As I reflect on my son's year in pre-school and look forward to his first year in public school, I realize that there are some major differences, some positive but most negative, that we can anticipate.  The pre-school he attended is a small, religious-based one lead by moms of preschoolers who happen to be teachers.  The overall experience was delightful for me, and enjoyable for my son.  Unfortunately, the start-up of something like a preschool requires financial support and although the students and teachers had everything they needed, there were probably days they went without things they wanted.  By the end of the year, the playground, which was donated by a local woman, was completed with fencing and mulch, the playroom was stocked with toys, donated by parents, grandparents, and the church, and the kids were content.  Surprisingly, the teachers were, too. Next year, there will be lots of playground equipment, computers, music class, art class, a gym, a cafeteria, a library, and more.  There will be plenty of stuff.  And kids.  But will the teachers be as happy?  The preschool teachers, who were previously employed by the public schools, were happy every day.  That is not an exaggeration.  They were so excited to be doing what they love; teaching children. So, what's the difference?  I know public school teachers are doing what they love, too.  You'd have to be crazy to teach school if you didn't love it.  But so often, the public school teachers are bogged down with red-tape, and paperwork, and teaching the test, that they don't get a chance to enjoy what they are doing.  The kids recognize this.  The point at which  the teacher views her assignment as a job instead of a vocation or calling is the point at which kids start to see learning and school as work and not fun.  For now, school is fun and he can't wait until August.