Trusting relationships between students and teachers are rooted in ESA’s advisory system, where each student is assigned or chooses a grade-specific Faculty Advisor who serves as a watchful eye, welcoming ear, and compassionate shoulder. Advisory groups made up of a handful of students meet with their advisors each week to monitor student progress, discuss campus issues or just relax. The advisory system also serves as a link between seniors and their sixth grade buddies, and between advisors and parents, who are kept apprised of their students’ academic progress and well-being.