Teachers & Staff

Jamie Keel
Hello, my name is Jamie Keel and I am pleased to introduce myself as the Executive Director for the Primrose School of Atascocita, Primrose School at Crossroads Park, Primrose School of Copperfield, Primrose School of Greatwood, and Primrose School at Balmoral. I started my career in early childhood in 2009 and have worked with Primrose Schools since 2010. I graduated from Louisiana State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications, however continued my education at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas. It was at the University of St. Thomas where I completed my education coursework and obtained an early childhood through 6th grade teacher certification. I have experience as a Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Lead Teacher as well as Leadership experience as both Assistant Director and School Director. My husband Adam and I have three amazing children who all attended Primrose. Primrose is more than a school for us; it is a part of our family! I am proud to say I get to work at the very best preschool for infant through kindergarten and after school care for the Northwest Houston, Northeast Houston, Jersey Village, Cypress, Sugar Land, and surrounding areas.
Primrose Faculty Since August 2010

Lindsey Griffin
Hi, my name is Lindsey Griffin and I am pleased to introduce myself as the Regional Director for the Primrose School at Crossroads Park, Primrose School of Copperfield. I started my career working in early childhood in 2010 and have worked with the Primrose Schools since 2012. I have an Associates Degree of Arts in Teaching from Lone Star College. While working in the Primrose Schools I have held many titles from Lead Teacher, Administrative Assistant, Assistant Director, Director, and now Regional Director. I enjoy coming into the schools each day to see smiling children learning new things each day as well as working hand in hand with our teachers and leadership teams to help them grow to become the best teachers and leaders of Houston in early childhood education.
Primrose Faculty Since May 2012

Rebecca Hogenson
As the Director of Learning and Development for Primrose School of Copperfield and Primrose School at Crossroads Park, I am passionate about ensuring every child entrusted to our care receives the highest-quality education in a nurturing, supportive and fun environment. I work closely with our dedicated faculty to help them grow as educators, supporting their development so they can bring out the best in every student they teach.
With over 14 years of experience at Primrose—starting as a teacher and eventually serving as a School Director for eight years—I bring a deep understanding of early childhood education and a heartfelt commitment to serving families. I believe in creating an environment where both children and teachers can thrive.
My husband and I live in the Copperfield area with our two young children, who also attend Primrose, and two dogs. We love spending time together as a family, whether we’re out and about or enjoying a cozy evening at home. I’m also passionate about cooking, reading, and, most of all, being a mom.
It’s a true privilege to support families and educators each day, and I’m honored to play a role in shaping such an important part of children’s lives.
Primrose faculty since February 2011

Idalis Stevenson
My name is Idalis Stevenson, and I am honored to serve as the Center Director at Primrose at Crossroads Park. With a decade of experience in early childhood education, I am deeply committed to fostering a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where children can grow and thrive.
Throughout my career, I have held various roles, including Toddler-Twos Teacher, Education Director, Assistant Director, and Center Director. My approach to education is rooted in the belief that curiosity should be nurtured through play, each child’s unique developmental journey should be supported, and strong partnerships with families are essential for meaningful learning experiences both in the classroom and at home.
Outside of work, I am happily married and the proud parent of three wonderful children, along with three energetic fur babies who bring joy to our home. I enjoy reading, crocheting, crafting with my kids, and spending quality time with family.
I look forward to getting to know each of you and your incredible children. Being part of this warm, dedicated community is truly a privilege, and I am always available to support you in any way I can. Please feel free to reach out at any time!

Fadwa Talje
My name is Mrs. Talje, and I am honored to introduce myself as the Director of Education here at Primrose. I am a Summa Cum Laude graduate from the University of Houston–Downtown. Since joining the Primrose family in October 2021 as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher, I have been deeply committed to early childhood education, dedicating the past 10 years to fostering young learners’ growth and development.
What initially drew me to Primrose—and what continues to inspire me—is the Balanced Learning approach, which perfectly blends purposeful play with teacher-led instruction. As both an educator and a parent, with my two children enrolled in Early Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten, I understand firsthand the importance of creating a nurturing, enriching environment that sets the foundation for lifelong learning.
I am truly excited to step into this new role and look forward to supporting our teachers and your children as we continue delivering a high-quality educational experience. Thank you for the warm welcome—I look forward to partnering with you on this journey!
Primrose Faculty since October 2021

Tracey Cisneros
Hi, my name is Tracey and I have worked in early education for 12 wonderful years, all with the same school before moving to Houston. I started out with infants and worked my way into the preschoolers then into the front office. I am so glad to be in Houston and a part of the Primrose family!

Darianna Castro
Hello, my name is Darianna Castro and I am currently attending the University of Houston Downtown to finish my bachelors degree in marketing! I have been working with children for 5 years and have been with Primrose for over a year now. I started as an assistant teacher in preschool 2, and now work as multi school support. I love all of the bonds I have grown with the children and families at the school. In my free time I love to spend time with my family, explore new restaurants and creating new friendships!

Lupe Cano
I am born and raised in Houston, Texas and have worked with children since 2019. Outside of work, I love spending time with family and friends. I am in my health journey so if I am not with family and friends, I am at the gym. I love traveling as well and my favorite state I have visited so far is Oregon. I’m excited for the school year and look forward for all the memories that are going to be made in our classroom.

Kimberly Brezinsky
Hi, my name is Ms.Kimberly, I was born and raised in Southern California. I moved to Texas in 2022 and began my adventure with Primrose January of 2026! I have worked with children of all ages for many years, but my passion is infants. I love seeing them grow and learn many skills. In my free time I enjoy watching my nephew play basketball and bake with my niece. I also love going to live sporting events watching baseball. I cannot wait to connect with all the families and help your little ones grow!

Alicia Benitez
Hi! I’m Ms. Benitez. I’m the assistant teacher in the Toddler classroom. I graduated from the University of Houston Downtown with a degree in Psychology. I have been working in childcare for over 4 years and I find working with children to be very rewarding. In my spare time I love spending time outdoors with my family more than anything else. I look forward to helping our infants learn and grow!

Ashley Silva Penaloza
Hello, my name is Ms. Ashley Silva Penaloza. I was born and raised in Houston, Texas and consider myself a proud Texan. I joined the Primrose Crossroads team in 2025 and look forward to many more happy years. I love to watch the little ones grow and learn new things each day as they develop into their own little personalities. I look forward to learning and growing in the field of early education while developing my skillset as an educator. Thank you for giving me the honor and privilege of getting to know you!

Da'Jonae Phlegm
Hi there! I’m Da’Jonae. I wanted to tell you a little about myself. I am originally from San Antonio and I have worked in childcare since 2019. I love to nurture and care for children. In my free time, what better way to spend it than to babysit! I love also love cooking. I am most proud of helping to create positive attachments for my babies each and everyday! I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family!

Jennifer Amezcua
Hello! I am Ms. Jennifer and I have over 13 years of experience in the field of Early Education and care. I am grateful to be part of the Primrose Crossroads Park team as of 2025 and look forward to helping each child learn and grow to meet their full potential. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, running and Zumba! Zumba helps to keep my body and mind active. I look forward to meeting each and every student and family member. Let’s have a great year!

Taniesha Hill - Shaka
Hi, my name is Taniesha Hill – Shaka and I have been in childcare for 6 years. I also have experience working with special needs and have substituted at elementary school. My favorite part about working with children is putting a smile on their face. I look forward to creating bonds with the children and families here at Primrose!

Emily Palomares
I have worked in childcare for almost a year, but I am hoping to pursue a career in education and special needs. I love incorporating any type of art in my everyday life. I am the oldest of four girls and have a two-year-old son. I can’t wait to learn so much about my little students!

Rubi Avila
Hi! I am Ms.Rubi the assistant teacher in the early preschool 1 classroom and working with children has always been a dream of mine. Although I have one year of child care experience, working here at Primrose helps me grow into becoming a great teacher. During my free time I like to spend time shopping, playing arcade games and enjoying time with my family and best friend!

Toni Draper
Hello I am Mrs.Toni and I’m the lead teacher here at Primrose for Early Preschool Two. I joined the Primrose team in 2025 and bring over 10 years of experience working with children. I truly enjoy observing their growth and being a part of their early learning journey. Watching their personalities develop and helping them reach new milestones is the most rewarding part of my day. In my free time, I love going to the spa and having fun girls’ days with my kids.

Ariel Stewart
Hello! My name is Ms. Ariel. I graduated from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in 2021 with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. I have been working in childcare for six years. I’m so excited to meet you all and to share in the many exciting things your children will discover while in my class. I look forward to getting to know you and helping your children learn and grow throughout the year.

Deborah Velasquez
Greetings! My name is Deborah Velasquez and I am delighted to be part of the Primrose Crossroads Park team. I have nearly 10 years of experience in the field of Early Education and Care and it is my pride and joy to impact children’s lives and help them to reach each milestone. Not only do I love to educate young minds, but I also am a registered dental assistant and love to use this in the classroom teaching children daily hygiene habits and care routines. In my personal time, I enjoy spending time with my family, listening to music and enjoying movie days! Thank you for giving me the privilege and honor of teaching your child!

Juanny Mendez
Hi, I’m Ms. Mendez. I have over 20 years of childcare experience. I’ve been married for 26 years, and I have one son. I make it a point to show up with a smile on my face every day, bringing lots of positive energy. I look forward to not only teaching but also learning from each child I have the pleasure of working with.
Primrose Faculty Since March 2017

Katy Marquina
Hello! I am Mrs.Katy and I joined Primrose in 2018. During my time here I have enjoyed watching watching my students grow and learn so much. It is always amazing to see them accomplish new milestones. On my free time I love spending time with my family. We love to go on trips and explore new places to eat!

Savannah Valenzuela
My name is Savannah, I have a daughter, and I am currently in college majoring in education. In my free time, I like to bake and spend time with my daughter Eliana. I enjoy spending time helping children grow and learn. I hope to get to know more about your families!

Vanessa Vargas
Hello! I’m Ms. Vargas, and I’m the lead teacher in our Preschool 1 classroom. I have been working in childcare for many years, and I find it to be incredibly rewarding. I hold a degree in Business Management from San Jacinto College. I’m also a new mom to a baby girl, and between my sweet baby and active dog, I stay busy most days at home. At Primrose, we are a family, and we care for every child as though they were our own. Just like your home, our school provides a secure, nurturing environment that fosters self-discovery and a love of learning.
Primrose Faculty since December 2021

Chantal Simental
Hello, my name is Ms. Chantal, and I am the assistant teacher in the Preschool classroom. I am currently enrolled at Lone Star College, working toward my associate degree. After completing my associate’s, I plan to enroll at the University of Houston to study interior design. I’ve worked with children since I was 19 and have over 4 years of experience in an educational setting. Every day in the classroom brings a new story to share, and I absolutely love it!

Tiffany Washington
My name is Mrs. Washington, and I’m the Lead Teacher in our Preschool 2 classroom. I’m originally from Louisiana and enjoy visiting and spending time with my family there. I’m the mother of three wonderful children. I love watching children learn new skills and being a part of their learning journey.
Primrose faculty since March 2021

Briana Lopez
Greetings! I am Ms. Briana Lopez. I was born originally in Los Angeles, California and later moved to Houston, Tx. I’ve worked alongside children in education for over three years and my favorite part of being in this field is watching each child grow and develop. I aspire each day to create an individual bond with each student and foster each child’s potential. In my spare time, I enjoy crafting, playing guitar reading, skateboarding an going to the park with my dog. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your child’s educational journey!

Nancy Abraham
Hello, my name is Mrs. Nancy, and I am a proud mother of two amazing children. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Art and have been teaching since 2014. I truly love creating bonds with each and every child, it warms my heart to see them smile. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family during our Saturday movie nights, as well as traveling, swimming, and trying new adventures!

Neerali Farag
Hi! My name is Neerali Farag and I have been working with children since 2013. I enjoy every moment of it as I love to watch them learn and grow. I have a family of 4 and together we love to spend time as a family by eating together, playing card games, and Jenga. I am currently pursuing my degree in liberal arts and humanities and plan on graduating in 2028.
Primrose Faculty since August 2022

Soniya Mahmood
Hello, I’m Mrs.Soniya, the assistant teacher is Pre-Kindergarten two. I was born in Pakistan, but raised in New York City. I have worked in childcare for 7 years and recently joined Primrose in January 2026. I am married to my amazing husband and together we have 4 children, 2 girls and 2 boys. I look forward to meeting your families!

Maria Rocha
Hello, my name is Ms. Rocha. I was born in Tamaulipas, Mexico and moved to Roma, Texas in 1980. I am a very happy person who loves to share my free time with family. I graduated from Roma High School. I married the love of my life, my husband in 1997 and have been together happily for 25 years. I have 3 children, my son Luz, daughter Isabel and daughter Milagros. I love that I am working for Primrose because my ideas are truly valued. I am honored to be able to teach and watch the babies grow.
Primrose Faculty since September 2021

Diana Avendano
Hello, my name is Ms. Diana. I was born in Laredo but grew up in Houston. My husband and I have been married for over 14 years and have a beautiful daughter named Bianca. I have over 10 years of childcare experience. I’ve worked at Primrose Crossroads Park since 2019 but I’ve also worked at Primrose Copperfield since 2014. I love working in early childhood education and look forward to meeting our families.
Primrose Faculty Since February 2019

Maya Ford
My name is Maya Ford, and I have been professionally working with children of all ages from infants to older kids for four years. I’ve always had a passion for working with children because I enjoy watching them grow and learn at each stage of development. I strive to be the best teacher I can be for my students and to show them compassion, because everyone deserves kindness in their lives.

Donna Van Handel
Hi, My name is Donna. I have a long history in Food Service and am very excited to bring my skills to Primrose. My husband and I welcomed a baby boy into our family November of 2022 and are so thrilled to be parents for the first time! We have a dog named Xena as well as 5 goats, 2 chickens, and a cat named Katarina.

Angle Wise
Hello! My name is Ms. Wise and I am the bus driver for the Primrose School at Crossroads Park Before and Afterschool Program. It is my pride and joy to bring a smile and safety to each of the students in my care. I joined the Primrose Crossroads team in 2025 and look forward to many more joyous years. Thank you for entrusting me to transport and care for your child!

Franchise Owner
Matt and Anne Evers
Hello Parents!
We are the franchise owners of Primrose School at Crossroads Park.
In 2015, our Primrose journey started where many of you are right now – trying to find the best child care option for our new son. Through that search we were so impressed with Primrose that we decided to become owners. Both our children, Cooper (11) and Cannon (9) attend Primrose and we are very involved in the day to day operation.
If you are looking for a great child care option from a place that treats you like family, please come by for a tour. We would love to introduce you to our professional leadership team and amazing faculty. Everyone at the Primrose School at Crossroads Park is dedicated to providing a safe, loving, and high quality educational experience for your child. We strive to be the very best preschool for infant through kindergarten and after school care for the Northwest Houston, Jersey Village, Cypress, and surrounding areas.
Thank you for sharing these important years of your child’s life with our family!
Matt and Anne Evers are also proud owners of Primrose School of Copperfield, Primrose School of Atascocita, Primrose School of Greatwood, Primrose School at Balmoral, Primrose School of Sugar Land.




