Built By Community, Growing Through Community

September 24, 2026

from Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon, head of school There’s no place like MPA. Settling into the rhythm of a new school year comes with both predictable and new beats throughout the day. The smiles, laughter, and conversation that fill the hallways, classrooms, and campus create the undeniably unique community of MPA. Just like walking into my own home, when I walk through the doors of MPA, I feel an energy and comfort that surrounds me in a way that feels warm and inviting.

The idea of Homecoming is traditionally about coming back. At MPA, the celebration of Homecoming means something bigger. It means connection, belonging, and welcoming everyone to our community. It’s a weeklong celebration of spirit and school pride shown through traditions such as daily themes, hallway decorations, the Hall of Fame dinner, games and matches for every fall sports team, grade-level meetups, and activities for all ages.

This year, Homecoming for MPA really began last week, when founding faculty, staff, trustees, alumni, and families came together for a Founder's Day Brunch and to reveal a portrait of MPA’s co-founder, Sandy Kreischer Smith. It was an absolute gift to hear the memories and purpose behind MPA’s establishment: to develop dreamers, doers, and right-makers. I was also reminded of how quickly this school community grew in its earliest years, long before websites and social media made it easy to spread the word. Families shared their experiences with other families, and word of mouth and grit helped MPA grow from an idea into a thriving school community. Now in MPA’s 44th year, that kind of personal connection remains one of our greatest strengths. Our families know MPA best, and sharing what you love about this school can help another family discover a place where their child might thrive.

In that same spirit of welcoming others to our home, applications to join MPA opened for the 2027-28 school year. Choosing a school can feel overwhelming, and a personal recommendation from someone you trust can make all the difference. Sometimes it is as simple as saying, “I think you should take a look at MPA.” Current parents can also invite another parent to experience MPA firsthand through Bring A Friend Day: Parent Edition, welcome a family to join us for Homecoming, or simply connect them with the Office of Admission. And because we are deeply grateful when members of our community help another family find MPA, we have doubled our referral credit this year to $500 for the referring family and $500 for the newly enrolled family. More than anything, we hope you’ll think about the families in your life who might feel at home here, too.

A common question I am asked is why I chose to join MPA. For me, the answer is simple. Every day, I am surrounded by individuals who are inspired to learn, grow, and make a difference within and beyond the MPA community—and we do this together. We are curious, enjoy a good challenge, and love to celebrate with one another. Indeed, there’s no place like home. There is no place like MPA!
 
I hope you have plans to enjoy the many activities scheduled for Homecoming Weekend. Go Panthers! Go MPA!