Staff

Ms. Edwards holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Montclair State University and has more than 24 years of experience in early childhood education. Prior to joining St. James Preschool, Ms. Edwards served as a center director for KinderCare. Additionally, she has been instrumental in the addition of Before care and After care to our program. Ms. Edwards enjoys the warm and caring environment the school provides for both our students and staff, as well as the pride everyone takes in being a close-knit community in which every member is valued.

Ms. Smeilus holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education and History from William Paterson University. She is certified in early childhood, elementary, and special education in the state of New Jersey. With over eight years of experience in early childhood education and four years as a special education teacher, Ms. Smeilus brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise that benefits both our students and fellow educators.

Ms. Hafez is an experienced and dedicated preschool teacher. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and has more than 20 experience working in early childhood. Ms. Hafez is passionate about creating a space where students can learn through play. She values creating strong relationships with both students and families.

Ms. Campbell is a dedicated preschool teacher. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and more than eight years of teaching experience. She is proud to be part of a community that values compassion, respect, and lifelong learning. Ms. Campbell especially appreciates the warm, supportive environment where students and educators thrive, as well as the collaborative spirit and approach to early childhood education that allows her to implement creative teaching methods that inspire curiosity and learning.

Ms. Cuesta holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Education at Montclair University. Ms. Cuesta is passionate about creating a safe, engaging environment where children can build confidence and develop new skills through meaningful learning experiences.

Ms. SanMartin has more than 23 years of teaching experience, ranging from infants to preschool-aged children. She holds a National Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Ms. SanMartin enjoys being part of a team dedicated to providing a high level of education to students, as well as the friendly atmosphere and the support she receives from colleagues and administrators.

Ms. Garske has more than 20 years of experience in the education field, NJ State P-3 Teacher Certification is pending. Prior to teaching, Ms. Garske worked in fashion merchandising. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising & Design and an Associate degree in Fashion Buying & Merchandising. Ms. Garske especially enjoys the family atmosphere and collaborative teaching environment at St. James Preschool.

Ms. Sparano holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and English from Felician College and is certified in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education in the state of New Jersey. She has been teaching preschool since 2014. Throughout her career, she has gained valuable experience in both public schools and private preschool settings. After taking time off to care for her own children, she brings a nurturing and personal perspective to her teaching. Ms. Sparano is passionate about early childhood education and absolutely loves what she does!

Ms. Phillip has been teaching PreK for 6 years. Ms. Phillip holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lincoln University. She is passionate about creating strong and meaningful relationships with students and families. She believes that students learn best through hands on activities. Ms. Phillip loves St. James PreK because it is a play-based learning environment.

Our skilled preschool assistants are the backbone of our classroom. They are warm, caring individuals with a range of credentials, from Child Development Associate certificates to bachelor’s degrees, and they regularly participate in professional development and curriculum training. Their expertise helps maintain a supportive, safe, and healthy learning environment. They collaborate closely with lead teachers to prepare the classroom and materials for engaging activities. Together, our preschool assistants create a nurturing atmosphere that allows our students to thrive.