Ernie Rivers comes ‘home’ to serve as new SCS athletic director, community education director 

by Judy Brune

During his first few days as athletic director and community education director for Stockbridge schools, you may have seen Ernie Rivers as he met with coaches, checked equipment inventory at Heritage or organized his office at the Jr/Sr High School. With the basketball, wrestling and competitive cheerleading seasons underway and community education events on the calendar, Rivers has a lot to manage. Clearly, he is up for the challenge.

Rivers comes to Stockbridge from Arizona, where he served as the athletic and activities director at Page High School for the past six years. He is no stranger to Michigan though – he attended elementary school in both Fowlerville and Webberville and earned a master’s in sports administration from Central Michigan University. 

Rivers said he has “always considered Michigan my home, and I am looking forward to being back with family.” 

When sharing his favorite part of working in education and athletics, Rivers is quick to point out that it’s the students.

“They are the best part of my job,” he said. “They are very impressionable, and my goal is to help them gain a great perspective from where they came, where they are, and where they want to go. I also want them to be able to appreciate those who have helped them get there and have gratitude for all of the great things in their life.”

Reflecting on the “great things” in his life, Rivers is especially thankful for his family. He has been “married for nearly 30 years to the love of my life, Kristy,” who is finishing up her counseling degree in Arizona. They have seven children, including five adult girls and two young boys. He and Kristy also are awaiting the birth of their second grandchild. Rivers’ 10- and 8-year-old sons will be joining him over winter break and will be enrolling in Stockbridge schools.

With a renewed appreciation for being back in Michigan to “enjoy the trees, water and the change in seasons,” Rivers is looking forward to getting to know the Stockbridge community better.

“I am excited to work with the staff and the students. Everyone has been very friendly and welcoming,” he said.

Note: The Community Education Office now is located at the Jr/Sr High School and can be reached by calling 517-710-4122 or emailing [email protected].

Ernie Rivers stands outside Heritage School on Dec. 2, 2021, during his first week at Stockbridge Community Schools. Photo credit: Judy Brune