Discovering Growth at Eagle Rock School: A Place Where Students Thrive

At Eagle Rock School, we believe in an education that goes beyond the classroom, fostering personal growth, building strong communities, and empowering students to take charge of their futures. Recently, three of our students joined Dr. Chris Unger of Northeastern University on his podcast, A Revolution in Education, to discuss all things ERS. In this episode, Kai, AJ, and Senaida shared their stories about how our unique school has helped them uncover strengths, develop new skills, and discover their true potential. The insights from the podcast offer a powerful glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of the Eagle Rock community, and how it can transform lives for the better.

A Different Kind of Learning Experience

From the moment students step foot on campus, it’s clear that Eagle Rock is not like other schools. We are not just preparing for exams or memorizing facts—we are learning through experience, building relationships, and developing a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. This school isn’t just about education; it’s about growth, both academically and personally.

In the podcast, students shared how they’ve grown in unexpected ways. Kai, our most recent ERS graduate, reflected on how Eagle Rock has changed his outlook and habits: “Eagle Rock gave me a fresh start—a place to figure out who I am and who I want to be. I’ve learned to embrace challenges instead of avoiding them.” This transformation highlights how Eagle Rock fosters resilience and a commitment to self-improvement, helping our students build habits and mindsets that serve them for life.

Our approach to learning is rooted in understanding that growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum. The connections students make with peers and staff are what truly make Eagle Rock a special place. Senaida, another ERS student who graduated in summer of 2024, highlighted how the community at Eagle Rock has been essential to her journey: “The biggest thing that I think has impacted my growth here has been the other students,” she shared. “Being surrounded by so many different people with unique interests and backgrounds has been inconceivably valuable.”

Community and Support: The Heart of Eagle Rock

What truly sets Eagle Rock apart is its emphasis on community and personal relationships. Our students aren't just numbers—they are individuals who are supported, understood, and encouraged to grow in a safe and welcoming environment. This nurturing atmosphere enables these young adults to embrace challenges, push past personal boundaries, and become the best versions of themselves.

AJ, another ERS student set to graduate in June of 2025, described how Eagle Rock has shaped his understanding of personal growth: “I feel like I’ve become more open-minded and expanded my knowledge base because I’m always in community with these amazing people.” At Eagle Rock, students aren’t just learning subjects—they are learning how to be better people, how to communicate, collaborate, and contribute to the communities they are a part of.

Kai also reflected on how the supportive staff has contributed to his development: “I feel like I can relate to the staff, and they genuinely care about me. That’s been really important for my growth.” The staff here are more than just teachers; they are mentors and guides, helping students navigate both the academic and personal challenges of life. This kind of support is what allows these changemakers to flourish, knowing that they have people who truly care about their success.

The Transformative Power of Experiential Learning

Our approach to learning at Eagle Rock is built on the principle of experiential education—learning by doing. This model encourages us to take part in activities that push us out of our comfort zones, from wilderness backpacking trips to art projects. As Senaida shared, her involvement in an installation art project course, where students conceptualized and created a room filled with creative, larger-than-life sculptures, was one of her most transformative experiences. “It was the biggest art project I’ve ever worked on,” she said, emphasizing the sense of accomplishment and teamwork involved in such a monumental task.

These hands-on experiences are not only about learning practical skills but also about personal growth. Eagle Rock students face challenges that require resilience, collaboration, and creativity—skills that will serve us for years to come. Whether they are learning through physical challenges, creating art, or participating in discussions, the experience teaches them how to approach the world with an open mind and a problem-solving attitude.

Prepare for the Future: How Eagle Rock Sets Students Up for Success

As we look to the future, the lessons learned at Eagle Rock are invaluable. For some students, like AJ, Eagle Rock has sparked a passion for filmmaking and networking. For others, like Senaida, it has opened the door to college, an opportunity that once seemed out of reach. “Coming to Eagle Rock changed that,” she said. “I’m really excited to go to college and continue my learning journey.”

The skills acquired here—whether it’s practical abilities like filmmaking, or life skills like networking and personal discipline—set young adults up for long-term success. At Eagle Rock, we aren’t just preparing students for the next test; we are preparing for life, equipped with the confidence and skills needed to navigate whatever comes next.

Ready to Join Eagle Rock?

If you’re looking for an educational experience that goes beyond the ordinary, one that emphasizes personal growth, community, and hands-on learning, then Eagle Rock might be the place for you. Our students are not just prepared for the next chapter—they are equipped for life. Don’t wait for the opportunity to pass you by. Reach out to learn more about joining our vibrant, transformative community.

We encourage you to take the first step toward a future where you are empowered to reach your fullest potential. Visit our website to learn more about how to apply and the timeline for enrollment. We can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve as part of our community.

And of course, be sure to listen to the full episode of A Revolution in Education today and learn more about Kai, AJ, and Senaida’s journeys at Eagle Rock.