When Chandler Docka (TCS ’25, Mount Vernon ’29) arrived at Mount Vernon for ninth grade, she stepped into a brand-new community where most students already knew each other. It was a big transition, academically, socially, and emotionally, but Chandler felt ready. Her years at The Children’s School, a progressive Atlanta preschool, elementary, and middle school, had equipped her with the skills, confidence, and mindset she needed to jump in, advocate for herself, and thrive.
Advocacy, Confidence, and the TCS Way
When asked how TCS prepared her for high school, Chandler didn’t hesitate: self-advocacy.
“I think the biggest thing I learned at TCS was being able to advocate for myself,” she shared. “When you’re new and the work is challenging, it really helps to be able to tell your teachers or classmates what you need. I use my ‘I statements’ and all the tools we practiced at TCS.”
Whether she was struggling with an assignment or navigating a new environment, the “Building Character and Community” (BCC) strategies she learned at TCS helped her ask questions, seek support, and stay confidently engaged.
Ready for Rigorous Work, Especially in Math
While Chandler feels prepared across subjects, one stands out.
“I feel really prepared in math,” she said. “I’ve been able to use so many strategies we learned at TCS to navigate new content. Even when teachers introduce new ways of doing things, it clicks.”
Her strong math foundation has been a steady anchor in ninth grade.
Social-Emotional Skills That Make a Difference
High school isn’t just about academics, and Chandler knows it.
She says TCS helped her “read the room,” recognize emotions, understand group dynamics, and regulate her own reactions, especially in new or challenging situations.
“Walking into a new classroom, those skills matter. I use them all the time,” she said.
Favorite TCS Memory
Without hesitation: eighth-grade Spanish.
“It was such a good time. After years of Spanish, being with my classmates, learning new things, learning songs, it was so much fun.”
What She Misses Most
Chandler didn’t even try to hide her nostalgia.
“The community. I know that sounds basic, but having such a tight-knit group, knowing everyone’s pet names, siblings, and what they like. I really miss that. Going to a bigger school made me appreciate how special that was.”
Her Advice for Current TCS Students
“Make the most of your time here. I look back and really miss the little things, even getting annoyed in group projects or irritated with a teacher. I wish I hadn’t taken it for granted.”
Chandler’s story is a beautiful reminder of what makes The Children’s School, a progressive Atlanta preschool, elementary, and middle school, so unique: a community that nurtures confident learners, strong communicators, and empathetic human beings ready to take on whatever comes next.
