Mounds Park Academy is a college preparatory school that maintains a high standard of academic excellence. As space allows, the school will admit those students who are able to master the curriculum, who demonstrate enthusiasm for learning, who can contribute to the student body with unique talents, and who support the mission and values of MPA. Students, parents, and the school must have a mutuality of interests in the program and environment offered by the school. At the center of the decision-making process is always the best interest of the individual student and their family. To determine if the school is the right fit for the student and their family, the following materials are considered by the applicable admission committee when reviewing candidates for admission:

Completed Application Materials

A candidate's application is considered complete when all materials and required steps for admission have been submitted and met, as outlined on the Admission Process section of our website.

Evidence of Academic Potential

We require supporting materials in order to assess an applicant's likely success at MPA. This evidence includes prior school records (including grades and standardized test scores), confidential teacher recommendation forms, and a family conversation. Individually administered assessments may be requested by Admission when application materials are not consistent or thorough. In addition, writing samples are required for Middle and Upper School admission.

Motivation

Mounds Park Academy recognizes that intellectual ability alone does not necessarily determine academic success. Interest in MPA and its curriculum as well as motivation to attend may often be the determining factors of a student’s performance. Accordingly, the admission committee will consider recommendation forms and the student’s own statements as evidence of intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.

Family Involvement

MPA believes the learning environment for a child is most conducive to success when there is a three-way partnership with the student, his or her family, and the school. The requirements of a college preparatory curriculum are demanding and students in such a program deserve the strong emotional support, understanding, and encouragement of their parents. In addition, families should actively participate in their child's education (e.g., attending scheduled conferences with faculty and other school meetings affecting their child's educational, developmental and/or emotional growth) and support the mission and policies of the school. The admission committee will review recommendation forms as well as responses to interview questions to determine the history, type, and extent of family involvement.

Non-Discrimination Policy

MPA actively seeks multiculturalism and diversity within its community, including the student body. We do not discriminate, in admission or retention of students, on the basis of sex, gender identity, creed, race, disability, family composition, orientation of affection, national origin, religion, or status with regard to public assistance. We welcome diversity in all forms. We are a diverse community that is proud to be inclusive and respectful of all children and families.