Center For Inclusive Teaching And Learning Distinguished Speaker Series

September 12, 2026

As Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon shared in this week's Head's Message, we’re excited to introduce a new opportunity to learn, connect, and invite others into the MPA community: the Center for Inclusive Teaching and Learning Distinguished Speaker Series. Throughout the year, MPA will welcome leading voices and experts for timely, engaging conversations about the issues shaping children and families today. Topics will span parenting, mental health, technology, learning, relationships, and more, with each gathering designed to offer practical insights and fresh perspectives you can take with you.

And we hope you’ll bring someone with you! The Distinguished Speaker Series is open not only to MPA families but to the broader community. Invite a friend who would be interested in the topic. Bring a neighbor, colleague, fellow parent, or grandparent. These gatherings are an opportunity to share some of what makes learning at MPA special while exploring ideas that matter to all of us.

Our first sessions are coming soon, and we would love to see you there!

MPA's CITL Distinguished Speaker Series

Sturdy Parenting and Technology: Practice Strategies to Manage This Age of Parenting  with Elizabeth Carver

Wednesday, September 23 | 12-1 PM | Virtual | Age Range: PreK-12

Technology isn't going anywhere, and neither is the anxiety many of us feel trying to parent through it. This session focuses on finding your footing: practical, sturdy ways to set limits, stay connected, and guide your child through screens, social media, and devices without losing your relationship in the process. We'll discuss practical strategies you can start using right away, leaving plenty of room for your questions. Please RSVP here, and if you can't join us in person, please join via Zoom here. 

Students and Screens: Culpability by Bruce Holsinger with Jay Dean, Michael Moran, Paul Errickson, and Lori-Anne Brogdon

Monday, October 19 | 3:30-4:30 PM | Recital Hall | Age Range: PreK-12

Students and Screens returns this year as part of the CITL Distinguished Speaker Series. Through Bruce Holsinger’s novel "Culpability," we’ll explore family dynamics, technology, and moral responsibility in the age of AI, and consider what these themes mean for raising and educating young people today. Participants should purchase and read "Culpability" in advance and come ready for a thoughtful, engaging conversation. If you plan to attend, please RSVP here. 

All Storms Run Out of Rain: How to Support and Love Your Child Into Their Best Selves with Elizabeth Carver

Wednesday, October 28, 2026 | 1:45-2:45 PM | Recital Hall | Age Range: PreK-Grade 6

Every child moves through hard seasons: big feelings, hard days, moments that test both of you. This session is a gentle, hope-filled look at how to weather those storms alongside your child, staying rooted in love and connection even when things feel stormy. We'll explore how to help your child find their way back to themselves, and how your steady presence is often the thing that makes the biggest difference. If you plan to attend, please RSVP here. 

And there’s much more to come! We look forward to sharing more speakers, conversations, and opportunities to learn together throughout the year.