Hello! My name is Samantha and I am the Director here at the Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan! I hold a B.S. in Leadership and Learning Innovation from the University of Arizona. I also earned an Associate of Arts in Educational Studies from Chandler-Gilbert Community College, and I began my journey in early childhood education at Perry High School, where I completed a four-year program and contributed over 400 volunteer hours in childcare.

I spent nearly three years as a classroom teacher at Primrose, where I developed a strong foundation in early childhood education and classroom leadership. My passion for working with young children stems from the belief that the early years are the most critical for cognitive, social, and emotional development. I’ve always been inspired by the curiosity, resilience, and joy that young learners bring into the classroom, and I find deep fulfillment in helping lay the groundwork for a lifetime of learning. Through my experiences, I’ve seen firsthand how quality early education can shape a child’s confidence and future success, and that’s what continues to drive my commitment to this field. I’m thrilled to now take the next step in my career by transitioning into an administrative role, where I look forward to continuing to grow professionally and contribute to our school community in new and meaningful ways.

coming soon….

Hello! I’m Ashley, and I am the Business Operations Manager at the Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan! I have been at Primrose since February 2026, and I have truly loved getting to know our children, families, and staff.

I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a minor in Mathematics through Barrett, The Honors College. Before coming to Primrose, I worked in corporate finance and spent many years teaching dance and music to children ages 3 to 14 through an after-school program. I have always loved working with children, and I feel incredibly lucky to be around them every day.

I love being in a leadership role where I can help our school grow and make a difference for our children, families, and teachers. Outside of work, I love traveling, reading, and spending time with my friends and family.

Joseph is originally from Mississippi, but is excited to call Arizona his new home. He graduated from the Univeristy of Mississippi (Ole Miss) in 2019 with his BFA in Musical Theatre. He has been fortunate to perform with professional and community theatre’s in the area. Joesph has been working in childcare for the past 10 years, working in a variety of positions, such as teacher and assitant director. His biggest hope for being at Primrose is to help all of the children reach their goals so that they can one day live out their dreams!

Hi I am Ms. Haley and I wanted to tell you about myself. I have been in the childcare field since 2019, specifically working with kiddos on the autism spectrum. I absolutely love seeing kids grow, reach their goals and milestones, and most importantly have fun while doing it! I am in school now for Early Childhood Education and cannot wait to further my education and experience here at Primrose. I have a daughter who attended here as well. I love doing arts and crafts, photography, and being in the outdoors in my free time.

Sheena was born and raised in Aluquerque New Mexico and moved to Arizona in 2002 when working for P.F. Chang’s as a corporate trainier.  She graduated from UNM in Albuquerque with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing. She has 3 boys and her youngest is currently enrolled our our Primrose Venture program.  She has a passion for Early Childhood Education and loves to watch each child have their own lightbulb moments as they explore and create new things every day. Sheena loves developing a personal bond with each child and works hard to make every child feel like they are the most important student at the school.  We are so lucky to have her!

Kate, originally from Port Huron, Michigan, relocated to Arizona in 2019 with her husband Nathan. She and her family first joined us as a Primrose family in our Venture program. After adding their 2nd child to their family, Kate made us an incredible offer to join our team at Primrose School of West Gilbert in September of 2022. We quickly recognized her valuable skills and added her to our Leadership team as our Director of Operations. As Primrose School of West Gilbert, Primrose School of South Gilbert, and Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan became part of the same Primrose family, Kate stepped into the role of Regional Director of Operations, supporting all three schools.

During high school and college, Kate discovered her love for working with children while doing missionary work abroad, specifically in orphanages in Mexicali, Mexico. She then went on to graduate from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and worked in the finance industry for six years before coming back into Early Childhood Education.

In her free time, you can find Kate hiking, camping, and long-boarding with her family. When she can find the time, her favorite hobbies include photography and reading. Kate has three boys who are all Primrose students. Kate has made such a positive impact by creating personal relationships with students and families across our Primrose schools and is committed to making a lasting impression long past their time here at Primrose.

My name is Sandy Wirth. I started working with children at 18 years old, straight out of high school. I have worked with all aged children but have worked in an infant room for over 6 years. I am the very proud mother of 3 grown children. They are the people I love to spend my free time with. I am also the twin sister of Ms. Darvin. The best part of working with children is watching how much they learn and grow as you spend time with them.

My name is Tracy and I am originally from Southern California. I attended school in Ventura County and Colorado Springs. My life’s journey has led me to plant my roots in California, Oregon, Japan and Colorado before stopping in Arizona. I have worked with children for 25 plus years. I have taught children from all walks of life, ages 6 weeks to 5 years old and enjoy all of the joys and surprise that each age group has to offer. In between teaching children, I have raised two of my own and now enjoy being a grandma to 5 grandchildren. In my free time I enjoy my family, books, music, and the ocean.

Hello, I’m Liella! I have three sisters and I love to read. I have two years of Early Childhood Education and I hope to be a teacher one day. I am very excited to be here at Primrose and to help the children learn and grow!

Hi, I’m Ms. Cambree! I love working with children and creating a space where they feel safe, happy, and comfortable. I would describe myself as easygoing, reliable, and someone who loves keeping things fun while helping children learn and grow.

I have experience working with children through babysitting and nannying, and my favorite part of working with children is making a positive impact on their days. I can’t wait to get to know each child and their family and be part of their learning journey.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, baking, shopping, and spending time with my friends and family. I also love a good family dinner and spending time with my dogs, Finley and Willow. My favorite holiday is Halloween, and my favorite children’s book is Fancy Nancy!

Hi, I’m Ms. Charlie!

I have been working with children since 2017 and joined the Primrose family in 2024. As a mom of three amazing children, I know how important it is for children to feel loved, supported, and encouraged as they learn and grow. My favorite part of working with children is helping them develop a lifelong love of learning while fostering their curiosity, creativity, and compassion.

Outside of the classroom, I love creating art, painting, crafting, camping, roller-skating, and riding bikes with my family. Some of my favorite memories are made exploring new places and finding new adventures together. I am also a proud cat mom to Romeo, Ziggy, and Journey. Journey is a special “wobbly” cat who receives extra love and care to help him feel comfortable.

I can’t wait to get to know your child and your family!

Hi, I’m Ms. Nayeli!

I have been working with children since I was 16, and I love seeing their excitement as they learn about the world around them. My favorite part of working with children is watching them discover new things, grow in their learning, and celebrate their accomplishments. I am excited to continue gaining experience and building relationships with the children and families at Primrose.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy listening to music and spending time with my family and friends. I also love spending time with my pets, Chester the kitten and Chicle the puppy. My favorite children’s book is Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss, and I enjoy celebrating Mexican Hat Day, a traditional Mexican dance celebration. I am also proud to speak Spanish.

I can’t wait to get to know your child and your family!

Hi, I’m Ms. Kayla!

I have been working with children since 2021 as both a volunteer and employee. I have always loved caring for children and making sure they feel safe, happy, and supported. My favorite part of working with children is watching them explore their creativity and discover new things. I am currently working toward a degree in Social Work and Children’s Psychology because I want to continue learning more about how to support children as they grow.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and my three dogs, Selah, Ira, and Peanut. I also love celebrating Christmas Eve traditions with my family, including putting up Christmas lights and making tamales. I speak both English and Spanish, and my favorite children’s book is There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly.

Hi, I’m Ms. Katie!

I have been working with children since 2022 and have loved every minute of it. My favorite part of working with children is the joy they bring every day, especially walking into the classroom and being greeted with a million hugs! I love creating a fun and caring environment where children feel happy, supported, and loved.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy traveling, shopping, playing soccer, swimming, and spending time with my family and friends. I have four siblings, two brothers and two sisters, and some of my favorite memories are made during family trips, especially our annual 4th of July trips to California. I am also a proud dog mom to Finley and Willow. My favorite children’s book is Bluey, and I love celebrating the 4th of July.

Hello! My name is Ms. Nicole! I have worked in early childhood education since I was around 18 years old. I have worked with lots of ages, from infants all the way to elementary ages. My long term goal is to graduate college and become a kindergarten teacher! I love working with different ages, however I always found myself back to working with the littles. Being able to be apart of their development and seeing the child grow in so many ways is super special and rewarding to me, along with creating that trust and bond with the families. I was born and raised in Gilbert, alongside my mom, dad, and older brother. I am also a dog mom to the cutest Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Penelope. In my free time, I love to draw and write. I am all for anything crafty and art related. I also love spending time with my friends and family, finding and trying new adventures, or anything to keep busy. As I continue to grow and learn in the early education field, I am so excited and eager to learn new things with the kiddos and cannot wait to get to know your child!

Hi, I’m Ms. Lia! I have experience working with children through nannying and babysitting, and I love getting to be part of their growth and learning. My favorite part of working with children is their curiosity and the excitement they bring as they discover new things.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading and spending time with my family and friends. I also love spending time with my dogs, Max, Blue, and Marley. My favorite children’s book is The Poky Little Puppy, and my favorite holiday is Halloween.

Hello everyone! My name is Jailesia and I’m very excited to be joining the Primrose Team and helping to care and shape the young minds of children. I’m the oldest of three with a brother and sister, and I always took it upon myself to help take care of them and be a good older sister. I’d say this is what started my interest in working with children, and all through high school I was in the Early Childhood Education program until I was employed at the campus preschool my senior year. I spent nearly 3 years working there and it was some of the best times of my life! Working with children is truly my passion and I aim to give them the best learning experience I can!

Hi, I’m Ms. Harshita!

I moved to the United States from India in 2019 and have loved being part of the Primrose community. I am a fun and loving person who enjoys making new friends and building connections with others. My favorite part of working with children is sharing special moments with them, especially reading books together and watching their curiosity grow.

I received my Doctorate in Management in India and have been working with children since 2024. I enjoy bringing my love of learning and creativity into the classroom each day.

Outside of the classroom, I love singing and spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy celebrating Diwali with my family, including our traditional firecracker and card party, and I also love Christmas. I speak both Hindi and English, and my favorite children’s book is We All Go Traveling By.

Hi! My name is Claire and I moved to Arizona from central Illinois with my husband. We are VERY excited to not be shoveling snow in the winters. I received my Associate’s degree in Elementary Education from Illinois Central College and am working towards finishing my Bachelor’s degree in English. My love for children and the enjoyment from helping them learn and grow is what has kept me so happy working with children 6 weeks to 12 years for the last 10+ years. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going to sporting events and concerts, or just relaxing with a good book. I am very excited to continue to be a part of the Primrose Family and help your little ones learn and grow.

My name is Merritt, and I am so excited to be working at Primrose. My first experience working with kids was when I started volunteering in kindergarten classrooms through a program at my high school. My first job was with VIK, an after school childcare program. I loved working in childcare and volunteering in the classroom. I am looking forward to working in childcare again. I’m excited to get to know the kids and see them progress throughout the school year.

Hello, my name is Diyana and I’m really excited to become a part of the Primrose team! I have loved spending time with kids for as long as I can remember and I find it joyful helping children grow and develop. I was born in Lebanon but was raised here in Arizona. I graduated from Higley High School and went back to the Middle East to get my Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. I look forward to working with you children and getting to have some fun with them!

Hello, my name is Shelby Hamlin. My family and I are originally from Southern California. We first came to Arizona in 2013, but left three years later to live in beautiful Colorado. We are happy to be back in Arizona and I am happy to be starting my new journey with Primrose. Although this will be my first year in early childhood education, for the last ten years I have been a part of elementary education focusing on 2nd grade. When I am not here at Primrose, I enjoy visiting my 2 daughters at their different college campuses and hanging out with my husband enjoying a nice night out.

Hello! I am Mr. Peter and I wanted to tell you a little about myself. I am the middle child in my family, with an older brother and a younger sister. I have been working in childcare since 2021. Starting off here at Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan for two years, and transferring to a different Primrose for a little over a year. Since, I have made my way back to our school and couldn’t be happier. I have been living in Arizona all my life, enjoying the mountains when it is cool enough to hike. Inside my home, I love to be with my cat and dog.

Hi, I’m Ms. Jennifer!

I am originally from Washington state and have been part of the Primrose family since 2023. I have an Associate Degree in Social Work from Estrella Mountain Community College, and I have always enjoyed opportunities to support and connect with others. My favorite part of working with children is building bonds with them and watching them learn, grow, and discover new things.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family, trying new coffee shops, and exploring new restaurants. I am a mom of two boys, and I love making memories with them. I also enjoy celebrating Christmas with my family, especially our tradition of playing white elephant. I speak both English and Spanish, and my favorite children’s book is How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You?

Hi, I’m Ms. Ava!

I was born in Chicago and moved to Arizona with my family ten years ago. My passion for working with children started in high school, where I spent four years studying Early Childhood Education and earned my Child Development Associate credential. I also volunteered in an early education program during high school and began working at Primrose in 2022.

My favorite part of working with children is building trusted relationships with children and their families. I love being part of their learning journey and helping create a place where they feel supported, cared for, and excited to grow.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family and hanging out with my dogs, Dexter and Benji. I love celebrating Christmas with my family, especially our tradition of Sunday roasts. I speak Flemish, French, Spanish, and English, and my favorite children’s book is Our Tree Named Steve.

Hi! I’m Ms. Stacie! I’m so happy to be back at the Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan! I’ve taught here for about 8 years and love this Primrose Family! I have over 20 years of experience teaching various ages from Kindergarten, to Pre-K to even a year of Preschool. My heart is set on guiding our young students and helping them explore the world around them and learn what they need to know for Kindergarten and beyond.

Hello there! My name is Stephanie Carpenter. I have a son named Joel and a cat named Alice. I love spending time with my family and friends. Disney movies are my favorite and ever since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted a career with children. Children are our future, after all. I’m so excited to be at Primrose meeting the families and helping to mold the children into the best people they can be.

Hi, I’m Ms. Gifford!

I have been working with children since 2007 and have been part of the Primrose family since 2013. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Family, Consumer, and Human Development from Utah State University, and I love helping children grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

One of my favorite parts of working with children is seeing the impact of character development in the classroom. I love watching children learn important lessons about compassion, confidence, curiosity, and kindness while building relationships and discovering their own strengths.

Hi, I’m Ms. Montana!

I’m originally from California and have been living in Arizona for the past two years. I spent my high school years in Colorado before moving back to Flagstaff to attend Northern Arizona University. I’m also Ms. Shelby’s daughter, so you may recognize me from around Primrose!

Dance has always been a huge part of my life. I started dancing when I was three years old and was lucky enough to continue my passion for dance as a member of the NAU Dance Team. I have also enjoyed spending time volunteering in my mom’s classroom, which helped grow my love for working with children.

My favorite part of working with children is seeing their creativity, especially through all of the pictures and artwork they create. I’m so excited to be part of the Pre-K 2 classroom and look forward to a fun, positive, and memorable year together!

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my friends, hanging out with my cat Vivienne Mae, and (of course) bothering Ms. Shelby on her days off! My favorite children’s books are Disney Princess books, and one of my favorite family traditions is cracking confetti-filled Easter eggs on each other’s heads.

Hi, I’m Ms. Shanaj!

I am originally from Bangladesh and moved to Arizona in 2025 with my family, including my two daughters. I have over 19 years of experience working with children and hold a Master’s Degree in Speech Language and Communication Disorders from Dhaka University.

I love working with children and helping them communicate, learn, and grow. One of my favorite parts of working with children is using sign language to help them express themselves and feel understood.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy gardening, traveling, and spending time with my family. I love celebrating Christmas and Eid with my family, and our favorite tradition is simply spending quality time together. I speak both English and Bengali, and my favorite children’s books are any books by Dr. Seuss.

Hi, I’m Ms. Jackie!

Being the oldest sibling in my family, I have always enjoyed spending time with children. I discovered my love for working with children when I spent time substituting, and I have loved continuing to learn and grow as part of the Primrose family since 2025.

My favorite part of working with children is having fun with them and creating joyful moments while they learn and grow. I am excited to continue building relationships with the children and families at Primrose.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family. I speak both English and Spanish, and I enjoy celebrating special traditions with my family, including Christmas Eve presents and Day of the Dead. My favorite children’s book is Green Eggs and Ham, and my favorite holiday is Halloween.

Hi, I’m Ms. Annie! I love caring for children and creating a fun, loving environment where they feel supported and encouraged. Growing up as one of eight children, I gained lots of experience being around kids and helping care for my siblings, which sparked my love for working with children.

My favorite part of working with children is getting to watch them learn, grow, and discover new things every day. I can’t wait to get to know each child and their family and be part of their journey.

Outside of the classroom, I love to dance and swim. I used to compete in dance when I was younger, and it continues to be one of my favorite hobbies. I also enjoy spending time with my family, including my dog and cat. My favorite holiday is Christmas, and my favorite children’s book is Pete the Cat!

Hi, I’m Ms. Courtney!

I have been working with children through babysitting since 2021 and love getting to watch them learn new things. I am currently a senior in high school and plan to attend nursing school after graduation. I am excited to continue gaining experience working with children and being part of the Primrose family.

Outside of the classroom, I love being active and spending time outdoors. You can often find me traveling, hiking, working out, or playing tennis. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends, and my three dogs. My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving, and I love my family’s tradition of receiving Christmas pajamas on Thanksgiving. I also enjoy celebrating Cinco de Mayo and reading Goodnight Moon.

coming soon…