about happy face

Five Decades of Early Childhood Education

Happy Face Nursery School has been educating children and families since 1973.  It is a New Jersey State Certified, non-profit, non-sectarian institution governed by a Board of Trustees. The same ideas, philosophy, perseverance, motivation, teacher dedication, and family involvement that started Happy Face Nursery School nearly four decades ago, are what keep it going today.

Our Teachers and Staff
Happy Face educators are comprised of a school director, paid teachers, and a board of volunteers that changes annually. All of our teachers are college graduates and collectively receive 100 hours of continuing credit in early childhood education every year.

All staff and teachers at Happy Face Nursery School have passed Child Abuse Record Information (CARI) and Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) background testing, in accordance with the NJ State requirements for licensing.


The Board of Directors
The Board of Directors is comprised of parents, staff, and community members. We pride ourselves on being a preschool versus a day care center. Families are important to us, and opportunities are always available to participate with your child in school.

Happy Days at Happy Face - Since 1973

Year-Round Enrollment! For All Children, Ages 2.5 through 5!

​Our Current Educators


  1. Elizabeth Denis, Director and 5 year old program
  2. Donna McDede, 4 year old program
  4. Donna Mayberry, 3 year old program
  5. Meg Schafer,  2.5 year old program
  6. Jacqueline McCloskey, classroom aide


    Many of our teachers have been at Happy Face Nursery School for over 15 years - a true testament to the warmth and spirit of this learning community.