Our Staff

Laura Creteau
Director

Laura first connected with CPC preschool in 2021 as a parent, when she brought her older daughter to meet the teachers and immediately fell in love with the warm and welcoming community. Both of her daughters went on to attend CPC Preschool and absolutely loved their time there.

Since then, Laura served as a substitute teacher and then led the 3-year-old class—experiences that deepened her connection to the school and its mission. She is excited to step into the role of Director, and continue the school’s caring, play-based approach, supporting the values that make the school so special.

Before becoming a parent, Laura spent 13 years teaching in public schools. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree at TCNJ and her Master’s Degree from Rutgers University. She loves working with young children and brings enthusiasm, teamwork, and a genuine care for the families she serves.

Outside of school, she enjoys reading, running, hiking, and biking with her family. She’s also a volunteer with her daughters’ Girl Scout Troops, Girls on the Run, and teaches CCD. Each summer, she looks forward to spending time with her family at the beach in Cape May.

Cathy Edelsberg

Cathy has been part of CPC Preschool since its inception in 2018. After one year as a classroom aide, she took on the role of 3-year-old teacher. What a blessing to spend time each week with our little ones and to be part of this amazing preschool team! Cathy earned her BA in Elementary Education and Communications. While her first job was teaching first grade, her most treasured position was that of stay-at-home mom. With two daughters now grown, she is back in the classroom. Cathy has called CPC her church home since 2001, serving children through nursery, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School,and the Children’s Ministry Team. She enjoys coffee dates and walks with friends, relaxing by the fireplace, baking, writing, and spending time with her family. With two cats (and very missed “angel puppies”), her heart is forever full.

Amanda Caruso

Hello, My name is Amanda Caruso, and I live in Annandale, New Jersey. Alongside my husband we have three children, a dog, cat and hamster. I have been in the education world for 15 years, working with regular and special education children all ranging in the preschool to elementary levels. For the past 10 years I have been blessed to be with my children as a stay-at-home mom. I enjoy hiking, going on vacations with my family, and shopping:)

Nicki Kavanaugh

Nicki first came to CPC as a mom to one of our first 3 year olds when we opened our doors in 2018. Both her daughter and son attended CPC preschool and she has been a supporter of our program ever since. Nicki has spent the last 20 years working in the public policy arena advocating for New Jersey farmers. Nine years ago she shifted to part time so she could stay home to raise her two children. After first becoming a substitute once both kids were in school all day, she came on board in January 2023 as a classroom assistant for the 3 and 4 year old classes. Along with her husband and children, Nicki shares her home with her dog, cat, lizard and many chickens.

Megan Traphagen

Hi! My name is Megan Traphagen, and I live in Clinton, NJ. I have been a teacher for 5+ years in the Hunterdon County Area! I've taught preschool through high school focusing mainly on special education and support services. I received my BA in Special Education and Early Childhood at Moravian University. In addition to being apart of the education world, I am a wife to my husband, Ross and a mom to my daughter, Jane Marie. We are active members in our community and enjoy volunteering as a family. We are also apart of the CPC family!

Fun facts about me: I enjoy reading, my favorite subject is Math, I love the color yellow, I like taking country drives, my favorite season is Fall, and I love a good cup of ice coffee (even when it’s cold)!

Liz Beasley

Hi! My name is Liz Beasley, and I live in Bethlehem Township, NJ. I feel so lucky to have found CPC Preschool for my two boys—one who graduated in May 2023 and one who is currently attending. This year will be my first year teaching at CPC Preschool as a Classroom 4’s Teacher, and I’m thrilled to be part of such a wonderful team.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education from St. John’s University and a Master’s degree in Education from Brooklyn College. My career includes many years of experience in both education and human services. After spending seven years as a stay-at-home mom, I discovered my love for teaching all things preschool!

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy running, going to the beach, attending church with my family, and reading with my kids. My boys have loved being part of this nurturing community, and I couldn’t imagine teaching anywhere else.

Erica Murphy

Hello CPC families! My name is Erica, and I’m thrilled to be joining the team as a classroom assistant. I live in Hunterdon County, New Jersey with my husband, our two daughters, and our dog. For the past year, I’ve had the joy of being a stay-at-home mom, cherishing the time spent watching my girls grow and learn.

My connection to Clinton Presbyterian Preschool began when I was searching for the right preschool program for my three-year-old daughter. From the moment we stepped into CPC, I was drawn to the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the thoughtful, nurturing approach to early childhood education. It felt like home.

So when the opportunity arose to become a classroom assistant, I knew it was the perfect fit. I’m excited to support our amazing teachers and help create a caring, engaging environment where every child feels seen, valued, and inspired to learn.

Looking forward to a wonderful year ahead!

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