"The Living Village is composed of six houses. Our house is called "Juniper". The word house is intentionally used because it connotes a warm, intimate family setting (the word dormitory describes a more institutional setting). Each house is designed to accommodate up to sixteen students (eight males, eight females) in two separate sleeping quarters. In addition to the sleeping quarters, each house has a common room, a laundry room, and a small workroom which all residents are welcome to use. A studentÂ¹s immediate living area (with bed, desk, and wardrobe) has a tackable surface and a bulletin board for personal posters and pictures. All houses have wireless internet access and at least two computers for student use. Houseparents live in apartments attached to each house.
The culture of each house varies according to the personalities of the houseparent(s) and students; however, members of each house strive to create a family atmosphere in which students feel safe, emotionally nourished and comfortable sharing the issues they encounter throughout the day. The family atmosphere is enhanced because students work together on house chores, cooking special meals (otherwise students eat in the Lodge), house activities, house meetings, house retreats, and intramurals. Students have ongoing conversations, both formal and casual, with their houseparent(s) and peers. Within each house there are opportunities to learn from different cultures and experiences. Houseparents, all of whom are Eagle Rock staff, have a variety of responsibilities. These include the following:
* Provide guidance to students within the house using 8 + 5 = 10 as a foundation.
* Maintain contact with students families.
* Provide daily opportunities for students to check-in.
* Create an atmosphere that encourages student voice and shared decision- making.
* Coordinate an adult support team, consisting of 4 to 6 ERS colleagues.
Residential life increases the capacity of staff and students to form close relationships with each other. These relationships help students attend to dynamics that can enhance personal and academic growth. The residential setting offers a safe communal environment for developing life skills and communication skills, working in teams, developing mediation and conflict resolution skills, and understanding different cultures. It also provides many opportunities for leadership. All of this is within the context of the ERS value system of 8 + 5 = 10."
- Juniper (Apr 11, 2009)