, David
In My Personal Time: Watching movies and spending time with loved ones.

Ms. Shai
I’m Ms. Shai, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I live in Carrboro, NC with my son, Santana. I also have 2 bonus sons, Aviyan and Jah’Quin.
I have been working in childcare for over 10 years. My favorite age group is Pre-K to School-Age, but I enjoy working with all ages of children! I enjoy working with kids and seeing how much knowledge they soak in throughout the year.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: Associates in Early Childhood Education
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Being able to see their growth throughout the year.
Favorite Children’s Book: Mommy, Mama, and Me
In My Personal Time: Spending quality time with my son.

Ms. Lexi
I’m Ms. Lexi, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I was born in Washington, D.C. and moved to NC when I was around 1-year-old. I currently reside in Carrboro with my friend and our cat, Misty. I grew up a single child and was especially close with my mom.
I graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and Women’s & Gender Studies. I worked as a gymnastics coach from 2019-2022, which led me to seek a job teaching children full-time. I cannot wait to continue to grow alongside the children I teach.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Childcare Experience: 5 Year
Education Background: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and Women’s and Gender Studies
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Having fun with them while they learn new things.
Favorite Children’s Book: Oh! The Places You’ll Go
In My Personal Time: I love to read and go to the movies with friends

Ms. Chaka
I’m Ms. Chaka, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Mt. Gilead, NC where I live with my amazing husband of 24 years. I also have 4 wonderful children, Jaiden, Amiyah, Na’Kayah, and Jai’Kel.
I have my Early Childhood Credentials from Montgomery Community College. I have been working with children for over 29 years, where my love for teaching children began because of my grandmother. Growing up, she cared for and nurtured many of the children within our small community, which was rewarding to see.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Childcare Experience: 29 Years
Education Background: Certificate in Early Childhood Education
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Watching them get excited once they understand a new concept.
Favorite Children’s Book: Green Eggs and Ham
In My Personal Time: I enjoy praying and reflecting on my life. I also love spending time with my family.

Ms. Sparkle
I’m Ms. Sparkle, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am originally from Brooklyn, New York and just recently moved to Carrboro, NC where I reside with my two sons, Jayden and Adrian, who are my littlest best friends.
I graduated from the High School of Health Professions and Human Services in Manhattan. I began my career in Early Childhood Education because I wanted to be the first to teach children foundational lessons in which they build on throughout their time in school.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Childcare Experience: 10
Education Background: High School Diploma. Working toward a degree in Early Childhood Education.
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Being able to watch children be curious about learning.
Favorite Children’s Book: Pete the Cat Series
In My Personal Time: I love going on adventures with my sons.

Ms. Lauren
I’m Ms. Lauren, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am originally from White Plains, NY but now reside in Durham with my husband, Cornelius.
I have 2 sons, James and Jason. I also have 2 brothers, Kenneth & Isaac, and a sister Gina. I graduated from Westchester Community College in NY. I attended Mandl School, The College of Allied Health. I have worked with children for 30 years including 3 years with the NC Autism Society. I just love seeing the joy in children as they learn new things.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: Associates in General Studies
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Their honesty and eagerness to learn.
Favorite Children’s Book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
In My Personal Time: I socialize with friends, Family and attend church every Sunday.

Ms. Deanna
I’m Ms. Deanna, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am originally from Chicago, IL but currently live in Durham, NC with my husband.
I attended Harold Washington College in Chicago, where I obtained my Associates degree in Business Management. While I am new to childcare, I have always been deemed the family babysitter. I have taken care of my God daughter since she was an infant, and it has been so rewarding to watch her grow firsthand. I cannot wait to grow my childcare career, starting here at Primrose.
Education Background: Associates Degree in Business Management
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: I love to watch them figure things out and have fun while they learn.
Favorite Children’s Book: No, David
In My Personal Time: I love to cook, read books, and watch YOUTUBE.

Ms. Sumaya
I’m Ms. Sumaya, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I was born in Utah, however as a child of a military family, my brother and I grew up traveling all over the world, including Guam, Texas, Japan and Germany.
I met my husband while living in Japan, and we now live here in Durham, NC with our Boxer named Yeti. I began my career in childcare 5 years ago while living in Japan. I worked with children & various youth programs while in the Air Force.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: High School Diploma. Working towards an Associates degree in General Studies.
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Performing Science & STEM experiments with School aged children and seeing them learn new things
Favorite Children’s Book: Green Eggs & Ham
In My Personal Time: I enjoy spending time with my family & dog. I also enjoy weightlifting, music & practicing my nail technician skills.

Ms. Alexandra
I’m Ms. Alexandra, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Gaston, NC, which is near the Virginia border. I am an only child, but I have many close friends that I consider my extended family.
I attended Northampton County Early College, then received my Associates from Halifax Community College. I later attended the North Carolina Central University’s Bachelors of social work program. While I am new to the childcare industry, I love being able to teach children new things.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: Bachelors of Social Work
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Seeing their faces light up when they learn something new.
Favorite Children’s Book: A Bad Case of Stripes
In My Personal Time: I like to read and watch vintage cartoons from my childhood. I also enjoy the outdoors and going on walks.

Ms. Maya
I’m Ms. Maya, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Durham, NC and have been working with children for almost 3 years.
I received my high school diploma from Northern High School and have completed some college in Early Childhood Education. I have 2 sisters and 2 nephews whom I love. I share a pet dog with my sister, named Harley. I am an avid sneaker buyer in my spare time. I enjoy seeing the children learn new things and how they always make you laugh.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: High School Diploma
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Teaching them new things.
Favorite Children’s Book: Llama Llama Red Pajama
In My Personal Time: I enjoy reading true crime books.

Ms. Anna Grace
I’m Ms. Anna Grace, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I was born and raised in Hillsborough, NC, where I still reside.
I graduated From Orange High School in Hillsborough, and I am currently pursing my Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education from Appalachian State University. I began working at an in-home daycare center at 18-years-old, where I first held a baby. I then began to Nanny for multiple years after, while I was in school. Since the first time I held a baby, I knew I wanted to continue my career in childcare!
Childcare Experience: 5 Years
Education Background: In Progress Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: The tangible feeling of the child accomplishing a new goal and exploring how fun learning can be.
Favorite Children’s Book: The Lorax
In My Personal Time: Spending time with my nephew, reading, and volunteering in my community.

Ms. Nea
I’m Ms. Nea, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I was raised in Durham, NC where I grew up the oldest, with 4 brothers. I currently reside in Creedmoor NC, with my family. I have a cat named, Luna and 2 dogs, Jasper and Princess.
I graduated from South Granville High School and I am currently enrolled in school to receive my Master’s Degree in Pediatric Speech-Language Pathology. I have always had a passion for working with small children, which led me to switch my major from Nursing. I am so excited to expand my knowledge at Primrose!
Childcare Experience: New To Childcare
Education Background: Pursing Master’s Degree in Pediatric Speech-Language Pathology
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Seeing their personalities shine through in silly conversations with them.
Favorite Children’s Book: Cat in the Hat
In My Personal Time: I have a large family, so we spend a lot of quality time together.

Ms. Michelle
I’m Ms. Michelle, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I grew up in Durham, NC as the oldest child, with 1 younger brother. I currently reside with my husband and two little girls.
I graduated from Jordan High School, and I have explored furthering my education in the future. I began working as a Summer Camp counselor in 2017. I missed working with the children during the off-seasons, so I decided to pursue a full-time career in childcare. I cannot wait to learn more as I begin my childcare journey.
Childcare experience: 2 Years
Education Background: High School Diploma
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Seeing them realize that they have grasped a new concept.
Favorite children’s book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
In My Personal Time: I love spending time with my family and finding fun new activities to do with my girls

Ms. Cassandra
I’m Ms. Cassandra, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am from Graham, NC but live in Chapel Hill, NC.
I am married with 3 kids of my own, and 7 grandchildren, who are my world. My favorite things to do are shop and travel to new places. I have over 23 years of experience working as a private nanny and in various childcare settings. I have always loved working with children of all ages; they have a way to always bring out the happiness in you.
I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.
Education Background: Serv Safe Food Handling Certification
My Favorite Thing About Working with Children: Seeing them always happy.
Favorite Children’s Book: I love all children’s books! I can’t pick a favorite.
In My Personal Time: I like to shop and travel.

Franchise Owner
Erin and Rob Pennington
Hello, we are Erin and Rob Pennington, the proud owners of the Primrose School of Chapel Hill East. As parents, we understand how difficult it can be to find both a safe and educational environment that would provide the exceptional level of care we expect for our most precious gifts. We are beyond excited to be a part of the Primrose family and to share this amazing school with the Chapel Hill/Durham communities.
We first discovered Primrose, in 2014 when we were looking for a high-quality preschool for our two boys, Ethan and Brody. We fell in love with the curriculum, the focus on character development and the partnerships formed with parents. Our boys absolutely loved going to Primrose every day, playing with their classmates, making beautiful works of art, singing songs and learning new things. The entire staff at Primrose did such an exceptional job in helping our children grow, learn and strengthen their social skills. We could not have been happier with our decision to enroll them at Primrose. It wasn’t long after seeing the positive impact that Primrose had on our boys; socially, emotionally and intellectually that we decided to open our very own Primrose school.
Prior to making the decision to become Primrose franchise owners, Rob, a Marine Corps veteran, and Erin both worked in the corporate world in a variety of Information Technology leadership and process-oriented positions. While we were living in Texas, we had always talked about our desire to move back east to North Carolina. When an opportunity to open a Primrose in Chapel Hill/Durham was presented to us we jumped at the chance and relocated to Chapel Hill, NC. We are absolutely thrilled to be a part of such a beautiful community.
“Who children become is as important as what they know” is a belief that is at the core of the Primrose Balanced Learning approach, and one that we both feel very passionately about. We are proud to offer the Primrose Experience, and can’t wait to welcome you to our Primrose family. ~ The Pennington’s




