Happyland Day School provides a Christian Environment for preschool children in which an excellent program of education, social development, and personal growth can take place in order to provide opportunities for further education upon the students' departure.
The school is governed by the Happyland Board of Directors, and is responsible to the Session of the First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale.
Debbie Stokes is Director of Children's Ministries, and Pamela Alexander is the Director of Happyland Day School.
Happyland is licensed by the Family and Child Development Services of Broward County, and is a 10 time recipient of their Gold Seal Award.
Our school boasts a tradition of over fifty years of excellence in preschool education and child care.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked FL School
- School Type: Early Childhood / Day Care
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 153 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Happyland Day School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Florida for:
Category
Attribute
School History
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
Year Founded
1912
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
School Motto
Where Faith Comes Alive!
Student Body
Total Students
153 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
8%
State avg.: 47%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
4 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
38:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Happyland Day School's ranking?
Happyland Day School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Florida for: Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Happyland Day School?
The application deadline for Happyland Day School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Happyland Day School located?
Happyland Day School is located in the Colee Hammock neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale, FL.
School Reviews
Endorse Happyland Day School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

How To Use AI For Research: A High School Student's Guide
We introduce teenagers to AI as a powerful alternative to traditional search engines. This practical guide walks students through using AI tools like Perplexity and ChatGPT for academic research while maintaining intellectual integrity.

Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
This article highlights a curated selection of podcasts that offer thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and innovative ideas on various aspects of education. From exploring new teaching methods and technologies to discussing policy changes and social issues, these podcasts provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in education. Each podcast is briefly described, highlighting its unique focus and tone.

For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
This comprehensive guide explores the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit private schools, discussing their organizational structures, advantages, and key considerations for parents. It emphasizes that a school's success is determined by its educational quality and management rather than its profit status.