Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan

Our Staff

  • Kira Boothe, Director

    Kira Boothe

    Director

    Greetings All,

    My name is Kira Boothe and I am honored to call myself the Director of the Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Education, Curriculum, and Instruction and I promote lifelong learning. I have had the pleasure of working with children, parents, and teachers since 1998. My many years of early childhood education experience have paved my pathway to Primrose. I am a daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother. I grew up in California, lived in Maui, Colorado, Washington, and have lived here in Arizona since 1996. I love spending time with family and friends, caring for the trees in my backyard, and I enjoy going to the movies, reading, exercising, and camping. My purpose in life is to help create a world of possibility where everyone can realize his or her endless potential. I look forward to building relationships with you.

    Sincerely and with Gratitude,

    Kira

  • Sonal Patel, Assistant Director

    Sonal Patel

    Assistant Director

    My name is Sonal Patel and I am very excited to be taking on the role of Assistant Director at Primrose of Gilbert at Santan! I have been working as the Office Administrator since the school opened, and I am happy to step into this new role to better serve our families. I was born and raised in Southern California before moving to Arizona in 2004. I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with concentrations in Social and Clinical Psychology. While completing my degree at Arizona State and my Master's degree in Forensic Psychology I worked as a full-time nanny for four years. Both concentrations of my Bachelor's degree would have allowed me to move forward in working with children or adults, but working at Primrose just cemented my love for early education and care. With that passion for early education, also I bring ten years of experience in customer service to this position. I have two younger brothers and an enormous extended family! In my free time I love to read and dance. I am also an avid foodie, and I love trying new recipes and new restaurants! I am so happy to have the opportunity to watch your children learn and grow!

    spatel@primrosegilbertsantan.com

  • Kassie Stradling, Administrative Assistant

    Kassie Stradling

    Administrative Assistant

    Hello! I am excited to be a part of the Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan! I am originally from Roy, Utah but I moved to Arizona in 2018. I live in Chandler with my husband and our two dogs. We enjoy going camping, going to the movies, and traveling. I love working in early education and my hope is to be the best role model I can be for my students!

  • Claire Spurling, Mentor Teacher

    Claire Spurling

    Mentor Teacher

    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.

  • Ms. Stuart, Closing Lead Teacher

    Ms. Stuart

    Closing Lead Teacher

    Hi there! My name is Samantha and I recently graduated from Perry High School. I studied all four year in the Early Childhood Education program there, and am working towards a CDA (Child Development Associates). I have an older brother who lives in Michigan, and two younger siblings that attend Chandler Schools. I love spending time with my family and friends, and traveling to see new things around me.

  • Ms. Sandy, Infant Teacher

    Ms. Sandy

    Infant Teacher

    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.

  • Ms. Tracy, Infant Teacher

    Ms. Tracy

    Infant Teacher

    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.

  • Ms. Emilia, Infant Teacher

    Ms. Emilia

    Infant Teacher

    Hello my name is Emilia. I'm so excited to come back to the Primrose family, and bring my daughter to attend here too. I finished my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education in the Philippines, with 12 years of teaching experiences, I have a passion for teaching young children. I am hoping to finish my Master's degree in Early Childhood Education. I'm happy to be here to watch these infants and toddlers grow!

  • Ms. Lolita, Infant/Toddler Support Teacher

    Ms. Lolita

    Infant/Toddler Support Teacher

    Hi Primrose family! I moved from Wisconsin where I worked in child care for a few years. I have been married for 34 years and have two sons and a daughter. I currently live with my eldest son, daughter-in-law and my two grandchildren. I was an accountant but I always wanted to be a teacher. I love working with children and am happy to be able to do what I love most!

  • Ms. Mireya, Infant/Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Mireya

    Infant/Toddler Teacher

    Hi! My name is Mireya, I've been working with children for about 4 years. Straight out of high school, I got a job as a preschool teacher in my hometown. My mom and I decided to take a change and move to the valley.  We lived on the west side of Phoenix for a couple years, but I recently moved to Queen Creek and married my best friend! I'm excited to get back to teaching which is what I love to do and get to meet you all!

  • Ms. Kaitlyn, Infant/Toddler Support Teacher

    Ms. Kaitlyn

    Infant/Toddler Support Teacher

    Hi! My name is Kaitlyn. I am a student at Perry High School. I am a middle child with an older brother and a younger sister. I am a trampoline and tumbling gymnast and have been involved in gymnastics my entire life. I have worked with my high school's childcare center through the early childhood education program. I work in early education because I love the way children view the world and I hope to shape young children into the best versions of themselves!

  • Ms. Jasmyne, Infant Support Teacher

    Ms. Jasmyne

    Infant Support Teacher

    I am a Senior at Campo High School. After graduating this year, I will be going to ASU for psychology. I have volunteered at a preschool for a year and also took Early Childhood Education classes in high school. I currently have dual enrollment at Chandler-Gilbert community college where I am taking American Sign Language for the fourth year. In my free time I love shopping and Volunteering. 

  • Ms. Melissa, Toddler 1 Teacher

    Ms. Melissa

    Toddler 1 Teacher

    Hi! My name is Ms. Melissa and I am from Douglas, AZ. I am a mom of two, Emma & Liam. We are super excited to be moving back to Arizona after living in Wisconsin for the past few years. My husband and I enjoy riding our Harley Davidsons in our free time. I LOVE working with children and being part of their development, and making them feel loved and safe while in my care. I hope to make a great impact in their lives as we learn and grow together. 

  • Ms. Amanda, Toddler 2 Teacher

    Ms. Amanda

    Toddler 2 Teacher

    Hi! My name is Ms. Amanda and I have been working with children for a few years now and more to come! I am currently in the process of working towards by CDA (Child Development Associate's). I love coffee, reading books, flowers, singing, drawing, and spending time with those I love. I am so happy to be back with the Primrose family and am looking forward to getting ot know everyone and create fun memories with the children!

  • Ms. Kate, Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Kate

    Toddler Teacher

    Hi! My name is Kathryn, but everyone calls me Kate. I am a social work major at ASU where I do online school full-time and work full-time. My area of interest is to be a behavioral specialist for pediatrics: I am about a year and a half away from graduation. My family is all from Brooklyn, New York where all of my siblings were born except for me. My grandparents moved down here to Arizona and they wanted to be there for somebody's birth - and they chose me! Soon after, we moved back to New York where I grew up, and then returned to Arizona when I was 10. My hobbies include hiking, dancing, and artwork. I have been a dancer for over 15 years and also have a background in cheer and gymnastics. I graduated from Mesa high in 2018 and then attended MCC for credits towards my associates degree in arts. I'm working in early education because it's something that will help me lead to where my end goal is! I love kids and I'm inspired by kids - I look forwards to learning from them and with them!

  • Mr. Peter, Early Preschool A Teacher

    Mr. Peter

    Early Preschool A Teacher

    Hello! My name is Peter. I am very thankful for the early childhood education classes I took in high school as I would not have known my passion for making a difference in youth lives. I love working with children and intend to pursue it further as I am studying for a Bachelor's degreen in Elementary Education. I like to work on creative projects with my cat by my side when I have free time. 

  • Ms. White, Early Preschool B Teacher

    Ms. White

    Early Preschool B Teacher

    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!

  • Ms. Nyree, Pathways Teacher

    Ms. Nyree

    Pathways Teacher

    Hi, my name is Nyree! I'm from Arizona but i'm still not used to the very hot and dry summers. Though that may be because I lived in California for three years! I have four grown children and one granddaughter. I enjoy swimming, crocheting, food, and gathering with family and friends. My lifelong career has been working in early childhood education and it is what I love to do. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in education. 

  • Ms. Ali, Pathways A Teacher

    Ms. Ali

    Pathways A Teacher

    Hello! My name is Ali. I am a middle child with an older sister and two younger brothers. I recently graduated Red Mountain High School. During my time at Red Mountaing I was involved in their Early Childhood Program and enjoyed spending time with the children. In my free time I enjoy off-roading and camping with family. Ever since I was a little kid I wanted to be a teacher. I am excited to be part of the Primrose family!

  • Ms. Sara

    Support Teacher
  • Ms. Jessica, Pathways Teacher

    Ms. Jessica

    Pathways Teacher
  • Ms. Yannis, Pathways Support Teacher

    Ms. Yannis

    Pathways Support Teacher

    Hi! My name is Yannis! I graduated form Eastmark High School, but spent my first 3 years of high school at Gila Ridge High School. I spent two years in an early childhood program where I got to understand development of children and even gain experience in a preschool! For the time that I was there, I loved it. I am now in Esthetician school part time and go to the gym with my remaining time. I hope to gain more knowledge and experience working with children as well as have a lot of fun!

  • Ms. Liella, Support Teacher

    Ms. Liella

    Support Teacher

    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!

  • Ms. Barker, Preschool 1 Teacher

    Ms. Barker

    Preschool 1 Teacher

    Hi! I'm Ms. Stephanie Barker. I have been working with children for over 20 years, and have two of my own. I love getting out into nature and love doing that with my kids especially. I absolutely love children and I am excited to gain even more experience with young children, to help them learn and grow. I found Primrose through my daughter, Ms. Samantha and now I'm excited to get to know everyone here at the Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan.

  • Ms. Diyana, Preschool 1 Teacher

    Ms. Diyana

    Preschool 1 Teacher

    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!

  • Ms. Heather, Preschool 2 Teacher

    Ms. Heather

    Preschool 2 Teacher

    I just moved to Arizona from Michigan and am loving the new weather. I come from a large family. I have five sisters, two brothers, two neices, and a nephew. I love reading, swimming, and baking. Now that I  am in Arizona, I would love to start hiking as well. I recently graduated from Saginaw Valley State University. I was a double major in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. I have a passion for teaching kids and watching them grow each day. I look forward to creating strong bonds with my students. 

  • Ms. Jamie, Preschool 2 Teacher

    Ms. Jamie

    Preschool 2 Teacher

    I have over 18 years of experience working with children of all ages. I have 4 kids of my own. My family loves going to the park, RV camping at the river, and movie nights. I enjoy working with kids and watching them grow emotionally and academically. I'm happy to be back with my Primrose family!

  • Ms. Stacie, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Ms. Stacie

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    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 3 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.

  • Ms. Stephanie, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Ms. Stephanie

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    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.

  • Ms. Rosie, Support Teacher

    Ms. Rosie

    Support Teacher

    Hello, my name is Rosie! I was born in Sacramento CA and I am in school currently with my Major being Nursing. I love working with kids and this will be my second year working in childcare. I live here in Arizona with my mom, stepdad, and little brother. 

  • Ms. Fiona, Food Service Teacher

    Ms. Fiona

    Food Service Teacher

    I have been living in Arizona since 2013 with my family, which consists of me, my husband and two children. My son is 6 years old, and my daughter is almost 3. I like to watch movies and play games with my kids. I enjoy all the outdoor activities with my family include travel around. I used to work as a cooker for the Williams High School, The Learning Experience, Brookdale Senior Living, and the Compass group for the Inter Campus. I like to work in the early education environment the most because I like kids so much adn really want to provie them with high-quality foods.

  • Ms. Charissa, Substitute Support Teacher

    Ms. Charissa

    Substitute Support Teacher

    Hello! My name is Charissa and I am new(er) here to Arizona. I was born and raised in Northern California and was the oldest of 4 siblings. Growing up, my mom homeschooled my siblings and while also running a daycre in which I loved helping her. I also worked with kids during my college years. I am now a single mama to 5 amazing children of my own. I had so much fun homeschooling all of them for nearly a decade while also teaching at varuous co-ops we attended. I enjoy coffee, traveling, the beach, being creative, art, and hanging out with my family. I look forward to working at Primrose and getting to know all of the families here, while also making an impact in their kid's lived and helping aid in their development. 

  • Malini Bhakta & Neeta Bhakta, Franchise Owner

    Malini Bhakta & Neeta Bhakta

    Franchise Owners

    Hello! We are Malini Bhakta and Neeta Bhakta—friends and proud Franchise Owners of Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan. As working parents ourselves and longtime members of the community, we are excited to offer the Primrose experience that’s enriched our lives and our children’s lives to even more families in Gilbert.

    Initially, what sparked our interest in Primrose was its commitment to quality care and the school’s research-based Balanced Learning® curriculum. As parents who struggled to find quality care and early education for our children, we wanted to find the perfect solution for our family and all families in the Gilbert community. This need combined with our passion for children and early education, inspired us to open a school of our own.

    As parents, we understand the importance of pursuing a career while providing a nurturing environment for your children. Primrose parents at our school can rest easy, knowing their children are receiving the best care and premier early education that will help set the foundation for future success. In fact, our kids will be enrolled in our school and involved in the after-school program, a testament to how much we love Primrose and how confident we feel about the quality of care it provides. Our hope is that our school will feel like an extension of your family and will provide parents a peace of mind knowing their children are growing their Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts®.

    Opened on April 25th, 2016, Primrose School of Gilbert at Santan features the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum.

    We can’t wait to meet you and welcome you to our Primrose family!

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