[DONATE TO NMCAA] This “behind-the-scenes” back-to-school episode of The Collective US features hosts Ryan Buck and Erica Austin with lead teachers Judy Abernathy (34 years with Head Start) and Jessica Youhouse, who share how they came to early childhood education—Judy from classroom volunteer to college-educated lead teacher, Jessica from ECE studies through varied roles back to the joy of the classroom—and why preschool matters: firsts, silliness, big hugs, safety, and friendships that last. They trade summer snapshots (softball scouting; lake life with hand-fed bass), then unpack the real prep: rooms reset after carpet cleaning, audit-driven paperwork, labeling everything, allergy/meal plans, attendance and parent communication via Learning Genie, with 1:1 orientations and open houses to build trust. Classroom culture includes Judy’s “Love Notes” family photo pockets, feelings wheels on every chair, first-day photos, portfolios, and a “waving window” goodbye ritual. The first two weeks emphasize routines, independence, and social skills; challenges are met with patience, humor, and teamwork (last year they potty-trained 7 of 8 students). Advice to new teachers: communicate, delegate, breathe, be flexible—“nobody’s on fire.” The show spotlights staff milestones and kudos, answers a few fun questions (adult recess = swings; emergency kit = snacks—Goldfish!), and closes with reminders about home-based Head Start options, weatherization help, and how to donate to NMCAA.