Teachers & Staff

Jen Brown
Hello! My name is Jen Brown. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families. I began my career as a part-time teacher with Gymboree Play and Music, and quickly moved up within the organization as a full-time teacher, site manager, and ultimately Director of Operations for the 3 Atlanta area locations. Like so many others, I had to shift careers during the COVID pandemic and found my way to Primrose Schools. For the last two years I have been working as an Assistant Director at our sister campus, Primrose School Of Druid Hills. My favorite part of every day is seeing families during drop off and pick up hours. I am a local Tucker native, having attended Evansdale Elementary, and Henderson and Lakeside High schools. My first job was working at The Gap right here in Northlake Mall during the Atlanta Summer Olympics. It’s truly a full circle moment for me to join our team in this particular location!
Outside of work, I enjoy anything in, on, or by the water. I also play handbells, sing in an acapella choir made up of local musicians in the Tucker area, and enjoy doting on my fur babies at home.

Tamara Poole
Hello! My name is Tamara Poole. It has always been a passion of mine to make a difference in the lives of children. When I was in pre-k, my teacher purchased a dress and shoes for my graduation and personally delivered them to my house. I may not remember her name but she is the reason why I started my career in Early Childhood Education in 2015. I began my career with Primrose Schools in Brookhaven in 2019. Prior to becoming the Assistant Director at Primrose Emory Northlake, I was the Lead teacher for the Preschool and Pre-K program during my 5 years at the Brookhaven location. I love working for Primrose because they build trusted relationships with the families and do everything in their power to support them through their child’s development.

Marie Daniel
Hi! My name is Marie Daniel and I am so pleased to be the Curriculum Coach here at Primrose School of Emory at Northlake! I am a proud dog mom to two Labradoodles, Max and Bailey. In my spare time, I love spending time with loved ones, discovering new restaurants in the city, and shopping!
In 2018, I began my Primrose journey as a Lead Teacher at our Druid Hills location. In my time there, my passion for literacy and child development began to flourish before my own eyes. Building trusted relationships with my students, their parents, and my peers was the foundation for nurturing the growth and development that took place in my classroom.
Serving our community as an educator has been one of my greatest joys and it is my pleasure to continue pouring into our community of learners!

Constance Carswell
Hi! My name is Constance Carswell. I have a passion for culinary arts and a love for children. I have over 20 years of experience in culinary arts and have cooked for little ones for over 2 years. I am dedicated to introducing your little ones to a variety of foods. Cooking is my love language! Outside of the kitchen, I enjoy shopping and socializing. I’m looking forward to great years here at Primrose School of Emory Northlake.

Samantha Richardson
Hi My name is Samantha Richardson, and I am delighted and thrilled to work with your child(ren) in the Infant room. Since I come from a large family in SC, I have always had a love of caring for children and the elderly. I have 14 years of dedicated, cherished experience working in the education field with infants and toddlers, holding a CDA in that category. My experience is eleven years with the Department of Defense and three years at our sister school, Primrose School of Druid Hills. I’m married to my husband, James for 14 1/2 years. We are a blessed blended family of six with six wonderful grandchildren. I look forward to our partnership in the development of your child’s future with care and love. Thank you for this trusted opportunity.

Louisa Smith
Hello, my name is Louisa Smith. I have worked with children for several years. I am excited to learn the Balanced Learning curriculum, teach it to our young students, and see how they grow and thrive! I am currently enrolled in the Child Development Associate’s program, and hope to graduate this year. I am excited to be a part of the Primrose Emory Northlake team! I cannot wait to get to know you and your family.

Marquasia Sinclair
Hi! I’m Marquasia Sinclair and I’ve been around kids and childcare for as long as I can remember. I grew up helping out in my family’s childcare center, which gave me a deep love and understanding of what it takes to care for children. Over the years, l’ve gained experience working with children of all ages-from infants to school-aged kids. I believe kids learn best when they feel loved, supported, and free to explore at their own pace, and I do my best to create that kind of environment. I also know how important it is to keep open communication with parents and work together to meet each child’s unique needs. Whether it’s through play, learning activities, or just being there with a listening ear, l’m passionate about helping children grow into confident, kind, and curious little people. Thank you for the opportunity to allow me to be a part of your child’s learning journey.

Bedria Beshir
Hi, my name is Bedria Beshir. I have a passion for nurturing the youngest learners during one of the most important stages of development. I focus on creating a safe, loving and stimulating environment where infants can explore, grow, and build secure attachments. I look forward to teaching your precious children and I am happy to join the Primrose family.

Shakira Hightower
Hi, my name is Shakira Hightower! I am a dedicated infant teacher with a passion for nurturing and supporting the earliest stages of development. I create a warm, safe and responsive environment where babies can explore, grow and build secure attachments. I am happy to be a part of the Primrose family!

Zehara Yassin
Hello everyone! My name is Zehara Yassin, and I’m so happy, honored and grateful to have joined the Primrose team. Happily married with four children, I enjoy cooking, walking and volunteering in needy organizations. I remember distinctly my first encounter with childhood education was when I enrolled my first born daughter in Montessori school. Watching small children explore and develop in a nurturing world ignited my passion in childcare. Raising my own children and caring for numerous children of my relatives for the last 18 years has been a pleasure and enriching.
I look forward to making a difference and a positive contribution in the lives of precious children at the Northlake campus. Primrose’s family like environment is very impressive and is where I belong in providing loving and supportive care.

Jalisa Daniels
Hello! My name is Ms. Jalisa. I have been teaching for 20 years. I graduated from Sanford Brown College as a medical assistant. I began my career in education as an assistant infant teacher at Discovery Point and then became a lead teacher of their Private Pre-K. From there, I continued my career as an early preschool lead teacher for 8 years. I believe that each child is unique and learn in different ways. As their teacher, I am dedicated to helping children discover their individuality and helping them reach their developmental milestones. I am incredibly excited to start my new Journey with Primrose. I am looking forward to getting to know you and your children.

Chioma Emmanuel
Hello, my name is Chioma. I am married and a mother of three amazing children. I graduated from Houston Community College with a major in Computer Science. My passion towards children motivated me to take childhood education while I was in school. Children are the most precious little ones that needs proper guidance. The joy one feels making a difference in a child is a wonderful experience. I have a passion for providing a nurturing and welcoming environment for children to help them develop and be the best version of themselves. I have worked with Primrose Schools previously and I’m here to continue making an impact in the lives of children at the Northlake campus. Primrose is like a home where great minds are made and I look forward to working with your children.

Jackie Castañeda
Hi! My name is Jackie Castañeda! I embrace the the energy, curiosity, and growing independence of young children. I love the culture and values Primrose cultivates and I am excited to embark on this journey with your little one!

Lisabette Smith
Hello, my name is Lisabette Smith. I am a graduate of Gwinnett Technical College with my associate’s degree in childhood education. My experience with children began at an early age caring for and playing with my little cousin and volunteering in my school and church. I believe early childhood education involves an extraordinary partnership between the teacher and student. I know I am doing my job well when the children are laughing and smiling. Aside from my adoration for helping children grow and develop, my hobbies include reading, writing, thrifting, singing, and photography. It is an honor to teach at Primrose School of Emory Healthcare, and I look forward to partnering with the children and families in our community.

Sydney Cason
Hi my name is Sydney Cason. I am 24 years old and I’m from Stone Mountain, Ga. I have been working with kids for over 2 and a half years. I have worked with infants all the way to school-aged children. I have a very strong passion with working with children and helping to nurture and grow their minds. I am a mom to a 1 year old boy who is the love of my life. I am also currently in my junior year at Georgia State University studying to get my bachelors degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Human Learning Development. I am very excited to embark on this journey with you as a teacher at Primrose School of Emory Healthcare.

Meaza Kassa
Hi, My name is Meaza Kassa. I was born in Ethiopia and moved to America for a better life. I have a family of six including four children. I have been teaching preschool for over 9 years and looking forward to many more. During my time with Primrose, I am looking forward to helping children achieve their developmental milestones.

Tariere Bob-nabena
Hi there, my name is Tari, and I am excited to be part of the Primrose School of Emory Healthcare Northlake Campus community. I am a wife and mother with a deep passion for supporting young children as they grow into the leaders of tomorrow.
Coming from a family of educators, I developed an early appreciation for the impact nurturing guidance and quality education have on a child’s future. With years of experience working with children in early learning environments, I am committed to creating supportive, engaging spaces where children feel valued, confident, and excited to learn. I look forward to partnering with families to help every child build a strong foundation for success.

Consuela Hunter
Hello, My name is Consuela Hunter. I’m a wife with 4 wonderful adult children. My family is my Heart! I started my career in childcare 19 years ago. During that time, I’ve always known that I had a passion for working with children and their families. I’ve had the joy of working with toddlers all the way up to Pre-k children. I am pleased to be an Early Preschool Teacher and a part of the Primrose family. I look forward to working with each and every family!

Malti Patel
Hi! My name is Malti Patel. I was born and raised in India, where I finished my Bachelor’s degree in commerce. I have worked with Preschools for over 16 years. I have always loved sharing my knowledge as much as I have with others. I love helping, playing, caring for, and entertaining children. I am happy to be a part of the Primrose family!! I am looking forward to growing with Primrose!

Ka'vionshay Green
Hi, My name is Ms. Shay. I have been in childcare for three years now. I am from Albany, GA. I love helping and sharing my knowledge with children. I am so happy to be apart of Primrose!

Shippi Uddin
Hi my name is Shippi Uddin! I am passionate and committed to preparing young learners for future academic and social success. I strive to build a positive classroom community where every child feels valued, encouraged, and excited to learn. I am excited to work with your children and be a part of Primrose School of Emory Healthcare-Northlake Campus!

Justin Merrill
Hi there, my name is Justin Merrill and I am super excited to be a part of the Primrose school of Emory Healthcare Northlake Campus family as the lead preschool teacher. I was born in Springfield, Illinois and raised in Brooklyn New York. I moved to Georgia in 2007 with my mom. I have 16 years of experience working in the early childhood education field, with five of those years in a Primrose preschool classroom. I am thrilled to bring the Balanced Learning Curriculum to life in the classroom. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education in 2019 from Ashford University. I always knew from a young age that I wanted to be a teacher. Seeing my teachers get creative and find fun, engaging and creative lessons to help me learn was such a talent to watch in itself. I believe as teachers we truly have many hats. My goal is to create a space where each child can learn at their own pace, learn from their teachers and peers, and thrive together. As the days, weeks and months go by, it’s a joy to watch the transformation in each individual child and to see their growth. I believe when each school year begins each child comes in as a seed. But as the school year goes on, they begin to grow slowly, but they grow with knowledge and learning more about themselves and the world around them and we get to see how beautiful , delicate and unique they are. As a teacher, I will nourish them so that they can bloom and show their brilliance of color. I am excited to meet you all and to watch our preschoolers grow.

Franchise Owner
Laura and Paul Stechmesser
Meet Laura and Paul Stechmesser — proud Franchise Owners of Primrose School of Druid Hills and now, Primrose School at Emory Healthcare – Northlake Campus. 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 continue to bring exceptional early learning experiences to children in the Northlake community. With three young children of their own, the Stechmessers know first-hand the challenges of finding high-quality early education and care.
“We love this community and are invested in helping children grow into future leaders during their first five years,” said Laura Stechmesser. “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.”
A Clemson graduate and a University of Tennessee alum, Laura and Paul met in Atlanta and have been married for more than 15 years. They are incredibly proud of their three children: Lilly, Luke and Mary Hazel. Paul serves as the Creative Director for 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.”
At nearly 13,000 square feet, the school will feature 11 classrooms and secure, age-appropriate playgrounds and equipment. The school will also feature 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 Primrose 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.




