Primrose School of Old Orchard

Our Staff

  • Ms. Natalie Merritt, Executive Director

    Ms. Natalie Merritt

    Executive Director

    Hometown: Texarkana,Texas

    Childcare experience: Over 20 years

    Education background: Working on Bachelor Degree in Multimedia Design

    Favorite food: Mexican (Chips and Salsa)

    Favorite weekend activity: Going to the movies and working on my latest art creation

    Favorite children's book: "The Monster at the End of this Book, Starring Lovable, Furry Old Grover"

    Primrose character I most relate to: Megy - I am always on my computer; Erwin - I love art

    What I'm most excited about this school year: Being back with my Primrose family for another school year.

    Best way to schedule time to talk: Stop by the front office or e-mail me anytime.

    Primrose teacher since: 2000

  • Ms. Cassandra Carrasco, Campus Director

    Ms. Cassandra Carrasco

    Campus Director

    Let’s get to know each other.

     

    Hello, my name is, Ms. Cassandra. I am the second oldest of six kids. I have been married since 2015 and I have a 3 year old daughter, Helena.  I started at Primrose as an intern and fell in love. I accepted a lead Pre-kindergarten position after graduation from college. I have taught in every age group and have gained experience in each room. I have been in leadership since 2017. I love seeing when a child gets a concept and seeing their development throughout the year. I also love the relationships I build with my children and our families. 

    During my free time I enjoy taking my daughter to the park, crafting, and spending quality time with my family. I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.

  • Ms. Esther Mullens, Director of Operations

    Ms. Esther Mullens

    Director of Operations

    Hello my name is Ms. Esther Mullens. I am originally from Delta Junction, Alaska. I  met my husband, Michael, working in Denali National Park in the hospitality industry. We relocated to Oklahoma, which is where I  began working in Early Childcare. Starting off as a teacher, I was quickly promoted to Assistant Director at Children's Learning Adventure. I spent 5 years there before moving back to Alaska where I and my husband welcomed our first child, Madilyn. ​

    We have recently moved to Texas, and we are so happy we found Primrose!​

  • Ms. Sherria Green, Director of School Excellence

    Ms. Sherria Green

    Director of School Excellence

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    ​Hello, my name is Ms. Sherria.  I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. I’ve worked with children for over 10 years and have experience working with not only typical children, but children with various learning disabilities and exceptionalities. I’m passionate about child development and social/emotional learning. I’m looking forward to working with staff, students, and their families. What I enjoy most about children is getting the opportunity to see how they grasp and retain new concepts and skills. I am so excited to continue the success at Primrose School of NE Flower Mound.​ During my free time, I enjoy creating curriculum, dining, and watching Netflix. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends.​ I can't wait to get to know you and your family!

    Hometown: Miami, FL

    Childcare experience: 15 years in Early Childhood Education

    Education Background: Bachelors in Childhood Development, Masters in Brain-based Teaching

    Favorite food: Sushi

    Favorite weekend activity: Dining out and going to the movies.

    Favorite children’s book: The Giving Tree

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Connecting with the staff, students, and families at NE Flower Mound!

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Message

  • Ms. FiFi Rose, Education Coach (2019 Teacher of the Year)

    Ms. FiFi Rose

    Education Coach (2019 Teacher of the Year)

    Let’s get to know each other!

    Hello, I’m Ms. Rose and I want to tell you a little about myself. I am originally from Mississippi, and have lived in Texas since 2015. I have five (yes five!)children who keep me very busy. I have been working with children since 2000 and I have been a part of the Primrose family since May 2015. I love seeing positive changes take place when children enroll, as well as the progress that they make as they transition to the next class. Knowing that I was a part of ‘’that change’’ just warms my heart. In my free time I enjoy cooking, watching HGTV, and spending time with my children and grandchildren.

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

  • Ms. Anjaleigh Harris, Kitchen Manager

    Ms. Anjaleigh Harris

    Kitchen Manager

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Ms. Anjeleigh, but I go by Ms. Caprees! I want to tell you a little bit about myself. ​​

    I am from Nashville, TN. I have just graduated from High School and am looking forward to pursuing my college degree in Physical Therapy. I am the youngest of 7 siblings.  I have cared for kids most of my life with having so many nieces and nephews. I have loved caring for them and teaching them over the years.  My favorite thing about working with kids is watching their faces light up when they figure something out about the world around them.  In my free time I LOVE to read! I am usually living in a book. ​ ​

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

    Hometown: Nashville, TN​

    Childcare experience: My nieces and nephews​

    Education Background: High School Diploma​

    Favorite food: Chinese Food​

    Favorite weekend activity: Reading​

    Favorite children’s book: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you see?​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og the Worm​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Making the kids laugh and watching them grow.​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Message ​

  • Ms. Arlita King, Infant Lead Teacher (2020 & 2017 Teacher of the Year)

    Ms. Arlita King

    Infant Lead Teacher (2020 & 2017 Teacher of the Year)

    Let's get to know each other!

    Hello, my name is Ms. Arlita. I am a mother of three loving boys. I am originally from the Philippines, but I have been in Texas since 1998. I have been working with children since 2001, and have been working at Primrose School of Old Orchard since 2012. I love working at Primrose in the infant room because no 2 days are the same. Every day is unique and special. I love working with infants and their parents, helping them to adjust to parenthood, and their new home-away-from-home…Primrose! I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family!

  • Ms. Natalie Velez, Infant Teacher

    Ms. Natalie Velez

    Infant Teacher

     Let’s get to know each other.​​

     

    I'm Ms. Natalie! I want to tell you a little bit about myself. ​

     I am from Puerto Rico. I graduated from Universidad  Metropolitana de   Puerto Rico. I studied to be a Social Worker.​

     I have a 9yr old son named Jason and a 2yr old daughter ​named Valerie.​

    I love working with children because they are fun and challenging. I'm  excited to grow professionally and look ​

    forward to building new  relationships with students and their families. In my free time I enjoy creating colorful  paintings ​
    and listening to music.​

     Hometown: Puerto Rico​

     Childcare experience: Working as a Social Worker​

     Education Background: Degree in Social Work​

     Favorite food: Asian food​

     Favorite weekend activity: Gardening ang doing Yoga​

     Favorite children’s book: Polar Bear, Polar Bear, ​

     What Do You Hear?​

     Primrose character I most relate to:  Og the Bookworm​

     What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting ​

     to know more about you and your family​

     Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Message​

  • Ms. Diamond Jones​, Young Toddlers Teacher

    Ms. Diamond Jones​

    Young Toddlers Teacher
    Apple of Our Eye

    I am originally from Michigan; I have always been the go-to for childcare with my family and friends over the years. I am very outgoing and love learning new things! I am getting ready to get married and gain a bonus child, so I am excited for my family to grow. What I enjoy most about children is getting the opportunity to see how they grasp and use new concepts like learning new words to help them communicate. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and growing my wedding planning business. ​

    Hometown: Michigan​

    Childcare experience: Family and Friends ​

    Education Background: High School Diploma​

    Favorite food:  Seafood ​

    Favorite weekend activity: Going on dates with my Fiancé and working on my wedding business​

    Favorite children’s book: Mouse Paint ​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og the Book Worm​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Gaining more patience & training​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Message ​

  • Ms. Val Garcia, Young Toddler Teacher (2023 Rookie of the Year)

    Ms. Val Garcia

    Young Toddler Teacher (2023 Rookie of the Year)

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Ms. Valeria.  I want to tell you a little about myself.  ​

    I am from California. I have enjoyed being in Texas. I have worked with children of multiple ages with my brother and children from church.  I am a leader in my church and help organize our youth group. II am excited to get to know the babies and help them reach their developmental milestones. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, doing photography, and participating in my church.  I am excited to meet all  my new  students and watch them grow!    ​

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

    Hometown: California​

    Childcare experience: Caring for sibling and church  ​

    Education Background: High School Diploma  ​

    Favorite food: Panda Express​

    Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with family & photography​

    Favorite children’s book: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Erwin the Dog​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know all the students and watching them grow!​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Messenger   ​

  • Ms. Lillian Monaghan, Young Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Lillian Monaghan

    Young Toddler Teacher

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Ms. Lillian.  I want to tell you a little about myself.​

    I am from Richardson, TX. I have a 4 year old son who will be in Preschool at Primrose. I have been a babysitter since I was a teenager and always enjoyed children. I am looking to gain a meaningful career and grow as a mom. I look forward to getting to know the students and my new co-workers. In my free time, I enjoy going to the park with my son and doing arts and crafts. ​

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

    Hometown: Richardson, Texas​

    Child care experience: Babysitting and my son​

    Education Background: High School Diploma ​

    Favorite food: ​

    Favorite weekend activity: Going to the park with my son​

    Favorite children’s book: The Wonky Donky​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Katie the cat​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Watching the kids learn and grow. ​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: Procare Messenger

  • Ms. Yuridan Leonides, Early Preschool 1 Teacher

    Ms. Yuridan Leonides

    Early Preschool 1 Teacher

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Ms. Yuri!  I want to tell you a little about myself.​

    I am originally from Denton, TX.   I am a certified medical assistant but wanted to work with children. I love that children can make you smile. I have experience with children of all ages, as I have helped care for my siblings and cousins. I am the oldest grandchild and the oldest of 3 children in my family. I am excited to build new relationships with my students and families. In my free time, I enjoy drawing and listening to music! ​

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

    Hometown: Denton, TX​

    Childcare experience: Babysitting my nieces and nephews​

    Education Background: High School Diploma, Certified Medical Assistant ​

    Favorite food: Fajitas​

    Favorite weekend activity: Art/drawing and Listening to music ​

    Favorite children’s book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar​

    Primrose character I most relate to:  Erwin the Dog- Art ​

    What I’m most excited about  this school year: Learning and growing with the children. ​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Messenger 

  • Ms. Lorin Murray, Support Staff

    Ms. Lorin Murray

    Support Staff

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Ms. Lorin.  I want to tell you a little about myself.  ​

    I am from Rancho Cucamanga, CA. I have been babysitting since I was 9 and have also volunteered at an afterschool childcare program. I am looking forward to gaining more experience working with children in a school environment and beginning my journey of child enrichment. I love how children have different personalities and seeing how their experiences help shape their personalities. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my new husband and training our 2 year old puppy together. Something interesting about me is that I just got married in May! ​

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

    Hometown: Rancho Cucamanga, CA​

    Childcare experience: Babysitting and Volunteering at an afterschool program​

    Education Background: Currently at UNT getting my B.S In E.C. Education​

    Favorite food: Filipino Food ​

    Favorite weekend activity: Training my dog & Spending time with my husband. ​

    Favorite children’s book: Hooray for Rodney Rat​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Billy the Duck ​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know Primrose!​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Messenger   ​

  • Ms. Jennifer Ramirez, Early Preschool 2  Lead Teacher (2022 & 2023 Teacher of the Year)

    Ms. Jennifer Ramirez

    Early Preschool 2 Lead Teacher (2022 & 2023 Teacher of the Year)

    Let's get to know each other!

    Hello, my name is Ms. Jennifer and I want to tell you a little about myself. I am originally from Mexico, but have lived in Texas most of my life. The majority of my experience working with children has been in the field of photography. As a photographer, I take pictures of children from 7 days old up to 12 years. I am so excited to learn more about early childhood education. I love seeing children smile and watching them grow. In my free time I enjoy taking pictures, spending time with family, and going to concerts. My favorite children’s book is “A Bad Case of the Stripes”. I can’t wait to learn more about your family!

  • Ms. Jessica Cervantes, Lead Pathways Teacher

    Ms. Jessica Cervantes

    Lead Pathways Teacher

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I wanted to tell you a little about myself.​

    I am from Houston , TX. I grew up in a big Hispanic family so there was always siblings, cousins, nephews, and nieces to help care for. I have wanted to get into teaching and Primrose gave me that opportunity. I look forward to gaining more knowledge on child development and how they learn. In my free time, I enjoy reading horror books, and spending time with my family. ​

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

    Hometown: Houston, Texas​

    Child care experience: Caring for Family​

    Education Background: High School Diploma ​

    Favorite food: Mexican Food ​

    Favorite weekend activity: Reading & watching horror movies​

    Favorite children’s book: Arthur​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og the Book Worm​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Learning more and getting to know my students ​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: Procare Messenger  

  • Ms.Dshanti Frazier, Preschool Teacher

    Ms.Dshanti Frazier

    Preschool Teacher

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Ms. Dshanti!  I want to tell you a little about myself. ​

    I am from Jackson, Mississippi. I have always wanted to work with children, and Primrose has given me that opportunity. I love having conversations with children and watching them discover their world. I am excited to learn more about childcare and build a relationship with my students. I hope to bring my smiley personality with me each day!  ​

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

    Hometown: Jackson, Mississippi​

    Childcare experience: Babysitting ​

    Education Background: High School ​

    Favorite food: Pizza ​

    Favorite weekend activity: Scrolling Tik Tok   ​

    Favorite children’s book: If you Give a Mouse a Cookie​

    Primrose character I most relate to: ​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know all of  my student's and new co-workers​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Message

  • Ms. Symone' Rose​, Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Symone' Rose​

    Preschool Teacher

    I am originally from McGehee, Arkansas. I graduated from Bowie High School where I enjoyed doing their Ready, Set, Teach Program. I feel that this program allowed me to get first-hand experience in a school setting and helped develop my love of inspiring the next generation.  I have been working with children in a childcare center for over 2 years now in a lead teacher role. I am excited to grow in my understanding of child development and learn more about the Primrose Way.  In my free time, I enjoy doing DIY projects and watching movies. 

    Hometown: McGehee, Arkansas​

    Childcare Experience: 2 years and Ready, Set, Teach​

    Education Background: High School Diploma​

    Favorite food: Tacos and Pizza​

    Favorite weekend activity: DIY Projects &watching movies ​

    Favorite children’s book: A Bad Case of Stripes​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Erwin the Dog ​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Learning the Primrose Way​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Message ​

  • Ms. Kendra Lilly, Lead Preschool 2 Teacher

    Ms. Kendra Lilly

    Lead Preschool 2 Teacher

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Kendra Lilly.  I wanted to tell you a little about myself.​

    I am from Dallas, TX. I have been with Primrose for over a year at another location and now at Primrose of Old Orchard. I love working with children and seeing the joy on their face when they understand a concept. In my free time I enjoy watching Anime and doing art. A fun fact about me it that I had an art shop. I took a step back from pursuing art to get into teaching. I love bringing my love of art to the classroom and my students. ​

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

    Hometown: Dallas, TX​

    Child care experience: 1 year at Primrose ​

    Education Background: High School Diploma ​

    Favorite food:  Italian Food ​

    Favorite weekend activity: Reading, watching Anime, and Art​

    Favorite children’s book: Tomorrow, Ill be Brave ​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Libby the Lamb​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Watching all of my students grow and learn before Pre-k. ​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: Procare Messenger

  • Ms. Elizabeth Mendez, Private Prekindergarten Teacher

    Ms. Elizabeth Mendez

    Private Prekindergarten Teacher

     Let’s get to know each other.​

     I'm Ms. Elizabeth!  I want to tell you a little about myself.​

     I am originally from Pasadena, TX.   I graduated from Corsicana High   School. I come from a big family and am 1 of 11 children. I have   experience with children as I have helped care for my siblings, nieces,   nephews, and cousins since the age of 15. I look forward to molding the   minds of each child so that they can have a positive impact on the world. ​

     I am eager to learn and grow as a teacher and am excited to build new   relationships with my students and families. In my free time, I enjoy   talking to my sister and niece who live in Germany. ​

     

     Hometown: Pasadena, TX​

     Childcare experience: Babysitting my siblings, nieces, and nephews​

     Education Background: High School Diploma​

     Favorite food: Macaroni and Cheese​

     Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with my husband and family​

     Favorite children’s book: The Giving Tree​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Molly the Cow: Respect for Others​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Watching  the students learn and grow ​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Message

  • Ms. Dana White, Explorers Teacher

    Ms. Dana White

    Explorers Teacher

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Ms. Dana! I want to tell you a little about myself.​

    I am originally from Houston, TX. I graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelors of Art. I have worked with children from age 5-17 as a Camp Counsellor at Girl Scouts Camp. I love watching children learn new skills and the confidence they gain from that. I am excited to gain experience and knowledge here at Primrose. I am excited to make a difference in children’s lives. In my free time I enjoy reading, painting, and hanging out with my roommates! ​

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

    Hometown: Houston, TX​

    Childcare experience: 4 years ​

    Education Background: Bachelors of Art from UNT ​

    Favorite food: street tacos​

    Favorite weekend activity: Reading, painting, and hanging with my roommates ​

    Favorite children’s book: No David! ​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Gaining new relationships with coworkers and getting to know new students! ​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Message 

  • Ms. Sheikha Seif, Wonder Program Support Staff

    Ms. Sheikha Seif

    Wonder Program Support Staff

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Ms. Sheika! I want to tell you a little bit about myself. ​

    I am from Michigan and moved to Texas when I was 12 years old. I have 4 younger siblings and cousins that I love to babysit. I'm currently studying Business and Marketing at Northlake. My mom is a teacher and my grandma has an in home daycare so I've always loved kids. I've volunteered for after school programs for a summer camp at my mosque. I hope to build relationships with the staff and build trust with the children. In my free time I love to crochet and paint.​

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

    Hometown: Michigan​

    Childcare experience: Babysitting siblings and cousins​

    Education Background: Going to school for Business & Marketing​

    Favorite food: Tacos​

    Favorite weekend activity: Crocheting and Painting​

    Favorite children’s book: The Giving Tree​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin the Bear- Generosity​

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know each of the kids!​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Message​

  • Ms. Quiasia Wells, Wonder Program Support Staff

    Ms. Quiasia Wells

    Wonder Program Support Staff

    Let’s get to know each other.​

    I’m Ms. Asia!  I want to tell you a little about myself.​

    I am originally from Florida. I attend school at Lewisville High School. I love working with children and babysit my siblings. I am excited to build new relationships with my students and families. I look forward to learning, growing, and experiencing new things here at Primrose. In my free time, I enjoy singing, watching TV, and playing video games. ​

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

     

    Hometown: Florida​

    Childcare experience: Babysitting for siblings ​

    Education Background: Working on my high school diploma​

    Favorite food: Spaghetti​

    Favorite weekend activity: Singing, Watching TV, and playing video games​

    Favorite children’s book: A Bad Case of Stripes​

    Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin the Bear- Generosity ​

    What I’m most excited about  this school year: Watching the sparkle in the children as they learn something new​

    Best way to schedule time to talk: ProCare Messenger 

  • Sheldon & Dr. Shelley Connell, Franchise Owner

    Sheldon & Dr. Shelley Connell

    Franchise Owner

    Experienced. Determined. Family-Oriented… Meet Sheldon & Shelley Connell.

    Sheldon and I both grew up on the east coast in New York and Maryland respectively. I obtained my master’s and doctoral degrees in education and science. My passions have led me to enjoy the positions of laboratory scientist, classroom teacher, entrepreneur, program coordinator and book author. Sheldon earned undergraduate and graduate level degrees in business, utilizing his skills at Verizon for almost three decades in a number of executive positions, each with increasing responsibilities. His career path has given our family opportunities to experience life in different parts of the east coast and mid-west, before we landed in Texas for the second time in 2014 [this time for good :-)]. We have settled our family in Flower Mound, where we have gladly taken to the Texas sunshine with our two young children - Jordynn and Sheldon, (SJ).

    Our Primrose journey began during our first stay in Texas. We toured several preschools soon after we arrived and enrolled Jordynn in a preschool we thought would be a good fit. But, we were wrong. She was so unhappy. We “got it right” a few weeks later, after we toured a local Primrose. Jordynn was very happy and content day after day [and so were we]. I quickly became enthralled with the balanced learning curriculum, and enjoyed the partnership with Jordynn’s teachers, identifying areas where she excelled and areas where she was challenged. As parents, Sheldon and I felt better equipped to bridge the school-home gap with the resources Primrose gave us.

    Our greatest joys are our children, Jordynn Lynn [Jordy] and Sheldon Orson, II [SJ]. Jordy, is a collegiate diver at a D1 University on the East Coast. She loves to make delicious smoothies, spend quality time with her friends, and "be a scholar" - as she says. Our son, SJ, LOVES playing soccer! He also enjoys swimming, playing with family and friends, travelling, and spending time with our family.

    As a family, we serve in our community, and in our church. We are avid moviegoers and dedicated Mouseketeers in our leisure time.

    We’ve researched the Primrose school model extensively and believe in the philosophy, core values and structure it stands upon. We are determined to make a positive impact on our students, our staff, our Primrose Parents, and our community. As owners of Primrose School of Old Orchard (and our sister school - Primrose School of NE Flower Mound), we are so delighted to grow our family with yours, as we link arms with you.

    Thank you for taking the Primrose journey with us.

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