Engaging in playful learning fosters joyful, accomplished learners for life!
Accepting Applications for 2025-2026 School Year
At Sunshine at Happy Hearts Learning Center, we believe that art is an essential part of a child's education. Our program provides children ages 2 through 5 with opportunities to explore their creativity through various forms of art, including painting, drawing, and sculpting. Our teachers encourage children to express themselves through their art and use it as a tool for learning.
The Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards 2023
Our curriculum is guided by the Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards 2023. These standards articulate shared expectations for what young children should know and be able to do. The standards have been derived from the latest research in early childhood development. They include nine domains of learning as referenced above. For more information, please visit their website
The Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards
Educators
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Our educators are instrumental in developing the minds of young learners. They foster a secure and supportive atmosphere that encourages children to learn and thrive. Through their patience, creativity, and commitment, our teachers establish the groundwork for a lifelong journey of education.
Director
Mrs. Kim Maine
Mrs. Maine is our passionate and experienced Director. She has over 34 years of experience in early childhood education. She has a Bachelor Degree in early childhood education and a Masters of Education degree in Early Childhood Leadership and Administration. She is committed to providing a safe, nurturing engaging learning environment for all our children.
Assistant Teacher
Purple Room
Mrs. Julie Vitucci
Mrs. Vitucci is nurturing and compassionate. She has participated in various professional development workshops focused on early education and is committed to fostering children's social, emotional, and cognitive growth. With a wonderful sense of humor, she enjoys bringing laughter to the children's lives.
Assistant Teacher
Green Room & Toddler
Ms Carly Lynch
Ms. Carly Lynch is the assistant teacher for both the toddler group and the Green Room. She has an's degree in early childhood education and has been with our program for five years. Renowned for her kindness and compassion, she engages with the children at their eye level, speaking gently and attentively to meet their needs.
Lead Teacher
Purple Room
Mrs. Paula Walsh
Mrs. Walsh is an experienced and committed Head Teacher. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Childhood Education and is a certified early childhood educator in Rhode Island. With over 25 years of experience working with young children, she cultivates a stimulating and inclusive atmosphere that promotes their growth and development.
Lead Teacher
Green Room
Mrs. Bethany Fain
Mrs. Fain is an esteemed member of our team, having joined our program in 2015. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and brings invaluable experience as a mother of three. As the lead teacher in the Green Room, Mrs. Fain demonstrates kindness and care towards all children and their families. Her classroom is consistently organized and welcoming, providing an environment where children can learn, play, and enjoy themselves.
Purple Room
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Tammy Brouillard
Ms. Brouillard serves as an Assistant Teacher for the team. She demonstrates dedication and compassion towards all children and families. Her aim is to foster a learning environment that accommodates the needs of every child. Her passion for teaching radiates, making her an invaluable member of our team.
Cottage
Lead Teacher
Mrs. Jen Stern
Mrs. Jen Stern holds a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education and is a certified early childhood educator in Rhode Island. With a strong passion for science, she incorporates engaging activities and experiments into her classroom for three-year-olds. Always cheerful and active, Mrs. Stern fosters an environment of play and learning throughout the day.
Cottage Assistant Teacher
Mrs . Joelle Nichipor
Mrs. Nichipor is the latest addition to our teaching team. With a background in elementary education, she brings valuable experience. Her kindness and compassion create a nurturing environment where every child feels safe and cherished.
Toddler Room
Mrs. Michele Barlow
Mrs. Barlow is an experienced educator who has been part of our program for seven years. She holds a Master's degree in Special Education, in language disabilities. Her radiant smile brings joy to the room as she engages in singing, reading, and creating numerous learning experiences for our youngest learners. Always a step ahead with her energetic toddler group, she is truly and valued in our program.