Primrose School of Willow Glen

Our Staff

  • Ms. Monica Thompson, Executive Director

    Ms. Monica Thompson

    Executive Director

    Primrose School of Willow Glen team is super excited to welcome Ms. Monica Thompson as a Director of the School.

    Born and raised in the Bay Area town of Union City, Monica graduated Cumlaude from James Logan High School, then attended Ohlone College to study Sign Language and Early Childhood Education. She has been working in the Early Childhood Education field since 2004 when she moved to the central valley and became a Prekindergarten teacher for a 100-year-old preschool. Monica was quickly regarded as a dedicated and well-rounded instructor, so after a move back to her hometown of Union City years later, her next venture leads to becoming the Assistant Director at Kinder-care Learning Center in Fremont. After reaching recognizable milestones within the company and being offered several positions of her choosing, she decided to become the Director at Kindercare Milpitas. Over the last year, she has been highly recognized by the President of Kinder-care, Wei-Ling Chong, and received several accolades such as Highest Enrollment Award in Q3 and Highest Labor Retention in 2018. A monumental moment was her recent recognition at the 50th Anniversary of Kindercare Summit in Florida for receiving the Quality of Leadership Award during the intense, lengthy process of getting the Milpitas Kinder-care Accreditation with NAEYC. Her dedication to running a center that abides by NAEYC's rules and regulations prove that she can confidently take over the role of Primrose of Willow Glen Center Director.

    Monica's experiences have allowed her to collaborate with a diverse group of people to meet the common goal of developing the whole child and discovering each child's unique genius. Her philosophy is based on her uncompromising belief that all children can thrive, given a positive learning environment, strong and knowledgeable leadership, a committed and focused educational team, encouraging community, and a supportive family unit. All of which Primrose School possesses. That is why she is eager to join the Primrose family and is looking forward to working closely with the families and staff toward the common goal of raising strong, independent human beings.

    During her downtime, Monica enjoys spending time with her partner Tasha as well as her close-knit family by going to the beach, taking road trips, and visiting her son Niles who is a D2 Football coach at Northwestern University in Oklahoma.

    Her hobbies include reading mystery novels, watching documentaries, and attending local music festivals.

  • Mrs. Ayah Shanawany, Director of Operations

    Mrs. Ayah Shanawany

    Director of Operations

    Hello! My name is Ayah. I have been working with children for over 5 years now. I love the world of child development. I am blessed to have one of the most fun and rewarding jobs out there. I cannot wait to become a part of Primrose and create a thriving learning experience together with you and your family.

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

    Name: Ayah Shanaway

    Hometown: Kissimmee, FL

    Child care experience: 3 years working with 2 year old age group and potty training, 2 years working with infants

    Education Background: AA in Child Development & BA in Communication Studies

    Favorite food: Sushi

    Favorite weekend activity: Watching scary movies with my husband

    Favorite children’s book: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

    Primrose character I most relate to: My favorite character is Oggy the Book Worm! He encourage children t read as much as they can. There is always a new adventure waiting in a book.

    What I’m most excited about this school year: I’m excited to watch all my students grow and develop throughout the school year.

  • Ms. Andrea M., Operations Coordinator

    Ms. Andrea M.

    Operations Coordinator

    Hi, I am Ms. Andrea! I am very excited to be joining the Primrose community! I have been working with children for almost 5 years now mainly in after-school and summer camp settings. I can not wait to bring some of the fun things I have learned to Primrose and our classrooms. I was born and raised here in San Jose and have always known I wanted to be a teacher. Being able to teach and enrich the lives of students in my hometown is a dream come true! I attended San Jose State University and completed my bachelor's degree in Child and Adolescent Development. In my spare time, I love spending time with my family, friends, and my dog, Meeko! I also enjoy trying new foods and exploring our city and its beautiful state. I am looking forward to meeting all of my students and families and can’t wait for all of the fun we'll have while learning and growing together at Primrose!

    Name: Andrea 

    Hometown: San Jose

    Child care experience: 5 years

    Education Background: B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development from San Jose State University

    Favorite Food: Burritos Favorite

    Weekend Activity: Taking my dog Meeko to the park and spending time with my family and friends.

    Favorite Children’s Book: Stellaluna by Janell Cannon & The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister

    Primrose character I most relate to Megy the Pig. Like Megy, I think taking care of and appreciating our beautiful planet is very important!

    What I’m most excited about this school year: I am most excited to meet my students and to watch them learn and grow.

  • Ms. Daniela I., Curriculum Coordinator

    Ms. Daniela I.

    Curriculum Coordinator

    I’m Daniela, and I wanted to tell you a little about myself. Ever since I can remember, I have loved kids, and for the past 19 years, I have had the honor to work with and alongside children. I have had the chance to teach a diverse group of students, and I have gained knowledge of accommodating different styles of learners and incorporating effective methods to meet students’ unique needs. I was an elementary school teacher, a preschool teacher, and a preschool director in my home country, Romania. In 2016, my family moved to the US, and I started working for Cupertino Union School District as an Instructional Assistant Specialized at YCC, their preschool program for children with special needs. This experience was the start I needed for the next jump. I completed the necessary credits in Child Development at De Anza College, and I started to work as a preschool teacher. 

    I live in San Jose with my husband and my full-of-spunk teenage daughter. She is my absolute pride and joy, to say the least. I love reading, listening to music, and traveling to see the world. 

    I am so looking forward to being a part of Primrose Willow Glen - it will be great!

     

    Name: Daniela

    Hometown: Bucharest, Romania 

    Child care experience: I have been teaching preschool for 18 years, the last six in the US, as well as having taught elementary school for two years.

    Education Background: I have a Bachelor of Science in Educational Psychology, and a Master of Education in Educational Administration/School Leadership. I also obtained my ECE credentials at De Anza College. 

    Favorite food: Grilled Salmon

    Favorite weekend activity: Family Trips

    Favorite children’s book: Giraffes Can’t Dance, by Giles Andreae

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og the Bookworm, because he encourages children to use their imagination but also to care for each other.

    What I’m most excited about this school year: I’m most excited to meet all the students and to be a part of their educational journey, and I look forward to building a partnership with families to support their children’s growth.

  • Ms. Elaine A., Receptionist

    Ms. Elaine A.

    Receptionist

    Hi, my name is Elaine, and I’m excited to be part of the Primrose community! I was born and raised in San Jose, CA, and always had the passion to travel. I’ve also had a passion to work and help children achieve their best potential. I graduated from De Anza College with an A.S. in Early Childhood Education, and recently received a Community Health Worker certification from Mercy College of Health Sciences. I usually spend my free time with my family, catching up with friends, exploring with my partner, and being at home with my cats, BonBon and Horchata. I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all of the families and students here at Primrose!

     

    Name: Elaine A

    Hometown: San Jose, CA

    Child care experience: 5 years+

    Education history: A.S. from De Anza / certification from Mercy College of Health Sciences

    Favorite food: Pizza / Mexican and Filipino food / Sushi

    Favorite weekend activity: Watching movies and spending time with my cats

    Favorite children’s book: The Giving Tree

    Primrose character I most relate to: Erwin the Dog

     

  • Ms. Cynthia G., Nurse

    Ms. Cynthia G.

    Nurse
  • Mr. Jacob S., Head Chef

    Mr. Jacob S.

    Head Chef

    Hello Primrose Families!

    I have been cooking since I was 16 years old in Nebraska. My wife and I moved here from Missouri and have lived in the Midwest for most of my life until this past year. Working with children, I was a foster parent and took care of my nieces and nephews and I enjoyed being with them a lot. I like to prepare nutritional varieties of food and for 27 years I’ve worked in various cafes, pizzerias, and steakhouses. What I enjoy most about cooking is seeing the smiling faces and meeting new people in the places I have cooked in.

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

    Hometown: Fremont, NE

    Child care experience: 4 years

    Education Background: 27 years of Food Service

    Favorite food: Pancit

    Favorite weekend activity: Hikes

    Favorite children’s book: My book of Bible stories

    Primrose character I most relate to: Megy the pig

    What I’m most excited about this school year: To start cooking in the kitchen for the children and meeting all of the families at Primrose!

  • Ms. Ricki D., Chef

    Ms. Ricki D.

    Chef

    Name: Ricki Dimas 

    Title: Chef

    Let’s get to know each other.

    I’m Ricki. I wanted to tell you a little about myself. I am the school chef and I am very happy to join the Primrose Team. I grew up cooking with my family and have fond memories of making big family meals. I have worked in the food service industry and I now enjoy cooking for the little ones at Primrose. Here is a little bit more information about myself: 

    Name: Ricki Dimas

    Hometown:Gilroy, CA

    Education:Silver Creek High School

    Favorite food: Mexican food

    Favorite weekend activity:Spend time with my family

    Primrose character I most relate to: Peanut because he stands for honesty 

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Growing with the Primrose Willow Glen family


     

  • Ms. JoAnn E., Pre-Kindergarten Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Ms. JoAnn E.

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Hi my name is JoAnn Munoz Escobedo, let me tell you about myself.

    I was born and raised in San Jose. Since I was little, I would play school and I would always be the teacher. I enjoy being around and helping the children prepare for the next level of their life.Teaching is a passion of mine, I love to challenge the children. In my Free time, I love to relax with popcorn and watch a movie. I enjoy cooking and baking for my family. I also enjoy taking walks in the park.

    Name: JoAnn or JoHometown: San Jose, CaliforniaChild

    Care Experience: I have 12 years experience in child care. I was a Center Director for 12 years. For the past 15 years I've been teaching in the Pre-K class.

    Education: I have my ECE requirements classes, I will continue to take classes to further my education.

    My Favorite Food: I have 3 favorite pizza, french fries and pastas.

    Favorite weekend Activity: Watching a good movie and enjoying my quiet time.

    Favorite Childrens Book: I love Pete the Cat stories.

    Primrose character I relate to most is Katie the Cat, I love to talk with my students and hear about anything they have to say.

    What I’m most excited about this school year is being a part of the Primrose team. I want to develop a bond with children and parents. To  be able to meet  and exceed the expectations from parents and coworkers.

     

  • Ms. Amanda E., Pre-Kindergarten Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Ms. Amanda E.

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher (Classroom 1)

    I’m Ms. Amanda. I wanted to tell you a little about myself. I have been working with children for about 2 years and they always put a smile on my face. Being a teacher is such a rewarding job! A fun fact about me is that I love hiking, camping, and backpacking. One of my favorite places to go camping is Pinnacles National Park. I love climbing through the caves and looking for California Condors. I would like to go to as many National Parks as possible in my lifetime.

    Name: Ms. Amanda

    Hometown:Monterey, Ca

    Child care experience: 2 years working with children ages 3-11

    Education Background: Early Childhood Education

    Favorite food: Korean food

    Favorite weekend activity: Watching a movie with my cat

    Favorite children’s book: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?

    Primrose character I most relate to: Benjamin The Bear

    What I’m most excited about this school year: I'm excited to watch some Pre Kinders graduate!

  • Ms. Veronica C., Pre-Kindergarten Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Ms. Veronica C.

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher (Classroom 2)

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

    I have been working with young children and adolescents for 20 years now. What I enjoy the most about working with children is being able to see their growth and development throughout the years. My favorite activity to do with the children is enrichment art because children can explore and express themselves freely and create their ideas.

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

    Name: Veronica Cervantez

    Hometown:Santa Clara, Ca.

    Child care experience:17 years (ages 3-5 years)

    Education Background:Early Childhood Education

    Favorite food: Tacos

    Favorite weekend activity:Spending time with my daughter and my dog (Dutches)

    Favorite children’s book: The Giving Tree

    Primrose character I most relate to:Libby the Lamb

    What I’m most excited about this school year:Getting to know each child and family and having the experience to watch them learn and grow.

  • Ms. Raechel J., Pre-Kindergarten Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Ms. Raechel J.

    Pre-Kindergarten Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Hi there! I am Ms. Raechel and I’m excited to be assisting/teaching Pre-Kindergarten this year.

    I have previously taught kindergarten and 1st grade. I was born and raised in San Diego, CA and I recently got married to my husband this past November. I’m currently residing in the Bay Area. I am so looking forward to this school year at Primrose- it’s going to be great!

    Name: Raechel Anne Cunanan Jones

    Hometown: San Diego, CA

    Child care experience: While I was attending college, I worked as a Program Leader for an after school program in Long Beach for about a year. When I moved to the Bay Area, I was working at Stratford School as a Lunch & Extended Day Teacher. I’ve been working with children since I was about the age of 14 to my late teen years through teaching a Sunday School class at my home church as well.

    Education Background: Graduated High school in 2014. Got my Secretarial Science Associate’s Degree in 2018.

    Favorite food: Mexican, Thai, Mediterranean, Jamaican, and Filipino food :-)

    Favorite weekend activity: Getting Brunch or looking for a nice coffee shop with my husband!

    Favorite children’s book: The Rainbow Fish

    Primrose character I most relate to: Molly

    What I’m most excited about this school year: I’m most excited about meeting new friends (students and their families), and leading the classroom! It will be very fun!

     

  • Ms. Maria L., Preschool Pathways Teacher

    Ms. Maria L.

    Preschool Pathways Teacher

    I’m Ms. Maria Lopez and I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I have been working with young children for over 20 years. I enjoy working with children to see their growth and development throughout the years. I have three children and four grandchildren. I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family.

    Hometown: San Jose, Ca

    Childcare experience: 20 years (3-5 years)

    Education Background: Early Childhood Education

    Favorite food: Anything and Everything

    Favorite weekend activity: Visiting my grandchildren

    Favorite children’s book: Brown bear, Brown Bear

    Primrose character I most relate to: Erwin the dog.

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know each child and family and having the experience to watch them learn and grow.

  • Ms. Patricia F., Preschool Pathways Teacher

    Ms. Patricia F.

    Preschool Pathways Teacher

    Hello, my name is Patricia, I am Salvadoran. I have worked with children from 6 months to 12 years old since 2011, but mainly with preschool children.

    Since I was little, I loved to imagine that I was a teacher. The wall of my patio was my blackboard and my cousins were ​​my students. I love being a teacher, I love helping children in the learning process. For 4 year, I was a Director at the kindergarten I previously worked for. It was my priviege to be supporting parents in the teaching-learning process with their children.

     

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

    Hometown: Cojutepeque, El Salvador, Central America

    Child care experience: Professional experience since 2011

    Education Background: Graduate in Early Childhood Education

    Favorite food: pasta

    Favorite weekend activities: watching movies with my husband, calling my mom, visiting new places with my husband.

    Favorite children's book: "The Little Prince" by Antoine De Saint-Exupéry

     What I'm most excited about this school year: Learn, meet and help children in their learning process with the Primrose teaching methodology.

     

  • Ms. Danielle A., Preschool Pathways Teacher

    Ms. Danielle A.

    Preschool Pathways Teacher

    Hi, I’m Ms. Danielle and I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I was born and raised in San Jose, California. Since I was a young girl I always saw myself becoming a teacher. I started out babysitting many of my little cousins, helped out in classrooms at my old elementary school, even coached girls softball for two seasons. I have always liked working and being around children of any age.  I have been teaching preschoolers for seven years now. I started out teaching prekindergarten and did that for three years. Then taught three year olds for three years, and before coming to primrose I taught a mix of two’s and young three’s. In my free time I love to spend time with my family and friends, watch movies, go to concerts, travel and grab some coffee. I can’t wait to get to know you all and become a part of the Primrose team.
     

    Name: Danielle
    Hometown: San Jose, CA
    Child care experience: 7 year’s experience teaching preschoolers. 

    Education Background: A.A degree in Early Childhood Education. I also am currently attending San Jose State to further my education.
    Favorite food: Sushi and Tacos
    Favorite weekend activity: Spending time with family and friends.
    Favorite children’s book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
    Primrose character I most relate to: Molly
    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know all the children and their families

  • Ms. Nicole K., Preschool Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Ms. Nicole K.

    Preschool Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Let’s get to know each other.

    Hi I’m Miss Nikki and I am so excited to be a part of the Primrose team! I grew up here in San Jose and love it. I have worked with children for almost 20 years. I started off at the YMCA and eventually moved on to teaching where I worked at Campbell Union School District and Santa Clara Unified School District where I would sometimes fill in as the site coordinator.

    I absolutely love teaching and watching the children learn & grow.

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

     

    Name: Nicole (nickname: Nikki)

    Hometown:San Jose, CA

    Child care experience: Almost 20 years

    Education Background: Early Childhood Education Units from SJCC

    Favorite food: I love pizza & pasta

    Favorite weekend activity: To go & have fun in the beach with my dog. He loves to run on the sand.

    Favorite children’s book:The Hungry Caterpillar- it was my favorite book when i was young

    Primrose character I most relate to: Ally the Bunny because she teaches responsibilty. 

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Meeting the new families of Preschool 1 & watching the children learn & grow! 

     

  • Ms. Brianna S., Preschool Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Ms. Brianna S.

    Preschool Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Hello! My name is Ms. Brianna and I am truly so excited about meeting you all soon and getting to know your wonderfully curious little ones. I have been working with children for almost 10 years now since 2013 when I began my journey into the early education field, although my time caring for children and modeling teaching behaviors has extended far into my childhood. My parents would often come to pick me up at my own school center only to find me classrooms down helping the other teachers with the babies! Even at 6, I knew I was a natural-born caregiver, I mean it when I say I have a deep passion for working with children. During my time in the early education field, I have worked in many preschool classrooms, ran a home daycare center for mixed-ages, and have spent some time as a behavior technician implementing services to children with autism. Since joining the Primrose family as a teacher and as a parent I am bursting with new opportunities. My daughter is flourishing in their Pathways program and I am overjoyed to soon begin anew with a fresh class of young learners. As a teacher, I like to learn about my kids' individual temperaments and get to know what personally makes them sing. If I'm your child's teacher, expect us to get creative, get messy, and have fun! Preschool is hands down my favorite age because it is the discovery age, children do everything for the first time and in that, there is magic.

    Hometown: San Jacinto, CA (Southern Cali)

    Child care experience: Professional experience since 2013+

    Education Background: AA in Early Childhood & Education Sciences

    Favorite food: Mexican Food

    Favorite weekend activities: Taking walks & small adventures with my partner and our daughter, cracking open a good book, creating art, writing poetry, dancing it out in our living room to sweet beats.

    Favorite children's book: Favorite book forever all time, "The Little Prince" by Antoine De Saint-Exupéry

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og the Bookworm, not only is Og our resident book lover who encourages children to use their imagination but also symbolizes the importance of caring for one another.

    What I'm most excited about this school year: Creating meaningful experiences with children and laying the foundation for future building blocks. I want to help foster a love for learning and community in every child.

  • Ms. Rubi H., Preschool Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Ms. Rubi H.

    Preschool Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Hi everyone! I am Ms. Rubi, I am very excited to start my journey here at Primrose!

    Here is a little bit about myself:

    I was born and raised in the Bay Area. I love spending time with my family. I love to read, journal and go to the beach as well. I have been working with young children for over 5 years!

    I can’t wait to meet you and your family!

    Hometown: Sunnyvale, CA

    Child care experience: Day Care teacher, babysitting and Early Preschool class Education Background: 12 ECE units De Anza/Foothill College (Child Development)

    Favorite food: Sushi and Tacos

    Favorite weekend activity: Reading and going to coffee shops

    Favorite children’s book:: Brown bear, brown bear, What do you see?

    Primrose character I most relate to: Katie the curious cat

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know my kiddos and helping them achieve their goal

  • Mrs. Jennifer M., Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Mrs. Jennifer M.

    Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Hello! My name is Jennifer. After working in the retail for 11 years, I happily changed my career path and began teaching. I live in San Jose with my 5 year old daughter Elena and my husband, Cesar. I look forward to working with you and creating a wonderful preschool experience for your child!

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

    Name: Jennifer Magana

    Hometown: San Jose

    Child care experience: I have one year as a Preschool Teacher and 4 years as an Infant-Toddler Teacher

    Education Background: I have 2 years of General Education & 2 years of Child Development

    Favorite food: Pizza, Donuts

    Favorite weekend activity: Sleeping in, going to the park with my two dogs, daughter and husband. I also like going to many family events, watching movies and reading books.

    Favorite children’s book: I Love You Forever by Roberto N. Munsch! For the reason that no matter how old you get or what you do, your mother will always be with you.

    Primrose character I most relate to: Erwin the dog because Erwin is very trustworthy as well as patient.

    What I’m most excited about this school year: I am most excited about getting to meet all my new little friends and Parents.

  • Ms. Yasmine H., Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Ms. Yasmine H.

    Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Hello! I’m Ms.Yasmine! I am so happy to be a part of Primrose and look forward to getting to know students and parents.

    I am born and raised in San Jose, CA. I enjoy going to the beach, hiking, traveling, watching sports, spending time with family/ friends, shopping, and attending concerts/music festivals. I used to play softball and played for 13 years. I come from a big family being the eldest girl and have had to help with taking care of my siblings. I’ve worked with Elementary-HighSchool students. I attended San Jose City Community College (SJCC) being a student-athlete graduating with an AA degree in Liberal Arts. The sport I played at SJCC was Softball. Then transferred to San Jose State University graduating with a BA degree in Social Work.

    Name: Yasmine Hernandez

    Hometown: San Jose

    Education Background: Early Child Development, Social Work

    Favorite Food: Mexican, Chinese, and Filipino food, Pasta, Sushi, Wings, and Soups

    Favorite Weekend Activity: Beach, Hiking, Traveling

    Favorite Children's Book: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

    Primrose Character I Relate To The Most: Molly the Cow

    What I'm Most Excited About This School Year: This is the first school I have worked at and I hope to create some best moments/ memories here

  • Ms. Anjali P., Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 1)

    Ms. Anjali P.

    Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 1)

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

    I have been in the USA for 10 years. I love California’s diversity. I love Primrose School of Willow Glen because of the team work & the helpfulness. I also like our Leadership Team- they are supportive to our needs. 

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

     

    Name: Anjali P.

    Hometown:India

    Child care experience:10 years

    Education Background: Early Childhood Education graduate, Masters in English Literature 

    Favorite food: Biryani

    Favorite weekend activity:Shopping, hanging out with friends

    Favorite children’s book:Pete the Cat, My Groovy Buttons- it’s fun & motivating.

    Primrose character: Molly - she’s a problem solver.

    What I’m most excited about this school year: to meet new students, new parents, & to see how they will learn and grow 


     

  • Ms. Andrea A., Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Ms. Andrea A.

    Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Let’s get to know each other.

    I’m Andrea Alvarez. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I am 27 years old and grew up living in the Bay Area and love it here! I have always wanted to be a teacher, whenever we had “what i want to be when I grow up” projects in school Teacher was always the first thing on the list. I have a dog named Enzo and 3 pet African Dwarf Frogs at home. I love to read on my free time and enjoy baking. I also enjoy being crafty and doing different art projects, I believe art should be messy and creative fun for the kids and can’t wait to share with everyone.

    You see, at Primrose Schools we’re more than a team of professional teachers and child care education specialists. We’re also a family, and we care for every child as though he or she was our own. And like your home, our school provides a secure, nurturing environment that fosters self-discovery and a love of learning.

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

    Name: Andrea Alvarez

    Hometown: San Jose

    Child care experience: 9 years. 4 years in different afterschool programs for K-5 and 5 years as a Preschool teacher at a private center.

    Education Background:DeAnza College

    Favorite food: My grandma’s enchiladas and rice

    Favorite weekend activity: Hanging out with my family

    Favorite children’s book: Puff the Magic Dragon

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og, I love to read!

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know all the Primrose Friends throughout the year

  • Ms. Nadia M., Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Ms. Nadia M.

    Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 2)

    Hello. My name is Nadia Malik. I am an immigrant and currently living in San jose. This is my very first year working as a teacher at preschool level. I have worked as an Assistant Director (Administration) in a well reputed University of Pakistan for 14 years.

    Primrose is my new family ,where we care for every child as though he or she is my own. I am fun, loving, creative, innovative, and a team-oriented person. I love to add some more life in the classroom by engaging students in interesting activities. I have done my Master’s in Mass Communication. My communication skills and understanding for the emotional world of children, specially at preschool level, is my greatest strength as a teacher.

    Name: Nadia Malik

    Hometown: Pakistan

    Child care experience: one year

    Education Background:  Mass Communication

    Favorite food: Pasta/Biryani

    Favorite weekend activity: Movies/cooking

    Primrose character I most relate to: Billy

     

  • Mrs. Lilia S., Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 3)

    Mrs. Lilia S.

    Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 3)

    Name: Lilia Singh

    Hometown: Santa Barbara CA.

    Child Care Experience: I worked as a Teacher Assistant for WeeCare Preschool. After a few years, I decided to try working with older students at an elementary school in Santa Barbara County named Hollister Elementary School. I also worked part time at a high school in Goleta called Dos Pueblos High School.

    Education Background: Went to High School at Dos Pueblos High school in Goleta CA. I graduated with a full college scholarship and attended Allen Hancock College in Santa Maria CA. I’m currently attending Evergreen Valley College majoring in Administration of Justice and Law Enforcement. My goal is to become a Correctional officer/ mentor / counselor and work with our youth.

    Favorite Food: My favorite food is Mexican food and Indian food.

    Favorite Weekend Activity: Right now my favorite weekend activities are exploring this new city (San Jose) I live in, gardening and going to the movies.

    Favorite Children’s Book: My Favorite children’s book is, How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss.

    Primrose Character I most relate to: The Primrose character I’m can relate to is Percy, the proud rooster- I like to provide and set good example of good character.

    What I’m Most Excited About This school Year: This school year I’m excited about everything in general. Excited to just see what the students and staff have to offer to make it a great year.

  • Mrs. Jamy J., Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 3)

    Mrs. Jamy J.

    Early Preschool Teacher (Classroom 3)

    Let’s get to know each other.

     

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

    As an engineer,I am very interested in STEM education. I’d like to keep the children interested in STEM activities, to help develop their observation skills & help them discover the world around them. I also volunteer to teach at the Korean school on Saturdays & Sunday school at my church. Everyday, I love going to the gym after work to stay healthy.  

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

    Name: Jamy J. 

    Hometown: Korea

    Child care experience: 3 years

    Education Background: Engineering and Early childhood Education

    Favorite food: Hot pot

    Favorite weekend activity: Teaching, I really love to be in a classroom with children.

    Favorite children’s book: It's Okay to Make Mistakes

    Primrose character I most relate to: Percy. 

    What I’m most excited about this school year: To show and express

    my love for teachng children.


     

  • Ms. Natalia R., Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Natalia R.

    Toddler Teacher

    Natalia Rosas
    Early Preschool Teacher
    Classroom 2
    Greetings! I am Miss. Natalia and this is a little tidbit about me! I was born and raised in
    San Jose and have always been interested in the field of education. Working with
    children and seeing them grow into the confident learners that I know they will be,
    brings me joy! Watching the excitement and eagerness on their faces is the most
    fulfilling part of my day. In my freetime, I love to spend time with friends and family
    creating new memories. I enjoy reading and try to keep up with my one book a week
    goal! If I’m not home and you can’t find me at the local bookstore, then you can find me
    at the beach soaking in the sun.
    Hometown: San Jose, CA
    Childcare experience: I have worked 4 years ( and counting) grades Preschool-3rd!
    Education Background: AA in Early Childhood & Education Sciences
    Favorite Food: Anything Mexican or from my Mama's recipes.
    Favorite Weekend Activities: My favorite activities include going on hikes, listening to live
    music, and relaxing at the beach with a good book.
    Favorite Children’s book: My favorite is The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. Truly a
    classic!

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og the Bookworm
    What I'm most excited about this school year: I am most excited to create meaningful
    relationships and experiences that hopefully will have a long lasting impression! I can
    not wait to meet you all!

  • Ms. Erika V., Toddler Teacher

    Ms. Erika V.

    Toddler Teacher

    Hello my name is Erika also known as Ms. Erika! 

    I'm very excited to join the Primrose community! I have been working with children for 10 years. I started my journey in a regional occupational program in high school working alongside with children. I gained the passion and love of working with children from my Aunt who was a kindergarten teacher. She would always tell me how she loves her job and how seeing her kids grow and becoming successful. I was born in the Philippines and immigrated to the US when I was 3 years old. I lived in Union City until I was 6 years old and then we moved to the Central Valley. I grew up in a little town called Lathrop and now I am back in the Bay Area since 2017. I attended and graduated from De Anza community college in 2019 where I received my A.A. degree in Liberal Arts with a focus on Child development. On my free time I love playing video games, shopping, and spending time with my family and friends. Some of my hobbies also include painting, music and exploring my favorite city (San Francisco). I am looking forward to start my new adventure in meeting the kids and families at primrose! I am deeply excited to grow as a teacher and building connection with them. 

     

    Name: Erika Viray

    Hometown: Lathrop  

    Child care experience: 10 years

    Education Background: A.A. Liberal Arts with a focus on Early Childhood eduction 

    Favorite Food: Korean & Filipino food

    Favorite Weekend Activity: playing video games and spending time with my family and friends.

    Favorite Children’s Book: Oh, the places you'll go by Dr. Seuss

    Primrose character I most relate to Megy the Pig. because I believe that we should take care of our planet! 

    What I'm excited for this school year is: getting to know the wonderful kids and their families. 

  • Ms. Andrea H., Older Infant Teacher

    Ms. Andrea H.

    Older Infant Teacher

    Hi!

    My name is Andrea Holt. I was born in Germany and moved to the United States at the age of 19. I began working with young Infants 15 years ago. I started out in Brooklyn, New York. I completed all my required training there. After four years, we moved to Ft. Hood, Texas where I began working with young Infants at Meadows Child Development Center and received my Child Development Associates in 2011. I worked at Meadows Child Development Center with young Infants for ten years. When an opportunity arose to move to California I decided to move here.

    Hometown: Germany

    Education : Child Development Associate. I also have a current pediatric first aid and infant/child CPR certification.

    Child care experience: 15 years working with Infants

    Favorite children’s book: “Love you forever” by Robert Munsch

    Primrose character I most relate to: Molly the Cow! I believe that you should always treat people with respect, show you care and always lend a helping hand.

    Favorite food: Pasta

    Favorite weekend activity: My favorite weekend activity is spending time with my fiancé, and my dog. I like going out and exploring the area which is new to me, since I just moved here a month ago.

  • Ms. Natalie J., Young Infant Teacher

    Ms. Natalie J.

    Young Infant Teacher

    Hi! I’m Ms. Natalie!

    I am looking forward to meeting each and everyone one of you.

    I love caring for people and doing my dream job---taking care of infants

    and being around all the caring and loving people at Primrose.

    When I am not here ar Primrose, I love to spend time with my son and visit my parents in Vacaville.

    You see, at Primrose Schools we’re more than a team of professional teachers and child care education specialists. We’re also a family, and we care for every child as though he or she was our own. And like your home, our school provides a secure, nurturing environment that fosters self-discovery and a love of learning.

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

    Name: Natalie Jones

    Hometown: Milpitas, CA

    Child care experience: 28 years of ECE Teaching Experience

    Education Background: Early Child Education

    Favorite food: Anything with carbs

    Favorite weekend activity:watching movies with my family

    Favorite children’s book:I love you this much

    Primrose character I most relate to:Benjamin the Bear

    What I’m most excited about this school year: getting to know my infant room babies!

  • Ms. Maria M., Young Infant Teacher

    Ms. Maria M.

    Young Infant Teacher

     

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

    Name: Maria M.

    Hometown:I’ve lived in San Jose since 1979.

    Child care experience: I've been in childcare for over 30 years. 

    Education Background:Over 30 ECE units

    Favorite food: Chile relleno

    Favorite weekend activity:Relax, visit my grandaughter & our pet, Astro, & do some cleaning

    Favorite children’s book:Little Red Riding Hood & Gingerbread Man. They bring back childhood memories.

    Primrose character I most relate to: Libby the Lamb because fairness is important

    What I’m most excited about this school year:I’m excited about going back to school to continue my education and being back with the children and the parents

    Best way to schedule time to talk:Schedule through the office

     

     

  • Ms. Carrie K., Young Infant Teacher

    Ms. Carrie K.

    Young Infant Teacher

    Hi there! I’m Ms. Carrie, I was born and raised here in San Jose. In my free time, I enjoy relaxing at home with my pets or spending time outdoors on adventures. I began working in child care in 2017. I discovered my passion for working with children during my time volunteering at Walden West Outdoor Science School. Over the years I have had the chance to work with children ages 6 weeks- 10 years old.

    Education Background: A.A. Child Development, Certificate of Achievement Early Childhood Education 

    Favorite food: Mexican cuisine 

    Favorite weekend activity: Hiking, reading, or spending time with my nephew 

    Favorite children’s book: Pete the Cat

    Primrose character I most relate to: Og

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Watching all my friends learn, grow, and reach new milestones!

  • Ms. Jyoti A., Support Teacher

    Ms. Jyoti A.

    Support Teacher

    Name: Jyoti Arora

    Hometown: Hazaribagh,India

    Childcare experience: Eight  years of preschool teaching experience/ six years of first grade teaching experience in India. 

    Educational Background: Bachelor's Degree in History, Honors from Vinoba Bhave University, India. ECE credential from De Anza College & CCEI (Child Care Education Institute) Online.

    Favorite Food: Indian Food

    Favorite Weekend Activity: Spending time with my family and friends. Favorite Chiren's Book: "Have  you Filled Your Bucket Today” by Carol McCloud.This heartwarming  book encourages  positive  behavior  by using the concept of an invisible  bucket to show children how easy and rewarding  it is to express kindness, appreciation, and love by "filling buckets."

    Primrose character I most relate to: Molly the Cow & Katie the curious cat. Molly teaches children about respect and Katie teaches children about sharing & caring.

    What I’m most excited about this school year: I am very excited to meet new children and am looking forward  to having  fun, learning, and exploring together. It’s so rewarding seeing a child progress and seeing the happiness they show when they have achieved  something for the first time.

    .Best way to schedule time to talk: Through the office 

     

     

  • Ms. Teresa A., Support Teacher

    Ms. Teresa A.

    Support Teacher
  • Ms. Beza S., Support Teacher

    Ms. Beza S.

    Support Teacher
  • Ms. Lizeth V., Support Teacher

    Ms. Lizeth V.

    Support Teacher

    Hi! My name is Lizeth. I happily live with my parents. I love music, I love to be engaging with a lot of music activities with the children. I also like cooking projects & art. I strive to wake up the children’s creativity, self expression and inner talents. 

     

    Name: Lizeth

    Hometown: Mexico City

    Child care experience: 11 years 

    Education Background: Early Childhood Education Units

    Favorite food: Persian 

    Favorite weekend activity: Swimming & tennis

    Favorite children’s books: Amelia Bedelia & Where the Wild Things Are

    Primrose character I most relate to: Percy, because he likes to encourage children to have courage.

    What I’m most excited about this school year: meet children and engage with the parents. I want to be part of their cognitive development. 

  • Ms. Belen R., Support Teacher

    Ms. Belen R.

    Support Teacher

    Hello! My name is Belen Rivera. My hometown and the place I was born and raised is right here in San Jose California. I have been in the child care industry for 1 year. It hasn’t been long, but I’ve always loved working with children. I graduated from Wilcox High School in 2016. I attended Mission college for about a year. However I did stop going to attend Bible College in the beautiful country of Panama! I was there for 6 months and attended the same Bible college in Los Angeles for another 6 months to finish my studies there.

    My favorite food will always be Mexican food. Anything Mexican food related, please invite me!

    My favorite weekend activity is to spend it at home, order some take out, and watch a movie. I will always choose to stay at home over going out. 

    My favorite Children’s book (or series) will always be the Junie. B Jones books! It always reminds me of my childhood and Junie and I are very much alike when I was a kid.

    The Primrose Character I can relate to the most is Og the Bookworm. I love to be able to show our Primrose friends how to care for each other at all times.

    I’m most excited to see my Primrose friends grow and be able to watch bloom to their full potential in everything they do and become. It’s awesome to be able to for a part in their little lives. 🫶

     

  • Ms. Brenda S., Support Teacher

    Ms. Brenda S.

    Support Teacher

    Hi, I’m Brenda Salas. I wanted to tell you a little about myself.

    I am originally from Mexico and I will love to teach your kids a little bit more about my culture.
    Such as the holly days that we celebrate and about the different things that my country has around it. In the process of getting to know the children, I will also love to learn about the different things and celebrations that they might love to do at home.
    About me: I began my journey in the child care field about three years ago; in the previous school where I was at I did learn a lot about how to communicate with the kids and how to help them when they are feeling upset or they are having a hard day. Even though it was hard at times I did manage to make the kids comfortable and loved by me.
    I am a very simple person but like every single person, I do love to pamper myself every now and then I will reward myself by going shopping or just grabbing dinner at a restaurant.

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

    Name: Brenda J. Salas Islas
    Hometown: Mexico, city
    Child care experience: three years
    Education Background: ECE units.
    Favorite food: Italian food
    Favorite weekend activity: going to the beach
    Favorite children’s book: is in Spanish and it was a book from a Disney movie little mermaid
    Primrose character I most relate to is Erwin the dog
    What I’m most excited about this school year:to learn and interact with the kids and about their favorite things to do

  • Ms. Marjorie V., Support Teacher

    Ms. Marjorie V.

    Support Teacher

    I’m Marjorie and I wanted to tell you a little about myself.
    Hometown: San Jose
    Child care experience: 3 years
    Education Background: Currently attending DeAnza College and studying Child and Adolescent Development
    Favorite food: Tacos/Pizza
    Favorite weekend activity: Going to the gym w/my husband
    Favorite children’s book: A bad case of stripes
    Primrose character I most relate to: Mia the mouse, she’s tiny but fierce
    What I’m most excited about this school year: This school year I am most excited to impact the lives of the little humans we get to
    work with every day

  • Ms. Diane M., Support Teacher

    Ms. Diane M.

    Support Teacher
  • Ms. Vanessa L., Support Teacher

    Ms. Vanessa L.

    Support Teacher
    Apple of Our Eye

    Name: Vanessa

    Hometown: Tracy, CA

    Child care experience: I am an older sister so I have been looking after someone my whole life, 4+ years of professional experience in the ABA field and 13+ years of babysitting and nannying

    Education Background: learning everyday, completing degree at SJCC

    Favorite food: Canja de Galinha (Portuguese chicken soup)

    Favorite weekend activity: Family time, hiking, paddle boarding

    Favorite children’s book: Berenstain Bears

    Primrose character I most relate to: Molly

    What I’m most excited about this school year: Getting to know everyone and finding my place here at Primrose!

  • Ms. Lisette V.

    Support Teacher
  • Sima Shah, Franchise Owner

    Sima Shah

    Franchise Owner

    Meet Sima Shah, proud Owner of Primrose School of Willow Glen. As a longtime resident of California’s Silicon Valley, she is excited to help introduce San Francisco Bay Area parents to the premier child care and early education experience Primrose has provided to many other children around the country.

    Research-based and Innovative Education is Sima’s passion. She earned a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles after immigrating to the U.S. with her husband Amar Chokhawala. Sima worked as a computer engineer while also molding young minds as an adjunct professor of at several local colleges and universities in Computer Science Department. Amar was an early Google employee before he founded his own software company, Reflektion in 2013, where he will continue serving as Chief Executive Officer.

    When their first daughter, Amiya, was born in 2005, Sima struggled to find trusted and high-quality care, and eventually decided to keep her daughter at home with a full-time nanny. After the birth of her second daughter, Risa, in 2008, Sima decided to enroll Amiya into a Bay Area preschool. Not long after, Sima found the program lacked the holistic approach she’d hoped to find. It focused too much on structure and teacher guided activities, and did not provide enough opportunities for play and exploration. As a result, Sima tried to create her own “balanced program” by sending her daughter to a structured school three days a week, and child-initiated play based program for the other two days.

    It was during this time Sima and her husband first learned about Primrose Schools through an advertisement in the Wall Street Journal; however, there were not any Primrose schools in California at the time.

    “I knew that children needed both exploration and structure, and I kept thinking that someone had to already have a program that is more balanced. When I found Primrose, I was so pleased to see that they built their entire curriculum around this idea of balance,” said Sima. “Never having experienced it myself, I was skeptical until I flew out to Colorado to visit my first Primrose school. The moment I entered the school, I was wowed by the entire experience: people, culture, approach, environment and curriculum.

    At Primrose School of Willow Glen, Sima will strive to provide a nurturing atmosphere and environment that fosters all aspects of their students’ development. Her goal is to promote the social-emotional aspect of growth, which enhances learning for children. She wants parents to feel welcome and confident that Primrose is the best option for their children.

    “In today’s world, if both parents work, a child spends at least 40 hours a week at her education facility. We always think of making our homes inspiring and comfortable for our children. At Primrose School of Willow Glen, we want the same for our students. Our facility will be filled with the same quality of care, attention and comfort children experience at home,” said Sima.

    Primrose School of Willow Glen will feature the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach which blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers to encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion.

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