Hello Families! My name is Samantha Darling. With 10 years of experience in early childhood education, I bring both passion and dedication to my role as a leader and educator. I hold a degree in Early Childhood Education and Development and began my career as a teacher, where I discovered a love for working with toddlers and Pre-K children.

Over time, my journey led me into a director role, where I continue to champion the importance of high-quality care and early learning experiences that build a strong foundation for future success. I believe early education thrives on strong relationships and community. I value the partnerships I build with families and find great purpose in leading a team of educators who share the same vision for excellence and support one another in creating a nurturing, collaborative environment.

My goal is to create an environment where children feel safe, nurtured, and excited to learn while families and teachers feel supported and connected. I’m proud to call Primrose my home and am so excited to be a part of this important journey with your family!

Hello, my name is Joyce McDonald I have been dedicated to the field of Early Childhood Education for over twenty years. During that time, I’ve had the privilege of working with every age group—both as a teacher and as an administrator. For 13 of those years, I served as a Center Director, where I led teams, supported families, and ensured high-quality early learning environments.

In addition to my professional experience, I’ve also raised a daughter of my own, which has given me a personal and meaningful perspective on child development.

I take great pride in having played a role in the early growth and development of hundreds of children, and I consider it an honor to support each child’s unique journey.

I look forward to working with your family and becoming a positive, nurturing presence in your child’s life and learning!

Hello, my name is Holly! I am a Wilmington native raising my two daughters here as well. In our free time we love exploring nature trails and learning new things at museums. I’ve been working in childcare for about five years. I currently have my early childhood credentials as well as a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. I am so excited to be sharing my passion for teaching and help nurture the children’s love for learning!

Hello, my name is Sharon Bellamy. I’m originally from Myrtle Beach, SC, and have called Wilmington, NC home for over 30 years. I’ve been working in childcare for more than 25 years and hold my Early Childhood Credentials. My greatest passion lies in caring for infants—what I lovingly call “precious cargo.” I’m deeply committed to helping them grow developmentally while giving them all the love and attention they need to thrive.

Building strong, trusting relationships with families is at the heart of what I do. I strive to ensure each parent feels completely confident and comfortable leaving their child in my care. My goal is not only to nurture and support each child’s early development but to create lasting bonds that go beyond the classroom.

Outside of work, I enjoy celebrating birthdays, caring for plants, writing poems, going to church, listening to reggae music, and staying active. I believe that health, family, and children are true wealth. I’m proud to be a mother to 4 children, a grandmother to 14, and a great-grandmother to 3. My life is full of love, and I bring that same energy into the work I do every day.

Hello Primrose families! My name is Laila. I am a wife and a blessed mama of two boys. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the team. I recently moved here from New York. I was born in Brazil. I have a B.A. in Psychology from Iona University and I am in the process of continuing my M.A. in Early Childhood Education. I have worked in the education field for thirteen years. I love seeing children reach their milestones and blossom. Thank you for entrusting me with your child.

Hello ! My name is Shaniah and I was born and raised here in Wilmington, NC. I currently attend Cape Fear Community College studying to get my degree in diagnostic medical sonography. I really enjoy working with small children and watching their personality’s develop as they learn and grow.

My name is Ericka, I’m a mom of 4 biological and 2 bonus kids and numerous honorary kiddos. Ages from 22 all the way down to 7. I have worked in numerous fields with children from youth ministries to therapeutic riding, using horses to help with physical and mental health disabilities since I was 16. I have about 2 years on a Doctorate in Psychology and Physical Therapy that I am working on getting back to soon. I’m excited to be a part of Primrose and looking forward to meeting your family!

Hello, my name is Lanetta May, and I have truly enjoyed my journey here at Primrose School! I am 30 years old, and my birthday is July 30th. I bring over 5 years of experience in childcare, along with an associate degree in education.

The greatest reward of working with children is watching them grow and reach new milestones—it’s such a joy to be part of their learning journey. I currently serve as a toddler teacher, and I love the strong relationships I’ve built with both my students and their families.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy listening to music, writing, and spending time with my son. My favorite place to be is the beach, and I also love trying new and adventurous activities.

I’m excited to continue growing with Primrose School and to keep making a positive impact in the lives of my students!

Hello families! My name is Kendall Billingsley.

I’ve been working in childcare for three years and have experience with children of all age groups. I love helping kids learn, grow, and express themselves through fun and engaging activities. Creating a safe, caring, and positive environment is very important to me, and I enjoy being part of each child’s early learning journey! I’m proud to be a part our Primrose Family!

Hello! My name is Nicole and I have been working in childcare for the past 5 years. My passion is in early childhood education which I do have a associates degree in. I am looking to also further my education and possibly go for Special Education and maybe even focus on the behavior analysis side. I love to learn especially when it comes to doing what is best for the children and being successful. Most of my childcare experience is with children who have physical and behavior disabilities which I loved so much! Some of my hobbies include reading, painting, and I love to play volleyball. I love teaching as well and working with children is what keeps me inspired.

I am so thankful to be a part of the team!

Hello, my name is Johnnetta Carr and I have experience working with different age groups. I enjoy working with all ages and watch their developmental growth. I enjoy singing, dancing and doing arts and crafts with young children. I am a mother of 4 wonderful children. In my free time, I enjoy watching family movies with my children.

My name is Taneisha Person and I’m currently a student at UNCW. I am passionate about working with kids and I love seeing them grow every day. I look forward to bonding and connecting with every child I meet!

Hello Primrose family and friends. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you. As an Early Educator for many years, I have earned an Associate in Arts degree with enough credits in Child Development to equal an Associate in Early Childhood as well. Most of my work has been done in lnfant and Toddler classrooms. I enjoy teaching and caring for the little ones. On occasion l am still delightfully surprised by the things I learn along the way. I look forward to meeting you all.

Hi Primrose Families! My name is Ms. Kaitlyn! I was born in Florida then moved to New York when I was 5 and was raised there. I recently moved here to Wilmington, North Carolina to bee closer to friends, family and to join the Primrose team. I’ve been teaching for 9 years now. I started at the Goddard School of Ramsey New Jersey teaching toddlers. Also worked in Elmwood elementary school, working as a teacher assistant for a students who had autism before moving down to North Carolina. I graduated from Spring Valley High School in 2014. I have my associates in Early Childhood from The University of Arizona Global Campus. I’m a huge football and Hockey fan. Go Kansas City Chiefs and New York Rangers!

Hi families! My name is Grace, and I’m so excited to be part of your child’s early learning journey. I’m currently studying Psychology with a concentration in Child Development, and I love applying what I learn to help children grow socially, emotionally, and academically. I believe every child learns best through play, curiosity, and connection. My goal is to create a warm and engaging classroom environment where children feel safe to express themselves, explore new ideas, and build confidence in their abilities. Outside of work, I enjoy creative hobbies like dancing, singing, and writing, which often inspire fun and hands-on activities for the kids. I’m thrilled to be part of such an important stage in their development and can’t wait to get to know each family!

Hi! My name is Sarah. I moved to Wilmington from Southern California to attend UNCW, where I graduated in 2018 with my bachelor’s degree in Public Health. I fell in love with Wilmington so much that I decided to stay! I have worked in childcare for many years and have loved every second of it. Watching a child grow and learn about the world around them is what made me fall in love with teaching. When I am not in the classroom I love spending time with my friends, my dog and exploring all that Wilmington has to offer. I am so excited to join the Primrose team and continue to grow, learn and work with you and your little one(s)!

Hello, my name is Tiara Stanley. I was born here in Wilmington NC, but raised right across the bridge in Leland. Ever since I was a little girl I always knew that I wanted to teach/work with children. I obtained my Bachelors degree in University Studies with a minor in Child Development and Family Relations from East Carolina University. I have many years of experience working with children of different ages in childcare settings as well as public schools. In my spare time I enjoy being around my family and friends and shopping. I am excited to be a part of the Primrose team, I can’t wait to help your child learn and grow!

Hello my name is KeAira and I’ve adored being around children since my pre-teens. I started my career with a lot of volunteer work at the brigade boys and girls club. I later decided to work overnight camps with YMCA camp kirkwood until I became a mother myself! That’s when I decided to make my passion for children a long term career. I studied at Durham Technical Community college where I received my credentials then decided to take a break so I didn’t miss important milestones with my daughter! Outside of my passion for children; I love to play tennis, basketball, softball, paint, and collect candles!

Hi Primrose! My name is Abigail!

I’m was previously a home health nurse and Army vet that has recently switched careers to focus on early childhood education. I am currently in school to peruse a degree in Early Education.  Outside of school and work, I’m a dog mom to four rambunctious dogs and an avid pickleball player. I’m excited to be a part of your child’s early learning journey!

Hello my name is Cora, I love being outside in nature and seeing new sights! Swimming is one of my favorite activities, I enjoy being underwater and the solitude it brings. I also love laughter, I love to hear it and I love to produce it. I believe laughter is a very important factor in everyone’s lives and keeps oneself happy or hopeful in times of darkness. I look forward to being a part of the Primrose Family!

Hello, my name is Viktoria Mihaliak or the nick name everyone calls me is Vika. I have 2 undergrad degrees from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke. I absolutely love working with children and have been in childcare for over 10 years including working at another Primrose. Although I have degrees in Criminal Justice and Sociology, I always gravitate to working with children to make their futures brighter. I’m so excited to be apart of the Wilmington Primrose family!!

Hi, my name is Ms. Helen and I have worked in childcare for over 10 years. I hold Early Childhood credentials as well as an Administration certificate. I really enjoy working with children with the hopes of having a positive impact on their life’s journey. I am the proud mother of four- two daughters and two sons. I have three amazing granddaughters, two wonderful grandsons and an awesome fiancé. I am super excited to be a part of the Primrose Family!

Hi, my name is Destiny Williams. I have been working in childcare for five years and hold my Early Childhood Credentials. My passion for caring for children began at a young age and has only grown stronger over the years.

I currently serve as the Childcare Director at my local church, which has played a big role in shaping my love for early childhood education. I find joy in creating safe, nurturing environments where young children can grow, learn, and thrive.

While I don’t have children of my own yet, I look forward to that chapter in the future. For now, it’s just me and my fur child, Zoey, who keeps life fun and full of love!

Hi, I’m JaMeshia or also known as Ms. Jay! I’m from Leland, North Carolina, and I’ve been working in early childhood education since 2011. Caring for and teaching young children has always been my passion. I truly enjoy watching them grow, learn new things, and reach important milestones—it’s such a joy to be part of those moments!

As a proud mom of two children, 12 years apart, I understand how important it is for every child to feel loved, supported, and encouraged. My goal is to create a nurturing, safe, and positive environment where children can explore, learn, and shine in their own unique ways.

I also enjoy cooking and playing IQ games in my spare time.

Hi, my name is Cassandra Varelas, and I’m so excited to be teaching at Primrose!
I’m especially thrilled to make a positive impact on the students, families, and fellow staff members. I recently moved to Wilmington and couldn’t be happier, especially with the beach less than ten minutes away! I’m still on the hunt for a good donut place, so if you have any recommendations, please share!
This is such a meaningful opportunity for me, one I’ve never had at this stage in my life. I’m incredibly grateful and ready to give my all to your little ones. I’m so happy to be part of the Primrose team and can’t wait to celebrate all the milestones we’ll achieve together this year!

My name is Angela Sam, but I prefer Ms. Angee. I have worked with kids for over 20 years, and I am passionate about watching them progress. I am very big on working on social emotional skills because I believe in teaching children to solve their own problems. I have an AAS in Early Childhood and I am working toward my BA. As a mother of college students, I understand the importance of education. Thank you for trusting me with your most precious gems, and I know we will enjoy each other.

My name is Payton aka “Ms.Pay Pay”, I am a highly enthusiastic and creative preschool teacher with a passion for nurturing young minds and helping them grow. I have over 5 years of experience working with children of all ages. I believe that every child is unique and has their own learning style and pace. I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment where children can explore, learn, and most importantly have fun!

Hi! My name is Sandy, and I’m so happy to be joining the Primrose family again! I was lucky enough to work at one while I lived in Naperville Illinois several years ago. I am a mother of twins, (my proudest accomplishment) and have taught for over 20 years. I started out as an elementary teacher and then spent the last 10+ years teaching preschool. My last job was being a private nanny to 2 little boys who I spent 4 years with. I have had many private childcare jobs over the years. I love being around children, they bring me such joy! I look forward to getting to know the families and children here, and sharing my love of learning and nurturing with all of them!

Hello! My name is Bridget Penney. I am originally from Long Island, NY. My husband and I moved to Brunswick County in December of 2021. Before that, I was working as a Teacher’s Assistant in a daycare and I have been working with children for almost 10 years! I love being involved and helping with the development of early childhood as it is so important. I’m excited to be a part of the Primrose team!

Hi! My name is Carmen. I am currently a student at the University of North Carolina Wilmington where I am also a member of the cheer team. Watching children grow, gain confidence, and reach new milestones is what inspires me most. I wanted to work for Primrose because of its strong focus on quality education, caring relationships, and helping children build a strong foundation for learning.

Hi! My name is Bailie. I’m from Colorado and moved to North Carolina while pursuing my bachelor’s degree in social work. My love for children is what led me to both social work and childcare, and I truly enjoy helping kids feel safe, supported, and happy each day.