Teachers & Staff

Select A Category
All Teachers & Staff
Leadership
Teachers
Staff
Elizabeth Bennett
Joined 1998
Elizabeth Bennett
Area Director

We are so excited to have Ms. Bennett as our Area Director! Elizabeth began working with Primrose Schools in Lawrenceville in 1998 and continued her career with Primrose when she and her husband moved to Greensboro, NC in 2003. She has experience as a Lead Teacher serving various age groups, and then joined the Leadership Team at her school in 2005. She served as the Director of the Primrose School of Brassfield for nine years, where she was responsible for overseeing daily operations, following and implementing state licensing requirements, hiring and developing teachers and maintaining enrollment. She most recently became the Curriculum Director and Senior Administrator for both Greensboro locations, Primrose Schools of New Irving Park and Brassfield, in January of 2016.

Ms. Bennett has two young children who started at Primrose when they were each six weeks old and are a part of our Explorers program. She also recently welcomed a third baby girl to the family who attends our infant program. Throughout her time with Primrose, her attention and focus on high standards has been driven by her desire to provide the best educational environment for young children.

Jasmine McDaniel-Smalls
Joined 2008
Jasmine McDaniel-Smalls
Director

Ms. Smalls began her career with Primrose Schools in Douglasville, GA in 2008. Prior to becoming the Assistant Director at Druid Hills, she was a Lead Teacher for the Preschool classroom at the Brookhaven location. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree at Phoenix University. Ms. Smalls joined Primrose because of the philosophy that who children become is just as important as what they know. She believes strongly in the Balanced Learning curriculum and the foundation it creates for young children. Ms. Smalls was the assistant director for 6 years with the Primrose school of Druid Hills. She has just recently been promoted to the schools Director in June of 2024 and so happy to serve this Druid Hills community!

In her leisure time, Ms. Smalls loves to shop, watch sports and spend time with her family and friends.

 

Jennifer Bullard
Joined 2016
Jennifer Bullard
Director of Education

Like all of our leadership team here at Primrose School of Druid Hills, Mrs. Bullard has a passion for teaching and developing young children. She has worked with preschoolers for over 20 years, most recently as a teacher at a private preschool. She felt the call to teach at a young age when her 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Harper, inspired her to dream big! She has a background in Family and Consumer Science, is Reggio Certified, and holds a Child Development Associates Certification. She is happily married to her loving husband of 25 years and is the proud mother of three sons whom she cherishes dearly. Mrs. Bullard is grateful to have a role that allows her to draw on the elements of teaching through watching others inspire and captivate young learners.

 

Carolina Soto
Joined 2021
Carolina Soto
Assistant Director

Hello, my name is Carolina Soto and I am the Preschool 2 lead teacher at Primrose of Druid Hills. was born and raised in Georgia, and my parents were born in Mexico. I have a younger brother and an older sister. I received my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University and will be graduating with my Bachelors Degree in the near future. During my spare time, I love to spend time with family and friends, go on road trips, attend concerts, and graphic design. It fascinates me to watch children grow and discover the world in their own way. I’m excited to be a part of the Primrose School of Druid Hills team, and I can’t wait to meet your family and help your child grow!

 

Shaquita Clark
Joined 2020
Shaquita Clark
Curriculum Coach

My name is Ms. Shaquita Clark, and I joined Primrose School of Druid Hills as the Lead Teacher in the Preschool 1 classroom in the summer of 2020. I have over 13 years of teaching experience, with the past 10 years being with Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten children. I have a Bachelors Degree, and look forward to continuing to develop my teaching experience through the Balanced Learning curriculum and getting to know the children. I have a school aged daughter and am originally from Atlanta. I look forward to getting to know your family!

 

Gillian Napier-Wright
Joined 2021
Gillian Napier-Wright
Infant Teacher

Hello my name is Gillian Napier-Wright. ( Ms. Gill for short)

 

I am very excited to be a part of Primrose! I love seeing children being happy, loved and watching them grow. I enjoy working with infants and helping them develop. I can’t wait to build a relationship with your children!

 

Edglibeth Rincon
Joined 2025
Edglibeth Rincon
Infant Teacher

My name is Edglibeth Rincón, and I’m originally from Venezuela. I have one year of experience in Early Childhood Education and hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in Infant and Toddler care. As both a teacher and a proud mom to a wonderful daughter, I find great joy in helping children explore, grow, and discover the world around them. I’m passionate about creating a warm, safe, and engaging environment where every child feels loved, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my daughter and finding creative ways to make learning fun both at home and in the classroom.

Vivian Pearson
Joined 2026
Vivian Pearson
Support Teacher

My name is Vivian Pearson, and I am excited to be your child’s infant teacher! I have over seven years of experience in early childhood care, and I truly enjoy working with infants during this important stage of development. I love nurturing a child’s interest in books and helping them explore the world through simple, engaging activities. Whether it’s story time, sensory play, or outdoor experiences, I believe every moment is an opportunity for learning and growth. One of my greatest joys is watching infants reach developmental milestones and grow each day. My educational background is in Social Work, which allows me to support not only children, but their families as well. In my free time, I enjoy relaxing and spending time doing things that bring joy and positivity to my life.

Elizabeth Garcia
Joined 2024
Elizabeth Garcia
Infant Teacher

Hello! My name is Elizabeth Garcia. I was born in Mexico & came to the United States when I was five. I was raised in Chicago where I went to college & became a substance abuse counselor. Then I realized I found joy in being with infants. I love to see how they grow and achieve milestones, which made me begin a new journey in my life. I’m excited to be part of your child’s education. Please keep in mind that while your baby is under my care I will do my best to keep him or her safe, fed, and well taken care of!

Miranda Gill
Joined 2025
Miranda Gill
Infant Teacher

Hi, my name is Miranda Gill, and I’m so excited to be part of the Primrose School of Druid Hills team! I have over four years of experience in early childhood education and love helping young children learn, grow, and thrive in a creative, nurturing environment. I graduated from Linfield University in Oregon in 2020 with a degree in Digital Media. Before moving to Georgia, I lived in the San Francisco Bay Area. I’m a big theater lover, a proud geek, and I co-host a podcast that I started with a friend. I love bringing my creativity and passion for storytelling into the classroom every day!

Alycia Holmes
Joined 2024
Alycia Holmes
Toddler Teacher

I am extremely excited to be a part of the Primrose School of Druid Hills staff! I have followed the Early Childhood Development pathway since my freshman year of high school. My passion is helping children and watching them develop and prosper as they grow. My goal is to make sure that each and every child thinks of Primrose as their second home!

Veronica McDonald
Joined 2025
Veronica McDonald
Toddler Teacher

Hi, my name is Veronica McDonald! I’m a compassionate teacher with a strong team spirit and a deep commitment to what I do. I have extensive experience in creating a classroom environment that promotes inclusion, inspires learning, and captures children’s imaginations. I believe that every child deserves to feel loved, valued, and supported. My greatest achievement is seeing children grow into confident learners and reach their full potential. One of my greatest assets at Primrose Druid Hills is my personality. I bring positivity, patience, and enthusiasm to every part of the day. I am very excited to be a part of the Primrose Druid Hills team, and I look forward to getting to know your family.

Jordan Murden
Joined 2023
Jordan Murden
Toddler Teacher

Hello! I have been working with children for over 5 years and in early education for 2 years. I have a Bachelors in Special Education from Georgia Southern University and I am currently going back to obtain my Masters Degree. Outside of work I volunteer at the homeless shelters and I also love to cook and bake sweet treats. I can’t wait to meet your family and be your children’s teacher!

Jennifer White
Joined 2025
Jennifer White
Toddler Teacher

Hello, my name is Jennifer White I am born and raised in Chicago. Go Bears! I enjoy cooking and baking. I received my AAS in Culinary Arts and I am now enrolled at the University of Phoenix. I am excited to be a part of Primrose!

Lilibeth Molero
Joined 2026
Lilibeth Molero
Wonder Support Teacher

Hello, my name is Lilibeth Molero. I am married and have two daughters and one granddaughter. I am a Venezuelan pediatrician with 24 years of experience dedicated to caring for children’s health. I am also a Spanish teacher for children, and I have proudly been part of the Primrose School family for two years. I love working with children and feel very happy being surrounded by their curiosity, energy, and joy every day.

Ka'Shauna Johnson
Joined 2023
Ka'Shauna Johnson
Early Preschool Teacher

My name is Ka’Shauna Johnson and I am a student at Georgia State University, majoring in early childhood education. I genuinely enjoy teaching and engaging with kids and becoming an inspiration to them in a learning environment. I look forward to getting to know the families here!

 

Rosa Diaz
Joined 2023
Rosa Diaz
Early Preschool Teacher

I am so excited to join the staff at the Primrose School of Druid Hills! My goals are to keep growing professionally, and to show the children in my classroom that school is their second home. It is very important to me to show love and passion each day and to spread joy and happiness to the children, parents, and my co-workers.

 

Avonna Doods
Joined 2026
Avonna Doods
Wonder Support Teacher

Hello, my name is Avonna Dodds! I am currently majoring in Mathematics with the goal of becoming a math teacher in the future. I have a strong passion for education and truly enjoy working with children and being part of their learning journey. I love creating a fun, positive, and encouraging environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. I am so excited to get to know the children and families here and look forward to building meaningful connections with everyone!

Johnnita Desmond
Joined 2020
Johnnita Desmond
Early Preschool Teacher

Hello, my name is Johnnita Desmond. I am a native of Atlanta, and have worked in childcare for 7 years. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Early Learning from Mercer University. In my leisure time I enjoy spending time with my family. I also enjoy watching football and basketball games. My passion has always been to work with children. I believe children are the most precious gift, and that they learn best in a loving and safe environment. I am looking forward to meeting your family and being a part of Primrose Druid Hills.

 

Caressa Pearce
Joined 2017
Caressa Pearce
Early Preschool Teacher

I am currently a student at Georgia State University pursuing my degree in Early Childhood Education. I have been working with children for almost 10 years as a teacher and caregiver. While working in my church’s child care program, I gained a lot more love and compassion for teaching.

 

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

 

Summer Harris
Joined 2025
Summer Harris
Early Preschool Teacher

I’m a dedicated mother of one and currently working toward a bachelor’s degree in Psychology . I bring a nurturing, patient, responsible approach to childcare. My passion for working with children has always been a guiding force in my life. The hands-on experience I have as a parent has equipped me with valuable skills in attentiveness, multitasking, and emotional support.

Zainab Sallah
Joined 2020
Zainab Sallah
Support Teacher

My name is Zainab Sallah, but you can call me “Ms. Zay!” I have been working with children for over 3 years, and am currently pursuing my nursing degree from Georgia State University. I love to read and meet new people. I grew up here in Atlanta, and am looking forward to caring for your children and family.

 

Kitjuana Baptiste
Joined 2024
Kitjuana Baptiste
Preschool Pathways Teacher

Hi I am Mrs. Kit. I have over 20 years of teaching experience, I am a passionate educator from Dominica who loves working with children. I am dedicated to fostering a nurturing and engaging environment where every student can thrive. I’m excited to bring my love for teaching and commitment to helping young minds grow as part of the Primrose family.

Kennedy Hicks
Joined 2022
Kennedy Hicks
Preschool Pathways Teacher

I am extremely excited to be a part of the Primrose School of Druid Hills staff!  I have followed the Early Childhood Development pathway since my freshman year in high school.  My passion is helping children and watching them develop and prosper as they grow.  My goal is to make sure that each and every child thinks of Primrose as their second home!

 

Camesha Walker
Joined 2024
Camesha Walker
Preschool Teacher

I was born and raised in Atlanta Georgia. I have a BA in Early Childhood Education. I enjoy working with children and watching them grow from day to day. It is always my goal to help each child reach their full potential as I know that the learning curve is different for each individual. It brings such joy to my heart to see the transformation and hard work each child puts in as they flourish into a little scholar. I am extremely excited to be a part of the Primrose School of Druid Hills team and to learn the Primrose way!

Dominique Harris
Joined 2021
Dominique Harris
Preschool Teacher

Hello, my name is Dominique Harris and I have been working with children since 2009. I started off as a10th grade English tutor in California and I’ve had a passion for working with youth ever since. For 4 years, I’ve worked with children from ages 3-12 years of age. This school year I look forward to building positive relationships with the children and their families!

 

Jemika Crayton
Joined 2025
Jemika Crayton
Preschool Teacher

My name is Jemika Crayton, and I am a dedicated educator with over 20 years of teaching experience. Born and raised in Atlanta, GA, I hold a B.A. in Music Performance from Bennett College and a Master’s in Music Performance from Appalachian State University. I also earned a Child Development Associate credential in preschool education. Teaching has been my passion since high school, and I am committed to creating a nurturing and engaging environment where children can learn and grow. I’m proud to be part of the Primrose School community, where my values and educational philosophy align.

Magdelena Kidd
Joined 2023
Magdelena Kidd
Preschool Teacher

Hello my name is Magdalena Kidd. I am originally from the island of Saint Lucia, but I lived in New York most recently. I have over 20 years of experience working with children. I am passionate about children, and love to see them smile. I am looking forward to continuing my early childhood journey in my new role as a Preschool teacher with the Primrose family.

 

Audrey McKinney
Joined 2025
Audrey McKinney
Preschool Teacher

Hello Primrose families. I am originally from Virginia, and earned  my B.S. in psychology with minors in education and leadership studies at Florida State University and M.Ed. in higher education from Clemson University before moving to Atlanta 3 years ago! I have experience working in the education setting from the PreK through college age group, and I am excited to be at Primrose now! I believe that each child is wonderfully unique, and I am passionate about creating an environment where each child feels safe, loved, and able to grow in a way that meets their needs and helps them reach their full potential. I can’t wait to go on this exciting journey with your little ones!

Afsheen Sajid
Joined 2024
Afsheen Sajid
Preschool Support Teacher

Hello! I have over a decade of teaching experience and a master’s in education. I’m passionate about transforming young lives through quality education that impacts the society. I believe nurturing curious minds is key. I’m grateful to be part of the Primrose Druid Hills’ team and all the families who trust us with their children’s education. In my free time, I enjoy reading books, cooking and listening to music. I look forward to an exciting year of growth and discovery with my students!!

Lucy Ndukwe
Joined 2018
Lucy Ndukwe
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

My name is Lucy Ndukwe. I am married and blessed with two beautiful girls. I joined the Primrose family because I am a firm believer in how children learn through the Balanced Learning curriculum. I earned my degree in Early Childhood Education at Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I am currently working on my Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. It warms my heart to see that children are provided with love, safety and nurturing care. I enjoy working with Pre-Kindergartners and watching them grow. I look forward to meeting you!

 

Jaila Mason
Joined 2025
Jaila Mason
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Hi my name is Jaila Mason, and I’m thrilled to be joining the team at the Primrose School of Druid Hills! I became part of the Primrose family because I strongly believe in the power of the Balanced Learning curriculum and how it supports children’s growth through purposeful play and discovery. I will soon be graduating from Tuskegee University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, and I plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Elementary Education in the near future. Coming from a proud legacy of educators, I am passionate about creating a nurturing, engaging, and supportive learning environment where every child can thrive. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy shopping, watching reality TV, and spending quality time with my loved ones. I’m excited to contribute to the Primrose community and help our students grow into confident, curious learners!

Egan Fitts
Joined 2024
Egan Fitts
Support Teacher

Hello! My name is Egan Fitts, and I’m originally from the Inland Empire California. I am currently pursuing a bachelors in History with a concentration in Pre-Education at Georgia State University. I’m passionate about teaching and inspiring. I can’t wait to inspire young minds, igniting a love for learning in our students.

Shantia Brady
4 Years of ExperienceJoined 2026
Shantia Brady
Support Teacher

Hello! My name is Ms. Brady. I am from Louisville, Georgia and a proud alumna of Spelman College, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. I have experience working with children in educational settings, including neurodivergent learning environments. I have also worked in behavioral and mental health support settings where I supported adolescents in developing their mental health, emotional awareness, and behavioral skills. I am passionate about helping children grow academically, socially, and emotionally while creating a supportive classroom where every child feels seen, understood, and valued. I plan to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology to become a clinical psychologist. My future goal is to increase access to mental health care and psychoeducation not only for children, but also for the communities and caregivers who support them, helping reduce stigma and misinformation surrounding mental health. I hope to help create more informed and supportive communities. Outside of the classroom, I’m a country girl at heart who loves sports, powerlifting, yoga, meditation and fishing. I’m also a proud dog mom to a sweet, gentle pitbull named Koda.  I can’t wait to get to know the children and families of Primrose school of Druid Hills!

Tamara Thornton
Joined 2023
Tamara Thornton
Private Kindergarten Teacher

I am excited about joining the excellent staff of Primrose of Druid Hills. I was born in Dallas, Texas, but moved to Georgia when I was seven. I grew up in Stone Mountain, and I currently reside in Doraville. I am a retired teacher of the DeKalb County School District. I have 30 years experience of teaching first and second grade. I have my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from University of Georgia. Then I attended Clark Atlanta University and earned my Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. My favorite things to do are reading, watching movies, dancing, being involved with my Women’s Group at church, and spending time with family and friends. I am dedicated to creating an enjoyable, inviting, and dynamic learning environment to motivate students to learn and want to be good citizens.

 

Jacob Lee
Joined 2024
Jacob Lee
Explorer Teacher

Hello! My name is Jacob Lee I am the support teacher for PreK, Kindergarten and Explorers at Primrose Druid Hills. I was born and raised in Atlanta, Ga with my younger sister and older brother. I have my bachelors in psychology from the University of Kentucky and plan to get my Masters in social work next year. I love all types of music and I am always active whether that’s going to the gym, going on hikes, or playing sports with my friends! I’ve been working in childcare for about two years and seeing children grow in a positive, healthy environment is amazing. Being able to contribute to that productive growth process is truly a honor. I look forward to meeting your family and I am happy to join the Primrose team!

Lucrecia Garcia
Joined 2017
Lucrecia Garcia
Support Teacher

Hola! My name is Lucrecia Garcia. I am from Guatemala, and I have lived in Georgia for 10 plus years. I have over 30 years of childcare experience. I am very passionate about children because of the love they give back to us each and every day. I look forward to seeing their smiling faces everyday, and I also love introducing children to new vocabulary in Spanish. I am very excited to be a part of the Primrose Druid Hills team, and I look forward to getting to know your family.

 

Ivan Zubiate
Joined 2025
Ivan Zubiate
Chef

Hello, I’m chef Ivan I was born in Chihuahua, Mexico and raised in Brooklyn, where my passion for cooking began at a young age. I have fond memories of spending time in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning to recognize dishes by their aromas and understanding the importance of fresh ingredients. In 2015, I earned my International Culinary Degree and became a certified Professional Chef. Since then, I’ve gained experience working in both restaurants and schools across New York, Texas, Chicago, and now Atlanta. I love the freedom that cooking allows—it’s a creative outlet where I can express myself, share my culture, and inspire others through food.

Franchise Owner

Laura and Paul Stechmesser

Meet Laura and Paul Stechmesser — proud Franchise Owners of Primrose School of Druid Hills. As with everyone in the Primrose Schools family, the Stechmessers believe that who children become is as important as what they know. They are excited to bring the thoughtful curriculum and impressive character-building focus of the Balanced Learning® approach to the Druid Hills community.

“When we had our first child, it was a challenge to find nurturing child care with an educational component in our neighborhood,” said Laura. “A friend of mine told me how well her children were doing at Primrose; not only were they excelling academically, but they were building life skills and good character as well. I knew that was exactly what we needed in the Druid Hills community.”

A Clemson graduate and a University of Tennessee alum, Laura and Paul met in Atlanta and have been married for more than 10 years. They are incredibly proud of their three children: Lilly, Luke and Mary Hazel. Paul manages the Coca-Cola Studios design team at The Coca-Cola Company. Laura left a prosperous career in logistics and supply chain management to fulfill her dream of owning a Primrose school in her beloved community.

“We love this community and are invested in helping children grow into future leaders,” said Laura. “Parents here genuinely value education, and Paul and I are confident that the high-quality, Balanced Learning curriculum at Primrose Schools is uniquely positioned to set up local children for future success in school and in life. When our children are equipped with the tools they need to thrive, the whole community benefits.”

The school features the Balanced Learning curriculum in infant through Pre-Kindergarten classrooms and the Primrose Explorers after-school program for students up to age 10. All three of Laura and Paul’s children have attended the school in the Primrose Explorers program and currently the Pre-Kindergarten program. Developed and taught exclusively at Primrose Schools, the research-informed curriculum blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance to develop curious, compassionate and creative individuals.

“For our family, opening Primrose School of Druid Hills was a proud moment, and we’re excited to give back to a loving community that has given us so much,” said Laura. “We want to welcome parents, teachers, community members and students alike to our Primrose family!”

Primrose School of Druid Hills is located at 2910 North Druid Hills Road.

Our family would love to meet yours.

Contact us to schedule a tour.
A child and teacher's hand on a bookA young boy playing with toysA young boy playing to the floor looking up at cameraA young boy smiling at cameraA young boy looking at cameraA child and teacher's hand on a bookA young boy playing with toysA young boy playing to the floor looking up at cameraA young boy smiling at cameraA young boy looking at camera
© 2026 Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. We will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with applicable registration and disclosure requirements in your jurisdiction. Contact Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC, 3200 Windy Hill Road SE, Suite 1200E, Atlanta, GA 30339, to request a copy of our FDD.

*Study was conducted on a representative sample of Primrose Pre-Kindergarten students across twelve Primrose schools in nine states in the Spring of 2024. The Bracken School Readiness Assessment 4th Edition assesses children’s school readiness in terms of their understanding of concepts that are strongly related to early childhood cognitive and language development as well as early academic achievement.

**Based upon recent assessments of approximately 3,900 Primrose students aged 4 screened using the Ages & Stages Questionnaires®, Third Edition during the 2024-2025 school year. Ages & Stages Questionnaires® and ASQ® are registered trademarks of Paul H Brookes Publishing Co, Inc.