Expeditionary School at Black River

Independent Middle & High School in Ludlow Vermont

ESBR is small on purpose. Our classes are small enough that every student is known by every teacher in the building — not tracked, not managed, known. That’s what makes the rest possible. Students here don’t just complete assignments; they propose projects, say what they think the work will demonstrate, and build it — in video, in code, in game design, in the forests, in wood and wire.

The standard academics still get taught and still get met. But alongside them, a student might spend the year running a D&D campaign, playing bass in the rock band, animating a stop-frame short, or learning to read weather and terrain in the local forests. Ludlow’s students shouldn’t have to choose between a school that knows them and a school that lets them go big.

All Events & Announcements

We’re excited to introduce a new program: OWLS

The Outdoor Learning and Wilderness Survival (OWLS) program brings students together in an outdoor environment regardless of the weather. Students take pride in their time outdoors in rain, snow, sleet, or sun. Through theme-based learning throughout the year, students explore similar topics across all grades at a depth that is appropriate for their grade level. This community learning allows students to discuss the outdoors together and provides unique peer-learning opportunities. OWLS uses outdoor classroom spaces such as the greenhouse, forest classroom, and our school forest to immerse students in outdoor learning and to allow them to experience what is possible right outside their doors in Vermont.

Learn more about OWL Forest Classroom

Video highlight reel of last year’s fun…
Enjoy!

ESBR

The Expeditionary School at Black River

A School Choice high school in Ludlow, Vermont, where learning goes beyond the classroom.

We combine rigorous academics with hands-on expeditions, community projects, and Vermont’s mountains, rivers, and forests. Students don’t just study the world—they explore it.

Stay after the bell rings. Our free After School Program offers:

Chess Club – Strategy, competition, and bragging rights
Drum & Guitar Lessons – Find your sound
D&D / Tabletop RPG – Roll for adventure with fellow players

Come see us. Visit an open house and discover what learning looks like when it’s actually exciting.

Our Mission

We are committed to helping students become curious, capable, and compassionate young adults who can navigate a rapidly changing world, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and pursue the futures they choose.

Why Expeditionary Learning?

Hands-on learning: Students learn through projects, fieldwork, and community partnerships.
Real-world relevance: Academic content is tied to authentic, local and global issues.
Character and citizenship: Students practice responsibility, leadership, and civic engagement.

Choice High School for Ludlow and Surrounding Communities

As a Choice High School, ESBR is open to students from Ludlow and surrounding areas in Vermont. We welcome students who are seeking an education that blends strong academics, creativity, and real-world learning.