Summer Vibes & Serious Learning: Eagle Rock's Trimester 96 Courses Are Here!

As the snow melts and the Colorado sunshine warms our campus, it can only mean one thing: it's time for summer trimester at Eagle Rock! The first half of Trimester 96 is bringing the heat—not just with the weather, but with a course lineup full of adventure, creativity, growth, and purpose.  

At Eagle Rock, our classes are designed with students at the center. That means small classes (no more than 12 students), mixed ages and abilities, and an interdisciplinary approach where teachers collaborate to build truly unique learning experiences. Everything we do is grounded in the 5 Expectations of 8+5=10, and our courses are constantly evolving to reflect the interests and needs of our current students.

Whether learning through project-based exploration, group learning, social-emotional development, real-world experiences, or work-based skills, every class at ERS is built to challenge and inspire. And this summer is no exception.

From bug-hunting fly fishers to aspiring changemakers, Trimester 96 has something for every kind of learner. Let’s take a look at what’s on deck:

Fly Fishing Entomology
Get ready to dive (not literally… we hope!) into the watery ecosystems of Estes Park. This course explores the bug life that thrives just beneath the surface—and the fish that love to eat them. You’ll journal, tie flies, practice casting, and even guide others as you learn the art and science of fly fishing. Science meets adventure in the most Colorado way possible.

Grad Seminar II
For those preparing to take the next step beyond ERS, this course is your launchpad. Grad Seminar II helps you map out your goals, explore life post-graduation, and start building your “adult backpack” full of practical skills and meaningful self-knowledge. (Required for grads—but also a great space to dream big and plan smart.)

Trees and Breeze
Reconnect with the natural world in this eco-inspired English/science combo class. With Braiding Sweetgrass as your guide, you’ll investigate the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the plants and animals all around us. Expect journaling, fieldwork, and some deep, beautiful thinking about reciprocity with the Earth.

Ciphers, Geocaching, and Leisure Games
What do cryptography, disc golf, and pool have in common? More than you'd think! This math/physics mashup uses games and outdoor exploration to reveal the logic and science hiding in plain sight. From cracking secret codes to chasing GPS coordinates, you'll be solving puzzles—and having a blast. 

Lights, Camera, Eagle Rock!
Calling all storytellers, creatives, and future filmmakers! In this hands-on class, you’ll produce real videos to help incoming students and families understand what ERS is all about. Think “A Day in the Life” documentaries, campus tours, and interviews with your peers. Sundays through Thursdays, you’ll be behind the camera—and behind the scenes.

Goal Diggers
Tired of the internet telling you how to live your life? In this empowering PM course, you’ll take a critical look at online culture and redefine success on your own terms. Through reflection, discussion, and creative expression, you'll become the kind of influencer who influences themselves first. This one's got EKB and English credit written all over it.

Bowls! Bowls! Bowls!
Let’s get muddy. This ceramics-focused class takes you deep into the process of shaping clay, from hand-building to wheel throwing. It's all about building skills, resilience, and maybe even a few beautiful, functional bowls. Whether you're new to pottery or ready to level up, you’ll leave with more than just dishes—you’ll leave with experience.

Champions of Change
If you're fired up about justice, equity, and making a real impact, this class is your calling. You’ll learn how to lead change, build community, and join the fourth Changemaker Cohort to launch a full-on initiative. With a mix of personal reflection, team collaboration, and real-world application, this course is where leadership meets action.

No matter where your interests lie—science, art, activism, or just plain fun—this summer at Eagle Rock is built for growth, discovery, and connection. Here's to longer days, deeper learning, and a trimester you’ll never forget. Let’s go, Trimester 96!