Teachers & Staff

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Angela Shartsis
Joined 2025
Angela Shartsis
School Director
Hello! My name is Angela. I am the School Director here at Primrose School of Novi! I am married and have 2 dogs. We love spending time outdoors together, going on hikes, camping and backpacking! I discovered my love for teaching early on, a passion that naturally grew into leadership and led me to my role as a School Director for several years now.
I hold a degree in Early Childhood Education with a focus on Development and Learning, along with a minor in Psychology, which allows me to support both the children at our school and our teachers. I began my journey in early childhood education in 2014 as an assistant teacher, and since then I’ve proudly worn many hats in the field. Each role has shaped my understanding of what high-quality early learning truly looks like and strengthened my commitment to creating nurturing, engaging, inclusive environments where children can thrive. 
One of my favorite parts of my role is getting to know each and every one of our families and their children. Building strong relationships and partnering with families is at the heart of everything I do. My favorite aspect of the Primrose Balanced Learning curriculum is how it encourages curiosity and confidence while supporting the whole child. I am honored to be a part of the community we have here at Primrose School of Novi! I am looking forward to connecting with you! 
Juli Balestrieri
Joined 2026
Juli Balestrieri
Education Coach
“I love worms!”
Ms. Juli brings more than 30 years of experience in early childhood education to her role as Education Coach at Primrose School of Novi. Having served as both a teacher and Leadership, she is passionate about mentoring educators and helping teachers grow their skills, confidence, and love for working with young children.
In her role, Ms. Juli partners closely with teachers to support the Primrose Balanced Learning® approach, ensuring classrooms are engaging, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate. She believes that when teachers feel supported and inspired, children thrive.
Ms. Juli has a special love for nature-based learning and enjoys helping children explore the outdoors through activities like gardening in The Primrose Patch, the school’s garden space. Her appreciation for nature began in childhood while helping her dad in the family garden, where warm summer days and growing tomatoes created memories, she still cherishes.
She is also an avid collector of children’s books and believes introducing books at an early age helps build confident readers and lifelong learners. Her favorite childhood book is Quiet! There’s a Canary in the Library by Don Freeman, a story that first sparked her love of reading when it was read in her preschool classroom.
Ms. Juli feels honored to support the teachers, children, and families of Primrose School of Novi and is dedicated to helping create a joyful, nurturing environment where every child can grow with confidence and curiosity.
Paige Stevenson
Joined 2025
Paige Stevenson
Administrative Assistant

My name is Paige, and I am the Administrative Assistant here at Primrose. With several years of experience in early childhood education, including approximately three years working directly in childcare before staying home with my two boys, I bring both professional experience and a parent’s perspective to my role. My passion for supporting children and families began through babysitting, nannying, and working as a mother’s helper.

In my position, I enjoy welcoming families, supporting our teachers, and helping ensure that each day runs smoothly. Whether I’m assisting with answering questions, and greeting families at the front desk, my goal is to create a warm, organized, and positive experience for everyone who walks through our doors.

One of the things I value most about Primrose is the strong sense of community. Our dedicated teachers and caring families make this an incredible place to be, and it’s evident that our staff is committed to helping every child feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow. As both a parent and a member of the leadership team, I truly appreciate being part of an environment where children and families come first.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, whether we’re playing outdoors or enjoying a cozy movie night together. I am grateful to be part of the Primrose community and look forward to supporting our families and staff each day.

Ms. Ana
Joined 2025
Ms. Ana
Assistant Teacher

My name is Ana! I am married to André and the proud mother of Anita, Antonella, and my little angel, Daniel. Our family moved from Brazil to Michigan in September 2019.

I hold a Bachelor of International Business Administration from UNIP (Brazil) and am certified as an Environmental Technician through SENAC (Brazil). For the past ten years, I have worked remotely as an Italian Citizenship Consultant, assisting clients with genealogical research and documentation.

I have always loved working with children, inspired by my mother, a teacher and pedagogical coordinator. I volunteered in her school as an assistant teacher, chaperone, and tutor, and professionally, I have been working with children and teens since 2023—first with Northville Public Schools and now as an Assistant Teacher in childcare.

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, gardening, photography, attending concerts, spending time in nature, and, most importantly, being with my family and friends. I am thrilled to be part of the Primrose School of Novi community!

Ms. Keeley
Joined 2025
Ms. Keeley
Chef

Hello! I’m Keely and I’m from Waterford, Michigan. My favorite food is soup, and, on the weekends, I love spending time with my family. At Primrose, we’re more than just a team of childcare specialists, we’re a family, and we care for every child as if they were our own. Like your home, our school provides a safe, nurturing environment that encourages self-discovery and a love of learning.​

Ms. Shannon
Joined 2025
Ms. Shannon
Lead Teacher

My name is Shannon! I have three years of experience in Early Childhood Education, including roles as an assistant teacher at previous schools. I am currently finishing up my CDA certification!

What I love most about Primrose School of Novi is how inclusive our center is. We strive to create a sense of belonging for all staff and families, which truly brings our community together. I also appreciate how the Balanced Learning® approach helps guide children in learning important values like respect and kindness, alongside their academic growth.

Outside of work, I enjoy doing crafty projects, taking my son on long walks, and reading together. Our home is full of books, and we make time to read every day. I feel so lucky to be part of a place where there’s always something new to learn and explore!

Ms. Danya
Joined 2025
Ms. Danya
Lead Teacher

Hello! I’m Danya and I’m from Detroit, Michigan. My favorite food is penne pasta, and, on the weekends, I love reading and relaxing. At Primrose, we’re more than just a team of childcare specialists—we’re a family, and we care for every child as if they were our own. Like your home, our school provides a safe, nurturing environment that encourages self-discovery and a love of learning.​

​ The character I relate to most is Og (the worm) because he represents caring for others and a love for reading. I believe in being a compassionate person—just like Og the Worm does every day.​

​I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.

Ms. Jenny
Joined 2025
Ms. Jenny
Resource Teacher

Hi, my name is Alimu, but the children call me Ms. Jenny!

I have over ten years of experience in education, including international experience in Japan. I worked as a teacher at an international daycare center in Japan and as an online language teacher, teaching Japanese and Chinese during the COVID-19 pandemic in California. After relocating to Michigan, I worked as a resource teacher at a daycare center and am currently a Resource Teacher at Primrose School of Novi.

I hold an MS in Linguistics & Cultural Science from Chiba University, Japan (2010), with a focus on Early Childhood Studies, Development, and Education.

My favorite part of Primrose School of Novi is the diversity within our school, not only among the children but also among the staff. I truly appreciate the positive energy, genuine smiles, and supportive attitudes everyone brings each day. The friendly, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere makes it a wonderful place to work and grow.

I am especially inspired by Primrose’s Balanced Learning® curriculum. It supports children’s academic, social, emotional, and physical growth while encouraging creativity, independence, and confidence. The flexibility of the curriculum allows teachers to meet each child’s individual needs, helping them develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, crafting with my family, and watching soccer games together.

Ms. Kaela
Joined 2025
Ms. Kaela
Assistant Teacher

My name is Kaela. I have been involved in early childhood care for over ten years, primarily as a nanny, and recently began working in an early education facility. Over the years, I have gained teaching experience through caring for children as a nanny and helping raise my sister.

I hold a Nursing degree and am also a certified Pharmacy Technician.

My favorite part of Primrose School of Novi is the incredible community that has been created here. I truly appreciate the supportive environment, my wonderful coworkers, and the amazing families and children we get to work with every day.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my dog, Naila, and relaxing at home watching movies.

Ms. Kalani
Joined 2025
Ms. Kalani
Lead Teacher

Hello! I’m Kalani, and I’m from Detroit, Michigan. My favorite food is Fruit, and, on the weekends, I love Sleeping and Napping. At Primrose, we’re more than just a team of childcare specialists—we’re a family, and we care for every child as if they were our own. Like your home, our school provides a safe, nurturing environment that encourages self-discovery and a love of learning.

The character I relate to most is Benjamin (the bear) because he represents Kindness. I believe in being kind and always doing the right thing, just like Benjamin the Bear does every day. I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.

Ms. Sarah
Joined 2025
Ms. Sarah
Lead Teacher

I began my journey in Early Childhood Education in 2006, and over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to grow through various roles while working with children of all ages, from infants to school-aged. Each experience has deepened my passion for nurturing a love of learning during the early years.

With a background in Child Development and Early Education, I’m dedicated to guiding and inspiring both teachers and children to become confident, curious, and critical thinkers. Education is truly my calling, and helping young learners grow, academically, socially, and emotionally—means the world to me.

I live in Livonia with my two wonderful children, our sassy cat, and our energetic dog. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, traveling, reading, exploring the outdoors, watching Harry Potter, and cheering on Detroit’s major league teams—Go Lions!

I look forward to helping create a warm, safe, and welcoming environment for every child and family at Primrose. Together, we’ll foster a lifelong love of learning!

 

Ms. Jasmine
Joined 2026
Ms. Jasmine
Lead Teacher

My name is Jasmine, and I am from Detroit, MI. I have several years of experience in Early Childhood Education and hold a CDA in Infant/Toddlers. I enjoy riding my bike, reading, coloring, going to the movies with my husband, and listening to music. One of my favorite children’s books is The Very Hungry Caterpillar. I am excited to be part of the Primrose School of Novi team!

Ms. Rewa
Joined 2026
Ms. Rewa
Lead Teacher

Hello! My name is Rewa, and I have worked in childcare for about five years. I earned my CDA and became a Lead Teacher about a year and a half ago in an Early Preschool classroom at another center. I’m so excited to be part of the team at Primrose School of Novi! My son attends here as well, and he loves it too. I am currently in school pursuing my bachelor’s degree, and I’m excited to continue growing both personally and professionally.

Mr. Daniel
Joined 2026
Mr. Daniel
Assistant Teacher

Hello! My name is Daniel Balestrieri, and I am 19 years old. This is my first time working in Childcare. I am the Summer Club Teacher here at Primrose! I attend Oakland Community College and live in South Lyon. I enjoy a variety of different hobbies, ranging from exploring the great outdoors to geography and vexillology (the study of flags). I wrestled for eleven years and love to go back to my high school wrestling room and help out. My favorite book series is Calvin and Hobbes. I’m excited to see what this world and life have to offer. Peace and love!

Ms. Ziya
Joined 2026
Ms. Ziya
Assistant Teacher

Hi my name is Ziya. I have three years of experience in childcare. Here at Primrose, I am working in the Infant and toddler classes! In my free time I like to go shopping and watch movies. I am currently enrolled in college to be a Speech Language Pathologist. My favorite children’s book is If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.

Ms. Saamiya
Ms. Saamiya
Lead Teacher

Hello, I’m Saamiya! I have been working in childcare for over 15 years! Working with kids has always been my passion. What I love the most about Primrose is the environment! I love how there is such a good communite of staff and families! Outside of work I love to spend time with my baby and helping others!

Mr. Patrick
Mr. Patrick
Assistant Teacher

Hello! My name is Patrick! I am 21 years old and I have been working in childcare for five years! I enjoy working with older children! They are so fun and outgoing! My favorite part about Primrose School of Novi so far is the kind staff and how nice the building is! Outside of work I enjoy to play video games and relax at home.

Ms. Sneha
Ms. Sneha
Assistant Teacher

Hello! My name is Sneha! This is my first time working in Childcare and I couldnt be more excited! I love how Primrose keeps its children really engaged with the currulum and uses positive reinforcement to promote good behavior. Outside of work I like to sing, ride my bike on nature trails, and spend time with my friends and family! I cannot wait to meet all of you and learn about your families!

Ms. Mirella
Ms. Mirella
Lead Teacher

Hello! My name is Mirella and i am from Brazil. I have been in childcare field for six years. I started as an assistant teacher then I decided to pursue my ECE degree back in Brazil. I already have experience in different ages but babies and toddlers are my passion. I’m always mesmerized how they explore and discover the world and learn about themselves. Being part of these moments make me happy and grateful! I love the Balaneced Learning Curriculum and how flexible and organized/structured. The “Balanced” helps us provide the best care and lovely moments to our babies. Outside of work i enjoy boxing classes and reading “true stories”. I also love spending time outside with my husband and our dog.

Ms. Alexis
Ms. Alexis
Assistant Teacher

Hello! My name is Alexis! I have some childcare experience from babysitting for the past five years! My favorite thing about Primrose so far is getting to work with different age groups! I have really be able to explore all the classroom and get a feel of Primrose! Outside of work I like to spend time with family and friends, make artwork, and listen to music!

Franchise Owners

Dhruva & Taral Patel

Welcome to Primrose School of Novi! We are proud to bring high-quality preschool and child care to young children and families in the Novi, Michigan community.

As parents of two wonderful children, we understand the challenge of finding a safe, nurturing and educational environment that provides the high level of care we want for our most precious little ones. Our passion for family and our commitment to the community inspired us to open a Primrose school.

After living in Chicago for several years, we decided to move back to Taral’s home state, Michigan, to be closer to family and friends and join a like-minded community as our children grew older. Soon after our move, we were looking for a meaningful career change and eagerly embraced the opportunity to open a Primrose school in Novi. Having seen the exceptional child care at Primrose schools in other cities through friends and family, we knew this was the path we wanted to take, and we are excited to dedicate our future to serving families.

Dhruva’s background is in corporate healthcare operations, and Taral is a Physical Therapist serving the Novi and surrounding communities with an entrepreneurial background. We are continually impressed by Primrose and the exceptional approach to education, accredited curriculum, enrichment activities and character development program.

We passionately believe in giving back to the community, with Dhruva volunteering at our daughter’s school and Taral, a devoted Detroit sports fan, coaching our daughter’s basketball team. Outside of Primrose, our greatest joy comes from spending quality time with our family. Whether it’s attending one of our children’s dance performances or sporting events, we cherish every moment. And, as proud Michiganders, we love supporting our local sports teams!

We look forward to meeting you and your family!

Our family would love to meet yours.

Contact us to schedule a tour.
A child and teacher's hand on a bookA young boy playing with toysA young boy playing to the floor looking up at cameraA young boy smiling at cameraA young boy looking at cameraA child and teacher's hand on a bookA young boy playing with toysA young boy playing to the floor looking up at cameraA young boy smiling at cameraA young boy looking at camera
© 2026 Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. We will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with applicable registration and disclosure requirements in your jurisdiction. Contact Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC, 3200 Windy Hill Road SE, Suite 1200E, Atlanta, GA 30339, to request a copy of our FDD.

*Study was conducted on a representative sample of Primrose Pre-Kindergarten students across twelve Primrose schools in nine states in the Spring of 2024. The Bracken School Readiness Assessment 4th Edition assesses children’s school readiness in terms of their understanding of concepts that are strongly related to early childhood cognitive and language development as well as early academic achievement.

**Based upon recent assessments of approximately 3,900 Primrose students aged 4 screened using the Ages & Stages Questionnaires®, Third Edition during the 2024-2025 school year. Ages & Stages Questionnaires® and ASQ® are registered trademarks of Paul H Brookes Publishing Co, Inc.