Primrose School of Winter Springs

by Susan Shalhoub

The sense of community at Primrose School of Winter Springs, an early childhood education center and daycare, is evident in ways both big and small. 

Primrose attracts loyal, dedicated teachers who work together as a team to offer a balanced curriculum for infants through pre-kindergarten.

The school’s students are eager to share that feeling of togetherness with others. For example, they enjoy daily greetings to each other and extend this friendship to children who are touring Primrose with their families, says Diana Palen, who owns the school with husband Gregory.

This mutually supportive atmosphere carries over to the before-and-after-school groups, too. Children of all ages intuitively take care of each other by learning to be kind to themselves and others, says Diana.

“There is even a Good Citizenship Award for students who point peers in the right direction,” she says.

The school’s academics are exceptionally well-rounded and include art and music. Most Primrose students are able to read by the time they reach kindergarten. But learning how to support each other and their community is important as well. 

A book drive, a sock drive, and a food drive are among the yearly events on Primrose’s calendar – all of which foster a sense of caring about their community.

“We believe who children become is as important as what they know,” says Diana. “This belief is a fundamental part of the Primrose culture.”