Primrose School of South Minneapolis and Richfield

Our Staff

  • Ms.Kim, Director of Operations

    Ms.Kim

    Director of Operations

    Hello!
    My name is Kim, and I chose to join the Primrose Community because of the atmosphere and philosophy. I have been working in childcare for 30 years. I have two children, a daughter who is 20 and sone who is 23. I love to camp and read in my free time. I also enjoy judging for the MSHSL in the winter months for high school dance team.  

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    Hometown: Eagan, MN
    Hobbies: Camping and Reading
    Favorite Snack: Pretzels and Dip
    Favorite Color: Green

  • Ms. Mackenzie, Assistant Director

    Ms. Mackenzie

    Assistant Director

    I chose to work at Primrose because I want to expand the minds of my students. Learning about new cultures and new traditions that my students may have inspires me! I was a Native English Teacher in Budapest, Hungary and have also taught Toddlers while living in Wisconsin. I have earned my BS in Psychology. I am so glad to be apart of the Primrose Family!

    Fun Facts & Favorites

    Hometown: Oshkosh, Wisconsin

    Hobby: Cooking/Baking and Traveling

    Snack: Almonds and Cheese

    Beverage: Almond Milk Latte

    Favorite Color: Blue

  • Mrs. Heidi, Education Coach

    Mrs. Heidi

    Education Coach

    I have a passion for education and developing teachers. Primrose aligns with my values and allows me to make a significant impact in our students lives! I have earned my Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and my Masters in School Administration. I worked in South Korea as an ESL teacher for 3 years, that was extremely rewarding! I am looking forward to getting to know each of you, and helping your children learn and grow!

    Fun Facts & Favorites

    Hometown: Hoyt Lakes, MN

    Hobby: Traveling, Hiking

    Snack: Spicy Chips

    Beverage: Dr. Pepper

    Favorite Color: Ocean Blue

  • Ms. Ruby, Administrative Assistant

    Ms. Ruby

    Administrative Assistant

    Hello!
    I’m Ruby!  I wanted to tell you a little about myself.​

    I’m so excited to be working here at Primrose! I have a degree in Early Childhood Education from Concordia University, and I’ve been working with kids for over 8 years now. I’ve worked with all ages and am having such a great time getting to know everyone here. In my spare time I love being with my friends and family! If you see me in the hallways make sure to say hi! I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.

    Fun Facts & Favorites:
    Hometown: Forest Lake, MN
    Favorite Color: Black
    Fun Fact: I have a twin brother
    Hobbies: Going to concerts (Fall out Boy, Panic at the Disco), reading

  • Mr. Louis, Education Coach

    Mr. Louis

    Education Coach

    Hello!
    My name is Louis, I am joining Primrose as an education coach, and I am very excited about the opportunity to work with the teachers in each classroom as they strive to reach their goals and provide a great experience for the friends in their classes!  I have previously worked in special education, and I am excited to bring those problem-solving skills to primrose.  I love working in a team at work, and in my personal life, as I enjoy playing and coaching Lacrosse and Hockey! ​I have worked with children of all ages starting in Highschool working for my Local parks and recreation department.  I have also worked with older students as a special education teacher!  I am looking forward to working with younger children!​ I attended Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa, where I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Special Education

     

    Fun Facts & Favorites:
    Hometown: St Paul, MN
    Favorite Color: Orange
    Favorite Snack: Doritos
    Hobbies: Coaching Lacrosse and Hockey, Camping and traveling with my wife.

  • Ms. Leslie, Early Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Leslie

    Early Preschool Teacher

    I have heard wonderful things about Primrose within our community and am very glad to have joined the team! I am still fairly new working in Early Childhood Education, but I love it! I currently attend Normandale Community College and am working on my general courses and wish to pursue a degree in Healthcare. I am looking forward to meeting you and your family!

    Fun Facts & Favorites

    Hometown: Richfield, Mn

    Hobby: Playing Soccer

    Snack: Hot Cheetos

    Beverage: Cherry Coke

    Favorite Color: Pink

  • Mrs. Janyka, Infant Assistant

    Mrs. Janyka

    Infant Assistant

    I have heard a lot of great things about Primrose for a few years, so I was excited to become apart of the Primrose Family! I have worked with other childcare facilities for over 3 years. I most enjoy working with infants. Seeing them grow and reach new milestones is the most rewarding part of my job. I can’t wait to meet you and your family!

    Fun Facts & Favorites

    Hometown: Kansas City, Mo

    Hobby: Napping, Watching TV

    Snack: Cheddar Chex Mix

    Beverage: Welch’s Juice

    Favorite Color: Turquoise

  • Mr. Joe, Chef

    Mr. Joe

    Chef

    I enjoy spending time with my family. I have four sons, from toddler to high school age – so we keep busy! When I am not engaged at home, I enjoy playing golf and softball. Nutrition is important to me, and I strive to make sure that out students here at Primrose are getting a balanced meal each day. I enjoy the relationships that I have made with the families here at Primrose.

    Fun Facts & Favorites

    Hometown: Richfield, MN

    Hobby: Playing Sports

    Snack: Chocolate Covered Peanuts

    Beverage: Mountain Dew

    Favorite Color: Blue

  • Ms. Fabiola, Infant Teacher

    Ms. Fabiola

    Infant Teacher

    Teaching and helping children to meet their milestones in their first years is something that I am passionate about. I have more than four years of experience working with infants. While living in Mexico, I was a Physician Surgeon – graduating in 2012. I am currently working towards being a licensed Physician within the United States. I am looking forward to working hand in hand with your family to help your child reach their milestones.

    Fun Facts & Favorites

    Hometown: Eden Prairie, Mn

    Hobby: Read, Sing, Play Guitar

    Snack: Ritz

    Beverage: Vanilla Chai Milk Tea

    Favorite Color: Pink and Black

  • Ms. Arianna, Early Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Arianna

    Early Preschool Teacher

    Hello!
    My name is Arianna, I chose to work at Primrose, because I love working with children, and I wanted to make a difference in my neighborhood! I have been working with children for over 8 years and have obtained an Associate’s degree in Human Services, and would like to continue my educational journey. I love going back to Mexico, and spending quality time with my family. I enjoy exploring new cities, dancing, and warm weather.

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Veracruz, Mexico
    My favorite color(s): Light blue and black
    My Favorite snack: Fries, Hot Cheetos,
    Hobbies: Running, listening to music, and cooking with new foods.

  • Ms. Gabriela, Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Gabriela

    Preschool Teacher

    Shaping the minds of our future is such a delicate task, and one that I enjoy doing so much! I majored in Elementary Education in College but was curious about Early Childhood. I came to Primrose and fell in love with it. I moved to the United States from Brazil in 2004. I love gardening, and I am so excited to get my students involved in the Primrose Patch this summer! I hope to meet you soon.

    Fun Facts & Favorites

    Hometown: Decorah, IA

    Hobby: Reading, Drawing, Hiking

    Snack: White Cheddar Puffs

    Beverage: Sprite

    Favorite Color: Green

  • Ms. Jamie, Infant Teacher

    Ms. Jamie

    Infant Teacher

    Hello!
    My name is Jamie, and I chose to work at Primrose because I love working with kids, and Primrose had such a lovely and welcoming atmosphere that I wanted to be a part of!

    I have babysat from a young age, and worked as a day camp counselor, tennis teacher, drum line coach and a child behavior therapist. I have obtained a Bachelor of Science with an emphasis on developmental Psychology, and a Minor in Family Social Science from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

     

    Fun Facts & Favorites:
    Hometown: Worthington, MN
    Favorite Color: Lilac
    Hobbies: Reading, going for walks, learning German, playing piano
    Fun Fact: I am a triplet and super close with my sisters!

  • Ms. Maddie, Infant Teacher

    Ms. Maddie

    Infant Teacher

    Hello!
    My name is Maddie and I chose to work at Primrose, because I love kids! I love working with kids from especially in music, watching them discover that they can be musical/ make music and seeing them enjoy their music inspires me!

    I have a degree in Music Education from the University of Minnesota, Duluth. While at Primrose, I have been predominantly in the Infant Program (Infant B classroom).

     

    Fun Facts & Favorites:
    Hometown: St. Louis Park, MN
    Favorite Color(s): Maroon or Forest green
    Hobbies: Music
    Fun Fact: I love my pets more than anything. My dog’s name is peaches and my cats’ names are Lucipurr (Lu) and Mabel.

  • Mrs. Teresa, Support Teacher

    Mrs. Teresa

    Support Teacher

    Hello!
    My name is Teresa, and I chose to work at Primrose because I know the owners and we share the same passion for Early Childhood Education. I studied at MCTC and CSP and worked in the early childcare field for over 35 years! I love working with children and I am a very positive person and try to spread positivity wherever I go!

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My Hometown: Prescott, WI
    Favorite Sweet Treat: Sour Patch
    My Favorite Color(s): Black and Coral
    Hobbies: Gardening, Golf, Spending time with my four grandchildren!
    Fun Fact: I enjoy twins games, Diamond painting, and painting!

     

  • Mrs. Elsa, Preschool Teacher

    Mrs. Elsa

    Preschool Teacher

    Hello!
    My name is Elsa, and I chose to work at Primrose because I love the teamwork, cleanliness, and working with children! I have run a home care center when I was living in Ethiopia I enjoy crafting, exercising, and spending time with my family in my free time!

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Ethiopia
    My favorite color(s): Purple and White
    My Favorite snack: Fruit
    Hobbies: Staying active, doing crafts, and spending time with my family.

  • Ms. Carsten, Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Carsten

    Preschool Teacher

    Hello!
    My name is Carsten, and I chose to work at Primrose because the community at Primrose is so kind and loving. I truly felt that I could be a team player by working here! While working at Primrose I have been in the Preschool program and have enjoyed learning and working with the students!

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Savage, MN
    My favorite color: Lavender/Lilac
    My Favorite snack: Doritos, Fruit
    Hobbies: Cook, do yoga, sing, or go on walks
    Favorite Cold Drink: Diet Coke

  • Ms. Naquita, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Ms. Naquita

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Hello!
    My name is Naquita and I chose to work at Primrose, because I was referred here by two employees, and enjoy working with children. I have been working with children for over 8 years. I am a fun and outgoing teacher who loves to teach through music and fun. I have two teenage children that I enjoy spending my free time with!

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Elyria, OH
    My favorite color(s): Red/Black/Gold
    My Favorite Sweet Treat: Gummy Bears
    Hobbies: I like to paint, draw, and bake cakes!

  • Ms. Brenda, Early Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Brenda

    Early Preschool Teacher

    Hello!
    My name is Brenda, and I chose to work at Primrose because after receiving my Bachelor of arts in Child Development and family studies, I wanted to come back to my community to serve. I LOVE what I do as I believe it is a privilege to help children reach their full potential. I enjoy running, hiking, and biking in my free time!

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Richfield, MN
    My favorite color: Yellow
    My Favorite snack: Chips and Guacamole
    Hobbies: Running, Biking and Hiking

  • Ms. Isabella, Support Staff

    Ms. Isabella

    Support Staff

    Hello!
    My name is Bella, and I chose to work at Primrose because, my dream is to be a teacher and mine and Primrose values coincide. I also think Primrose is a great environment to learn in and from! I have been working with children for over four years and love making a difference in the world through teaching.

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Eagan, MN
    My favorite color: Sage Green
    My Favorite snack: Rosemary Triscuits
    Hobbies: Reading, adventuring

  • Ms. Jasmyn, Support Staff

    Ms. Jasmyn

    Support Staff

    Hello!
    My name is Jasmyn and I chose to work at Primrose because I heard great things about the school and wanted to make a difference within my community. I am beginning college to become an LPN. In my free time I enjoy shopping, watching Netflix, and eating Cambodian sweets!

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Richfield, MN
    My favorite color(s): White and Black
    My Favorite snack: Hot Chips
    Hobbies: Shopping, Watching Netflix

  • Ms. Lynn, Support Staff

    Ms. Lynn

    Support Staff

    Hello!
    My name is Lynne, and I chose to work at Primrose, because I wanted to be a part of something that gives back and the kiddos are a plus! I am a silly and outgoing person who loves to make a difference through volunteering and working with children!

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Chicago, IL
    My favorite color: Yellow
    My Favorite snack: Hot and Spicy Chips
    Hobbies: Reading, Doing yoga, meditation

  • Mrs. Laura, Support Staff

    Mrs. Laura

    Support Staff

    Hello!
    My name is Laura, and I chose to work at Primrose, because I love working with children and serving those within my community! I have over 20 years of childcare experience. I love to learn and continue to take courses on my own to continue my educational journey. In my free time I enjoy singing and playing instruments!

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Guadalajara Jalisco, Mexico
    My favorite color: Blue
    My Favorite snack: Granola bar
    Hobbies: Singing and Playing instruments

  • Ms. Savanah, Infant Teacher

    Ms. Savanah

    Infant Teacher

    Hello!
    My name is Savannah, and I chose to work at Primrose because the school and the people are incredibly nice! I was born in Oregon but have lived in Minnesota my whole life. I have two sisters and a cat named Mable! I began working with infants for around 2 years after obtaining my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

     

    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My hometown: Jordan, MN
    My favorite color: Lavender
    My Favorite snack: Fries
    Hobbies: Running, listening to music, and cooking with new foods.

  • Ms.Rena, Pre-k Teacher

    Ms.Rena

    Pre-k Teacher

    Let’s get to know each other:

    Hello!
    My name is Rena, and I chose to join the Primrose Community because I love the curriculum and the philosophy it instills. I began working in childcare for over 15 years in both childcare centers as well as running a home childcare. My favorite animals are dolphins and horses.


    Fun Facts and Favorites:
    My Hometown: Minneapolis, MN
    Favorite Sweet Treat: Snickers
    My Favorite Color: Blue
    My Favorite Snack: Pretzels with Hummus
    In my free time: I like to enjoy time with son Jalen

  • Saleem Karmaliani and Dr. Salima Mithani, Franchise Owner

    Saleem Karmaliani and Dr. Salima Mithani

    Franchise Owner

    Meet Saleem Karmaliani and Dr. Salima Mithani – dedicated parents of three daughters and active owners and operators of Primrose Schools located in the northern, central and southern neighborhoods of twin cities metropolis. 

    Primrose School of Prior Lake & Savage was the very first Primrose to open its doors in Minnesota in August 2006. With years of successfully serving the Prior Lake and Savage communities, the couple decided to organically grow into neighborhoods where the communities were still lacking high quality early childhood education and care. As a result they own Primrose School of South Minneapolis & RichfieldPrimrose School of Prior Lake and Savage, Primrose School of Arden Hills and Shoreview, Primrose School of Edina, and Primrose School of West Plymouth

    As parents of young children themselves, Karmalianis understand the importance of starting early to shape a child’s educational foundation and character. The couple, sees first hand, the difference early childhood education makes in young lives as they have themselves witnessed how Primrose School has positively impacted their own children. "We knew we wanted to deliver the same high-quality care and education for other families," said Saleem. Recognizing how challenging it was to find a quality, early childhood development program for their own children, Karmalianis embraced and continue to promote the Primrose mission with a well-balanced educational experience for the families they serve through these schools.

    Saleem holds graduate degrees in Education and Public Policy, while Salima practices the field of Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine. Both are graduates of University of Minnesota and have been living in Twin Cities for 25 plus years. Together they have three daughters Cerena and twins Sophie and Sara. Karmalianis love sports and are die-hard fans of Gophers and Minnesota Vikings. The family loves to spend time outdoors and are frequent visitors to Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA).

    “Our mission remains consistent with the Primrose model: to provide our families with the premier well balanced early childhood development experience in a safe and loving environment. We know this is only possible with our parents and teachers’ continued partnership and support” said Saleem. His past experience in Education as well as working for the government in the field of Human Services for over 15 years is practically evident in his day to day operations in their schools. Between their schools, Saleem leads a dedicated and professional team of over 120 employees managed by 12 highly qualified and caring leadership team members.

    “When we were introduced to Primrose for our own children, we immediately became enthralled with the curriculum, instruction methodologies and dedication of the teachers to develop each child emotionally and cognitively,” said Dr. Salima Mithani. The couple recognized that Saleem's experience in education combined with Primrose Schools's philosophy would allow their family to establish a strong model of early learning in Minnesota where parents and children would feel comfortable and part of a family.

    Both Saleem and Salima volunteer for local community organizations in the field of education and public services. Dr. Salima Mithani also served as the board member and treasurer of their children elementary school's PTO.

    Primrose School of South Minneapolis and Richfield welcomed children in March of 2019. Our teachers enthusiastically have been implementing the exclusive Balanced Learning system with STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math) Program for children ages six weeks to 6 years old. Developed by and taught exclusively at Primrose Schools, Balanced Learning Curriculum blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a special emphasis on character development in the schools.

    We hope to see you around at the school. For more information about Primrose School of South Minneapolis and Richfield please visit our Facebook page. For pointers for parents please visit https://www.primroseschools.com/blog

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