My name is Chris Hanson. I've been working in education since 2006, and every experience along the way has reinforced one belief that guides me each day: children do their best when they feel safe, connected, and known.

Working with students and families in communities across the country eventually brought me back to the North Country, where I'm proud to be raising my own family here in the Indian River community. It makes this work even more meaningful, knowing my own children are growing up alongside yours.

One of my favorite things about EMPS is watching children discover just how confident and capable they can become. Elementary is filled with moments that build confidence, spark curiosity, and remind children that they can do hard things. There is nothing better than seeing a child solve a problem on their own, accomplish something they didn't think they could, and proudly say, "I did it!"