Ms. Johnson joined Primrose School of Wesley Chapel in December 2025 and quickly became a guiding presence within the school community. Since 2011, she has worked with children of all ages, from infants through Pre-Kindergarten, where her passion for teaching and dedication to each child’s growth shine through daily. Her leadership and commitment to excellence led her to earn both her Florida Staff Credential and Director Credential.

Ms. Johnson now serves as the Director of School Excellence here at Primrose School of Tampa Palms, where she focuses on supporting high-quality educational practices, strengthening classroom excellence, and ensuring a consistent, positive experience for children, families, and staff. She works closely with leadership and teaching teams to uphold the high standards Primrose families expect in curriculum implementation, classroom quality, safety, and communication.

Blending deep educational knowledge with genuine care and professionalism, Ms. Johnson strives to create a warm and transparent environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn each day. Her strong attention to detail in health, safety, and licensing compliance helps families feel confident knowing their children are in excellent hands.

Ms. Johnson leads with heart and purpose; ensuring every teacher feels empowered, every child is encouraged, and every family feels like a valued part of the Primrose community.

Outside of school, Ms. Johnson enjoys spending time with her three children and two dogs. She loves visiting the beach and exploring new restaurants to try different foods.

Families at Primrose School of Tampa Palms value leaders who bring patience, compassion, and genuine care into every interaction and that is exactly what Ms. Pittman, our Assistant Director – Family Care Coordinator, brings to our school community.

With over six years of experience in early childhood education and a background in English, Philosophy, and early childhood credentials (CDA, NAC), Ms. Pittman is deeply committed to supporting children, families, and teachers alike. In her role, she partners closely with families to ensure each child feels welcomed, understood, and supported throughout their Primrose journey.

Ms. Pittman believes every child is unique and takes great joy in nurturing their confidence, creativity, and love for learning. She finds fulfillment in helping children and families reach meaningful milestones, knowing she is helping to build a strong foundation for lifelong success. Inspired by Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak, she values imagination, independence, and adventure in learning.

Families appreciate her calm, steady presence and her dedication to creating an environment where children feel safe, supported, and celebrated and where families feel heard and connected.

Outside of school, Ms. Pittman enjoys hiking, kayaking, painting, and working on puzzles. She treasures time with her pets two cats and a dog; and looks forward each year to her family’s favorite holiday tradition of making Christmas Eve lasagna. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she brings inclusivity, warmth, and meaningful connection to every family she serves.

With Ms. Pittman’s thoughtful leadership and joyful spirit, families can feel confident knowing their children are cared for in a community built on trust, compassion, and partnership.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we understand families are looking for more than just child care they’re looking for leadership they can trust. That’s why we’re proud to have Ms. Andersen guiding our educational programs with warmth, expertise, and heart.

Ms. Andersen began her journey in early childhood education in 1997 in Chicago, where she started as a toddler teacher. Her deep passion for nurturing young minds led her to teach Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten, building a strong foundation in both child development and classroom leadership.

Since joining Primrose in 2020 as a VPK teacher, Ms. Andersen’s dedication and expertise have earned her promotions to Education Coach, Director of Education, and now Area Director. In this role, she mentors and supports our teaching staff, helping them create safe, engaging, and nurturing classrooms where every child can thrive.

Families appreciate Ms. Andersen’s thoughtful leadership, which is rooted not just in over two decades of experience, but also in her academic background she holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, a Director’s Credential with VPK endorsement, and a Micro-Literacy Credential. Her commitment to high-quality early learning ensures that every child at Primrose is met with care, encouragement, and developmentally appropriate guidance.

As a mother of two grown children and someone who understands the hopes and concerns of parents, Ms. Andersen brings a personal touch to her role. She believes that strong relationships between families and educators are essential and she’s here to support you every step of the way.

With leadership you can trust and a team that puts children first, Primrose School of Tampa Palms is a place where families feel confident, connected, and cared for.

At Primrose, every child is nurtured, supported, and encouraged to explore with confidence and Ms. Alicea, our Education Coach, plays a key role in making that happen. With over four years of experience in early childhood education and a genuine passion for helping children learn and grow, she partners closely with teachers to support high-quality instruction and meaningful learning experiences. A graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Sociology, Ms. Alicea is dedicated to guiding children as they discover the world around them.

Families and teachers appreciate Ms. Alicea’s warm, approachable, and engaging style. She supports social, emotional, and cognitive development by coaching educators, celebrating each child’s unique perspective, and helping create safe, inclusive classrooms where learning through play is both fun and purposeful.

Outside of school, Ms. Alicea enjoys paddleboarding, building Legos, crocheting, going to the movies, and spending time with friends and her tuxedo cat, Sebastian. Her favorite children’s book, The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn, reflects her commitment to fostering a loving, supportive environment where every child feels safe, valued, and ready to learn.

Mr. Archer joined Primrose School of Tampa Palms in August 2023, but his connection to Primrose began years earlier. In 2017, his son enrolled as an infant and proudly graduated from VPK after growing through every classroom, making him one of the few children to experience the full Primrose journey. Having experienced Primrose as both a parent and now as a school leader gives Mr. Archer a unique perspective on what families value most in early education: safety, trust, meaningful relationships, and a true partnership between home and school.

Before joining Primrose, Mr. Archer built a career centered on exceptional guest service and leadership with Publix, Walt Disney World Resort (Disney-MGM Studios), Busch Gardens, Chick-fil-A, and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Those experiences shaped his commitment to creating welcoming environments where people feel valued, cared for, and supported. Today, he brings that same philosophy to every family who walks through the school’s doors.

A graduate of the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida and a commissioned Florida Notary Public, Mr. Archer combines strong business leadership with a genuine passion for early childhood education. He is dedicated to ensuring the school operates with excellence while fostering a warm, safe, and nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and discover their best selves. He believes families deserve open communication, highly trained and compassionate teachers, and the confidence that their child is receiving the highest quality care each day.

Above all, Mr. Archer is passionate about building a school community where every family feels welcomed, connected, and truly part of the Primrose family, because he has experienced firsthand just how meaningful that sense of belonging can be.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we believe nutrition is a key part of your child’s daily learning and growth. That’s why we’re proud to have Ms. Gonzalez leading our culinary program with over 30 years of food service experience and a heart full of care.

Originally from Akron, Ohio, Ms. Gonzalez brings warmth, expertise, and a genuine love for children into our school kitchen every day. With her SERV Safe certification and DCF training, she ensures every meal is prepared with the highest standards of safety, cleanliness, and nutrition in mind. More than that, she prepares every dish with the same love and attention she would give her own family.

Parents and teachers alike consistently share how much they appreciate Ms. Gonzalez’s nurturing spirit, warm smile, and dedication to creating balanced meals children enjoy. She understands that food isn’t just fuel it’s comfort, connection, and an important part of a child’s day.

One of her favorite parts of the job? Talking with the children about their favorite foods, seeing their excited faces at mealtime, and receiving hugs from happy, well-fed little ones.

Whether it’s introducing new fruits and veggies or preparing comforting, kid-approved meals, Ms. Gonzalez plays a vital role in supporting each child’s health, happiness, and overall well-being.

With Ms. Gonzalez in the kitchen, you can feel confident knowing your child is not only well-fed but truly cared for.

In the infant classroom at Primrose School of Tampa Palms, parents are looking for more than supervision they’re looking for a loving, attentive teacher who treats their child like family. That’s exactly what Ms. Quinones brings to our youngest learners every day.

With over six years of experience in early childhood education and a background in Special Education, Ms. Quinones understands just how important the earliest stages of development are. She holds her DCF 45-hour certification and approaches each day with patience, warmth, and a deep sense of purpose.

What families appreciate most is Ms. Quinones’s gentle spirit and the intentional way she supports each baby’s growth whether it’s encouraging tummy time, celebrating first words, or providing a calming presence throughout the day. She loves watching the babies grow, learn, and reach new milestones, and she partners closely with families to share those special moments.

Outside of school, she enjoys baking, traveling, and spending time with her dog, Gia. Her love for children shines through in every hug, every song, and every story time especially when it’s a Dr. Seuss book.

For families seeking a calm, caring, and experienced teacher for their baby’s earliest days, Ms. Quinones offers the peace of mind that your little one is in loving, capable hands.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a physical therapist.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we believe that every child thrives in an environment where they are loved, nurtured, and encouraged to explore at their own pace and Ms. Perez brings that belief to life every day in our Young Infant classroom.

Originally from Puerto Rico, Ms. Perez brings more than nine years of early childhood experience and a Baccalaureate in Pedagogy (Kindergarten–Third Grade) to her role. Families are drawn to her calm, patient nature and the way she creates a peaceful, comforting space where infants feel safe, secure, and deeply cared for.

Ms. Perez recently moved to Florida and embraces each day as an opportunity to build meaningful connections with the children and families in her care. Her classroom is filled with gentle routines, soothing interactions, and joyful moments as babies grow, discover new skills, and reach important early milestones.

Outside of school, Ms. Perez enjoys relaxing at the beach, cooking her favorite Puerto Rican dishes, and spending time with her two children. Her favorite children’s book, Cinderella by Charles Perrault, reminds her that kindness and perseverance always shine through, values she brings into her classroom every day.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we know the Infant classroom is where a child’s first experiences with learning, trust, and connection begin. Families want a teacher who provides a safe, loving environment where their baby feels secure, supported, and encouraged to grow, and Ms. Blanco brings just that to our Infant classroom.

Originally from the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Ms. Blanco brings over 11 years of experience in early childhood education and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Pedagogy. Since beginning her teaching career in 2013, she has been passionate about nurturing young children during their earliest developmental milestones with patience, care, and intention.

Ms. Blanco believes infants learn best through meaningful interactions, exploration, and responsive care. She loves creating a warm classroom environment where babies feel comforted, understood, and encouraged to explore their surroundings at their own pace. Through Primrose’s Balanced Learning approach, she supports each child’s development by fostering early communication, social-emotional growth, sensory exploration, and the foundational skills that prepare children for future learning.

Families appreciate Ms. Blanco’s gentle and nurturing approach, her ability to recognize each child’s unique needs, and her thoughtful communication with parents. Her favorite children’s book, The Color Monster by Anna Llenas, reflects her focus on helping children understand emotions and develop a strong sense of belonging from an early age.

Fluent in Portuguese and passionate about cultural traditions like Carnival and the June Festival, Ms. Blanco brings a global perspective and appreciation for diversity into the classroom. Outside of school, she enjoys visiting Disney parks, going to the beach, watching movies, and spending quality time with family.

Whether she is comforting a little one, celebrating a new milestone, or creating opportunities for discovery, Ms. Blanco’s dedication and warmth shine through in all she does. With Ms. Blanco as your child’s teacher, you can feel confident they are in a classroom where they are loved, supported, and inspired to grow each and every day.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a veterinarian.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we know parents want more than just a caregiver they’re looking for an infant teacher who will provide attentive, loving care while supporting their baby’s earliest stages of growth and development. Ms. P. Torres brings all of that and more to our older infant classroom.

With four years of experience in early childhood education and a Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Ms. P. Torres combines curiosity, structure, and compassion in her approach to teaching. She finds deep joy in nurturing infants through their first milestones whether it’s a first smile, word, or step and loves watching how much they grow in such a short time.

Ms. P. Torres was born in Inglewood, California and raised in Cuernavaca, Mexico before living in Canada and eventually moving to Florida. Her rich cultural background allows her to connect with families from all walks of life.

Parents appreciate her calm, kind presence and the consistent, nurturing environment she creates. She takes the time to get to know each baby’s needs and routines, and she communicates openly with families to help support healthy development both at school and at home.

In her free time, Ms. P. Torres enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending time with her dog, Leela. Her thoughtful nature and gentle approach make her a trusted partner for families during one of the most important phases of their child’s life.

With Ms. P. Torres in the classroom, you can feel confident your baby is not only in good hands but in warm, caring ones.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be in the Forensics Sciences field.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and celebrated and that’s exactly what families love about Ms. R. Torres. With over 10 years of experience in early childhood education, she brings warmth, compassion, and reliability to every classroom she supports.

Born in Lima, Peru and raised in Long Island, New York, Ms. R. Torres draws from her diverse background to create an inclusive, welcoming environment where every child can learn and grow at their own pace. She believes strong relationships and open communication with families are the foundation for helping children thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

As a proud mother of two daughters, Ms. R. Torres understands the trust families place in their teachers. She brings that same care and attentiveness to her work each day, helping children build confidence, curiosity, and joy in learning.

Her favorite children’s book, I’ll Love You Forever by Robert Munsch, reflects her belief in the lasting impact of love and connection in a child’s early years. Outside of school, she enjoys traveling, family dinners, and walks with loved ones moments that inspire the warmth and positivity she brings to the classroom.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be either a flight attendant or interior decorator.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we know the toddler stage is full of big emotions, growing independence, and constant discovery. Families want a teacher who can guide their little ones with patience, consistency, and joy. That’s exactly what Ms. Berkitte brings to our young toddler classroom every day.

With over two years of experience in early childhood education and an Associate’s Degree in the field, Ms. Berkitte creates a nurturing and engaging environment where toddlers feel safe to explore, learn, and begin to express who they are. She’s passionate about supporting each child as they develop their own personality and gain confidence in their growing abilities.

From first words to first friendships, she helps toddlers navigate big developmental leaps with empathy and encouragement while also making every day full of laughter, stories, songs, and hands-on learning.

Families appreciate her thoughtful, responsive approach to the unique needs of this age group. Whether it’s building routine, promoting social-emotional development, or celebrating each child’s milestones, Ms. Berkitte brings a calm, creative energy to her classroom that toddlers and their parents love.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Berkitte enjoys hiking, exploring new restaurants, reading fantasy and mystery novels, and going on spontaneous road trips. As the second oldest of nine siblings, she’s no stranger to managing busy days and big personalities with care and heart.

With Ms. Berkitte as your toddler’s teacher, you can trust they’re in a space where they’re not only cared for but truly understood and encouraged to shine.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be the owner of a cafe and a school.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we understand the young toddler years are filled with exciting discoveries, growing independence, and important developmental milestones. Families can feel confident knowing their child is nurtured, supported, and genuinely cared for by Ms. Conley in our Young Toddler classroom.

With over six years of experience working in child care and a natural gift for connecting with young children, Ms. Conley brings patience, warmth, and enthusiasm to her classroom each day. Her favorite part of teaching is seeing her students happy, watching them grow, and celebrating the many milestones they achieve as they learn and explore.

Families appreciate the welcoming and engaging environment she creates where young toddlers feel safe, loved, and encouraged to discover the world around them. Ms. Conley is attentive to each child’s unique personality and developmental needs, partnering closely with families to support smooth transitions and continued growth.

Her joyful personality, paired with her love of interactive play, music, movement, and story time, makes her a trusted presence for both children and parents. She especially enjoys reading Tickle the Duck and other playful books that inspire smiles, laughter, and a love of learning.

Outside of work, Ms. Conley enjoys spending time with her family, browsing vintage stores, and relaxing at home with her beloved pets, including two dogs and four cats. Her nurturing spirit, both in and out of the classroom, shines through in everything she does.

For families seeking a caring, attentive teacher during this exciting stage of development, Ms. Conley provides the consistency, encouragement, and heartfelt support that help young toddlers thrive.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be an entertainment performer at Walt Disney World.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we know the Older Toddler years are a time of incredible growth as children become more independent, develop new skills, and discover the world around them. Families want a teacher who provides a loving, encouraging environment where children feel supported as they learn and grow, and Ms. E. Brown brings that warmth and dedication to our Older Toddler classroom.

Ms. E. Brown brings about two years of experience working with young children and holds a High School Diploma along with her DCF 45-hour training. She loves watching children grow, learn, and change as they reach new milestones and discover their unique personalities. Her caring approach helps children feel confident as they explore new experiences and build important early learning skills.

Through Primrose’s Balanced Learning approach, Ms. E. Brown supports each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development through nurturing relationships, purposeful play, and engaging classroom experiences. She enjoys creating a classroom environment where children feel safe, loved, and excited to learn each day.

Ms. E. Brown’s favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein because of its meaningful message about kindness, generosity, and caring for others. Christmas is her favorite holiday, especially because of her family tradition of attending Christmas Eve church service and celebrating time together with loved ones.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. E. Brown enjoys spending time with her dog, Dexter, watching movies with her boyfriend, attending church, and participating in Bible studies.

With her gentle spirit, caring heart, and passion for helping children grow, Ms. E. Brown creates a classroom where children feel valued, encouraged, and inspired to reach their full potential.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we know the Older Toddler years are filled with exciting milestones as children gain confidence, strengthen their independence, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Families want a teacher who encourages each child with patience, kindness, and enthusiasm, and Ms. Edwards brings those qualities to our Older Toddler classroom every day.

Since beginning her early childhood education journey in 2020, Ms. Edwards has enjoyed supporting young children as they grow and discover new abilities. She holds a High School Diploma and finds great joy in watching children progress as they get older, celebrating each new milestone and accomplishment along the way. Her nurturing nature helps create a classroom where children feel safe, loved, and encouraged to explore the world around them.

Through Primrose’s Balanced Learning approach, Ms. Edwards fosters children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development through meaningful interactions, hands-on learning, and purposeful play. She believes every child learns at their own pace and enjoys helping them build confidence as they master new skills and develop positive relationships.

Ms. Edwards’ favorite children’s book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle because it beautifully illustrates growth, discovery, and transformation, themes she enjoys witnessing every day in her classroom. Halloween is her favorite holiday because it brings imagination, creativity, and plenty of fun for children and families alike.

When she is not at school, Ms. Edwards enjoys reading all kinds of books, painting on canvas, and spending time with her beloved cat, Cheddar.

With her caring heart, encouraging spirit, and passion for helping young children grow, Ms. Edwards creates a classroom where every child feels valued, supported, and excited to learn each day.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we know Early Preschool is an important time when children begin developing independence, building friendships, and discovering the joy of learning. Families want a teacher who provides a caring, encouraging environment where children feel safe to explore and grow, and Ms. Quijano brings that nurturing presence to our Early Preschool classroom.

Ms. Quijano began her early childhood education journey in 2018 and is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology. Her passion for understanding children and supporting their individual growth helps her create meaningful connections with each child in her care. She loves watching children learn through exploration, creativity, and everyday experiences while celebrating their unique personalities and accomplishments.

Through Primrose’s Balanced Learning approach, Ms. Quijano encourages children to develop socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively while building confidence and a lifelong love of learning. She enjoys creating a classroom environment where children feel valued, supported, and excited to participate in new experiences.

Growing up in a bilingual home, Ms. Quijano speaks both English and Spanish and enjoys helping children and families feel welcomed and connected. Her favorite children’s book, Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae, reflects her belief in celebrating individuality, perseverance, and the confidence to be yourself.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Quijano enjoys relaxing, reading, painting, and crafting. She loves celebrating Thanksgiving with her whole family, a special tradition that brings everyone together to create lasting memories. At home, she enjoys spending time with her pets, Duchess, a pit bull, and Apollo, a Jack Russell mix.

With her creativity, compassion, and dedication to early childhood education, Ms. Quijano helps create a classroom where children feel loved, encouraged, and inspired to learn each day.

Ms. Hammill is passionate about creating a warm, nurturing classroom where children feel safe, loved, and excited to learn each day. Since beginning her early childhood education journey in 2019, she has enjoyed helping young learners discover the world around them through meaningful experiences, play, and exploration.

Ms. Hammill holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminology with a minor in Psychology, bringing a unique understanding of child development and behavior to her Early Preschool classroom. One of her favorite things about working with young children is seeing the world through their eyes and gaining a fresh perspective on everyday moments. Through Primrose’s Balanced Learning approach, she enjoys helping children build confidence, independence, and a strong foundation for future learning while celebrating each developmental milestone along the way.

She speaks both English and Portuguese, helping create a welcoming environment for the families she serves. Her favorite children’s books are Stellaluna by Janell Cannon and The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn because of their heartwarming messages about love, friendship, and belonging.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Hammill enjoys reading, going to the gym, caring for her plants, spending time with her children and partner, and taking photographs for her clients. She also loves exploring new parks, fishing, baking, and making memories with her family. At home, she is kept company by her beloved pet, Bullet. Christmas and Halloween are her favorite holidays because they bring families together to celebrate traditions, creativity, and fun.

At Primrose, we’re more than educators we’re a family that nurtures each child with the same care and love we’d want for our own. In our Older Toddler classroom, Ms. A. Brown brings that spirit to life each and every day. Her calm, patient nature and bright, welcoming smile create a space where little ones feel safe to explore, learn, and grow.

Families appreciate Ms. A. Brown’s ability to connect with toddlers at every stage celebrating their curiosity, guiding their independence, and turning small milestones into big moments of pride. She loves hearing their honest thoughts, feeling their energy, and watching their excitement as they discover something new.

Ms. A. Brown holds a high school diploma and continues to grow her expertise in early childhood education. She’s passionate about helping toddlers build confidence and joy in learning through hands-on experiences and plenty of laughter.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. A. Brown enjoys spending time with friends, exploring new foods and activities, and staying active at the gym. Her favorite children’s book, Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin, reminds her and her students that every day is an adventure worth smiling about.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a pediatric nurse.

Ms. Joiner brings over two years of early childhood teaching experience and a passion for helping young children grow into confident, curious, and capable learners. Families appreciate her warm, patient approach and her focus on creating a classroom where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to explore and discover. She believes the preschool years are critical for building social, emotional, and cognitive skills, and she works closely with each child to encourage independence, creativity, and a love of learning.

Her favorite part about teaching is guiding children as they grow into the leaders of tomorrow and seeing the joy they find in learning through play. Ms. Joiner incorporates fun, hands-on activities, stories, and games including her favorite children’s book, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff to make every day engaging and memorable.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Joiner enjoys writing, coloring, and reading, and she brings that same creativity and enthusiasm into her teaching. Her goal is to ensure each child feels valued, confident, and excited to start their lifelong learning journey.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a children’s author.

Ms. Dantley brings several years of early childhood teaching experience to our Preschool Pathways classroom. She loves watching children grow and seeing them achieve important developmental milestones.

Ms. Dantley brings a warm, caring personality to the classroom, helping every child feel safe, supported, and inspired. She loves encouraging independence and enjoys reading to the children, especially her favorite book, Llama Llama Red Pajama. Outside the classroom, Ms. Dantley enjoys gatherings at her grandma’s house, listening to music, and shopping. Her favorite holidays are Christmas and the Fourth of July.

We are excited to have Ms. Dantley teaching in our Preschool Pathways classroom and to see the joy she brings to children as they learn through play.

Ms. Diaz brings over 15 years of experience in early childhood education and a deep passion for helping children grow, learn, and explore. Families appreciate her warm, patient, and engaging approach, as well as her ability to create a classroom where every child feels safe, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential. She believes the preschool years are a critical time for building social, emotional, and cognitive skills, and she works closely with each child to nurture curiosity, creativity, and confidence.

Her favorite part about teaching is seeing the joy and excitement children bring to learning and watching their minds develop through play and discovery. Ms. Diaz incorporates engaging stories, hands-on activities, and cultural awareness into her lessons including her favorite children’s book, Biscuit by Alyssa Satin Capucilli to make every day fun and meaningful.

Outside of school, Ms. Diaz enjoys spending time with her family watching baseball, leading Bible class for her children, cross-stitching, and bowling. Fluent in English and Spanish, she brings a rich cultural perspective to the classroom, helping children feel connected, understood, and inspired every day.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a physical therapist.

Ms. Eckert brings five years of early childhood teaching experience and a passion for helping children explore, learn, and grow. Families appreciate her warm, encouraging approach and the way she creates a classroom that is safe, engaging, and full of opportunities for children to develop confidence, curiosity, and creativity. She believes the preschool years are an important time for building social, emotional, and cognitive skills, and she loves guiding children as they discover new abilities and express themselves through play and learning.

Her favorite part about teaching is sparking children’s creativity and confidence through engaging activities, including dance-based games, hands-on projects, and storytelling. Ms. Eckert incorporates fun and meaningful learning experiences to make every day exciting and memorable.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Eckert enjoys attending musicals, ballets, and cabaret shows, dancing, shopping, and spending time with her pets Sweet Pea (Chihuahua) and Dream and Killua (French Bulldogs). Her favorite family tradition is reading The Polar Express on Christmas Eve, a reflection of the joy and connection she brings to her classroom each day.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a Broadway performer.

Ms. Cummings brings over two years of early childhood teaching experience and a genuine love for helping children grow, explore, and discover new things. Families appreciate her warm and patient approach, as she creates a classroom where every child feels safe, supported, and encouraged to develop confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning. She believes the preschool years are a critical time for building social, emotional, and cognitive skills, and she works closely with each child to make every day meaningful and fun.

Her favorite part about teaching is seeing the excitement in children’s eyes as they understand something new and watching their curiosity flourish. Ms. Cummings incorporates hands-on activities, stories, and creative play including her favorite children’s book, Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss to make learning engaging and memorable.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Cummings enjoys reading her Bible, shopping, and relaxing with a show curled up under a blanket. She shares her home with her two dogs, Bella and Gracie, and treasures family traditions like celebrating Easter Sunday and getting new Christmas pajamas every year. Her dedication to nurturing, joyful, and engaging learning ensures that every child feels valued and inspired.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a teacher.

Ms. Charles brings eight years of teaching experience and a passion for helping children grow into confident, independent, and curious learners. Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, she has loved working with children since high school and understands the importance of creating a classroom where every child feels safe, supported, and celebrated. Families appreciate her warm, patient approach and the way she encourages each child to explore, learn, and develop new skills while having fun.

Her favorite part about teaching is guiding children as they discover their unique personalities and abilities. Ms. Charles incorporates hands-on activities, storytelling, and playful learning experiences to make every day exciting and meaningful.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Charles enjoys reading, playing video games, and spending time with family and friends. She shares her home with her German Shepherd, Manny, and cherishes family traditions, including their annual Christmas party. Her dedication to nurturing, engaging, and joyful learning ensures that every child feels valued and inspired to reach their full potential.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a choir director.

At Primrose School of Tampa Palms, we know the Preschool years are an exciting time when children become more curious, independent, and eager to discover the world around them. Families want a teacher who provides a caring and encouraging environment where children feel confident to explore, learn, and grow, and Ms. Elliott brings that passion and dedication to our Preschool classroom.

Ms. Elliott brings more than two years of experience as a lead Preschool Teacher in Idaho and holds a High School Diploma along with her DCF 45-hour training. She loves watching children experience new things, ask questions, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Her goal is to create a classroom where children feel supported as they build confidence, independence, and a love for learning.

Through Primrose’s Balanced Learning approach, Ms. Elliott encourages children to grow socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively through hands-on experiences, meaningful interactions, and engaging activities. She enjoys celebrating each child’s unique personality and the many milestones they achieve throughout their Preschool journey.

Ms. Elliott’s favorite children’s book is Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, a timeless story that reflects her appreciation for the comfort, imagination, and wonder found in childhood. She enjoys celebrating Halloween because of the creativity, fun, and special memories the holiday brings.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Elliott enjoys reading, painting, drawing, hiking, rock climbing, paddle boarding, playing video games, and thrift shopping. She also loves spending time with her cat, Mizuki.

With her creativity, curiosity, and genuine love for helping children learn, Ms. Elliott creates a classroom environment where children feel encouraged to explore, discover, and grow each day.

Ms. Ojeda brings over 20 years of experience in early childhood education and a genuine passion for helping children grow, learn, and thrive. Born in Peru and raised in Italy, she brings a joyful, positive energy to her classroom and a deep understanding of how to support each child’s unique development. Families appreciate her warm, approachable nature and her dedication to creating a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment where children feel valued and encouraged to explore, ask questions, and develop confidence.

Her favorite part about teaching is making a difference in children’s lives and empowering them with knowledge and skills that extend beyond the classroom. She incorporates hands-on learning, storytelling, and creative activities to make every day engaging and meaningful. Ms. Ojeda relates to Billy the Duck, reminding children about the importance of keeping promises and building trust in the classroom.

Outside of school, Ms. Ojeda enjoys spending time with family, exploring new experiences, and enjoying her favorite food, pasta. She strives to create a classroom where every child feels inspired, confident, and ready to take on the next step in their learning journey.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a carpenter.

Ms. Lara is a certified Montessori teacher with over four years of experience and a passion for helping children grow into confident, independent, and curious learners. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Syria and brings a thoughtful, nurturing approach to her classroom. Families appreciate her warm, patient, and engaging style, as she creates a safe and stimulating environment where children feel supported, inspired, and excited to explore and learn every day.

Her favorite part about teaching is watching children’s excitement as they learn new skills and gain independence. Ms. Lara uses hands-on activities, storytelling, and creative lessons to make learning meaningful and fun. She celebrates diverse cultural traditions, including Eid al-Fitr, Thanksgiving, and New Year, helping children understand and appreciate the world around them.

Outside of school, Ms. Lara enjoys relaxing and spending quality time with her family. Her dedication to fostering confidence, curiosity, and joy in every child ensures each student in her class feels valued, inspired, and ready for their next steps in learning.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a doctor.

Ms. Espinosa brings more than 10 years of early childhood education experience to our Pre-K classroom and is passionate about helping children grow into confident, curious learners. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential specializing in Birth through 5 years and is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to learn.

One of Ms. Espinosa’s favorite parts of teaching is experiencing the joy and laughter children bring each day while celebrating their unique personalities. She feels honored to partner with families as they watch their children reach important milestones and build the skills they need for a successful transition to Kindergarten. Through Primrose’s Balanced Learning approach, she encourages children to develop academically, socially, emotionally, and physically while fostering a lifelong love of learning.

Ms. Espinosa speaks both English and Spanish, helping create a welcoming and inclusive classroom for children and families. Her favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein because of its timeless message of kindness and generosity.

When she is not in the classroom, Ms. Espinosa enjoys reading, spending quality time with her family, and dancing salsa. Christmas is her favorite holiday because it brings loved ones together to celebrate special traditions and create lasting memories.

Ms. Barwick brings 20 years of teaching experience and a deep passion for helping children grow, explore, and develop the skills they need for future success. Families appreciate her warm, patient, and nurturing approach, as she creates a classroom where every child feels safe, supported, and encouraged to discover, learn, and build confidence. She believes in making a meaningful impact on children’s lives while celebrating the joy and curiosity they bring each day.

Her favorite part about teaching is the mutual impact children and teachers have on each other inspiring growth, curiosity, and confidence. Ms. Barwick incorporates engaging hands-on activities, creative lessons, and storytelling to make every day fun, educational, and memorable.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Barwick treasures time with her daughter and son, and family is at the heart of her life. She enjoys family vacations at the beach, as well as celebrating holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Her dedication, experience, and genuine care help ensure every child in her class feels valued, inspired, and ready for the next step in their learning journey.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a teacher.

Ms. Gromkov brings over 22 years of experience in early childhood education, including 12 years at Primrose, and a deep passion for helping children grow, explore, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Fluent in Bulgarian, Russian, Hebrew, and English, she creates an inclusive and engaging classroom where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to discover new skills. Families appreciate her warm, patient, and inspiring approach, as she fosters both confidence and curiosity in her students while guiding them through the critical early years of learning.

Her favorite part about teaching is witnessing children’s natural curiosity and excitement for learning, and she incorporates hands-on activities, creative play, and storytelling to make each day meaningful and fun. Ms. Gromkov celebrates diverse cultural traditions with her students, sharing experiences which teaches the children about culture, kindness, and community.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Gromkov enjoys spending time at the beach, camping, traveling, cooking, and caring for her German Shepherd mix, Joy. Her dedication, experience, and genuine love for children help ensure every child in her class feels inspired, confident, and excited for their learning journey.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a clothing designer.

Ms. Morales brings over 13 years of experience in childcare and a passion for supporting children in a safe, nurturing, and fun after-school environment. Families appreciate her warm, patient, and approachable style, as she creates a space where children feel comfortable, valued, and supported while transitioning from their school day to enrichment and play. She understands the importance of building strong relationships with students, helping them feel heard, understood, and engaged in meaningful activities.

Her favorite part about working with children is connecting with them, listening to their thoughts, and guiding them through hands-on learning and creative activities. She incorporates books including her favorites by Eric Carle and interactive projects to spark curiosity, imagination, and joy. Fluent in English and Spanish, Ms. Morales communicates easily with students and families, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Outside of work, Ms. Morales enjoys spending quality time with her four children, talking about their day, and enjoying weekends with family. Her dedication, patience, and genuine love for children ensure every child in her care feels safe, supported, and excited to return each day.

Fun Fact: If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be an education coach.