Teachers & Staff

Angela Shartsis

Juli Balestrieri

Paige Stevenson
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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!




