Emerson Waller, TCS Class of 2021 and soon-to-be Amherst College student, reflects on how her time at The Children’s School shaped her journey through high school at Galloway.
In this Q&A, Emerson shares how TCS’s hands-on, project-based learning and close-knit community helped her build critical skills like self-advocacy, leadership and confidence—skills she carried with her into high school and will take with her to college this fall.
How did the academic experiences at TCS prepare you for high school coursework?
The academic experiences at TCS were incredible in terms of high school preparation. The thing I appreciate most in retrospect is that no class or project was singularly focused on “high school prep.” Instead, we were taught skills that will serve us for far longer. For example, the emphasis on project-based learning taught me time management, teamwork, and comfort with experiential learning. Ultimately, I came into high school with an advantage in the form of valuable skills.
Were there specific skills or subjects from TCS that helped you succeed in high school?
The skill that I found led to the most success is comfort in self-advocacy. Close relationships with my teachers at TCS meant it was easy to ask any questions that popped into my head. The moment I ran into a snag with an assignment, it was no problem to ask for help. Practicing advocacy in that environment meant that it was second nature to stand up for myself in high school, even in larger classes or with ten different teachers a year.
How did TCS’s approach to learning—hands-on, project-based, etc.—shape the way you approach learning today?
Project-based and hands-on learning have defined my learning experience. Starting in Kindergarten, practicing math with blocks was infinitely more engaging than the typical worksheets. TCS instilled in me a curiosity that led my learning. While looking at colleges, my primary criteria was finding a place that values hands-on learning, experiential exploration, and creativity, just like TCS did.
How did TCS help you build confidence going into high school?
TCS gave me the confidence to be myself. It was a place where trying new things wasn’t scary because the environment was so supportive. Whether giving a presentation, leading a project, or just speaking up in class, I always felt like my voice mattered. That kind of encouragement helped me walk into high school ready to take on new challenges without feeling like I had to already have it all figured out.
In what ways did TCS help you develop leadership skills?
At TCS, leadership wasn’t limited to just one kind of person—it was something everyone got to practice. I had so many opportunities to lead, whether it was running the Spirit Shop, advocating for my classmates, or mentoring younger students. More importantly, TCS created an environment where I could fail safely. Being able to try, stumble, and try again helped me understand that failure is part of leadership—and made me more confident because of it.
How do you think your TCS foundation will support you in college?
TCS taught me how to advocate for myself and trust in my own abilities. Whether it’s emailing a professor, speaking up in class, or navigating new responsibilities, I feel prepared because I’ve had years of practice doing those things in a supportive environment. That confidence—to ask questions, seek help, and take ownership of my learning—is something I know will be essential in college.
What advice would you give a current TCS 8th grader getting ready for high school?
Don’t catastrophize. It’s easy to imagine high school as this huge, intimidating leap, but you’re more ready than you think. Not only will there be people at your new school who are there to support you, but the TCS community will come with you to high school. Many of my friends from eighth grade were instrumental to my high school transition. Additionally, your TCS teachers are always there if you need to ask academic questions or want general advice.
