Our Infant Classroom
We know the first year of life can have a big influence on a child’s success in the years that follow. That’s why teachers in your child’s Infant classroom provide a loving and nurturing environment as they lay the foundation for learning. This includes literacy; communication and vocabulary skills to help your infant better express their needs; gross motor skills and sensory development; and emotional well-being.
Nurturing Active Minds, Healthy Bodies, and Happy Hearts®
Health & Safety
Our school is committed to high standards of safety and cleanliness as we create a caring and nurturing environment where children can thrive.
- Requiring any children or staff with respiratory illness symptoms or fever to return home and stay home until fever free for at least 24 hours
- Frequent disinfecting and sanitizing of high-touch toys
- Frequent handwashing by children and staff, which is embedded in our curriculum and daily staff protocols
- Training teachers on common signs of illness in children, and placing signage in every classroom to keep signs of illness top of mind
- Daily laundering of crib sheets for infants; for older children, individual cots and blankets are provided for each child and laundered weekly
- Ensuring appropriate teacher-student classroom ratios
- Continuous health & safety training for our staff, including first aid and CPR certification
- Maintaining an up-to-date and customized Safe School Plan posted in all classrooms for easy teacher access
Our Infant Classroom Teachers & Staff
Mrs. Burke
Hi! I am Cathi Burke. I have been teaching Infants at Primrose School since 2009. I earned my degree in Early Childhood Education and have been working in childcare since 1995. I live in Newport with my husband Richard, our dog, Jack, and cats, Marie and Snape. We have 3 sons and daughters-in-law and a beautiful granddaughter, Lila. Outside of Primrose, I like to read, garden, and spend time with my family. Fun fact: I am originally from New Jersey.
Ms. Xiong
Hi there! My name is Iaong Xiong. I have been working in childcare since 2018. I am currently attending Concordia University to get my Bachelor’s in Elementary Education (K-6). I hope to continue working in the education field. During my free time, I like to crochet and knit. I also enjoy the outdoors and hope to go hiking soon. Nice to meet you!
Ms. Axtman
Hi there! I’m Shelby, your friendly float teacher! I’ve been in childcare for 5 years and love getting to work with children of all ages. I bring a bubbly personality and a big smile wherever I go — whether I’m helping with story time, art projects, or outdoor play. I have one biological son who attends here and two teenage stepsons at home, so I know how important it is for families to feel confident and supported. I’m passionate about creating a fun, safe, and positive environment where every child can learn, grow, and shine!
Ms. Johnson
Hi! My name is Kayla Johnson. I graduated from Stillwater High School in 2023 and also received my associates degree through PSEO at Century College. I now go to Iowa State University where I am studying Psychology on a pre-med track. My career goal is to become a pediatrician, since I have always had a passion for working with kids. I am so excited to work here and get to know all the kids!
Ms. Schaefer
My name is Alyssa Schaefer. I was born in Burnsville, MN. I grew up in a military family, so I was always moving around. I have been to Alaska, Kansas, Louisiana, South Carolina and Texas. I graduated high school in Texas in 2024. I graduated with a Nursing Assistance Certification. At the beginning of the summer, I moved to Minnesota, worked as a CNA and now I am looking forward to working with kids! My goal is to become a Pediatric Physical Therapist.
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