Teachers & Staff

Mrs. Nicole Verbit
Hello! My name is Ms. Nicole and I am the Area Director for our Garden Oaks, Summerwood and Lakeshore locations. I am originally from Houston, Texas and became apart of the Primrose Family since 2012. I have a BFA from Texas Tech University in Art Education, Early Childhood and a total of 12 years of childcare experience. On the weekends, I enjoy playing outside with my three children. My favorite food is sushi and my favorite children’s book is “Mouse Paint” and “The Giving Tree”. The Primrose Pal I most relate to is Erwin the Dog because I too love art and making new friends! I am most excited to watch your children discover new wonders in the classroom.

Jennifer Thames-Gates
My name is Jennifer Thames Gates and my friends call me Jeni. I have been working in The field of Early Childhood Education for about 38 years. I have taught Pre- Kindergarten 3 and 4 and Kindergarten. For 22 years, I was the Director of Memorial Crème de la Crème. I am excited to be part of the Primrose family!
I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and am a Certified Director. I also work with The American Red Cross as CPR/ First Aid and CPR instructor.
When not working, I love being with my husband, my three children and my grandson, Mason. As they are all grown up, l fill my empty nest by coaching The CheerAbilities Team – The Rainboas of Stars Vipers Katy.

Ms. Amanda Brown
Meet Ms. Amanda: A Dedicated Educator and Family-Oriented Spirit
Since joining the Primrose family in 2018, Ms. Amanda has brought over 20 years of experience and passion for Early Childhood Education to her role. A devoted educator, she thrives on fostering young minds and creating an environment where children can grow, learn, and flourish.
Originally from Oklahoma, Ms. Amanda made the move to Houston, where she has built a life filled with love, family, and meaningful connections. She is the proud mother of two remarkable adult children: her daughter, a student at the University of Houston Law Center, and her son, who graduated from Oklahoma State University in May 2024 and has since joined her in Houston. Ms. Amanda’s family also includes her beloved grandson, who calls her “Nene,” and her energetic canine companion, Mojave.
Beyond her professional life, Ms. Amanda finds joy in a wide array of activities that reflect her zest for life. She is an avid traveler, with Hawaii holding a special place in her heart among the destinations she has explored. Hiking, exercising, and spending time in nature bring her peace and fulfillment, while her faith and church community remain central to her life. Whether sharing moments with friends or cherishing quality time with family, Ms. Amanda approaches every aspect of her life with warmth and gratitude.
Her deep commitment to her students and her dynamic, nurturing spirit makes Ms. Amanda a cherished member of the Primrose community.

Mrs. Bria Wilson
Hello, my name is Bria Wilson, and I joined the Primrose family in May 2017. I am a proud mother of three wonderful children, Willie (9), Bailey (6), and Brielle (1). I am also a fur mom to an American Bulldog named Oreo and a Shih-Poo named Roxi. I am originally from Arlington, TX- go Cowboys! Growing up, my favorite subjects in school were English, Reading, and Art. I love a good storybook with beautiful illustrations and enjoy being very hands-on with creativity. I truly enjoy working on projects and bringing ideas to life. Throughout my time at Primrose, I have had the pleasure of teaching in Preschool, Pre-K, Older Explorers, and our Private Kindergarten program. In June 2022, I was promoted to Administrative Assistant, and in February 2025, I proudly stepped into my current role as Assistant Director. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and traveling to new places on the weekends.

Mrs. Mary Kneeppel
Hello, my name is Ms. Mary. I joined the Primrose family in 2009 with 31+ years of childcare experience. The reason I chose to work in childcare was because I love to teach! I love children, their parents, and working with my co-workers. I have made wonderful friends over the years. The experiences I have made have really empowered me to be who I am today. I love learning about children, how to better myself, and to do my best. I’m a hard-worker, loyal, trustworthy, caring, loving, dependable, fun-loving, and very friendly. I have been married to my sweet husband since 1974, and together we have 1 son, 2 daughters, 3 grandsons, and 1 granddaughter.

Mrs. Beni Herrera
Hello, my name is Ms. Beni. I have been teaching at Primrose since 2011. Before that, I worked at Humble ISD for 7 years. I chose to work at Primrose because I love children! I learn as much from my students as they learn from me. I love and care for my students as if they were own children. I love that Primrose is one big family and I am thankful to be here!

Mrs. Stephanie Hampton
Hello, my name is Mrs. Hampton. I joined the Primrose family in 2007. Before joining Primrose, I worked in childcare for over 15 years. I have an Associate’s degree in Fashion Merchandising. I love working with children and could not ask for a better team of ladies to work with me in the Older Infant program! My hobbies include spending time with family and going out for seafood.

Ms. Diane Harvick
Hello, my name is Ms. Diane. I had worked in childcare for 16 years before joining Primrose in 2020. i have 3 boys and 6 beautiful grandchildren that I love to spend time with. I love to go shopping and spend time with my friends and family. One of my favorite things besides sppending time with my grandbabaies is watching TV and being lazy on my days off. I am so happy that I found Primrose because it is so much more than just a job!

Ms. Karon Earle
Hello, my name is Ms. Karon. I have been at Primrose since 2015, spending most of those years in Older Infants. My background is in insurance, but my happy job is Primrose! I have two daughters, three granddaughters, and one grandson. I have always loved children. I have worked in Children’s Ministry, and I have mentored at Risk Children. My hobbies include genealogy and reading. Most weekends I try to hang out with my grandchildren. I love working at Primrose because of the curriculum that we offer and the nurturing environment that we incorporate in our daily routine.

Ms. Nayeli Gonzalez
Hello, my name is Ms. Nayeli. I was born in Mexico City but raised in Cancun, Mexico. I am third born of four children. I have two sisters and one brother. I got my bachelor’s degree in Education in Mexico and my CDA here in Houston. I have a wonderful son, age 18 and I love spending time with him at the movies or going skating. My experience with my son is what got me interested in working with children. I joined the Primrose family in 2005. I am very blessed to have this opportunity to work with these beautiful children and their wonderful families.

Ms. Amanda Garcia

Ms. Bianca Pradia
Hello, my name is Ms. Bianca. I joined Primrose in 2020 with 5 years of childcare experience. Education has always been very important to me. When I became of age, I went to college for Education. Once I had my son, I felt he was a sign for me to take childcare and education more seriously. That it how I found myself at Primrose, “building” the little minds of your children. The best part of my job is witnessing your child’s development. You truly see them grow and change physically, mentally, and emotionally. Our children are our future, and they need us.

Mrs. Sandra Rodriguez
Hello, my name is Ms. Sandra. I was born in South Texas. I have been married to my high school sweetheart since 1992. We have four children together. I am a fur-mom of a super active German Shepard named Chase and a senior Boxer named Canelo (Spanish for cinnamon). I am also a paw-maw (dog grandma) to two adorable doggies, Max and Meli. I have been working at Primrose since 2013, and I love it! On the weekends, I enjoy spending time with my family and fur babies. I love to try new foods and drink frozen drinks. I also enjoy watching sports, my favorite team is the Houston Astros!

Ms. Lilia Vega
Hello my name is Ms. Lilia and I am a Preschool Pathways teacher! I have almost 4 years of experience prior to joining Primrose in 2024! I am excited to get to know all my friends and watch them grow!

Ms. Erika Trevino

Ms. Lillie Hicks
Hi! I am Ms. Lillie, your preschool teacher. I have been with the Primrose family since 2021, and so far it has been a joy! I enjoy teaching and making each child feel loved and cared for. I would like to be apart of each child’s milestones, and help them develop their mental skills. In my spare time, I love to read, paint, and get artistic and enhance my cooking skills. I also volunteer at my high school’s upper bound program to help out with the students, and give back to my community!

Ms. Aniyah Jackson
Hello! My name is Aniyah Jackson, and I was born and raised right here in Houston, Texas. I am excited to be a part of the Primrose family. I enjoy working with children and helping them grow socially, emotionally, and academically each day. In my free time, I enjoy exploring this beautiful city, trying new food spots, and shopping.
I am so excited to get to know your child and be a part of their learning journey this year!

Ms. Rubi Gonzalez
Hi! I am Ms. Rubi, a preschool teacher and proud mom of two sweet girls, who also attend Primrose! Being both a teacher and a mom gives me a special perspective. I understand how important it is to feel that your child is safe, cared for, and encouraged every day. I have always had a passion for early childhood education, and I truly love helping young children grow, explore, and discover the world around them.
One of my favorite classroom activities is arts and crafts. It is such a joyful way to bring out their imagination and see their personalities shine. I also love watching their confidence bloom as they learn new things and build friendships.
I am so excited to meet you and your little one, and I am honored to be part of this special chapter in their learning journey!

Ms. Karen Carlos
Hello, my name is Ms. Karen. I am a mom to a 4-year-old who also attends Primrose. I have almost 3 years of childcare experience and strive to help continue shape the minds of your little ones. I cannot wait to love on them like my own!

Ms. Isabella Espitia
Hello, My name is Isabella, but the children call me Ms. Bella because that’s what my family does. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Sciences with a minor in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin (Go Longhorns!). I lived in Austin while I got my degree, but I am a born and raised Houstonian. I love working with children, and my favorite part is playing games and working on our art skills. I hope to get to know your family!

Ms. Betty Criss
Hello, my name is Ms. Betty. I joined Primrose in 2017 with 7 years of childcare experience. The reason I work in childcare is because I really love children. They have a special place in my heart. All their sweet hugs, and smiling faces make my day. Watching these little faces light up while I teach them fills me with joy! I grew up with a loving mother, so I believe my students deserve that same love from me. I want them to know each day that they are special, adored, and loved. I truly love all my sweet babies!

Ms. LaDaisha Benjamin
Hello, my name is Ms. B. I am from Houston, TX. I am currently seeking a degree in Child Developement. My interest in childcare began as a teenager when I first started helping my mom care for my younger brothers. I joined the Primrose family in 2018 with 9 years of childcare experience. I am looking forward to many more years to come.

Ms. Makaela Glass
Hello, my name is Ms. Makaela! I enjoy teaching Sunday school at my church and being a team leader for vacation bible school. I have been playing piano, clarinet, and alto saxophone for 15 years. I love to spend a great deal of time with my family and help with my special needs brother. I like watching baking shows and experimenting with cooking and baking! I particularly love creating glass mosaic artwork for gifts. My newest endeavor has been trying to learn Spanish. I have always adored working with children, and I appreciate the opportunity to work with the children here at Primrose.

Ms. Noemi Torres

Mr. Mike

Franchise Owner
Larry and Brandi Muse
Larry and I have been the proud owners of Primrose School at Summerwood for the past 19 years. Our school was a ground-up project that opened in the Summerwood Community in April of 2005. It has been extremely rewarding to meet so many wonderful families that have come through our doors and especially gratifying to watch out students, including our two children, Corbin and Jade, grow into confident and compassionate young learners.
Giving back to our local community is very important to us as owners, but also to our staff as well. We are very proud of the local philanthropic efforts that are woven throughout our program each year. Without the support of our Primrose families, we would not have been able to accomplish our goals.
Did you know…
At our annual staff training in August, our staff bagged over 400 lbs. of rice to help stock the food pantry at Society of St. Stephens?
Our school donated $1000 each to Summerwood Elementary School and Lakeshore Elementary School to support technology and teacher training in their classrooms?
As a result of our Caring and Giving Food Drive, we donated over 775 cans to Humble Area Assistance Ministries (HAAM) to build up their food pantry after Thanksgiving?
During our Thanksgiving Feast, our families decorated lunch sack for Kids’ Meals Houston?
In December, our families provided an AMAZING Christmas for 5 foster children from Casa de Esperanza?
This past February, our school donated almost 200 books to a local shelter?
This fall, our amazing Explorer students planned a design thinking project that allowed us to partner with Operation Military Embrace (OME) and send over 50 care packages to our troops overseas?
THIS SCHOOL IS AMAZING!!!!!
We would love for you to be a part of the Primrose School at Summerwood family!!!
Brandi and Larry Muse




