Being an EAGLE at Don Ross Middle School
Welcome to the Sea to Sky School District Learning Hub!
This blog-style webpage features projects from schools across our district that demonstrate our common goal for educational excellence:
"We will create safe, purposeful and powerful learning environments in order that all students can think critically, create, collaborate, contribute and learn."
January 2026: At Don Ross Middle School, a strong culture of belonging is rooted in the “Eagle” way. Grade 9 students Sybil, Reia, and Krypton presented to the board, sharing how the school creates a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where all students are supported to succeed.
The EAGLE acronym represents core values:
- Engage: Students are curious and enthusiastic participants, whether in clubs like cross-country and basketball or through various school activities.
- Act: Don Ross encourages trying new experiences, stepping out of comfort zones, and learning from mistakes. Students collaborate, even working with younger children from other elementary schools. They learn to persevere, finding different ways to solve problems and not letting external negativity get to them.
- Grow: Students are supported through challenges, learning to become better individuals. The school focuses on growth rather than punishment, building trust and responsibility among students and staff.
- Lead: Don Ross students lead with kindness and respect. Leadership opportunities, like those held by the presenters, empower students to take on responsibilities and positively influence their peers.
- Empower: The community at Don Ross is built on lifting each other up, cheering each other on during difficult times.
The students highlighted how the "Eagle" framework creates a positive school culture with clear expectations, consistent adult support, and an emphasis on personal development. They shared a humorous and insightful video demonstrating these values, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and respect among students.
Mental and physical health are also paramount at Don Ross. The school offers counselling, builds community through assemblies and activities like indoor track meets, and provides a wide array of clubs to ensure every student finds a place where they feel comfortable and belong. Trust is fostered through open communication, even on sensitive topics like sexual education and substance use, creating an environment where students feel safe to seek help.
The presenters expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to share their experiences, emphasizing that Don Ross has a strong sense of belonging, a respectful culture, and ample leadership opportunities that make students feel heard. Their presentation truly resonated with the board members, who praised the students for their maturity, positivity, and the invaluable life lessons they are already embodying.