Teachers & Staff

Demi Irizarry-O'Brien
Hi, my name is Demi!
I am very excited to be joining the leadership team here. I have 15 years’ experience in childcare and have been an assistant director and director for almost 5 years.
I attended William Paterson University where I obtained my bachelor’s degree. I have worked in childcare since I was sixteen years old and have loved every moment of it. I have experienced being an assistant teacher, lead teacher, an admin and now I get to experience motherhood! My husband and I welcomed our son in January of 2023 and it’s been the greatest new chapter of our lives.
I look forward to meeting everyone and growing with the Primrose Family!

Jackie Villano
Hi, my name is Jackie and I am so proud to be your Assistant Director.
I’ve been in Early Childhood Education for over than 10 years and I’ve learned something new every day of this journey. I possess my CDA and am close to finishing my BA in Human Resource Management.
My two children are my motivation to guiding teachers into creating a curriculum and print rich environment that your little ones will enjoy spending their days in just as I provide for them at home!
I’ve learned so much from them and I can’t wait to pass along fun tips and tricks onto our teachers. My goal is not only to provide an educational environment for your little ones, but also a warm and nurturing one as well!

Karina Maldonado
Hello, my name is Karina.
I am excited to be working at the front desk, at Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for many years. I love helping children be creative and learn. I attrnded Passaic County Community College and received an Associates degree in Liberal Arts: Early Childhood Education. Working with children is rewarding and I love their energy.
I love spending time blinging, crafting, browsing pinterest and helping fellow small business friends out. I also love helping fellow small business friends out. I also love exploring new places and watching my favorite tv shows and movies.
I am very excited to be a part of the Primrose School of Paramus.

Amanda turro
Hi, my name is Amanda
I have been working in childcare for over 15 years. It has always been my passion to work with children. Watching the children I’ve taught learn and grow while also learning from their imaginations has been such an honor during my career.
I have been with Primrose School of Paramus for over 7 years. I began as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher and am now starting my new role as Education Coach. I will be able to provide a solid foundation for guiding and supporting both students and fellow educators.
I am blessed with my two amazing children who love to show me something new every day and how to enjoy life to its fullest. We love spending time reading and crafting whenever we can.
I’m so excited to continue to be with the Primrose School of Paramus.

Pablo Ortez
I am Pablo Ortez, The Head Chef at The Primrose School of Paramus. I graduated from the Art Institute of Washington with my Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts. I began my cooking career as a Prep Cook prior to becoming a Head Chef. I enjoy cooking and am known for following all Health & Safety Guidelines.
As Head Chef, accuracy, quality assurance, pace and food consistency are paramount to me. It is vital to me to provide our students with a clean, safe and healthy environment in which I prepare wonderful and well balanced meals for them as well as for our staff.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family. I look forward to getting to know all of the students and parents.
I am so lucky to be the Head Chef at The Primrose School of Paramus! I love keeping our students and staff safe, healthy, and strong!

Angel Ortiz
My name is Angel
I’m one of the chefs at Primrose School of Paramus. I’ve worked at The Cheesecake Factory, Montclair University and The California Pizza Kitchen. I have a six month old baby boy and a 15 year old son. In my free time I love spending time with my family, cooking, watching sports and help train my 15 year old in baseball.
I enjoy working with the kids getting first bumps and high fives. The happiness the children have when we bring in the food bring me so much joy.
I’m looking forward to getting to know the families more.

Kristina Menhinick
Hi, my name is Kristina,
I am the new teacher in the Infant 1 classroom. I have about six years’ experience in childcare with a Theatre and Comedy Degree.
I’ve always loved the company of little ones. There’s never a moment where they don’t make me smile.
While working here I hope to create a fun and safe learning environment for the kids.
I’m so excited to join the Primrose family!

Belice Torres
Hello, my name is Belice,
I am so excited to be joining the Primrose family!
Since 2021, I have been working in schools and it has been incredibly rewarding to build connections with children, while helping them feel comfortable, confident, and supported.
I truly enjoy being a part of their growth and watching them learn something new everyday. While working here I hope to inspire children to explore, learn and feel proud of their achievements.
In my free time, I enjoy exploring new places, shopping, and spending quality time with my friends and family.

Amanda Sisco
Hello, my name is Amanda.
I am excited to be working in the infant 2 classroom at The Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for 20 years. I love helping children learn and grow. Working with children is my passion.
Passion, patience and understanding are three essential qualities I’ve developed as an early childcare educator. My experience and love for teaching can enable me to help your child reach their educational goals.
I have two wonderful children who are my world. My family and I love spending time playing Uno, Dominos, and ice skating. I am thrilled to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus.

Diana Reyes
Hi! My name is Diana Iam excited to be working in the Infant 2 classroom.
I have been working in childcare for four years. I love helping children learn and grow. Working with children is rewarding and brings me joy!
I have three dogs who I love dearly. I love to travel with my siblings and sister-in-law. I’m also a big-time foodie.
I am so excited to be part of Primrose School of Paramus!

Donika Dhima
Hello, my name is Donika.
I am excited to be working in the classrooms at The Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for many years. I love helping children grown and develop. I attended 4 years of University and received and Bachelor’s of Science in nursing. Working with children is wonderful. I have 2 children who are my inspiration. My family and I love spending time playing games, hiking and reading. I am amazed and proud to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus.
For me, being part of Primrose School of Paramus is a privilege and I take pride. I feel highly valued by a wonderful staff and colleagues. I love to give my best to help them.

Jennifer Ocelot
Hello, my name is Ms. Jennifer. I am going to be working in the infant room at Primrose Paramus and I am so excited for this opportunity! I’ve found my passion in working with infants over the last two years.
I have a three year old daughter who is my greatest blessing! She’s everything I’ve ever dreamed of.
I plan to be a dynamic team member of Primrose Paramus!

India Clarke
Hi, my name is India.
I’m thrilled to be a part of the Young Toddler classroom at Primrose School of Paramus, bringing over 5 years of experience in childcare. Witnessing children learn and flourish is truly rewarding.
Being engaged with kids is a fantastic experience, and I find joy in contributing to their growth and development.
Outside of work, I cherish moments traveling with my family and enjoying the company of friends.
Joining the Primrose School of Paramus is a source of excitement for me. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to work with such incredible children, eager to observe their learning and development. With four nephews and six nieces of my own, I have a deep affection for children and look forward to making a positive impact on their lives.

Amirah Torres
Hi, my name is Ms. Amirah!
I am a support teacher at Primrose School of Paramus and I absolutely love it. I have been working with children of all ages, 3 months to 13 years old, since I was 14. I must admit I don’t think I could ever get tired of it. I truly enjoy seeing how much they’ve accomplished and watching as their little, big personalities form.
In my time working at Primrose, I hope to see my students move up in their classes. Nothing makes me happier than seeing how proud their parents are with how much they have grown socially, academically and mentally. I really look forward to telling their parents how amazing their son or daughter is doing.
Being one of nine children meant always having someone by my side and someone I can trust. That’s exactly what I strive to provide for all kids at Primrose and in my day to day life.
I plan on getting my degree in nursing to become a neonatal nurse.

Teresa Montag
Hello, my name is Teresa.
I am excited to be working in the infant classroom at The Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for over twenty years. I love helping children develop and grow. Working with children is my passion.
I have two wonderful children who are my treasures. My family and I love spending time reading, exploring and discovering.
I am proud to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus.
On a personal note, I am looking forward to working with the children of Primrose and watching them flourish. My goal is to have happy children who are proud of each new accomplishment.

Ayana Mendez
Hi, My name is Ayana,
I am so excited to be working in the Toddler classroom at Primrose Paramus! I’ve worked with infants for over 2 years, and I love watching them grow and develop. I am looking forward to building relationships with the children and families.
In my spare time, I enjoy being with my family, trying new restaurants, and watching movies.

Ta’Nyra Williams
Hi, my name is Ta’Nyra,
I am the Early Preschool Teacher at Primrose.
I am a mom of two. I love spending as much time as possible with my two
amazing boys. During my free time, I love to attend all of their football games and
practices as well as teach and help them grow, I also love to spend time with my family
doing as much as I can to create new memories.
As the Early Preschool teacher, I am here to learn, assist with whatever my fellow teachers
need, and enjoy the little ones to teach them and help them grow.
In my previous role, I was an assistant teacher. The class I assisted in was 2 ½ – 3 ½
year olds. I help the lead teacher with the curriculum, prep crafts, and maintain a
balance in the classroom.
I have experience with different age groups and have learned a lot about them. I enjoy
watching the little ones grow, learn, and become smart little precious people.
I hope to learn from the amazing people around me and to reciprocate the great energy
and experiences I encounter.
I am mostly excited about being a part of a great team and looking forward to a great
year.

Narolyn Moronta
Hello, my name is Ms. Narolyn,
I am the new Early Preschool 3 teacher here at Primrose School of Paramus.
I am passionate about working with children and helping them learn, grow and feel confident every day. I enjoy creating a safe, fun and engaging classroom where each child feels valued and supported.
I have experience caring for children since a really young age because of my big family, and my role as a church schoolteacher. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, I also love reading books, travel and visiting new places, my biggest dream is to travel the world.
I am very excited to be a part of the Primrose School family, and I look forward to making a positive impact on all of my students and their families.

Krystine Tooker
Hello my name is Ms. Krystine Tooker.
I am excited to be working in the Early Preschool classroom, at Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for 10 years. I love helping children explore and learn new things. I attended William Paterson University and received a Bachelor’s in English Literature and Elmentary Education. Working with children is my passion. My family and I love spending time with each other, watching movies and exploring new places. I am so excited to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus.
On a personal note, I love teaching and watching young minds grasp lessons and grow! I am so excited to help each and every student I encounter form a love a learning.

Natalia McGreevy
Hello, my name is Ms. Natalia,
I am so happy to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in education and childcare field for 7 years.
I love getting to see and be part of the kids growth, learning, and hit those little milestones, it really means a lot to me and motivates me in my teaching. I’m passionate about creating fun, safe and caring environment, where they feel comfortable being themselves. I’m looking forward to building meaningful connections with the children and families here at Primrose and being part of each child’s learning journey.
Outside of the school, I’m recently married and a dog mom who loves spending time with family and friends, and enjoying life’s simple moments.
I’m truly excited for this new chapter!

Saralyn Arp
Hello my name is Saralyn Arp.
I am excited to be working in the Early Preschool 2 classroom, at Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for many years. I love helping children learn and grow. I attended Bergen Community College and received an Associates Degree in Education. Working with children is my heart!
I have four wonderful chidlren who are my pride and joy. My family and I love spending time playing board games, hiking, and being creative. My family and I also love the outdoor, we spend lots of time walking and enjoying nature. Being a parent and grandparent have been joys of my life. Seeing the world through the eyes of children is wonderful. Iam so happy to have found this school and I am looking forward to sharing my experiences with my class. I am very excited to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus.

Adriana Moya
Hi, my name is Adriana,
I am so happy to be a part of Primrose!
I will be working in the Early Preschool 2 class and the great team of teachers within the class. This will be my 5th year working with children. I enjoy learning about different communities and ensuring the safety and fun of the children always. I previously worked with children who are on the spectrum and loved the journey through that community.
On a personal note, I enjoy being creative, whether that looks like, painting, dancing, photography/film or making music.
I am most looking forward to all the children here at Primrose to progress and move up to the next level with confidence.

Zhania Gladden
Hello, my name is Ms. Zhania.
I am so excited to be working in the Preschool Pathways classroom at the Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working with children in various capacities for over 10 years, and I am always enthusiastic about being a part of children’s growth and development.
Though I don’t have children of my own, I am the beloved auntie in all my friend groups and love spending time with them, too.
I am ecstatic about being a part of the Primrose Family!

Michelle Enriquez
Hi, my name is Ms. Michelle. I am a Preschool teacher at Primrose School. In addition to working full time, I am also a full-time student majoring in psychology with the hopes of obtaining my PhD in psychology.
I’ve been a babysitter for many years, and I am excited to bring my nurture and warmth into the preschool classroom. I look forward to expanding my classroom experience as well as making your children’s experience an unforgettable one!
On a personal note: I am the only girl out of 4. My favorite color is lilac, and I really enjoy photography.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of Primrose Paramus!

Shanthi Herbert
Hello my name is Shanthi Herbert.
I am excited to be working in the Preschool Pathways classroom of Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for two years. I love helping children learn and grow. I attended B Com in India and received a bachelor’s degree in commerce. Working with children is a pleasure. I have two wonderful children that are twin boys and are my world. My family and I love spending time playing games and be with my family for everything. I am proud to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus.
On a personal note, I run a charity for disabled children that was started by my parents in my own country of India.

Luz Munoz
I am excited to be working in the Preschool Classroom, at Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in Early Childhood Education for over fifteen years. I love helping children learn!
I attended Miami Dade College and received a certificate in Early Childhood Education.
I have three wonderful children who are my heart. My family and I love spending time playing music, talking and traveling. I am so happy to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus.
On a Personal Note: I discovered that a career in Early Education was what I wanted to do while working in a Ronald McDonald House, I worked there for 12 years. In 2002, I returned to school and completed a certificate program for Early Education. I look forward to continuing my career caring for and educating children at Primrose School of Paramus.

Ariel Solomon
Hello Primrose families! My name is Ariel and I will be working in Preschool. I have been working in childcare for two years. I attended Manhattanville College and I am a very proud aunt of an awesome niece and nephew with another one on the way in September of this year!
I love having a part in forming children into the people they are going to be in the future. They put a smile on my face every day.
I am so excited to be on this journey at Primrose Paramus!
On a person note: my boyfriend and I love going to see stand-up comedy shows!

Sara Liszner
Hello, my name is Sara.
I am thrilled to be part of the teaching team at Primrose School of Paramus. With a background spanning 10 years in childcare. I find immense joy in assisting children as they explore and learn. I pursued my education at William Paterson University, earning a degree in Psychology and Sociology.
For me, working with children is not just a job; it is a deeply rewarding experience. I am dedicated to fostering their growth and development. I love to see children grow each and every day and it is so rewarding. Outside of the classroom, my family and I spend a lot of time together going to my brothers’ football games every Saturday. We have family dinner every Sunday for when my brother comes home for the weekend from college.
I also work for Instacart on the weekends as well as babysitting when needed. I volunteer with a various number of organizations in my town. I love to give back to my community because they do so much for our town with fundraising. Every December and January I pair up with my local high school and I collect items for the homeless in my town.
I am truly honored to contribute to the positive learning environment at Primrose School of Paramus.

Amanda Feliciano
Hello, my name is Amanda Feliciano,
I am so excited to be a Preschool Teacher at the Primrose school of Paramus. My love for theatre is what sparked my passion for teaching, having worked in the after-school programs teaching drama lessons for children. I love to teach children because I enjoy watching them learn something new and apply it to their life. I hope to continue to inspire my students here at Primrose.
On a personal note, I love to sing and go to musicals!
I am excited to be a part of their educational journey!

Anna De Jesus
Hello, my name is Anna.
I am excited to be working in the Toddler classroom at The Primrose School of Paramus. I have spent the last 2 years working in Thailand teaching english and math to elementary school students. I love working with children and being a part of their growth and development.
I attended Ramapo College of New Jersey and received a Bachelor’s Degree in International Studies.
On a personal note, I love traveling. I spent two of my breaks in college abroad; the first time volunteering in an animal sanctuary in Costa Rica and the second working with children in Ghana. I also studied abroad in Bangalore, India. I would love the chance to visit every country in the world someday!

Dipika Khatri
Hello, my name is Dipika Khatri.
I am excited to be working at Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for over two years. I love helping children grow and develop.
I attended Mumbai University and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. Working with children is truly rewarding.
I have two wonderful children who are my life. My family and I love spending time playing board games, traveling and watching movies.
I have been married for eleven years. I love cooking, trying different foods and listening to music.
I am honored to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus Family.

Aruksha Patel
Hello my name is Arushka Patel.
I am excited to be working as a Support Teacher at Primrose School of Paramus. I love helping children grow and learn. I attended Kingsborough Community College and received an Associates Degree in Business.
Working with children is a pleasure.
I have three wonderful children who are my pride and joy. My family and I love spending time playing games, reading, and traveling.
I am honored to be a part of the Primrose School of Paramus.
On a Personal Note: I have been happily married for nineteen years. I love to cook, watch movies and listen to music.

Kira Vasconcelos
My name is Kira,
I have been teaching for about 5 years. I went to school at NJCU and obtained my BSA in Psychology. Since then I have taught Kindergarten, Pre-K, and Preschool. I love teaching!
While working here, Id love to build a strong relationship with every child that walks through the door.
On a personal note I love reading, building Legos, and going to the beach. I have a cat named “Beans” and a dog named “ Daughtry”

Chante Morris
Hello, my name is Chante Morris.
I am excited to be working in the Preschool Pathways classroom, at Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for over two years.
Working with children is exciting and I love helping children reach their learning potential each day. I attended Benedict College and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Family Development.
I love spending time traveling, shopping, and just having fun. My favorite place to travel to is Jamaica to visit my family.
I am very excited to be part of the Primrose School of Paramus.

Brielle King
Hi, my name is Ms. Brielle,
I’ve been working with children since I was 12 years old. I’ve worked in the childcare world since 2017. I am currently getting my masters in Elementary Education from an online school called WGU. I truly enjoy working with children and love to see them learn and grow.
Some fun things about me are I love to read, watch sports and love to hang with my cat, Magic!

Idelyn Reyes
Hello, my name is Idelyn,
I am excited to be working in the Preschool Pathways classroom at Primrose School of Paramus. I have been working in childcare for 23 years and have experience working with infants to teenagers. My love for teaching blossomed ever since I was a teenager helping my parents who are now retired teachers.
I love helping children learn, play and grow, and building relationships with parents and interacting with families.
I am planning to further my education in early childhood education. Working with children is a blessing and I truly appreciate the experience of getting to know each unique child. Children are the leaders of tomorrow.
I love spending time with family, praying and I admire nature. I love art as well and to draw.I am looking forward for a great year getting to know everyone and helping children have fun learning and develop their educational needs and wants.

Esther Jang
Hi! My name is Esther
I will be working in the Pre-K and Early Kindergarten classrooms.
I recently graduated from Rutgers University with a B.A in Psychology and a minor in Education. I am currently pursuing a master’s in education at the Rutgers Graduate School of Education.
Teaching has been my passion since childhood. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with students of all ages, ranging from preschoolers to college students, gaining diverse experience in various teaching environments.
My goal is to inspire and support students as they develop academically and personally. I am committed to fostering a positive and engaging learning atmosphere at Primrose.

Carol DeCoro
Hi! My name is Carol. I joined the Primrose family this summer. I started in the Infant 1 & 2 classroom and am now working as a support teacher.
I have 25 years of experience working with infants to preschool aged children. I have been a public preschool paraprofessional for the last nine years and employed in the same school ever since. When school reopens in September, I will still continue being a part of the Primrose family as support staff in the afternoons.
The sweet, caring and silly ways I interact with children, exemplifies the love I have for them and the joy they bring me, each and every day.
When I am not working with children, you can find me, in my craft room at home, designing decorative wreaths for any season, holiday or occasion, that can be hung on a front door of any home. What started out as a hobby, is now a small side business that I love and that is how Creative Carol’s Crafts all began!

Intisar Torres
Hi, my name is Intisar,
I’m excited to be working at the Primrose School of Paramus. I’ll be working a little in each classroom as a floater.
I’ve been working in childcare since I was a junior in high school and three years in the professional Daycare field. I enjoy working with children of all ages. What I enjoy most is playing with them, teaching the students fun and creative lessons, and getting to watch them grow as the year goes on.
My goal this year is to help the students learn and grow as individuals and hopefully make this year as fun as can be for them.
I’m super excited about working with Primrose and growing as an educator and grow professionally.

Franchise Owners
Rocco and Nisha Varma
Hello Friends,
We are Rocco & Nisha Varma – the proud franchise owners of Primrose School of Paramus. Passionate about educating our youth for a better future, we value the importance of the high-quality, educational childcare that Primrose Schools provide. We discovered Primrose Schools after searching for a way to give children and families the best possible early childhood education experience. We were incredibly impressed with the unmatched curriculum, teaching method and shared beliefs of those involved with Primrose Schools. We quickly became avid supporters of the brand and its dedication to partnering with parents to set children up for success in school and in life. We are devoted to bringing the best possible childcare experience to the Paramus community and providing children with a solid foundation to excel in the future. We understand the importance of instilling a love of learning throughout a child’s early years, and we believe this is essential to building a new generation of bright citizens. We are active volunteers and participants in a variety of community organizations and philanthropic events and are eager to give families an essential, solid foundation through the Primrose curriculum and its unique, comprehensive teaching methods. Primrose School of Paramus will be the seventh Primrose school in New Jersey and will feature the exclusive Balanced Learning system for children ages six weeks to 5 years old. Developed by and taught exclusively at Primrose Schools, Balanced Learning blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a special emphasis on character development in the schools. The goal of shaping young people who are prepared for success in learning and in life also filters into the Primrose Explorers after-school program for students up to age 12. Primrose Schools is The Leader in Early Education and Care and we are committed to delivering the best possible experience when it comes to your child’s education. We look forward to meeting you!
Sincerely,
Nisha & Rocco Varma




