My name is Pamela Tolbert, and I am the Head of School here at the Primrose School at Mountainside. I have over 30 years of experience working with young children, and have held the positions of teacher, tutor, Education Specialist, and Director in early childhood and elementary school programs. I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Education with a specialization in Early Childhood Education. I also am a certified teacher in Pre-K through Eighth Grade. As an educational professional and as a mother, I know how important it is to build the Right Foundation in Learning and in Life at a young age.  I am so passionate about Primrose’s curriculum, which focuses not only on academic excellence, but also character and social emotional development, as well as physical development.

On a personal note, I live locally with my husband and three adult children. I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, traveling, eating healthy, and going to the gym.

My name is Deepa and I am the Admissions Director at Primrose. I have my Masters in Commerce and Accounting. Before joining Primrose I have worked for over 10 years in a corporate environment namely the Banking and Insurance sector. I have always had a passion to work with children. I take every opportunity where I can to volunteer at different events for my childrens’school. What I like most about Primrose School is their approach towards the different development needs of children. I truly appreciate the freedom kids are given to make choices under proper direction.

My family is my lifeline and I am truly blessed with awesome twin daughters. I love spending every extra moment I have with them. We love going to the beach and museums. A cup of coffee and a good book are my best buddies for a little mommy time.

Hello! My name is Jasmine Amos and I am the Assistant Director at Primrose School at Mountainside. I graduated from Albany State University where I studied Health and Human Performance. I support Pam & Deepa in their respective roles in this position. I previously worked in an administrative role at a recreation center in my home state of Georgia. I am excited to work with young children once again.

Three fun facts about me:

• I am a Christian
• I worked as a flight attendant for 7 years.
• I am a huge fan of the Atlanta Falcons Football Team!

What do you like best about Primrose?

The staff and parents here are super nice. When I started, I received such a warm welcome. Primrose Schools has such a great atmosphere for the kids and the staff!

Hello, my name is Beverly and I am the Infant Teacher here at Primrose school. I have four children, 3 sons and a daughter, and I’m also a proud Grandma. I have 30 years of experience working with children including children with special needs. I taught Kindergarten at the YMCA for 9 years, and I was the owner and operator of Montclair Riding Academy where I hosted children’s birthday parties. I also worked as a manager at the Young Chef’s school where I taught children to cook.

Three fun facts about me:

• • I love to cook and bake.

• • I love to play with my dogs.

• • I love spending time with my family.

What do you like the most about Primrose School?

What I like about Primrose is the low ratio of children to teachers because it allows for more one-on-one time with the children.

Hello, My name is Jacqueline and I have been working with children for about ten years. I am one of the Young Infant teachers here at Primrose. I love to watch them learn, play and grow. It brings me joy to watch their beautiful smile when they learn something new, I’m so happy to have the opportunity to work with your children as one of their teachers.

Three fun facts about me:

·I love being on the beach.

·I love to read.

·I have three children and three dogs.

What do you like best about Primrose?

I like Primrose curriculum that is provided for the children

My name is Evelyn. I am currently working on my Bachelor’s degree for Early Childhood Education (Preschool through 3rd Grade) with an endorsement in Special Education at Kean University.  I enjoy working with children and would love to become a Kindergarten teacher.

Three fun facts about me:

• I love baking.
• I am a Cancer.
• Go Yankees!

 What do you like best about Primrose?

I really like our Wonder Program here at Primrose School.  We do such fun and engaging activities with the children.  I love to see their smiling faces!

Hi! My name is Cynthia! I am currently enrolled in am online school, SNHU, to receive my Bachelors Degree in education. I enjoy working with children because I believe they are our great future, and we are a part of it!

Three fun facts about me:

• I have a daughter
• My favorite color is yellow
• I love the summer!

What do you like best about Primrose?

The staff is very welcoming and kind.

Hi! My name is Saniya Cowins and I am one of the Young Toddler Teachers here at Primrose. I currently attend Kean University with a major in early childhood education. I love working with kids and teaching them new and different things everyday.

Three fun facts about me:

•My favorite color is pink.

• I love to dance.

•I love to shop

What do you like best about Primrose?

I love how Primrose has an amazing work and teaching environment.

Hello, my name is Tiana and I am one of the young toddler teachers here at Primrose! I am a Virgo; I attend Kean University College and major in accounting, but I thought of changing my major to Education so I can become a teacher. I am so excited to watch your child grow and learn throughout this year!

Three fun facts about me:

·I love TikTok.

·I love going out to eat.

·I love to listen to music.

What do you like best about Primrose?

I like that primrose is a very positive work environment and that I spend all day smiling and enjoying my time with the kids.

Hello, my name is Joy, and I am excited to join the Primrose family! I have always loved working with kids; they bring so much joy and energy into the world. I am happy to be a part of their day, helping them learn and watching them build confidence in themselves. I enjoy the positive impact I can make on their lives.

Three fun facts about me:

• I love to shop
• I have a twin sister
• I love to bake

What do you like best about Primrose?

I love the caring and nurturing environment Primrose offers to all the children.

Hello everyone! My name is Maradis, but I go by Mara! My journey in education started shortly after high school, I have had the pleasure of working in various schools with various age groups for the last 15+ years! I have a college background in Early Education and am currently continuing my education. I didn’t always know that I wanted to teach and help little minds develop, but shortly after starting this journey I knew this is where my heart belongs.

Three fun facts about me:

• I love traveling and spending time with my daughters
• My favorite food is pizza!
• My favorite animal is an elephant.

What do you like best about Primrose?

The welcoming environment for the staff as well as families and students. I am excited to be a part of the Primrose family!

Hello! My name is Janiyah and I am one of the toddler teachers here at Primrose. I love working with young toddlers and am excited to be in this class. I will also be going back to school for nursing to become an RN.

Three fun facts about me:

• I am the oldest of 7 kids.
• My favorite colors are pink and red.
• I love to go on walks in my free time.

What do you like best about Primrose?

I like that everyone here at Primrose works together to make it a great workplace for the staff and a nurturing environment for the children.

Hi, my name is Ashley, and I am an All-Star Cheerleading Coach for Jewelz Elite All-Star based in Newark, NJ. I am the youngest of 12 children. I love bedazzling junk socks and sneakers and traveling to new places.

Three fun facts about me:

• I love Mickie Mouse!
• My favorite colors are orange and yellow.
• I’ve been a hairstylist for 17 years!

What do you like best about Primrose?

The staff is very welcoming and the environment for the students is safe!

Hello, my name is Jaileen and I am one of the Early Preschool teachers here at Primrose. I’ve been in the education field for over ten years, doing many different things. I love working in the Early Preschool classroom because I can teach the children the fundamentals of life and watch them explore as they learn new things.

Three fun facts about me:

•I love to bake and do arts and crafts.

•My favorite color is pink.

•I have 3 daughters!

What do you like the most about Primrose?

I love the balanced learning curriculum Primrose provides.

My name is Ms. Yamilet, and I am an Early Preschool teacher here at Primrose! I have a license in Cosmetology and certification in Clinical Care! I have volunteered and surrounded myself around kids since I was 16 years old. Their energy and charisma bring me so much joy. I love to see them grow and use their imagination go Wild!

Three fun facts about me:

• I have a son.
• I participated in NYFW 2021 as a Makeup Artist
• I love to travel

What do you like best about Primrose?

I love Primrose’s commitment to child development and how positive the

Hello, my name is Shamoni, and I am excited to join Primrose! I am passionate about working with children and helping them learn and grow. I have over 2 years of experience taking care of children ranging in various ages. I am dedicated, patient and always focused on building positive relationships with both kids and their families!

Three fun facts about me:

• I love listening to music
• My favorite color is pink
• On my free time I love doing my makeup

What do you like best about Primrose?

I enjoy the atmosphere and can’t wait to work with everyone!

Hello, my name is Sarita and I am an Early Preschool Teacher here at Primrose School. I love working with all of the children here at the school. I have been working in early childhood education for over 16 years.

Three fun facts about me:

• I love art
• I love to draw
• I enjoy watching scary and funny movies

What I like about Primrose?

I love that everyone greets each other with happy smiles throughout the day and so do I!  My motto is Happy Teacher + Happy Parents = Happy children and a great day for everyone.

Hello, my name is Sada! I am excited to be working in the Early Preschool classroom here at Primrose School. I love helping children grow and learn. Working with children is such an incredible honor that I get to fulfill every day. When I am not in the classroom, I am at home playing games with my friends and family.

Three fun facts about me:

I am a Virgo.

My favorite color is purple.

I love to swim.

What do you like best about Primrose School?

I love that everyone is treated like family here at Primrose

Hello! My name is Kathy Smitatacz and I am a Early Preschool Teacher here at Primrose School. I attended Union County College as well as Kean University with a major in Early Childhood Education and Sociology. I always had a passion to work with children. I have experience working with children from Infants up to 5 years of age. I am also a mom of a boy and a girl. I look forward to every opportunity to spend time with my children because they are my bundle of joy.

Three fun facts about me:

• I love to sing.
• I love to go on vacation with my family.
• I enjoy watching movies.

What do you like best about Primrose?

Primrose school has a very trusting and nurturing environment. Parents and teachers are wonderful individuals.

Hi, my name is Mrs. Jennie and I am excited to be the teacher for Pathways this school year. I cannot wait to see what the rest of the school year has in store. I am not only your child’s teacher but I am also a mother. This will allow me to care for your child as if they were my own, with lots of hugs and tickles.

In recent years, I have developed a love for teaching but that wasn’t always the passion I had. I have an Associates degree in Culinary Art. I am also bilingual.

Three fun facts about me:

• • My favorite color is Lavender

• • My secret superpower is being a chef

• • Spanish is my secret language

What do you like about Primrose?

The thing I love most about Primrose School is the opportunity I have to continue to learn and grow as a teacher. I am excited to get to know the families as well.

Hello! My name is Ms. Stephanie, and I am one of the Pathways Teachers here at Primrose School. I am a mom to a little girl and expecting another girl! I am excited to get to know your child and help them learn and grow!

Three fun facts about me:

·I love to play soccer.

·I enjoy cooking.

·I enjoy reading a good book.

What do you like best about Primrose?

I enjoy creating special bonds with all the children.

Hi! My name is Ebonie Martin and I am one of the Preschool teachers here at Primrose! I currently have my associates degree for Early Childhood Education at UCC! I am so excited to work alongside you and your child this school year!

Three fun facts about me:

·I love kids.

·I love to shop.

·My birthday is in August

What do you like best about Primrose?

I like how Primrose provides a wonderful learning experience for the kids.

Hello, my name is Vanessa, and I am one of the Preschool Teachers here at Primrose! I am originally from Elizabeth, NJ. I recently graduated from Franciscan University, a small college in Ohio! I graduated with a bachelor’s in theology and psychology. I plan on going back to get my masters in mental health counseling, with a specialty working with children.

Three fun facts about me:

• I am a first-generation Colombian American
• I know how to line dance
• I met Pope Francis

What do you like about Primrose?

I enjoy how friendly and kind the staff are!

Hi, my name is Bonnie, I am a teacher here at Primrose. I have a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature with a minor in Creative writing. I have experience working with children through babysitting, tutoring, and teaching. I have experience with all ages, but I find the Preschool group excites me the most. I come from a big family of 4 siblings and many younger cousins so being around children is all that I know and something I will always love!

Three fun facts about me:

• NYC is my favorite place (that I’ve seen so far).
• I love to write poems.
• I am a winter baby, but I love summer .

What do you like best about Primrose?

I appreciate the structure and the commitment to ensuring that families can bring their children to an institution that they trust.

Hi! My name is Emely, and I am one of the Preschool teachers here at Primrose! I was born in Brooklyn, New York, and I have 2 brothers. Since I was 8 years old, I have lived and went to school in Elizabeth, New Jersey. I attended Montclair State University and graduated in May 2025.

Three fun facts about me:

• I like to crochet
• My favorite movie is Up
• My favorite color is purple

What do you like best about Primrose?

I enjoy the learning environment, and the staff seem very welcoming.

Hello, my name is Alicia. I have been working in Preschool for 6 years and have also taught art and music. I have been both a lead and assistant teacher for all inclusive learning environments, supporting children with special needs and disabilities. I have a degree in business management and hope to have my own business in the education field. I feel honored to have the opportunity to make a positive and meaningful impacts on children’s learning and development.

Three fun facts about me:

• I enjoy making art, sculpture, painting and drawing
• I am attending graduate school to earn my masters in education K-6
• I have traveled across the country in one month. Driving solo from coast to coast.

 What do you like best about Primrose?

The classrooms are welcoming and organized. Teachers are friendly, communicative, and help facilitate a sense of tribe to the daycare environment. Primrose offers students the opportunities they need to explore and create their own learning process with the help and support of their teachers.

Hello friends! My name Is Mrs. Catherine, and I am one of the Pre Kindergarten teachers here. I was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey. I am Portuguese and can speak three languages. I am a newlywed; my husband is a sheriff police officer. I am fur mommy to three puppies. I graduated from Kean University with my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. I am so excited to be teaching at Primrose School.

Three fun facts about me:

• • I love chocolate.

• • I enjoy reading

• • I am all about cleanliness and organization.

What do you like the best about Primrose School?

As much as I love how everyone here is family nothing beats Primrose’s balanced learning curriculum!

Hello! My name is Diane Connor and I am one of the Pre-Kindergarten teachers here at Primrose. It is a passion of mine to build relationships and encourage creativity with young children, especially when it comes to music and art. I owned a business “Sing a Song” LLC for 18 years. We taught music classes in preschools throughout New Jersey. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Concordia College in Bronxville, NY. I’m very happy to be here at Primrose, and I’m excited to teach and spend the day with your wonderful children.

Three fun facts about me:

•I love the ocean and plan to have a beach house.

• I’m an outdoors person and love taking walks.

•I love eating healthy foods especially raw vegetables.

What do you like best about Primrose?

I like how friendly and caring the staff and families are here at Primrose!

Hello, I’m Ms. Gloria and I am one of the Pre Kindergarten teachers here at Primrose! I have been working with children for the past fifteen years and have a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with Early Elementary Education. Teaching children has been a very rewarding and enjoyable experience throughout the years, and I am happy to continue teaching and learning at Primrose School. It is amazing to see the children grow and learn so quickly, and see what motivates them, and I am glad to be a part of it!

Three fun facts about me:

• • I enjoy dancing

• • I love performing arts

• • I play various sports

What do you like about Primrose School?

I love the variety of approaches to learning and different activities that are designed to develop the whole child.

Hello! My name is Tamra Petrona and I am one of the Pre-Kindergarten Teachers here at Primrose. I have an Associates Degree in Arts & Social Sciences from Jamaica (my home country) and a professional certificate from ASU in ESL education. I have always had a passion for educating others and found that my goals aligned with Primrose Schools. I look forward to developing young minds and hopefully make the world a better place.

Three fun facts about me:

•I am Caribbean-Jamaican.

• I love to read.

•I enjoy listening to podcasts.

What do you like best about Primrose?

I love that Primrose is inclusive. Primrose has a passion for not only education but also wants to mold great human beings.

Hello, my name is Andrea Cota, and I am one of the kindergarten teachers here at Primrose. I have a degree in Elementary Education, and I have two wonderful sons. I love the beach and gardening, I also enjoy children’s literature. My favorite place is Cape Cod Massachusetts. My favorite color is pink, and I love Mexican food

Three fun facts about me:

·I grew up in Massachusetts.

·I love flowers.

·I enjoy being near water and swimming.

What do you like best about Primrose?

I enjoy the environment and the curriculum in place for the children!

My name is  Mrs. Radeyah, and I am the Explorer’s teacher here at Primrose! I am a child of God, wife, and mother to 5 beautiful children whom I love dearly. I was a stay-at-home mother for 17 years and love being around children!

Three fun facts about me:

• I love to cook
• Fall is my favorite season
• I enjoy my coffee

What do you like best about Primrose?

I love children and the nurturing environment that Primrose sets for the students.

Hi! My name is Mrs. Cristina, and I am very pleased to assist with driving the school bus. I am originally from the Dominican Republic. I spent some time living in New York before moving to New Jersey. I am a proud wife to an awesome husband and mother to an amazing son. I am a nature lover who also enjoys baking various kinds of desserts.

Three fun facts about me:

• I have a twin brother.
• I love photography.
• I have visited 27 out of 50 of the United States.

What do you like best about Primrose?

What I love most about Primrose is the friendly staff and parents, as well as the flexibility in the schedule.

Hello! My name is Emily Bober and I am one of the support teachers here at Primrose! In school I majored in Psychology which is my passion. I recently obtained my master’s! I love animals, especially dogs. I also love to sing, dance, build things (with Legos) and paint. Most importantly I love family time. I can’t wait to see your child grow in every way!

Three fun facts about me:

·I have a bearded dragon, bird, and two bunnies.

·I love to paint.

·I want to be a child & adolescent therapist for my future career.

What do you like best about Primrose?

I like how Primrose has a great environment to work in. I also enjoy how the staff here shows so much kindness to one another and welcomed me.

Hi, my name is Isabella, and I am an education major at Union College! I have a 14-year-old brother, and a French Mastiff named Ruby. I like to go to the gym, bedazzle things, and go on road trips!

Three fun facts about me:

• My favorite color is pink
• I danced for 13 years
• I want to become a teacher

What do you like best about Primrose?

I enjoy that Primrose is super organized, a very welcoming environment, and has very sweet staff!

Hi! My name is Tiffany and I am a recent college graduate. I studied sociology and psychology at Montclair State University, where my love of working with children was fostered. I am excited to get back to work with your child and to see them grow into bright children.

Three Fun Facts about Me

• I enjoy listening to music and going to concerts.
• I love reading.
• I love doing arts and crafts.

What do you like about Primrose? 

I really enjoy the way the curriculum is structured and the welcoming environment.

Hi my name is Izaiah, and I am the chef here at Primrose. I am very creative, and an ethically minded chef with several years in the kitchen. I left the profession to grow, and now I have returned with sharper skills, clearer purpose, and a renewed commitment to the culinary craft. I am excited to cook for your kids and make meals they’ll enjoy.

Three fun facts about me:

• My favorite color is blue
• I have a son
• I love to play basketball

What do you like best about Primrose?

I love the look on the kids faces when I bring them yummy food!!