Leadership

As Principal of Happy Valley School, Mrs. Jeannine McDonald brings a deep passion for fostering students’ academic achievement and personal growth. Her extensive experience spans a wide range of educational settings, including private, public, and charter schools, providing her with a broad and well-rounded perspective on student success.

Mrs. McDonald holds a Master of Arts in Psychology from Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts, and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Her academic background, combined with her professional expertise, reflects her unwavering commitment to education and student development.

With more than 20 years of leadership experience across Kindergarten through Grade 12, Mrs. McDonald has served in a variety of influential roles, including as the Founding Head of a private high school. In addition to her leadership, she is an accomplished classroom teacher with a strong foundation in curriculum design, instructional practices, and student assessment. Her dedication to creating an exceptional educational environment is rooted in a commitment to excellence, academic rigor, and meaningful support for both students and staff. Mrs. McDonald believes in cultivating not only strong scholars but also individuals of character, integrity, and leadership—preparing them to become lifelong learners and responsible contributors to their communities.

Mrs. McDonald values the essential partnership between school and family, recognizing that collaboration is key to supporting each child’s academic and personal journey. She believes that providing students with an outstanding educational experience is one of the greatest gifts we can offer, as it equips them with the knowledge, confidence, and character needed for success in life.