Welcome to ERS, home of the Talons! We hope that your year(s) with us will be both enjoyable and successful. Our school will provide you with every opportunity to achieve your potential in all areas; however it is up to you to take advantage of these opportunities. ERS strives to be a school that is welcoming, caring and tolerant of differences.

I am excited to be at ERS this year, as my first year as principal here. It is my second time at this school, as I was a teacher at Eagle River many years ago (more than I would like to admit!) at the very start of my career. It is a very “full circle” moment for me! I have had the privilege to lead schools of all different sizes, in two other districts, and am excited to return to SD83. I am hoping to spend a few years leading this school, and hope to fill the very big shoes of Mr. Marino as well as I can.

Education at a small school can have it’s challenges and benefits. If we are doing our job well here, we should be able to keep the challenges as minimal as possible. My hope is that the students of ERS really embrace the huge benefits of being in a small school. First, small schools are all about relationships and connection. Students will find “their people” quickly. They do not fall through the cracks, as everything is very visible. Second, small schools allow for close monitoring and tracking of learning development. We will care for them and know when things are going well or not, and be able to intervene quickly if needed. Third, small schools allow for flexibility in learning. Students at ERS will have lots of hands on learning, and will enjoy some very personal learning due to small class sizes . Fourth, the staff at small schools are hugely talented and very versatile, as they have to teach a wide range of courses and be adaptable. Finally, another huge benefit is that parents can communicate with the school easily, and will have lots of opportunities to be involved.

Get involved! No one ever gets to the end of school and says “I wish I did less…”. Have no regrets and be an active member of the school. We encourage you to take advantage of both the curricular and extra-curricular activities the school has to offer. Participate in your learning and development by pursuing excellence and giving your best. ERS is our school. Let’s work together to make it an experience you will never forget!

Mr. Chapman