Finding the Magic in the Mundane: How Eagle Rock Faculty Transform Lives

At Eagle Rock School, we believe education is more than academics; it’s a journey of self-discovery and growth. Our transformative approach empowers students to find their purpose and place in the world, and this mission comes alive through the dedication of our extraordinary faculty. As leaders, mentors, and guides, our staff embody the values of resilience, curiosity, and community, helping students navigate life’s challenges and find meaning along the way.

One of our Restorative Practices Fellow, Asnoldo Benitez, exemplifies this spirit. His journey—from choosing sobriety to nurturing young minds through restorative practices and nature-based learning—offers a glimpse into how Eagle Rock faculty inspire growth and transformation, creating an environment where students thrive.

Restorative Practices: Holding Students Close in Their Struggles

At Eagle Rock, we understand that students come to us with unique challenges and life experiences. Our restorative practices approach reframes moments of struggle as opportunities for connection and growth. Asnoldo’s work embodies this philosophy: instead of pushing students away when they face conflict, he helps them feel seen, heard, and supported.

Using trauma-informed strategies, Asnoldo fosters accountability and healing through community. Whether it’s leading conversations in a circle or engaging students in games that teach accountability and cooperation, he helps create a culture of trust and belonging. By embracing the whole student—including their struggles—our faculty help them develop resilience, empathy, and a stronger sense of self.

The Power of Soft Fascination: Connecting with Nature to Heal and Inspire

Nature is a powerful teacher, and at Eagle Rock, it’s central to our curriculum. Asnoldo’s passion for the outdoors and his practice of “finding the magic in the mundane” resonates deeply with our students. On hikes through nearby trails on campus, he introduces them to the concept of soft fascination—a mindful state of being fully present with the natural world.

For one student, a quiet outing to listen to elk bugle in Rocky Mountain National Park was life-changing. The hike sparked a love for nature and a newfound curiosity about the environment. By encouraging students to slow down, observe, and immerse themselves in their surroundings, Asnoldo creates space for self-reflection and joy—an antidote to the distractions of modern life.

Empowering Through Example: Leading with Curiosity and Courage

The most impactful educators lead by example, and Asnoldo’s story of choosing sobriety is a powerful testament to the courage required to embrace change. When faced with the challenge of meeting the requirements for a youth empowerment role, Asnoldo saw an opportunity to transform his life. Sobriety became more than a personal milestone; it became a way to model resilience and intentionality for others.

But Asnoldo’s story isn’t just about giving something up—it’s about what he gained. By replacing old habits with new passions, like studying wildflowers and creating poetry, he shows students that hard choices can lead to unexpected joys. This perspective helps students reframe their own challenges, inspiring them to take brave steps toward personal growth.

Asnoldo’s impact extends beyond the Eagle Rock community. Recently, he was invited to share his story at the Association for Experiential Education (AEE) Conference, a global gathering of educators, facilitators, and leaders dedicated to advancing experiential learning. In his talk, “Why Do We Do Hard Things?” Asnoldo reflected on his journey of choosing sobriety and finding fulfillment in the magic of everyday moments. Through his heartfelt narrative, he highlighted the power of embracing challenges and living with intention—core values that resonate deeply with Eagle Rock’s mission. A video of his inspiring talk is available to view here; we are honored to share it as a testament to the transformative work happening at Eagle Rock.

Join Us in Creating Transformative Change

As Asnoldo’s work demonstrates, our faculty are not just educators but leaders in a global conversation about the transformative power of experiential learning. By fostering community, embracing nature as a teacher, and leading with authenticity, they transform lives, one student at a time.

If you’re an educator with a passion for empowering young people and embracing challenges, we invite you to explore our fellowship opportunities. Here, you’ll find a community that values connection, growth, and the magic in the mundane.

Together, we can create a brighter future, where students not only discover their potential but also find the courage to share their light with the world.