Teachers & Staff

Ria Aguinaldo
Welcome to Primrose School of San Mateo! I am proud to bring high-quality preschool and child care to young children and families in the San Mateo community.
My journey in early childhood education began within my own large, loving family. Growing up surrounded by many cousins, nieces and nephews, I naturally found joy in helping, guiding and caring for the younger children around me. Those early experiences sparked the passion that led me to pursue a career in early childhood education, and I am thrilled to bring that passion to Primrose. I believe deeply in the importance of the first five years of a child’s life and feel honored to support families during such a foundational time.
I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in child development and have spent nearly a decade working professionally in the field. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to creating warm, nurturing school environments where children feel safe, confident and excited to learn each day. I am proud to bring the Primrose Balanced Learning® approach to our community and look forward to building strong relationships with the families we serve.
At Primrose, we believe who children become is as important as what they know. Our exclusive early learning approach balances purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers to encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion. We deliver more than curriculum; it’s a life-changing experience for children and their families.
We are excited to meet you and your family!

Franchise Owner
Shafiq Thobani
Welcome to Primrose School of San Mateo! I am proud to bring high quality preschool and child care to young children and families in the San Mateo community.
My connection to Primrose Schools runs deep and is built on years of witnessing the transformational impact of quality early education. I have seen children consistently thrive at Primrose, demonstrating strong academic foundations, leadership skills, and a genuine sense of responsibility toward others. Within my own family, my nephew, my cousins’ children, and now my own son have all attended Primrose. Watching my son flourish, developing a love of learning, growing in confidence, and building meaningful relationships has affirmed the power of the Balanced Learning® approach and the lasting foundation it provides for lifelong success.
At Primrose, we believe who children become is as important as what they know. Our exclusive early learning approach balances purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers to encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion. We deliver more than a curriculum; it’s a life-changing experience for children and their families.
I am committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment where children feel valued and families feel supported. I look forward to partnering with families as we build a school where children learn, belong, and truly thrive.
We are excited to meet you and your family!




