Our Staff
Our kind, creative teachers love to inspire each and every child. We keep class sizes small and teacher/student ratios high.
Claranne Merlo
Director/Teacher
B.A., Loyola University
When I tell people that I have my “dream job” they usually chuckle, but it is the absolute truth. Teaching at Wrightstown Friends and opening my heart to all these wonderful children and their families has given me so much joy, fulfillment, and satisfaction in my life.
Wrightstown Friends Nursery School found me in 2007 when I was searching for a perfect fit for my four year old son, Matthew. In 2010, I walked through the doors of WFNS as a teacher. I enjoy teaching music with the children, opening up their imaginations to the wonders of the yellow box and block room rug, and finding that hidden polar bear or dinosaur in a simple piece of paper.
My passion for early childhood education comes from my mother, who was an elementary school teacher and principal for 35 years. I truly believe that teaching is in your heart, and it takes a big heart to shape little minds.
Helen Todt
Morning Friends Teacher
M.ED., Holy Family University
I am originally from the UK. I moved to America to join my husband, who at the time was in the military. After permanently settling in PA, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming a certified teacher. Therefore, I returned to school and received my Master of Education in Early Elementary Education.
My first opportunity experiencing the joy of working at Wrightstown Friends Nursery School was as a substitute teacher. It was during this time that I fell in love with WFNS. It truly is a magical school where children learn in a loving, nurturing environment. I am delighted to return as a full time teacher!
As a teacher, I enjoy facilitating activities where the children have hands on experiences, whether that is reenacting a beloved story, doing science experiments, playing a game, or completing arts and crafts activities. WFNS is a genuine community where teachers and families come together to provide the best possible learning environment for your children. I am thrilled to be part of this community!
Laura Cherone
PM Friends Assistant Teacher
I first discovered Wrightstown Friends Nursery School while shopping at the Wrightstown Farmers’ Market and enrolled my son, Sam, shortly thereafter. Sam attended WFNS from 2013-2015 and for two wonderful years I watched him flourish and grow as our family became a part of the WFNS family. Sam and I both developed strong friendships and a loving bond with his first school.
When I was asked to join the WFNS teaching staff, I immediately jumped at the opportunity to stay connected with this wonderful school. I am grateful to all the families for welcoming me with such warm and open arms. I love getting to know all your children and creating fond memories together. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow with them!
Lyndsey Halderman
AM Friends Assistant Teacher
I’m Lyndsey Halderman; Mrs. H to my friends at WFNS. I am delighted to be the Assistant Teacher of the Morning Friends class. My two children attended nursery school here from 2014-2018 and I was more than honored when I was asked to fill in as a substitute teacher after my little ones moved on to Elementary School. I cherish the memories of their days in this wholesome and loving community, and I am honored that I get to be a regular part of making memories with you and your children as our “school family” grows each year. I studied Biology at Temple University and I enjoy bringing my love of nature, science, singing, dancing, learning, and laughing into the classroom.