May 22, 2026 — With nearly three decades of experience in education and a passion for building strong school communities, Palmer Middle School’s new principal, Mandy Childress, brings a student-centered approach and a deep commitment to academic excellence to her new role.
Since beginning her career as a middle school English Language Arts teacher in Mississippi in 1997, she has served students across multiple grade levels and subject areas, experiences that have shaped her belief in meeting every child where they are and helping them reach their full potential.
After joining Cobb County School District in 2009 as a social studies teacher at Campbell Middle School and serving as both a teacher and assistant principal in Cobb, she is excited to join the Palmer community and continue fostering a culture where students feel empowered, supported, and inspired to succeed.
"I am truly excited to be joining a school that is so deeply rooted in student success. What stands out to me about Palmer is the strong sense of community. You can feel it in the relationships among teachers, the PTSA's involvement, the support from Partners in Education, and the shared commitment of all stakeholders. There’s something special about being part of a close-knit school where people genuinely care about one another and work together for the good of every child. I’m looking forward to building those relationships and becoming a part of a community that clearly takes pride in its work and its students," shared Principal Childress.
Read below to learn more about Principal Childress’s leadership philosophy, her vision for Palmer, and why she believes strong school-community partnerships are essential to student success.
Question: What does “student success” mean to you?
Answer: "To me, student success is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It looks different for every child, and that’s what makes this work so important. Every student deserves access to a rigorous and supportive academic journey that challenges them while also meeting their individual needs, so they can reach their full potential. At Palmer, the mission to empower all students for success truly reflects that belief. That kind of success happens when you have dedicated teachers who pour into their students every day, paired with strong partnerships with families who support and reinforce that learning beyond the classroom. When those pieces come together, students don’t just achieve, they thrive."
Question: Under your leadership, how will you build on Palmer's successes?
Answer: "I believe strongly in honoring and building on the great work that is already happening at Palmer Middle School. Under my leadership, I will continue to support the school’s mission and vision by working collaboratively with staff, students, parents, Partners in Education, and the entire school community. Together, we will celebrate successes, reflect on opportunities for growth, and remain focused on what’s best for all students. I am especially passionate about creating meaningful leadership opportunities for students, giving them a voice, allowing them to take ownership of their learning, and helping them develop the skills they need to become confident, capable leaders in the future. When students feel empowered, they rise to the occasion."
Question: What role do you see parents and the community playing in supporting student success?
Answer: "Students are most successful when there is a strong, positive partnership between the school, families, and the community. Palmer’s teachers and staff bring knowledge, expertise, and daily commitment to instruction, but the support from parents and the broader community enhances that work in powerful ways. Families provide insight, encouragement, and consistency that enriches student learning. When everyone works together with a shared purpose, we create an environment where students feel supported from all sides, and that makes a lasting impact. I also believe community partnerships play a vital role in helping schools thrive. Whether it is through mentorship opportunities, school support programs, volunteering, or simply showing up for students, community members help reinforce the message that education matters. Schools are at their best when everyone feels invested in children's success. When students see teachers, families, and community members all working together on their behalf, it creates a culture where they feel valued, connected, and inspired to do their best."
Question: What do you like most about being an educator?
Answer: "What I love most about being an educator and school leader is the opportunity to make a lasting impact on students’ lives. Every day is different, but every day brings a chance to encourage, support, and help someone grow. I truly enjoy building relationships with students, staff, and families and being part of a school community where people feel seen, valued, and supported. One of the most rewarding parts of this work is watching growth happen over time. Sometimes it is academic growth, sometimes it is personal confidence, leadership, resilience, or a student finally realizing what they are capable of accomplishing. Those moments are incredibly meaningful. I also love supporting teachers and helping create an environment where they feel empowered to do their best work, because when teachers are supported, students benefit. At the heart of it all, education is about people, relationships, and helping others reach their potential."
Question: Outside of school, where might parents and students find you?
Answer: "Outside of school, you will most likely find me spending time with friends or my two nephews, who are truly the light of my life. Family and friends have always been at the center of who I am, so I treasure every opportunity. I also have a deep love of travel, especially international travel, which my parents introduced me to at a very young age. Those experiences taught me the value of learning about different cultures, perspectives, and people, and that appreciation has stayed with me throughout my life."
