Primrose School Building

Primrose School of St. Paul at Merriam Park

Our Staff

  • Mrs. Rachel J., Director of Operations

    Mrs. Rachel J.

    Director of Operations

    Hello I'm Mrs. Rachel. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I earned my B.S. in Developmental Psychology in December of 2019 from the University of Minnesota. After graduation, I started out as a lead toddler teacher and continued on as a Director at another early childhood center. I joined the Primrose team in November 2021 and have absolutely loved watching our friends learn and grow through Primrose's Blanced-Learning Curriculum. 

    Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Dave, our two cats, Frank and Otis, and our dog, Rosie.

  • Mrs. Julie H., Director of Curriculum

    Mrs. Julie H.

    Director of Curriculum

    Hello, I'm Mrs. Julie Hove. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I grew up in Lombard, Illinois and have a degree in Theatre Education from Illinois State University. I moved to Minnesota in 2002 to work for CLIMB Theatre. With CLIMB, I traveled to 175+ schools across the Upper Midwest and taught interactive classes to students from pre-kindergarten through college. I was lucky enough to execute CLIMB’s first international programming as well, teaching Bullying Prevention classes to elementary school students in Tokyo, Japan. After traveling with CLIMB I became the Director of their Teaching Company for several years.

    In 2013, I decided to try teaching preschool and I’ve been working in early childhood education ever since. I came to Primrose School of St. Paul in 2017 and immediately felt like I had found the right place! I appreciate Primrose’s balanced approach that allows the kids to experience both purposeful play and teacher-directed learning. I also love the Happy Hearts program that teaches a different character education topic each month, as well as Harmony & Heart, our music program! I taught Pre-K at our school for four years before becoming an Assistant Director. I am excited that this position allows me to support all of the classrooms and all of the teachers, so that every student in our school will have the best possible journey!

    I live in St. Paul with my husband, Eric, and our two cats, Beckett and Marcel. In my spare time I enjoy reading, binge-watching TV shows, and playing Pokémon Go. I can't wait to learn more about you and your family!

  • Ms. Britney F., Assistant Director

    Ms. Britney F.

    Assistant Director

    Hello I'm Ms. Britney. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I am a mother to two wonderful children, a nature enthusiast, a gardener, and a lover of cooking and baking at home. We also stay busy with projects on our home and yard! Many of my jobs have been working with kids in some way and I am honored to be a teacher at Primrose! Saint Paul is a fantastic city to raise children!

  • Chef Mary Pat, School Chef

    Chef Mary Pat

    School Chef

    Hello I'm Chef Mary Pat. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I love to cook, bake, read, and walk my dog!! I also love to travel, especially to visit my children who reside in Chicago and San Francisco. I have been working with the culinary arts for over 35 years. One of my favorite childrens books is The Blueberry Girl.

    I look forward to getting to know all the families here at Primrose St. Paul.

  • Ms. Stephanie N., Infant Teacher

    Ms. Stephanie N.

    Infant Teacher

    Hello, I'm Ms. Stephanie. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I went to Dakota County Technical College and Concordia University St. Paul for my B.S Degree in Early Child Education as well as an Associates Degree in Child Development from Concordia University. I choose early childhood because I enjoy teaching children! Its fun to see the light bulb turn on when a child's curiosity is sparked. I also enjoy spending time with my dog Lotti and my cat Greta! In my spare time, I love to travel and try new food places.

    I look forward to getting to know all the families and watching the children grow and learn.

  • Ms. Ashley K., Infant Teacher

    Ms. Ashley K.

    Infant Teacher

    Hello, I'm Ms. Ashley. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I went to Northwest Technical College in Bemidji for Child Development. I've been working with infants for over 18 years. I love working with infants and being apart of the Primrose Family!

    I look forward to caring for your little one!

  • Mrs. Salam A., Infant Teacher

    Mrs. Salam A.

    Infant Teacher

    I’m Ms. Salam. I wanted to tell you a little bit about myself.

    I have been working with children since 2016. I have my degree in Business Management, however since moving to the United States I have found my passion is working with young children. I really enjoy watching the children's faces light up with they are intrigued by something new.

  • Ms. Olivia W., Infant Teacher

    Ms. Olivia W.

    Infant Teacher

    Hello I'm Olivia. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I recently graduated from the University of St. Thomas, with a B.A. in Environmental Studies and Justice and Peace Studies. I've always had a passion for education and early childhood development and have been working in childcare since highschool! I'm excited to get to know more about you and your child. 

  • Mrs. Jamila W., Infant Support Teacher

    Mrs. Jamila W.

    Infant Support Teacher

    Hello! My name is Jamila. I have 3 children. I grew up in Ethiopia. When I was young, I wanted to be teacher. As a grew up, I started taking Child Development and Teaching classes. I love working with children and enjoy the time I get to spend with them.

  • Ms. Bria H., Young Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Bria H.

    Young Toddler Teacher

    Hello I’m Ms. Bria. I wanted to tell you a bit about myself. I went to college for 2 years at USF in Florida and graduate from Winona State. I am a BIG Vikings fan and love the Twins! I enjoy reading and spending time with my family and friends.

    I can’t wait to learn more about our families and friends.

  • Mrs. Yvonne K., Young Toddler Teacher

    Mrs. Yvonne K.

    Young Toddler Teacher

    Hello, My name is Ms. Yvonne. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I grew up here in St. Paul Minnesota! I have been working in Early Childhood for over 9 years. I have 2 boys of my own that keep me on my toes. In my spare time, I love drawing and crafting. I have always enjoyed working in childcare and watching the children grow and learn.

    I look forward most to getting to know more about the children and family's here at Primrose.

  • Ms. Aine D., Young Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Aine D.

    Young Toddler Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Aine. I wanted to tell you about myself. 

    I graduated from South High School in Minneapolis and hope to go back to school in the fall to complete my undergraduate degree. I have been working in childcare and nannying for families for nearly a decade and I always wanted to be a teacher! I'm looking forward to getting more experience working in a classroom setting and getting to know your little ones!

  • Mrs. Vilma A., Early Preschool Teacher

    Mrs. Vilma A.

    Early Preschool Teacher

    Hello, I'm Mrs. Vilma. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I attended Pedagogical University in Vilnius, Lithuania and graduated with a Masters in Geography. I have 12 years + of experience working in Early Childhood Schools and Middle Schools. In my spare time I enjoy exploring and hiking outside with my family. I hope to encourage your children to develop into curious learners that will last a lifetime!

    I look forward to watching your children grow, explore and learn.

  • Ms. Jessica G., Early Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Jessica G.

    Early Preschool Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Jessica. I wanted to tell you about myself. 

    I'm a mom of tow girls, ages 2 and 7. I am currently taking online colege courses and am still deciding on my major. In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors. I also really enjoy arts and crafts and DIY (do it yourself) projects.

  • Ms. Erin H., Early Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Erin H.

    Early Preschool Teacher

    Hello I’m Ms. Erin.I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I live in St. Paul and have one older sister who lives in Hollandale MN. I went to school at Augsburg and the U of M.I like to spend the weekends at my parents cabin, enjoying the water and hanging out with my family. I am excited to get to know my students and families.

    Let’s have a great year!

  • Ms. Autumn P., Early Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Autumn P.

    Early Preschool Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Autumn. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I have been working in Early Childhood for over 5 years and went to St. Paul College. I use to be a bible study teacher and lead daycare provider. I enjoy camping, art, board games, Disney movies and cooking! I also have a dog named Luna and two cats; Shadow and Bean! In my free time I love to create art, go camping, and meditate to unwind!

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

  • Ms. Jenny T., Early Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Jenny T.

    Early Preschool Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Jenny. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I'm a mom of a 20 year old daughter. I am currently working at getting my Child Development Certification (CDA). Before working at Primrose, I worked for a day program working with adults with special needs for 21 years. I went to school for medical assisting. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my family, friends, going to my boyfriends' cabin, traveling, and cooking.

  • Ms. Deanna W., Early Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Deanna W.

    Early Preschool Teacher

    I'm Ms. Deanna. I wanted to tell you a bit about myself.

    My husband and I are from Chicago. We live in Saint Paul with our four beautiful daughters. During my spare time, I enjoy writing and actually self-published my own book, years ago! I also enjoy sewing.

  • Ms. Claire W., Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Claire W.

    Preschool Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Claire. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I'm from Saint Paul, Minnesota. I have always known that I wanted to work with children. I aim to get a Bachelor's degree in Childhood Education. I am so excited to get to know the kids better throughout the school year!

  • Ms. Alyce J., Preschool Teacher

    Ms. Alyce J.

    Preschool Teacher

    Hello, I'm Ms. Alyce. I wanted to tell you a little about myself..

    I am a mom of 3 wonderful children; a 4 year old daughter, 3 year old son and a newborn son. I attended Century College. I have always enjoyed working with children at a young age. I started off as a camp counselor then switched between being a private nanny and working in childcare centers. In my spare time I enjoy reading, going to the zoo with my children and bake.

    I am most excited to witness the children learning and watching them grow.

     

  • Mrs. Alyssa H., Preschool Teacher

    Mrs. Alyssa H.

    Preschool Teacher

    Hello I'm Mrs. Alyssa. I want to tell you about myself.

    I grew up in Minnesota and have worked with children since 2014. I spent some time as a nanny and worked at two childcare centers before finding my home at Primrose. I am currently studying social work. I have my own daughter, Clea, who is in the infant program here at Primrose!

  • Ms. Emily L., Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Ms. Emily L.

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Emily. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I graduated from the University of St. Thomas with a Bachelor's Degree. I am a huge bookworm and enjoy reading during my time off. I participated in a tutor/mentor program for a few years and have been babysitting since a young age. 

    I can't wiat to meet all of our students!

  • Mr. Zachary S., Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Mr. Zachary S.

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Hello I'm Mr. Zac. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    After starting my career in law, I switched to education in 2016 and have worked in a variety of roles at elementary schools and childcare centers. In my free time, I enjoy reading, writing, art, camping, and watching sports. I am originally from Michigan and love Michigan Wolverines and Detroit Red Wings. I hope to be a published author in the future.

  • Ms. Ashley P., Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Ms. Ashley P.

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Hello I’m Ms. Ashley. I wanted to tell you a little about myself!

    Teaching began for me with my brother learning his ABCs and animal facts in our impromptu classroom of upside-down clothes basket desks with National Geographic magazines at home. Even then I had always known a love of school would resonant with me well into adulthood. Since those days, I have traveled to Guatemala and as far as Cuenca, Ecuador. I worked as a Spanish/English substitute and later taught in an CEDEI Preschool.

    I aim to be a guide in the learning process by providing a warm and caring nature (and a bit of energetic and dramatic flair) to each day!

    Thank you for your loving welcome into the Primrose family!

     

  • Teacher Matty D., Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Teacher Matty D.

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

    Hello I'm Teacher Matty. I want to tell you about myself.

    I grew up in Michigan. I met my fiancè there when we were in high school. I have an orange Scottish Fold cat named Poppet. He has been my kitty since 2012! I moved to Minnesota in April of 2022. I am non-binary and my pronouns are they/them.

  • Ms. Beatrice C., Pre-Kindergarten Support Teacher

    Ms. Beatrice C.

    Pre-Kindergarten Support Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Beatrice. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I grew up in an international environment. Our household spoke several languages, as well as our neighbors. The community was multi-cultural and we all traveled extensively. Reading, board games, gardening, and playing outside domenated our free time as children. I am looking forward to seeing the young students progress int heir learning and being proud of their accomplishments, here at Primrose.

  • Mrs. Peg A., Kindergarten Teacher

    Mrs. Peg A.

    Kindergarten Teacher

    I’m Mrs. Albrecht. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a B.A. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. My passion is teaching! I love making lessons come alive. I have taught preschool, Pre K, multi-age classrooms, kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade.

  • Ms. Hannah G., Explorers Teacher & Support Teacher

    Ms. Hannah G.

    Explorers Teacher & Support Teacher

    Hello I’m Ms. Hannah. I wanted to tell you a little bit about myself.

    I really enjoy working with children and have been working in the Child Care field since 2011. I chose this line of work because I love watching them learn and grow. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my friends, going to bonfire and going to museums.

    I am excited about being apart of each child’s learning in growth.

  • Mr. Jack G., Explorer's Teacher & Support Teacher

    Mr. Jack G.

    Explorer's Teacher & Support Teacher

    Hello I'm Mr. Jack. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I am currently studying Early Childhood and Elementary Education at the University of Minnesota. I chose this major and career because I have a passion for teaching. I grew up in Lakeville, MN before moving to the cities for college. I am absolutely thrilled to be working with Primrose and for the opportunity to put my growing knowledge into practice. It is my goal to provide an optimal learning environment for every child I work with. I plan to achieve this goal here by pushing each student towards reaching their greatest potential in a nurturing environment.

  • Ms. Deborah A., Support Teacher

    Ms. Deborah A.

    Support Teacher

    Hello, I'm Ms. Deborah. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I have been working in a Child Care setting for over 17 years. I love to watch the young children in my care grow and learn what we have been practicing in class. I love to cook soul food and being with family. My favorite book to read to the kiddos is Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss.

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

  • Ms. Edith V., Support Teacher

    Ms. Edith V.

    Support Teacher

    Hello I’m Ms. Edith!

    I have always enjoyed working with children and have been working in early childhood since 2010. I have two playful and energetic children at home that I love spending time with.

    I look forward to meeting and getting to know the families and children including their personalities here at Primrose.

  • Ms. Janet K., Support Teacher

    Ms. Janet K.

    Support Teacher

    I’m Ms. Janet. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I come from a large family and have many nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and great nephews. I love children and have been working in early childhood for some time. I enjoy movies and reading in my spare time. I look forward watching children grow and learn new things.

  • Ms. Jessica B., Support Teacher

    Ms. Jessica B.

    Support Teacher

    Hello, I'm Ms. Jessica. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I grew up in New York city as a child. I have over 20 years experience in a Child Care setting. I love to live a healthy Vegan lifestyle! Some of my favorite things to do is meditate, take walks, dance and jog. I love to watch how children learn, grow, and move forward with development. I am also excited about meeting new families and maintaining relationships with past ones.

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

  • Ms. Emma M., Support Teacher

    Ms. Emma M.

    Support Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Emma. I wanted to tell you about myself. 

    I am 19 years old and I'm from a family that is insanely huge and FULL of babies, so this has always been a calling! I live with my best friends, 3 cats, and a bunny! My cat, Bluebell, is like the daughter I never had. I can't wait to learn more about you, too!

  • Mrs. Kelsey B., Support Teacher

    Mrs. Kelsey B.

    Support Teacher

    Hello I'm Mrs. Kelsey. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I live in Minneapolis with my husband, Jordan. We have three cats named Peanut, Zeus, and Kitty. I also have a bearded dragon, named Waffles. My family is everything to me! I am one of nine kids, along with my twin sister named Heather. She is my best friend. In my free time, I love to swim, fish, go bike riding, and horse back riding at my uncle's house. \

    I can't wait to help your child learn and grow into a wonderful little person!

  • Ms. Alesha L., Support Teacher

    Ms. Alesha L.

    Support Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Alesha. I wanted to tell you about myself. 

    My passion has always been children -- being an example and providing leadership. I'm all about providing emotional support and nurturing care to any child I come across. I look forward to seeing and helping the children at Primrose, be the best in individuals they can.

  • Ms. Jasmine W., Support Teacher

    Ms. Jasmine W.

    Support Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms.Jasmine. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I was raised in a small town with five sisters. I am the second oldest. I graduated in May of 2022 with my Bachelor's in Psychology and will eventually go back for my Master's. I love hanging out with friends! I am excited to watch the kids learn and grow.

  • Ms. Heather H., Support Teacher

    Ms. Heather H.

    Support Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Heather. I wanted to tell you about myself. 

    I grew up taking care of children, as I was a nanny for many years. I graduated from Lake Superior College in Duluth, Minnesota where I studied Arts and Communication. In my free time, I enjoy writing poetry, scuba diving, visiting museums, and going on adventures! I look forward to getting to know all the kids more personally and seeing them grow each day!

  • Ms. Serena H., Support Teacher

    Ms. Serena H.

    Support Teacher

    Hello! I’m Ms. Serena. I wanted to tell you a little bit about myself.

    I graduated from Roseville Area High School and am currently working on my CDA (Child Development Associates). I chose this field simply because I love being part of a child’s learning and development. Outside of work, I love to go bowling and be with friends and family. I look forward to getting to know the children and their families.

  • Ms. Hailey J., Support Teacher

    Ms. Hailey J.

    Support Teacher

    Hello I'm Ms. Hailey. I wanted to tell you about myself.

    I chose childcare bcause I love being a part of the children's learning and development.I love watching them grow bigger, stronger, and smarter every day.

  • Renae Hobbs & Bill Taylor

    Franchise Owners

    We are very excited and proud to have the opportunity to bring Primrose School of Saint Paul at Merriam Park to Saint Paul! We opened Primrose School of Lakeville seven years ago and it’s been an amazing and educational journey. Like many of you, we went through many trials and tribulations finding the right childcare that met our expectations. We were determined to find a school that provided the best education as well as a loving nurturing environment. A place that we would feel safe entrusting our children to their care. A place that cared about all aspects of a child’s development: accredited curriculum, enrichment, character development, life skills, healthy menu, and that was safe and secure. We are strong advocates of early education and believe these foundational years are essential in a child’s development. Our search ended with Primrose Schools and we believe yours will too! It was this search that brought the Taylor and Hobbs families together to create a unique partnership.

    Our families are very involved in both schools and bring unique educational and career skills to the business that have been invaluable in developing an amazing school in Lakeville. We intend to do the same in Saint Paul. Bill Taylor and Renae Hobbs are actively involved owners and are onsite daily. We take great pride in bringing an exceptional program to the community. All of our children have benefited greatly from the Primrose program. We’re both life-long Minnesotans with strong ties to the community. Bill was born and raised in St. Paul and is still lives in the area. Renae’s children attend school in the area and has many personal ties to St. Paul. We’re both very aware of the high expectations and passion people of Saint Paul have for early education. We understand how important these years are and share a passion to make a difference in children’s lives. Our guarantee to families is that we’ll run this center at the highest level and your children’s safety and wellbeing is our highest priority. We believe in the Primrose program and know we can make a positive difference in your child’s development. We look forward to bringing Primrose School to the Saint Paul community!

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