The Eagle Eye
May 27, 2021 - Eagle Ridge Academy - Volume 17 | Issue 17
Eagle Ridge Academy is currently in FULL-SCHOOL IN-PERSON LEARNING. There is NO SCHOOL on Friday, May 28 nor on Monday, May 31, due to Memorial Day. The last day of school for grades K-12 will be Wednesday, June 2.
The Minnesota Department of Health data updated today shows that Hennepin County is currently at 20.15 cases of COVID-19 per 10,000 people, while ERA zip code data is at 15.2 cases of COVID-19 per 10,000 people. In January, the ERA Board of Directors approved the new Learning Model Decision Making Matrix for grades 6-12. The Decision Making Matrix (DMM) includes and prioritizes data from within our facility versus the Hennepin County case rate alone. The DMM will be updated on Eagle Ridge Academy's website every Friday.
Upcoming Events
Friday, May 28
Saturday, May 29
- School of Grammar Play: "Jack & the Beanstalk". Performances will take place at ERA at 2:00 and 7:00 p.m. and tickets will cost $5.
Monday, May 31
- NO SCHOOL due to Memorial Day.
Tuesday, June 1
- End of Year Device and Book Return: June 1-3
- 5th Grade Moving Up Ceremony at ERA, distance learners 9:00-10:00 a.m., in-person learners 2:00-3:00 p.m.
- Kindergarten Parking Lot Parade at ERA, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
- 2021-2022 Transportation Community Meeting at ERA, 5:00-6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, June 2
- End of Year Device and Book Return: June 1-3
- Last Day of School for Grades K-12: School of Grammar students will be dismissed at 11:20 a.m. and Schools of Logic & Rhetoric students will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m.
Thursday, June 3
- End of Year Device and Book Return: June 1-3
- Class of 2021 Commencement Ceremony at Calgary Christian Reformed Church and via livestream, 7:00 p.m.
Have a great summer, Gryphons!
Please Complete the 2020-2021 Parent Satisfaction Survey by June 4
Dear Families,
The Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Achievement (CISA) task force of the Board of Directors is seeking parent feedback via our annual parent satisfaction survey. The purpose of the annual parent survey is to seek feedback from parents in order to continuously improve the educational experience for our students. This year’s survey includes four different sections: education in distance learning, education in in-person learning, areas of strength and growth for Board strategic visioning, and the use of Canvas, our Learning Management System. This survey contains up to 30 questions and will take approximately fifteen minutes to complete. The survey link will remain open until Friday, June 4. CLICK HERE TO START YOUR FAMILY'S SURVEY.
To translate the survey into a language other than English, please watch this three minute video with instructions. CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO LINK.
Please contact Missy Madigan, Interim Director of Academics, with any questions at mmadigan@eagleridgeacademy.org.
Notes from Executive Director Jason Ulbrich
This is the time of year when I traditionally write a letter to the ERA staff and community, applauding the great things that have happened throughout the year and noting the areas to improve on for the next school year. This note, however, feels a little weightier. Not only are we at the end of a school year, but it feels like we are at the end of a long tunnel where we not only see the light but can actually feel the fresh air. Since March of 2020, we have been locked down, masked, socially distanced, and restricted! That made my recent visit to Wild River State Park on the St. Croix River extra special. I was so grateful to have the opportunity to go for a walk and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine because, just one year ago, we were all cooped up in our homes trying to figure out the “new normal” and wondering what the future would bring.
These last four weeks have provided insight into what the future may look like for next year. Based upon the reduced restrictions, Eagle Ridge Academy will focus most of our planning time this summer with the expectation that we will come back fully in-person, five days per week next school year. Things have pivoted quickly as, just a few short weeks ago, I sent an email to staff asking them to plan for a more restricted environment for next year.
There were three actions that took place last week that have provided me with so much hope:
- Our seniors will be able to invite up to eight people to graduation because of the decreased restrictions.
- The Eagle Ridge Academy Booster Club planned and hosted an amazing Activities Banquet. The banquet was a perfect blend of community and honoring our students.
- Last Friday, numerous staff communicated what they were grateful for this year. Many mentioned how much they learned, enabling them to be better teachers, and how they surprised themselves that they were able to persevere.
The staff of ERA did an amazing job of providing the best education possible to our students. And our families have shown incredible patience this year, for which I am truly thankful.
Have a great summer,
Jason Ulbrich
Community Updates: School of Grammar
School of Grammar Notes - Janelle Mellgren, Prinicpal
School of Grammar Families,
Wow! It has been quite a school year that we’ve journeyed through together and never in my education career have I felt such a strong partnership between home and school. The way our students, families, and staff have responded to the pandemic, societal unrest, and for some, loss of friends or family, or just the sadness of not being able to be with them, has been so impressive.
I have seen a kind of creative determination and resiliency develop in many of our students and staff this year. And, while I wouldn’t say any of us handled everything exactly how we wanted to all the time, I do believe we did our best to embrace the situations at hand and work to both take advantage of the opportunities they presented as well as learn from the hard things we had to do.
One thing which made this much easier to do was our shared care for each of your children. Though I think it’s very safe to say we made mistakes, it was never because we didn’t care deeply, and that is a very beautiful thing. I’ve had a saying on my desk for years “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds you plant.” I am proud of the seeds we’ve all planted in the lives of our children and one another this year. As we look ahead to next school year and the years to come – I look forward to all of us reaping some of the harvest.
Usually at the end of each school year, we send a paper form home for parents to share information about their children as we work on class lists for the following school year. This year we’re providing a virtual form, should you wish to provide information about your child. While we are waiting to see exactly what our next school year will look like, I feel confident that we are prepared to make it another year of good learning and growth for each of our students – and hopefully one another, as well.
Best wishes for a wonderful summer and looking forward to seeing you in the fall,
Janelle Mellgren
Last Day of School Information: Grades K-5
The last day of school for all students K-12 is Wednesday, June 2. School of Grammar students will be dismissed at 11:20 a.m. as it is a half-day and there is no after-school care provided. (Last day of school information for the Schools of Logic & Rhetoric is listed further down in the newsletter.)
Materials Return
Students attending in-person will be asked to return their school materials (i.e. books, computers, etc.) to their classroom teachers May 24-27. School materials need to be returned no later than June 3.
There will be two materials drop-off dates for distance learners: Wednesday, June 2, 1:30-5:00 p.m. and Thursday, June 3, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. All technology devices must be returned to Door 1 (by the globe). Books must be placed in a bag labeled with the student’s first and last name, grade, and teacher's name. School of Grammar books will be collected at Door 2.
Food Service
To order a take-home lunch for your child on the last day of school, please complete this order form for each child. Bag lunches will be distributed at the end of the school day for the students to enjoy at home.
The Eagle Ridge Academy buses will run mid-day on June 2, the last day of school, as it is a half day. Buses will depart the Academy at 11:40 a.m. To determine the drop-off time of your child’s bus stop, please subtract 3 hours and 40 minutes from their usual drop-off time.
K-12 Art Hub
On behalf of the School of Grammar and Upper School Art Departments, we want to thank you for taking time to support the arts this year!
In lieu of the Annual Fine Arts Festival, you may view the K-12 Online Art Hub at this link. Here, you can access a virtual slideshow presentation of student work by grade level. The Art Hub can also be found on the Home Pages of students' Art Canvas Courses.
Art Expo 2021 winners will be announced next week. Stay tuned on the ERA Facebook page!
Last Chance for School of Grammar Yearbooks!
SCHOOL OF GRAMMAR EXTRA YEARBOOKS FOR SALE -AVAILABLE UNTIL SOLD OUT!
Cost: $35. Exact cash only (no change will be made available) or checks written out to ERA.
Pick-Up Dates and Times: June 2, 1:30-3:30 p.m. and June 3, 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Location: Door 1 District Office (by the globe statue).
ONLY AVAILABLE AT THESE TIMES. NO OTHER ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE MADE. Get one before they're gone!
TEL After School Care Program 2021-2022 Information Coming Soon!
Registration for the new and improved TEL Program will open soon for the 2021-2022 school year! The purpose of TEL is to offer Eagle Ridge Academy families a high quality after school care program. This program is for students in grades K-6 and will run Monday-Friday, 3:00-6:00 p.m.
The TEL Program is a great opportunity for students to participate in outside games, arts, crafts, STEM projects, and cooking. TEL will also provide a snack and the chance to complete homework before going home for the day.
If you have any questions about the TEL Program, please email tel@eagleridgeacademy.org.
Registration will open in early June and more information will be available in the coming weeks. Thank you and we look forward to seeing your child(ren) join us!
Community Updates: Schools of Logic & Rhetoric
Schools of Logic & Rhetoric Notes - Erin Johnson, Principal
“The greatest lesson I have learned in life is that I still have a lot to learn.” –Socrates
We are quickly closing out on the 2020-2021 school year… and what a year it’s been! We learned a lot about ourselves and how we face challenges. The students have worked incredibly hard this year, learning how to use all the new technology so they could learn new material. Teachers have worked diligently to learn the technology so they could provide the best experience for their students. We are so proud of the effort and dedication from our Eagle Ridge Academy community of learners!
The last day of school for the Schools of Logic and Rhetoric is Wednesday, June 2. It is a half day, with school ending at 11:30. Please ensure all materials are returned to school, following the material return information that has been sent home in previous communications. You may contact Mrs. Romelle Pornschloegl, Assistant Principal, at romellep@eagleridgeacademy.org with questions pertaining to material drop off.
The Eagle Ridge Academy Class of 2021 is holding their commencement ceremony on Thursday, June 3, at 7:00 pm. The ceremony will be livestreamed for those who would like to watch. We are so proud of our 2021 graduates and wish them the best as they embark on the next leg of their journey!
Sincerely,
Erin Johnson
Last Day of School Information: Grades 6-12
The last day of school for all students K-12 is Wednesday, June 2. Schools of Logic & Rhetoric students will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m. as it is a half-day.
Materials Return
Students attending in-person will be asked to return their school materials (i.e. books, computers, etc.) to their classroom teachers starting May 25. Technology devices, chargers, cords, and headphones will be collected during the school day on June 1. Lockers will be cleaned out and locks will be collected on June 1. Starting June 1, students should not bring personal belongings to school. They can bring a backpack to carry locker contents home. Students not planning to be at school on June 1 should plan to turn in their device beforehand. They may return their device to Schools of Logic & Rhetoric Assistant Principal Mrs. P.
There will be two materials drop-off dates for distance learners: Wednesday, June 2, 1:30-5:00 p.m. and Thursday, June 3, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. All technology devices must be returned to Door 1 (by the globe). Books must be placed in a bag labeled with the student’s first and last name and grade. Schools of Logic and Rhetoric books will be collected at Door 3. School of Rhetoric students participating in Credit Recover may keep their devices until the end of summer programming.
Food Service
To order a take-home lunch for your child on the last day of school, please complete this order form for each child. Bag lunches will be distributed at the end of the school day for the students to enjoy at home.
Transportation
The Eagle Ridge Academy buses will run mid-day on June 2, the last day of school, as it is a half day. Buses will depart the Academy at 11:40 a.m. To determine the drop-off time of your child’s bus stop, please subtract 3 hours and 40 minutes from their usual drop-off time.
Yearbooks
Upper School 2020-2021 Yearbooks will be distributed to in-person students during homeroom before the end of the school year. Yearbook pick-up for distance learning students will coincide with materials and technology drop-off on June 2 and 3. More information will be available soon. If you have any questions, please email Emma Conner at econner@eagleridgeacademy.org.
If you would like to purchase a yearbook, there is a limited number remaining. The price is $60 and can be purchased with cash or a check made out to Eagle Ridge Academy. Please email Emma Conner with the student's name and grade. Payment can be made upon pick-up.
Semester 2 Report Cards Available to View June 9
The grading view in the Infinite Campus Parent Portal closed on Tuesday, May 25, in order for teachers to enter Quarter 4 and Semester 2 grades. The grading view will open again and Semester 2 report cards will be available to view in the parent portal at the end of day on Wednesday, June 9. The Academy does not send home hard copies of report cards. You will need to log into the parent portal to view your child’s progress report.
If you need assistance logging into the parent portal, please contact Janice Gerheart at jgerheart@eagleridgeacademy.org.
Semester 2 Grades Appeal
The semester grade is typically a composite of Q3 (40%), Q4 (40%), and S2 Final Exam (20%). The Academy has chosen to revise the composition of the semester 2 grade for the 20-21 school year due to the difficulties of the school year caused by the pandemic. The intent of the revision is to benefit the student's semester grade. The composition for the 20-21 semester 2 grade will be Q3 (45%), Q4 (45%), and S2 Final Exam (10%).
Should the revised composition have a negative impact on your grade, please use this form to appeal your 20-21 semester 2 grade. If you would like to appeal a grade for an assignment or exam, please contact the teacher issuing the grade. Requests must be made by June 14, 2021. Requests received after June 14, 2021 will not be considered.
Class of 2021 Commencement Ceremony Livestream
We hope that you'll join us online to celebrate our seniors' graduation from the Academy!
Textbook Change Process – Missy Madigan, Interim Director of Academics
Dear Families,
As first mentioned in the December 17 edition of the Eagle Eye, the Upper School department and The Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Achievement group (CISA) are in the process of reviewing textbooks in certain departments to replace textbooks that are out of print. Textbook review is a process that typically happens within departments during a five-year curriculum review cycle. However, there are several textbooks that are more than ten years old, and we are no longer able to find these printed books in good condition. Additionally, digital options are not available for these books. Please see below for an overview of the process used for textbook review.
Please accept our apologies as there was an error in the January 14 issue of the Eagle Eye. Highlighted here is the correction: “Starting in the 2021-2022 school year, 11th grade will use Conceptual Physics by Hewitt.” The post previously stated 6th grade. Again, we apologize for the error.
Further, we have continued the textbook change process focusing on the 6th grade science textbook. Of the three textbooks reviewed by the team, one stood above the others. CISA has approved the adoption of Physical Science by Elevate as the textbook for 6th grade science beginning in the 2021-2022 school year. To review the textbook, please contact Missy Madigan, Interim Director of Academics at mmadigan@eagleridgeacademy.org or at 952-746-7760 x1122. Arrangements will be made from June 14-25.
Below is the process that is followed when exploring a textbook change:
1. During the first phase, teachers examine their course textbooks to ensure they still align with MN standards and course content, as well as compare the text to new versions that might exist. The versions of science textbooks that are currently used are out of print, which required the team to look at new versions.
2. The Director of Academics works with publishers to receive the latest version of our current textbooks as well as other available options.
3. Teachers evaluate the textbooks using a rubric. The top-rated textbooks have the following characteristics: align to Eagle Ridge Academy, state, and Core Knowledge standards; meet an appropriate reading level for students; use quality visuals to support learning; and offer digital resources.
4. CISA reviews all textbooks. The 2020-21 CISA group recently reviewed all considered textbooks and found two of the three to meet the above criteria.
5. Digital and/or physical copies of the textbooks are made available for public review for a two-week window.
Sincerely,
Missy Madigan
Interim Director of Academics
Summer Excellence Club and Credit Recovery Information - Amber Dahlstrom, Director of Special Services
Dear Families,
Summer Excellence Club will be offered to qualifying students that are entering grades 1-3 in the fall. Invites have gone out to qualifying students.
Credit Recovery will be offered in the subjects of Humanities, Math, Science, and Latin for students who meet criteria. Invites have gone out to qualifying students.
Sincerely,
Amber Dahlstrom
Notes from the Academic Advising Office - Mary Johnson, College and Academic Advisor
Dear Families,
Please see the links below for scholarship opportunities with upcoming deadlines.
- Safe Driving Scholarship – May 31, 2021 (1 Award – $1,000)
- Equal Justice Scholarship – May 31, 2021 (1 Award – $1,000)
- Supra Scholarship – May 31, 2021 (1 Award – $1,000)
- Be Bold Scholarship – May 31, 2021 (1 Award – $25,085)
- SP Scholarship – May 31, 2021 (1 Award – $10,000)
- Odenza Vacations Scholarship – June 1, 2021 (1 Award – $500)
- Scott Henry Scholarship – June 1, 2021 (1 Award – $1,000)
- CIA Undergraduate Scholarship – June 18, 2021 (10 Awards – $18,000)
- NC Scholarship – June 30, 2021 (12 Awards – $2,000)
- Sparks Law Dream Chasers Scholarship – June 30, 2021 (1 Award – $1,000)
- Strong Work Ethic Scholarship – June 30, 2021 (1 Award – $1,000)
- RF Wittmeyer Community Service Scholarship – June 30, 2021 (1 Award – $1,000)
- Community Contribution Scholarship – July 26, 2021 (10 Awards – $7,000)
- Build a Better Future Scholarship – July 31, 2021 (1 Award – $1,000)
- Artic Physical Therapy Scholarship – August 31, 2021 (1 Award – $1,000)
To receive a weekly scholarship newsletter, visit scholarshipguidance.com/newsletter.
Congratulations to the Class of 2021! I give you a quote from my role model Walt Disney: "All of our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them." Go out and pursue your dreams.
Sincerely,
Ms. MJ
Endings & Beginnings - Kris Babler, Activities Director
Wow, what a whirlwind spring it has been! We are almost halfway through 2021 already. This past weekend marked the 1st Annual ERA Activities Banquet, put on by the sparkly new ERA Booster Club. It was fun! Almost 300 people attended. There were food trucks, live music, and happy students.
We are still waiting to hear how the Robotics team did in the State Tournament, how our Track & Field team performs at their Section Championship, and how our young golfers compete in their Section Finals (Wyatt B. and Kael L. both made the cut in the first round and have an excellent chance of making the State Tournament).
Our students have had an exceptional 2020-2021 year and we are preparing to build on those successes in 2021-2022.
As state health numbers continue to improve and it becomes safer for a complete return to normalcy, we will roll into the summer and fall. We have several camps and clinics already marketed and will continue to build offerings to meet the needs of our families. Before you know it, we will be celebrating anew.
Go Gryphons!
Kris Babler
Come See School Play "Jack and the Beanstalk" this Weekend!
ERA K-6: Register Now for Summer Gryphon Youth Sports!
Register today for Summer Gryphon Youth Sports: era-ar.rschooltoday.com. See more information below. Please note that we will offer additional sessions if there is enough demand. Please contact Activities Director Kris Babler at kbabler@eagleridgeacademy.org with questions. Go Gryphons!
Youth Soccer Skills Camp Session 1 (Grades 1-2)
- What: Youth Soccer Skills Camp
- When: June 7-10, 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
- Who: All students entering grades 1-2
- Cost: $90, includes shirt
Youth Soccer Skills Camp Session 1 (Grades 3-6)
- What: Youth Soccer Skills Camp
- When: June 14-17, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Who: All students entering grades 3-6
- Cost: $90, includes shirt
Youth Volleyball Camp Summer Sessions (Grades 3-4)
- What: Youth Volleyball Camp Summer Sessions
- When: Saturdays, June 26 – July 31, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
- Who: All students entering grades 3-4
- Cost: $75 for five sessions
Youth Volleyball Camp Summer Sessions (Grades 5-6)
- What: Youth Volleyball Camp
- When: Saturdays, June 26 – July 31, 10:15 – 11:30 a.m.
- Who: All students entering grades 5-6
- Cost: $75 for five sessions
Youth Basketball Skills Camp (Grades 1-2)
- What: Youth Basketball Skills Camp
- When: June 14-17, 10:00 – 10:50 a.m.
- Who: All students entering grades 1-2
- Cost: $65
Youth Basketball Skills Camp (Grades 3-4)
- What: Youth Basketball Skills Camp
- When: June 14-17, 11:00 – 11:50 a.m.
- Who: All students entering grades 3-4
- Cost: $65
Youth Basketball Skills Camp (Grades 5-7)
- What: Youth Basketball Skills Camp
- When: June 14-17, 12:00 – 12:50 p.m.
- Who: All students entering grades 5-7
- Cost: $65
Grades 7-12: Register Now for Summer Varsity Clinics!
Register today for Summer Varsity Clinics: era-ar.rschooltoday.com. See more information below. Please contact Activities Director Kris Babler at kbabler@eagleridgeacademy.org with questions. Go Gryphons!
7-12 Girls Basketball "Breakfast Club"
Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday, 6:00-7:30 a.m.
June 14-30; July 12-28
Open to all interested girls basketball players entering grades 7-12
$100 per family flat fee
7-12 Girls Volleyball Workouts
Monday/Wednesday
Grades 7-9: 5:45-7:00 p.m.
Grades 10-12: 7:00-8:30 p.m.
June 14-30; July 12-28
Open to all interested girls volleyball players entering grades 7-12
$100 per family flat fee
7-12 Boys Basketball Summer Varsity Clinics
Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday, 8:00-9:30 a.m.
June 14-July 1; July 12-29
Open to all interested boys basketball players entering grades 7-12
$100 per family flat fee
ERA Golfers Competing in Sectionals on Tuesday, June 1
Congratulations to junior Wyatt B. (center) and sophomore Kael L. (right) for making the cut for Section Finals! They are competing next week for a chance to go to the State Tournament. Wish them luck!
ERA Mockers Take 16th Place in Nationals and Win Prestigious “Larry Bakko Professionalism and Civility Award"
Eagle Ridge Academy took 16th place out of all of the teams competing in the National High School Mock Trial Championship over the weekend! Though our ERA Mockers didn't win, they certainly made a name for themselves among the organizers and competitors at the competition, winning the “Larry Bakko Professionalism and Civility Award".
The Larry Bakko Professionalism and Civility Award is sponsored by the National High School Mock Trial Championship and was created to highlight the importance of professionalism among teams participating in the national tournament while honoring Larry Bakko’s passion and dedication for Mock Trial. This is the first time a Minnesota team has won this prestigious award.
Teams may not campaign for this award. Each team will nominate another team to be considered for the Larry Bakko Professionalism and Civility Award. Teams should take into account the behavior of students, coaches, and spectators associated with other teams when making a nomination for this award.
The qualities that teams nominated for the award must demonstrate include:
• A professional demeanor
• Civility
• Integrity
• Honesty
• Fair play
• Respect for the court
• Respect for opposing counsel
• Respect for the client
Eagle Ridge Academy's pillars include citizenship, integrity, perseverance, honor, respect, excellence, and respect. Winning this award is a huge honor, as it shows that our ERA Mockers are exemplifying CIPHER in their daily lives and inspiring others in the process.
"The members of the Minnesota Bar Association, the lawyers and judges who sponsor and organize high school mock trial in the state, were effusive in their praise for our team’s knowledge and professionalism throughout the trial. They communicated to me repeatedly throughout the competition about how impressed they and their colleagues from other states were with our students," said Mock Trial Coach Mr. Magnuson.
Our ERA Mockers also won "Outstanding Attorney Award" for Henry L. and "Outstanding Witness Award" for Muthu M. Again, this is the first time a Minnesota team has won both of those awards at Nationals.
We are immensely proud of our ERA Mockers and all of their accomplishments this year. They worked hard, improved greatly, stayed professional, remained optimistic, and were the perfect choice to represent both Eagle Ridge Academy and the state of Minnesota. Congratulations, Mockers!
Activities Director Kris Babler Appointed New Head Basketball Coach
Greetings ERA Boys Basketball Community,
I am writing this letter to reintroduce myself and give you an update on Eagle Ridge Academy Boys Basketball. This spring, Aaron Duske stepped down as Head Boys Basketball Coach and we began a thorough search to find an experienced Head Basketball Coach. We did have strong applicants, but nobody with that critical head coaching experience that we felt was important for this group. Earlier this week, it was announced by Executive Director Jason Ulbrich that I have been appointed as the Head Boys Basketball Coach.
I have served as a Head Boys Basketball Coach at Cristo Rey Jesuit and as the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at both Rainy River Community College and Minnesota West Community & Technical College–in addition to several years as an assistant at both the high school and college levels. All three stints as a Head Coach resulted in rapid measurable program improvements (record, GPA, players moving on, retention).
Next Steps
I will hold a meet and greet Monday, May 31, at 8:00 p.m. via Zoom here and we will get rolling this summer on June 14 at 8:00 a.m. (Monday-Thursday) with summer workouts. Sign up here. The registration form should function now. In addition to the workouts, we are planning for scrimmage opportunities with several metro programs for those that sign up.
My goal is to have my coaching staff completed for Varsity, JV, C and MS by June 14 so we can start to build cohesion and camaraderie as a program. We want to see everyone entering grades 7-12 that intends to play next winter in the gym with us this summer!
Closing Thoughts
I have been heavily involved in the youth program for the last three years and have had a chance to get to know many of the families and players moving up through the program, in addition to my Activities Director time around the varsity programs. I am thrilled to be working with the young men in this program and cannot wait to start getting to work to ensure they are put in position to be successful this winter.
Go Gryphons!
Kris Babler
Activities Director
Developing Connections
Reflecting on 2020-2021 - Kelly Schiffman, Director of Development
“Life is measured in love and positive contributions and moments of grace.” - Carly Fiorina
I’ve used the word "grace" so many times this year that it is engrained in me. To say that families have extended grace this year is an understatement. In a normal school year, we would have had live events bringing community together, all of our staff on-site, full classrooms/lunchroom/hallways, snow days(!), and volunteer opportunities in abundance. In this particular year, things we have taken for granted every other year have either been diminished in scope, cancelled, or changed to look very different. You, our cherished families, have been gracious in understanding these changes, even though they've not always been fun or convenient.
I want to extend my personal thanks to everyone for all of the patience, understanding, acceptance, kind words of encouragement, and willingness to be involved in any way possible. There are many things to be grateful for:
- Event participation: While we couldn’t gather together in person for our Gala or Donut Dash, many of you chose to support us virtually to be part of the community, raising $35,000 for our Playscape project. The feedback I have received from people came in all forms: just grateful for an opportunity to participate in something fun, the chance to keep tradition up, and kudos for learning new ways of doing things.
- Volunteer support: Whenever we called for volunteers to do project work here or at home, the call was answered with joy and work was completed. We had help with technology prep, teacher and staff projects, curriculum support, thank you phone calls, uniform bank and classroom coordination, event support, video production, and garden support. More than 400 hours were donated in support of these areas to help our school. Thank you parents and students!
- Our wonderful PTO: The ERA PTO acts selflessly and works hard for our teachers, staff, and students. In a year of uncertainty, though they couldn’t have their traditional student and community events, this group made us feel special and appreciated with catered meals by Taher, gift cards for meals, special treats and flowers, and distribution of donated funds to help extra areas within the school that budgets don’t cover.
- Financial support: In a year when we couldn’t gather together in person, our community helped raise more than $100,000 to support the students of Eagle Ridge Academy.
- In-Kind support: With the unexpected costs incurred this year for technology and safety materials, our community came together to donate tech equipment, handmade masks, plastic gloves, wipes, Kleenex, lotion, and other miscellaneous items to help keep our costs down in order to operate our school. People got creative! One person made face masks out of repurposed ERA school uniforms. People also donated musical instruments for our band program, food for staff, and a weekend getaway for a group of teachers.
My heart is full. Thank you, Eagle Ridge Academy community, for coming together in a year of uncertainty to keep our train on the tracks and the focus on our students. I wish you a safe and happy summer break.
Choose joy.
For more information on how you may participate in helping to develop Eagle Ridge Academy, please contact Kelly Schiffman at 952-746-7760, ext. 1107 or by email at kschiffman@eagleridgeacademy.org. Visit our website for online giving and other important information at https://eagleridgeacademy.org/giving/ways-to-support-era/.
Thank You 2020-2021 Donut Dashers and Sponsors!
Thank you to everyone who joined in the Donut Dash fun this year! We had fun seeing the photos and videos come in each day. Even though we couldn’t have our live race, our community embraced the spirit of ‘dashing’, gathered with family and friends to keep the Donut Dash a part of our school year, and had fun supporting the school. Check out the Donut Dash photo album here.
We want to thank our sponsors who made this event possible:
Universal Cleaning, Inc.
Managed Services, Inc.
Rochon, Inc.
Cadan Technologies
North Risk Partners
JB Realty
The Dental Specialists
Hospitality Management Services
Stieg Strand - RE/MAX Results
The Lakes Running Co.
KwikTrip-Chanhassen
Kowalski’s Markets
Save the Date for May 7, 2022 for next year’s Donut Dash 5K, when we look forward to once again gathering in person for a live event.
Thank You to our Gryphon Garden Volunteers!
May 15 was a beautiful day to spend in the Gryphon Garden with friends! Check out photos from the day here.
A huge thank you to our 15 volunteers for joining us on a Saturday and working together to build a raised bed and planter bench, pull weeds, fill the beds with dirt, plant vegetables, herbs, and flowers, and spread mulch — we couldn't have done it without you!
We would also like to thank the volunteers who signed up to tend to the garden over the summer. We are excited to watch the growth of our seeds and sunflowers!
Sign up by June 14 to Reserve Your Spot at Eagle Ridge Academy's 8th Annual Gryphon Classic Golf Tournament!
Hosted at the beautiful Bent Creek Golf Club in Eden Prairie, the annual golf scramble is a fun event that brings people together for a day to benefit the students of Eagle Ridge Academy. The event includes 18 holes of golf, cart and green fees, lunch, raffle, complimentary drink ticket, and social hour bags.
Last year, proceeds helped support a new 6,000 square foot gymnasium. This year’s proceeds will support the Playscape and Grounds Beautification Project at Eagle Ridge Academy, bringing outdoor learning and enhanced play to our students.
For more information and to register online: Golf Brochure / Online Registration
Registrations are non-refundable.
To sponsor the golf tournament, please view our Sponsorship Flyer for various options and opportunities.
Agenda:
- 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Check-In / Lunch on the Patio / Driving Range
- 1 p.m. Shotgun
- 5 p.m. Social Hour To-Go Bags Handed Out Upon Completion of Play
The patio and clubhouse will be open for those who want to hang around for a social time after golfing!
Donor Partner Spotlight: Managed Services, Inc. (www.msitbm.com)
Below is an interview with John Englehart, President of Managed Services, Inc. (MSI). MSI a building maintenance service contractor that has served the Twin Cities and surrounding area since 1971.
How would you describe Managed Services, Inc?
We are a small, privately owned building services company that treats its employees as family. I like to tell prospective new hires that, “We have people, not policies!” and we do a good job backing up that statement. Our employees are what this company is truly about. It has nothing to do with what services we provide or how much profit we make but everything to do with how the employee feels about working here. When their attitude is positive, the rest follows, including customer relations, quality of work, and financial stability.
Why is philanthropy important to your organization?
From the beginning, when my father started the company in 1971, MSI has always had a strong giving commitment. This commitment is fueled first by special requests or needs of our employees and secondly by those of our customers. Going back to the first question, our employees are family and as such when they have a request or need, MSI is proud and humble to support it. As an example, we have an employee whose young son was struck by a car 25 years ago. The son spent his whole life at Gillette Children’s Hospital until he passed away very recently. We started contributing to Gillette immediately after the accident and still do to this day. Upon her son’s passing, the mother, still an employee, was very expressive about her gratefulness of our giving to “her” cause.
Why does MSI donate to Eagle Ridge Academy?
Our technicians take ownership in the buildings they service. What I mean by this is that they treat the buildings and systems as if they were their own. To that end, our customers know and trust us. This is very similar to a “family” relationship. So when a customer has a special request or need and asks for our help, how can we possibly say no? Eagle Ridge Academy is extra special to me though since my daughter graduated from there and three key MSI employees also have a strong connection.
What is a fun fact about MSI that most people don’t know?
Long after the company started, the IT world coined the phrase "Managed Services" and, ironically, we are located on Computer Avenue so you can imagine the number of dead end solicitations we get about IT stuff.
Double Your Impact with Corporate Match Programs
Do you work for an employer who has a matching gift program or supports community events as recommended by the employee?
Consider reaching out to your Community Relations or HR department to ask about their community support, social responsibility, and employee giving opportunities. Many organizations match employee gifts up to 100%, essentially doubling your donation to the Academy, donate to charities of choice based on volunteer hours, and sponsor events financially or with in-kind donations.
Be informed by asking today!
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Shop with SCRIP
Eagle Ridge Academy offers SCRIP, a gift card program that gives back to Eagle Ridge Academy with purchases on everyday items such as groceries, restaurants, retail, or gas. You buy gift cards at face value from more than 750 retailers and SCRIP donates a portion of all purchases back to Eagle Ridge Academy. Orders go in on Friday, with delivery to ERA the following Tuesday. Learn more here.
June Food Service Information - Brittany Radtke, Chef
Dear Families,
Breakfast and lunch on June 1 and 2 are Chef's Choice. At least two options will be available: one vegetarian option as well as at least one meat option.
Lunch will not be served on the last day of school, June 2, as it is a half-day. To order a take-home lunch for your child on the last day of school, please complete this order form for each child. Bag lunches will be distributed at the end of the school day for the students to enjoy at home.
Sincerely,
Chef Brittany Radtke
Thank You for Joining us at the 1st Annual Activities & Athletics Celebration!
Congratulations to all of our award winners and to all of our Activities & Athletics participants for an incredible year, even in spite of COVID. It has been so fun to see your growth and celebrate your accomplishments!
Eagle Ridge Academy would like to extend a special thank you to the ERA Booster Club for all they have done to support our programs this year (including planning this event), Activities Director Kris Babler for all of his hard work, and our coaches for all they do to support and inspire our students.
We already can't wait for next year's event. Go Gryphons!
Cross Country Award Winners
Girls Soccer Award Winners
Boys Soccer Award Winners
Girls Volleyball Award Winners
Math Team Award Winners
Boys Basketball Award Winners
Girls Basketball Award Winners
Robotics Team Award Winners
Mock Trial Award Winners
Track & Field Award Winners
Ultimate Frisbee Award Winners
Golf Team Award Winners
Boys Baseball Award Winners
Special Recognition Award Winners
Easy Ways to Support ERA Athletics and Activities
1. Register on the ERA Booster Club website (erabooster.org) so the ERA Booster Club has a way to communicate with families based on the sports and activities they choose.
2. Become a Booster (erabooster.org/packet/33) and choose from a variety of support levels, including the FREE Patron level.
3. Order your own ERA face masks and mask-keepers (erabooster.org/merchandise) to show your school spirit every day!
Learn more by visiting the ERA Booster Club website erabooster.org or by joining the Facebook group today!
School of Rhetoric student Nathan in his ERA face mask and mask keeper.
Support ERA Athletics and Activities today at erabooster.org/merchandise!
School of Grammar student Noah in his ERA face mask and mask keeper.
PTO Board Election Results
We are excited to welcome your new ERA PTO Board members for 2021-2022, who were voted in at the PTO Quarterly meeting on May 17, 2021. The new Board will begin serving on July 1, 2021.
President: Elena Ryabinin
Vice-President: Poornima Pelluri
Treasurer: Tina Loutsch
Teacher Liaisons: Lindsay Thomas and Jessica Bergeron
Community Engagement: Gretchen Stone and Carolyn Sommers Tillotson
We offer our sincere thanks to Alicia Tompkins and Resmy Kurian for all the hard work they put in to make this year a successful one !
If you have any questions please reach out to pto.eagleridge@gmail.com.
PTO Annual Contribution
We kindly ask all Eagle Ridge families for a yearly contribution to the PTO. This money goes to support events throughout the year to benefit teachers, students, and families. Your financial contribution funds many community and teacher events throughout the year, including:
- Back to School Picnic
- Staff Development and Conference Meals
- Staff Winter Party
- Teacher Appreciation Week Meals and Gifts
- K-5 Grade Level Get-Togethers
- Last Day of School Ice Cream Truck
- Senior Dinner Following Graduation
- Arts
- STEM
- Athletics/Activities
- Community Building
The suggested tax-deductible donation is $25 per family. The PTO Annual Contribution can be paid online via Square Pay or you may print our Mail-In Donation Form.
Stay Connected!
Join the K-12 Parent Directory! This is a one-stop app that will help families search, sign up, and connect through our PTO web and mobile app. PTO encourages you to register.
See below for instructions on how to connect through 'My School Anywhere' App
Step 1:
- Create an account at eagleridgeacademy.membershiptoolkit.com.
- If you already have an account from last year, using My School Anywhere, you can use the same email and password to login. You can then confirm or edit your information.
Step 2:
- Click “verify my email” and check your email for a link to complete the process.
Questions? Please contact Anu at anu.philip@gmail.com.
PTO Spirit Wear for Summer!
PTO Spirit Wear is available for purchase online! We've got you covered with this year's fun t-shirts and the PTO will contact you about pick-up.
All Spirit Wear proceeds benefit PTO's events, services, and teacher support. Show your school spirit and order your fresh spirit wear today!
Support ERA Through Box Tops for Education and Coca-Cola GIVE Programs
Two of the easiest ways to support ERA are the Box Tops for Education and Coca-Cola GIVE programs.
It only takes minutes to get the Box Tops app on your phone and set up your account. Then you’re ready to scan the receipt every time you buy groceries. The app automatically finds eligible items and credits them to ERA! It’s that easy, and anyone can do it—grandparents, neighbors, and friends!
To contribute through Coca-Cola GIVE, Simply look for a code on Coke products. It can be found under screw-on tops or inside the box. When you see one, head to https://us.coca-cola.com/give/schools/ and search for Eagle Ridge Academy. Enter or scan the code and you’re done!
Email seeitsaveitera@gmail.com with any questions.
Staff Spotlight
Earlier this month, Eagle Ridge Academy educators Anne Bartow, April Grabanski, Ashley Kruger, Missy Madigan, Clare Murray, and Dan O'Brien completed the Charter School Leadership Graduate Program at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU).
One of the greatest risks to the success of charter schools is a lack high quality leadership. With the support from the Minnesota Association of Charter Schools (MACS) and our authorizer, Friends of Education (FOE), the year-long Charter School Leadership Program offers courses focused on the leadership development of those most passionate about charter school leadership – particularly those interested in serving our students and families as assistant principals, principals, and executive directors.
Congratulations to Anne, April, Ashley, Missy, Clare, and Dan for completing the program. We are proud of you and admire your hard work and dedication to continually improve and make Eagle Ridge Academy a better place.
Student Spotlight
Congratulations to senior Sri G. for being chosen as a National Merit $2500 Scholarship Winner AND for scoring a perfect 36 on her ACT exam!
The $2,500 Merit Scholar designees were chosen from a talent pool of some 16,000 outstanding finalists in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. National Merit $2500 Scholarship winners are the Finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. The number of winners named in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the nation’s graduating high school seniors.
These scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors who appraised a substantial amount of information submitted by both the finalists and their high schools: academic records, including the difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®); contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official.
The ACT is a curriculum-based achievement exam that measures what students have learned in school. The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading, and science, each scored on a scale of 1–36. A student's composite score is the average of the four test scores.
Fewer than half of one percent of students who take the ACT earn a top score. In the U.S. high school graduating class of 2020, only 5,579 out of 1.67 million students who took the ACT earned a top composite score of 36.
“Earning a top score on the ACT is a remarkable achievement,” said ACT CEO Janet Godwin. “A student’s exceptional score of 36 will provide any college or university with ample evidence of their readiness for the academic rigors that lie ahead.”
Sri G. is one of the Class of 2021's valedictorians and will graduate from Eagle Ridge Academy next Thursday, June 3. This year she has been recognized as a Marilyn R. Strand Award & Scholarship winner, an Athens Award winner, and Most Valuable Varsity Math League Member. Sri is a model student who embodies the pillars of Eagle Ridge Academy (citizenship, integrity, perseverance, honor, excellence, and respect) and has made numerous positive contributions to the school. We are proud of her and she will be missed for many years to come. Thank you Sri for all that you have done for the Eagle Ridge Academy community. We wish you all the best in your future educational endeavors and can't wait to see what you do next!
Thank You for Reading the Eagle Eye Newsletter This Year! - Franchesca Castro, Communications Manager
Dear Families,
Thank you for reading the Eagle Eye newsletter this year and for staying updated on what's going on at Eagle Ridge Academy. I have truly enjoyed compiling this information every other week and sharing stories and photos with the community. If you haven't already, make sure to like the ERA Facebook page and follow the ERA Instagram and Twitter accounts to see more frequent updates. The next issue of the Eagle Eye newsletter will be published in September.
Have a great summer,
Franchesca Castro
Eagle Ridge Academy
Email: info@eagleridgeacademy.org
Website: https://www.eagleridgeacademy.org/
Location: 11111 Bren Road West, Minnetonka, MN, USA
Phone: 9527467760
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EagleRidgeAcademy/
Twitter: @eagleridgeacad