Karen and Mike Verlardi are the very proud owners of the Primrose School of East Mesa and Primrose School at Palm Valley which both opened 2008. Their 3 children (Nichole, Michael and Danielle) are the primary reason that Karen and Mike decided to open a Primrose. Their endeavor began when searching for quality childcare for their first child - this is where they realized that their high standards would make it difficult to be satisfied with the typical daycare establishment. Their desire to find the best care for their own children quickly developed into a passion to provide an educational and nurturing environment for children of the community as well as peace of mind for parents just like themselves. After they found Primrose, they knew it was a perfect partnership. Their philosophies about the importance of family balance and child security and happiness were a complete match and Primrose had the reputation and experience to help the Verlardis deliver this to the local community. "We are thrilled for the opportunity to bring an exceptional private preschool to the community, and look forward to developing relationships with children and their parents who desire first-rate educational child care." Originally from New Jersey, Mike and Karen Verlardi have been residents of the valley since 1998. After graduating from Montclair State University and marrying - they decided to move to the west coast to further their consulting and sales careers. Karen holds an MBA from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, is a member of the American Business Women's Association, and has held corporate positions in systems and product development for more than 14 years. Karen is the former President of Arizona in Action, a non-profit organization which was geared toward the prevention of childhood obesity.