Teachers & Staff

Ms. Shala Johnson
I am a proud South Carolina native, I grew up in Goose Creek, South Carolina. I have experience as a Preschool Teacher, Assistant Director and Director of licensed childcare centers. I bring passion and enthusiasm to provide the best care and education for children and will motivate and encourage staff to do their best with my joy, positive attitude, and natural leading qualities.
I have two beautiful daughters that I absolutely adore. Together as a family we enjoy exploring new recipes (especially baking), couponing and of course shopping.
I look forward to developing a relationship and supporting each one of the families who enroll at Primrose and guide their children’s development through the balanced learning approach.

Ms. Michela Cornelius
After growing up and attending college in Indiana, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology, my husband and I moved to the Charleston area in 2022 to be closer to family. I have enjoyed working with kids in a variety of ways, but primarily within mental health and in the elementary school setting.
When I’m not working, I love to read, go to the movies with my family, or play with my dog. I am very excited to be here at Primrose! I look forward to getting to know new kiddos and encouraging their growth and learning. Given my background in mental health, I am passionate about encouraging children to develop their relational and emotional skills through everyday teachable moments. I look forward to meeting Primrose families and being able to make an impact on young lives!

Ms. Jessie Reyna
I first moved to Charleston in early 2017, and while I’ve lived nearly everywhere, I grew up in a small seacoast town in New Hampshire. I moved to Charleston to find more opportunities in the art industry, and this city did not disappoint! My favorite position was as a teacher in the after-school programs in North Charleston, where I taught art and creative writing for elementary school students K-5. This is what led me to continue and pursue early education.
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Art History from the University of New Hampshire and my Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Fairfield University. I recently moved back to Charleston after living in England for a year and a half with my husband. Over the last few years, I’ve actively been painting and illustrating, and worked out of a small little art studio in South Berwick, Maine.
When I’m not in the classroom, you can typically find me illustrating, cooking, playing with my dog Phoebe at the park, reading, checking out the local art galleries, or spending time with my husband. I look forward to learning and growing with your children and creating an impactful educational experience here at Primrose. I believe one of the most important aspects of education is finding that skill a child thrives in and to encourage continued learning and to try new things.
“Do one thing everyday that scares you.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Ms. Adrienne Sumter
I am one of the teachers in the Young Infant classroom. I started working in childcare in 2010. I enjoy teaching and getting to be so enthusiastic with children. I grew up on Wadmalaw Island in South Carolina. I definitely enjoy spending time with my family and boyfriend. I also love to have fun, visit new places and learn new things.
I look forward to being the best teacher that I can be for the Young Infant classroom. My favorite quote says “To teach is to touch a life forever”. I’m so excited about getting to know all my students and their parents. It’s such a joy to be an impact on a child’s life and to make my students proud, this are my two main focuses.

Ms. Shadawn White
Hello! My name is Shadawn White, and I am the cook at Primrose. I grew up in North Charleston and currently live in Goose Creek. I am the mother of three adult children, grandmother of six, and the mother of a precious dog named Micah. I am also a proud Army veteran!
Cooking is a passion of mine. I worked for another childcare facility as a cook for two and a half years, as well as a manager at a restaurant for many years prior. My love for cooking began in elementary school and it became my role in my childhood home, and I still enjoy it just as much today!
I look forward to meeting all of the children, parents, and team members of Primrose. My nurturing spirit and love for children will allow me to extend my love out of the kitchen and into the classrooms! I am so excited about preparing nutritious and delicious meals for everyone, in which the first ingredient is always love!

Ms. Julia Grant
Born and raised in Germany and having lived in California and Florida, I relocated to Mount Pleasant in 2008 alongside my husband and four children. Most of my childcare experience, needless to say, stems from raising my own four children but I have also been blessed to have been given the opportunity to work in the children’s ministry of the churches we’ve been attending over the past years with children’s ages ranging from infants to preschoolers. In addition, I was also able to gain in- school experience working as an assistant as well as a lead teacher at a preschool. I love to spend time with my family and enjoy cooking/ baking, tennis, the outdoors and traveling.
Growing up in a different country and then moving and having to embrace the newly found culture, I feel that giving children the opportunity to broaden their horizons any given moment of the day through positive play, learning, sharing and sparking their curiosity to explore all the wonders of the world is essential. Joining Primrose as a school support teacher, I’m excited to meet all the Primrose families and their precious children!

Ms. Taniah Young
Hi, I’m Taniah Young! I was born and raised in Awendaw, SC, just outside of Charleston, and grew up surrounded by family members who worked in childcare. Caring for children has always felt natural to me, and I’ve spent years helping with my younger cousins. For the past two years, I’ve worked professionally with children, which has only deepened my love for guiding and supporting their growth.
I’m also a certified Dental Assistant, with a dream of becoming a registered Pediatric Dental Hygienist. While I’m not studying to be a teacher, working with children will always be close to my heart. When I’m not teaching children, I love trying new recipes, playing with my dog Hendrix, and making memories with friends. I’m thrilled to be part of the Primrose family, where I can help create a loving and safe space for children to learn, build confidence, and form lifelong connections.
“Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression.” – Haim Ginott

Ms. Lindie Aaron
Hello Families! I grew up in Fort Myers, Florida (the city of palms) and relocated to Augusta, Georgia (home to the Godfather of soul James Brown) to complete my education. After graduating from high school, I attended Tuskegee University. I am the proud mother of Master Eden Tyrell Palmer, who will also be attending Primrose. Together we recently relocated to North Charleston from Augusta to join our family together.
I was welcomed onto the Primrose Team as a teacher in the Older Infant room. I come with years of experience from a licensed childcare facility. I enjoy spending quality time with my family, especially my little Emery and Eden. I look forward to meeting each student and his/her family and to assist him/her in their developmental stages. They learn so rapidly and we must get started early in infancy to help them to make the best choices in life as they mature throughout their childhood stages.

Ms. Ava Sawyer
Hello, my name is Ava Sawyer, and I relocated to Charleston from Arkansas in 2022. I previously worked as a Patient Care Technician, where I developed valuable skills such as patience, communication, organization, and the ability to stay calm and compassionate in fast-paced environments.
In my free time I love to do puzzles and bake something sweet! I truly enjoy helping young minds grow and feel supported. I look forward to making each day a great day at Primrose and being a positive influence in the lives of the children and families I serve.
“The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled,” -Plutarch

Ms. Lauren Kresslein
I moved to Charleston in October 2025 from Virginia, looking for a change of scenery and a warm, beautiful city to call home. I am passionate about art and I love to incorporate it into everything I do, whenever possible. I believe creativity is an essential part of learning that teaches problem solving and confidence. In my free time I love to work on personal creative projects, explore outdoors or spend time at home with my cat. At Primrose, I look forward to helping students embrace their unique selves and build curiosity through knowledge.
“Our job is not to tell children what to be but to show them the possibilities of being”

Ms. Katy Voortman
I was born and raised in Spokane, WA. I’ve spent almost 20 years in the medical field, first as a nursing assistant, and for the last 11 years as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT). In 2012, I moved to Pennsylvania for new opportunities before moving to Charleston in 2014 with my now husband, where I continued as an LMT until I started looking for a new challenge in 2022.
After having my daughter Gwendolynn in 2020, I began reading fascinating books on early childhood education, with child led programs especially appealing to me. When I found the opportunity to work at Primrose as a support teacher, I jumped at the chance. I found that I loved interacting with all the kids at Gwen’s previous preschool, with all of their antics, their joy for life, and their unfiltered honesty. I love seeing Gwen’s classmates grow and learn along with her, and I love being a part of that process, so I look forward to helping more directly in my role at Primrose School.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending family time with my daughter, husband Kevin, and dog Pogo. We love going on “adventures,” even if that’s just a trip to the grocery store or visiting family in Columbia. I’m a green belt in Kempo Karate, love to walk on the beach with Pogo, and I cook and explore delicious vegan food.

Ms. Jessica Paulson
I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago and later moved to Iowa for college. This past July, my boyfriend and I made the exciting move to the Charleston area, which quickly became home. I attended Iowa State University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in economics and criminal justice in May 2025. During my studies, I developed a strong passion for understanding how socioeconomic backgrounds influence educational access and outcomes. I bring a wide range of hands on experience working with children. This includes roles in summer camps, afterschool programs, and as a teacher’s aide. These experiences have built my passion for supporting children as they learn and grow.
Outside of Primrose, I enjoy spending quality time with my puppy and my boyfriend. I love being outdoors whether that’s exploring national parks, hiking mountains, or relaxing at the beach. I have been an outdoor adventure guide for four years! Since moving to Charleston, trying new restaurants and workout classes have been my favorite way to recharge. What I look forward to at Primrose is helping shape young minds into developing a love for learning. These years are where we help create a strong foundation for curiosity and a sense of confidence. I am excited to become a trusted leader where little hearts need it the most!

Ms. Maia Teague
I grew up in Western NC and just recently moved to Charleston. I grew up with a big family and wouldn’t have it any other way. I have three younger brothers that I used to play “school” with when I was younger. I’ve always had a passion for helping younger kids learn and being a part of their journey in growing up. I look forward to being able to learn from the teachers here at Primrose and help them provide the best learning experience for your children.
While I’m ‘off the clock’ I love to take photographs and explore Charleston. I’m always looking for new parks to feed the ducks and find a nice reading spot. A saying I love that resonates with me is “A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning”.

Ms. Quayonna Hawkins
Hello, my name is Quayonna Hawkins. I lived in South Carolina during my childhood days before moving to Pennsylvania later in my life. I recently relocated back to South Carolina to get a sense of “home” and I’m so happy to be back in Charleston. I always cared for my niece and nephew since birth and enjoyed every second of it.
While I’m not at Primrose, I enjoy trying new restaurants or activities, decorating my home, and connecting with family. I look forward to being part of the early learning stages for children and watching them grow.
“Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.” – Marian Wright Edelman

Ms. Kathey Green
Greetings everyone! My name is Kathey Johnson and love teaching! This fall, I will be attending Trident Tech to obtain an associate degree in Applied Science in Early Care and Education. I will be following the career path of Infant and Toddler Development.
I was born and raised in the Charleston area. I have two beautiful children and two handsome grandsons. In my spare time, I enjoy Zumba, exercising, walking, dancing, reading, cooking and spending time with family and friends! I look forward to getting to know all of my students and families!

Ms. Madison Clark
Hello! My name is Madison, and I was born and raised on James Island, where I was blessed to grow up and help care for a brother with cognitive disabilities. Being a part of his journey and watching the way his teachers and therapists impacted his life from an early age stirred a deep passion in me for making a difference in the lives of children.
In my free time I enjoy cooking, being outdoors, going on long walks, reading, and spending time with my friends and family. At Primrose, I look forward to continuing my passion by forming strong relationships with the children in my care and their support system. “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” – Jane Goodall

Ms. Madeline Kemmerlin
I moved to Charleston from Springfield, Illinois when I was in 2nd grade. I have been working with children since I was 12 years old in a babysitting setting, and I have worked in a professional setting with children for the past 8 years. I have worked with children ages 0-10 years old. I have my Bachelor of Science with a concentration in Human Services from the University of South Carolina – Beaufort. I love to be able to apply my knowledge at Primrose and enrich your child’s experience, by providing a safe environment for your kiddo to grow and explore.
When I am not at Primrose, I enjoy traveling over the weekends to different places and exploring different cultures and cuisines with my spouse. I enjoy being at Primrose, because I love being able to create a positive impact on every family and child. Children are our future and it’s our responsibility as a community to guide them to create a better future!

Ms. Laura Everitt
Hello, my name is Laura Everitt, and I was born and raised right here in Charleston, SC! I have only left my hometown to go to college at Georgia State University to work towards my bachelor’s in psychology. I am known as the “family nanny” and have babysat all the little ones in my family. I have eleven siblings, six older and five younger than I am, so there are plenty of learning opportunities regarding childcare growing up. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge here at Primrose about teaching, brightening the lives of our youth, and helping them with a head start with early education.
During my down time, I love to crochet blankets and sweaters for my family to enjoy! My cat, Mavis, likes to help out with yarn projects too. A quote that I like to live by is “What is done with love, is done well.” by Vincent Van Gogh.

Ms. Boyden
My husband and I moved to the Charleston area from Pennsylvania in 2017. I originally grew up in Beacon, NY prior to the move. I am excited to be joining the Primrose School of Mount Pleasant this school year. I taught at Pattisons Academy when I first moved down here. I earned my BA in Social work from Shippensburg University, but I have a passion for helping educate our wonderful children.
When I am not at Primrose, I enjoy taking walks with my husband or relaxing on the beach. I look forward to providing the best educational experience and getting to watch these children grow up to be the best person they can be and grow their minds. My favorite quote that resonates with me most is “A child’s life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark.” It really stands out because every child picks up what they know, based on who they are surrounded by.

Ms. Henry
Hi, my name is Hannah Henry! I am originally from Mississippi and recently relocated to Charleston in early 2026 after my boyfriend accepted a position at the College of Charleston. I graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2024 with a degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Mathematics. I spent 17 years playing softball, which taught me resilience, teamwork, leadership, and a strong work ethic. These are vital skills I will bring to the classroom daily to best serve each child and my colleagues.
Through volunteer work, summer camps, children’s ministry, babysitting, and nannying, I discovered a passion for supporting young children’s growth and development. I believe every child is capable of success, and I am dedicated to helping them build confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time at the beach, playing pickleball, reading, exploring new coffee shops, and relaxing at home with my cat. At Primrose, I am looking forward to growing as an educator and making a meaningful impact in the lives of the children I teach.

Ms. Williams
I moved to Charleston in 2015 to attend college at Charleston Southern University, where I earned my degree in Early Childhood Education. After graduating in 2019, I couldn’t imagine leaving this beautiful city, so I chose to stay and begin my career in education. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to teach 2nd grade, work in childcare settings, and serve as a nanny. I love having a meaningful impact on children and watching them grow into their unique personalities. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of their developmental journey and help guide them as they learn and discover the world around them.
When I’m not working, I enjoy reading, exploring new coffee shops, spending time with friends and spending relaxing time with my husband. I value using my educational background to support children’s development in all areas and to witness their confidence and individuality flourish. One belief I hold close is that every child is capable, curious, and full of potential. As educators, our job is to nurture that potential and create a space where each child feels seen, supported, and inspired.

Ms. Osborne
Hello, my name is Sophie Osborne, and I moved to the Charleston area from Savannah, Georgia in 2025. I have worked with children basically my whole life! When I graduated high school in 2021, I decided to move to North Dakota and become a one-on-one special education paraprofessional there for three years. I also worked as a general education paraprofessional for an additional year in Georgia.
When I am not at work I enjoy spending time at the beach, traveling, painting, or binge watching my favorite show at home! The thing I love most about working with children is seeing each child’s face light up as they learn something new! I look forward to being able to make a positive impact on my co-workers, students, and their families!

Ms. Olson
My husband and I moved to South Carolina recently because of his job in the military. I’m originally from Logan, Utah which is almost 2,000 miles away! It’s been a big adventure moving, and I absolutely love it here. I’m currently in college studying Music Education. I teach private cello, violin, piano, and vocal lessons to kids ages 6-17 as well as a couple adults. Before I moved, I was also a nanny for a family that had a toddler and a teenager for almost two years. Studying education, teaching lessons, and nannying have all made my love for teaching grow. My grandma, mother, and sister are teachers and watching them change lives has been a big inspiration to my choice of career.
Other than teaching I love music, baking, gardening, going to the beach, and going on dates with my husband. I’m so excited to continue my teaching journey at Primrose. I’m looking forward to being able to guide and support children, and to continue to grow even more passionate about teaching!

Ms. Shafer
I am originally from Texas and after college, I decided to move to the Charleston area! This past May, I graduated from The University of Alabama with my bachelor’s degree in early childhood and elementary education. Through my teaching internship experiences, I have gained valuable insight to prepare me in a variety of ways for my position here at Primrose School of Mount Pleasant.
When I am not at Primrose, I enjoy playing pickleball with my friends and going to the beach! I also enjoy exploring Charleston, since I am new to the area! What I look forward to most at Primrose is being able to create meaningful connections and empower positive learners of the next generation. A quote that resonates with me is “Every child is a different kind of flower, and all together, they make this world a beautiful garden.” This quote emphasizes to me the vital role that I have in nurturing each child’s uniqueness and diverse potential.

Ms. Kennedy
Originally from Ohio, I spent several years in Nashville, Tennessee before moving to Charleston in 2023 to explore new opportunities. With a Bachelor of Science in Social Justice and a minor in Public Policy from Trevecca Nazarene University, I bring valuable experience in advocacy, academic enrichment, and youth engagement, particularly through my work with youth in underserved communities.
Outside the classroom, I enjoy creating art, spending time in nature, and sharing quality time with friends. I’m excited to make a meaningful impact every day by empowering children through early education in a nurturing and supportive environment here at Primrose!
“A Teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart” – Unknown

Ms. Mallon
I was born and raised in Northern California. Upon graduating from high school, I moved to South Carolina to attend college at Coastal Carolina University. I graduated in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in communications and a minor in hospitality. Ultimately, I fell in love with the south and decided to remain in South Carolina. My husband, also a Coastal Carolina Alumni, and I have lived in Charleston for 4 years. We are so excited to become parents this year!
My experience working with children began in California and has continued over the past decade. It began with volunteering in classrooms during breaks from my own school, to working as a lifeguard and teaching swim lessons, to ultimately serving as a nanny for families. It is now an honor to be a member of the Primrose team! Having come from a family of educators, I believe in the magic of looking at the world through children’s eyes and facilitating their learning and personal growth. In the words of Roald Dahl, “Above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.”
When I am not at work, I enjoy going to the beach, reading, walking my dog Oliver, traveling, and spending time with my friends & family. I look forward to working with our youngest learners, their families, and my colleagues!

Ms. Ota
I grew up in a small town on the coast of Connecticut and made my way to Florida to attend Florida Atlantic University. I earned my bachelor’s degree in communications while playing Division I softball. I just recently moved to the Charleston area, and I am excited to explore what Charleston has to offer. My background in athletics taught me the value of teamwork, dedication, and mentorship, which are skills I will now bring into the classroom.
In my free time I love spending time with my two cats, going for runs, playing pickle ball, and golfing. At Primrose, I’m most excited to help children discover their passions and interests, just as I found mine through softball. I believe that every child has a unique spark waiting to be nurtured!

Ms. Lucretta Robertson
Hello, my name is Lucretta Robertson. I started working with children at the age of eleven and I have been in love with this field ever since. I have worked personally and professionally with children and their families for over 30+ years. I enjoy watching your little ones grow and learn new skills. I hope I will continue to be a part of the Primrose family for years to come.
I have three young adults & four grandchildren. I have been given the name Chewie, which is what my grandchildren call me. Besides creating lasting memories with them, I enjoy baking, crafting, painting, and most of all traveling. At this age, the sky’s the limit for this grandma!

Ms. Althea Green
I grew up in New London, CT and then decided to move back to Mount Pleasant in 1999, which is where I was born. I was welcomed as one of the Young Infant Teachers, in which I will nurture and love them as if they were my own. I come with 25 years of experience of raising my own children, as well as 14 years working with highly dysfunctional children and adults.
I love spending time daily with my husband of 12 years and my 3 girls whom I love. I look forward to meeting the parents and the children attending Primrose School of Mount Pleasant and to spread the love, that agape love, that God has shown us.

Ms. Liz Hutto
Hi! My name is Liz and I grew up right here in Mount Pleasant in a very large family. I worked at a summer camp teaching art skills and fell in love with teaching. I love being able to see children flourish and I’m excited to be a part of it here at Primrose. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, writing music, caring for my animals, and spending time at our lovely Charleston beaches. At Primrose, I hope to be able to build connections with the children and families to watch our bonds grow. My favorite part about teaching is being able to see the “lightbulb” moments when a child finally grasps a concept or activity. I am so grateful to have this opportunity of joining the Primrose team!
Ms. Kylie Stoner
My family and I moved to the Charleston area in 2019 from Ohio and I graduated from Summerville High School in 2024. During my senior year, I discovered a passion for working with children while I taught at Flowertown Elementary. This is where I built meaningful relationships with both students and staff.
I enjoy spending my time outside of work connecting with friends, attending church, and expressing my creativity through photography and arts and crafts. At Primrose I am excited about the opportunity to make a meaningful and long-lasting impact on the children in my class, while also building strong, positive relationships with my coworkers. I am deeply passionate about helping others learn, and I strive to create genuine connections that foster both personal development and overall success!
-“They may forget why you said, but they will not forget how you made them feel” -Carl Buechner
Ms. Olivia George
Profile Coming Soon

Franchise Owner
Carmen and Jeff Caldwell
Meet Jeff and Carmen Caldwell, parents of three children and the proud Franchise Owners of Primrose School of Mount Pleasant—the first Primrose school in the Charleston, S.C. area. The high school sweethearts grew up on Hilton Head Island and are excited to return to the Lowcountry and bring the Primrose Experience with them.
Jeff and Carmen were first introduced to Primrose Schools when they moved to Atlanta after college and Carmen accepted a job in the marketing department at the Primrose National Support Center. The wonderful and impactful work of the schools immediately impressed her, and when the couple relocated to Columbus, Ohio, a few years later for a new job opportunity for Jeff, she was eager to stay involved. Shortly after, Carmen’s passion for Primrose Schools inspired her to open Primrose School of Dublin, the first Primrose school in the central Ohio market, with Jeff, his sister and brother-in-law. Now, years later, the Caldwells are excited to introduce Primrose Schools to families in the Charleston area.
“Opening the first Primrose school in the Columbus area was an incredible experience, and I’m proud that there are now 19 schools in central Ohio,” said Carmen. “I loved developing meaningful relationships with the families at our school, and I especially enjoyed seeing infants stay at Primrose through kindergarten and watching them grow. It was immensely fulfilling to be so ingrained in the lives of the people in our community.”
Carmen’s experience will come in handy as the couple prepares to open Primrose School of Mount Pleasant. Jeff, who earned a degree in finance from Miami University in Ohio, looks forward to putting his banking experience to good use to help manage the school, while Carmen, who holds a graphic communications degree from Clemson University, will bring her marketing expertise, franchise experience and insight into the Primrose brand to their business partnership.
“We have loved seeing our children grow through Primrose and how it has helped them—both in and out of the classroom,” said Jeff. “We whole-heartedly believe in this brand, the unparalleled curriculum and the experience it provides for children, and we’re excited to share that with the greater Charleston community.” The couple’s three children—Charlie, Carter and Haddie—have all attended Primrose School since they were infants.
Primrose School of Mount Pleasant will feature the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach for children from 6 weeks of age through Pre-Kindergarten. Developed by Primrose Schools, the research-based curriculum balances purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers to encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion. The school will also offer the Primrose Explorers Program for children up to age 12 before and after school.




