meaning of the phrase "Happy Days"

[Ilonaa]

Hello!
Today my American principal told me when I was leaving the school "Happy Days". I didn't understand the meaning of it.
Would you help me understanding it?
Thank you!

[Mister Micawber]

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I don't understand this sentence: "You are leaving the school happy days". Are you sure that is what he said?
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Ilonaa]

Actually she said to me while I was leaving : "Happy Days!".

[Mister Micawber]

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Oh-- that is just an informal farewell phrase. The meaning is 'I hope you have happy days [until we meet again]'.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Ilonaa]

What shoud I answer in that case "you too" or "Happy Days"?
Thank you in advance !

[Alan]

Hi,

Another interpretation of 'Happy Days' could be a suggestion that the past time has been a happy time. It's said with a sense of nostalgia and regret that the 'happy days' are now in the past.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Have a Break!

[Mister Micawber]

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It depends a little bit on status. Since this is a student-teacher relationship, I'd probably answer 'Thanks!'. 'You too' would probably be OK too, but don't just repeat 'Happy days'.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's