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!
Mrs. Schmelzer
Hi Families! My name is Mary Grace Schmelzer, and I am so happy to be back at Primrose School of Woodbury. I was born and raised in the Philippines and hold a Bachelor of Science in Music. I originally joined the Primrose family in 2022 as a teacher in the infant classrooms, and I am thrilled to be working with your little ones again. I am deeply passionate about early childhood education. To me, nothing is more rewarding than watching children overcome fears, achieve new milestones, and grow into confident, independent individuals. When I’m not at school, I love spending quality time with my husband and children. You can usually find us playing a competitive game of Scrabble, or find me in the kitchen cooking and singing!
Gallery
