Mrs. Durbin has more than 15 years experience as a preschool teacher, with additional experience coaching youth soccer, volunteering at summer camps, and leading her children’s Girl Scout troops. She holds a Master’s in Education with Early Childhood certification, a Bachelor’s in Education with certifications in Physical Education and Health, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology.

She loves children’s natural curiosity, energy, and creativity, and is passionate about creating a safe, nurturing space where they can explore, imagine, and discover their potential. Her favorite children’s book is The Crayon Box That Talked by Shane DeRolf, a story about celebrating differences and working together.

Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, soccer, traveling, and hiking in the mountains.

Ms. Czalkiewicz is a dedicated and passionate educator with experience teaching both at the preschool and elementary school level. She graduated from Cleveland State University with a Bachelor of Science in Education. She loves inspiring children’s curiosity, celebrating their creativity, and witnessing those “ah-ha” moments when learning clicks. Originally from Ohio, she brings warmth, patience, and a love of learning to every classroom she joins.

Ms. Czalkiewicz’s favorite children’s book is The Napping House by Audrey Wood, cherished for its playful storyline and beautiful illustrations. In her free time, she enjoys reading, watercolor painting, shopping, and relaxing at home.

Ms. Baker brings a strong foundation in early childhood education and a passion for supporting young learners. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Development from Missouri State University, where her studies focused on early childhood education, child life, human development, psychology, and individualized education.

Ms. Baker loves how curious, creative, and resilient children are. She finds joy in watching them grow, discover their strengths, and express themselves in meaningful ways. One of her favorite children’s books is Bad Dog Max! by Marina Windsor—a playful and heartwarming story that reminds us we are loved, even when we make mistakes.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Baker is a passionate artist. She enjoys painting, creating portrait commissions, exploring new styles, and even submitting her work to local exhibits when she can.

Ms. Gruszczynski brings a wealth of experience to her role as a Preschool Teacher. Before joining the Preschool Program, she spent several years here at Primrose working in our Early Preschool and Explorers classrooms. Prior to that, she worked as a nanny and completed two years in a pathways to teaching program. Her diverse background has given her a strong foundation in child development and early education.

One of Ms. Gruszczynski’s favorite aspects of working with children is witnessing their growth and transformation throughout the school year. She finds joy in watching them evolve and thrive. Ms. Gruszczynski’s favorite children’s book is “The Gruffalo” by Julia Donaldson, a story she appreciates for its engaging narrative and imaginative illustrations.

In her personal time, Ms. Gruszczynski enjoys doing puzzles, reading books, and watching movies. She loves getting to know all the students and families in her care and finds it incredibly rewarding to be a part of their journey and successes.

Mrs. Collier discovered her love for working with children through the Early Childhood Careers program at Lewis & Clark Career Center, where she gained hands-on experience with preschool and pre-k students. She enjoys creating a fun and engaging learning environment where children can explore and grow.

Her favorite children’s book is Where the Wild Things Are for its celebration of imagination and emotions. In her free time, Mrs. Collier enjoys reading, drawing, and spending time with her husband.