Expanding Opportunities for Learning and Growth 

September 10, 2026

from Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon, head of school From its inception, Mounds Park Academy was founded to ensure all MPA students will be known for who they are, challenged to become who they can be, and supported throughout their MPA journey. Each day, I see evidence of how the MPA community gathers to create a learning environment that not only inspires our students but also pushes the adults within to learn and grow alongside one another.   MPA’s community is about knowing one another, supporting each other through struggles and successes, and ensuring there is access to support and opportunities for growth.

The Center for Inclusive Teaching and Learning (CITL) is a tangible way of deepening the ethos that embodies MPA, expanding the joy and curiosity for learning we seek to instill each day. Serving all students, educators, families, and the broader community, the CITL will make its mark by providing connection, learning, access, partnership, professional growth, family education, enrichment, and support. 

As an active learning hub, students will be provided with opportunities to challenge themselves, stretch, and learn more deeply, using the space to pursue enrichment opportunities and engage in conversation at workstations specifically designed to promote individual study and group projects. At the CITL, students can also receive support, coaching, testing accommodations, and targeted classroom interventions. 

Faculty, staff, families, and community members will have the opportunity to gather, connect, and develop relationships. To build an even stronger home-school connection and provide opportunities for families to develop a greater understanding of what their students experience at MPA, the CITL will also host individual and group learning opportunities throughout the day and evening hours. Over time, we envision the CITL becoming a resource for learning and connection not only for MPA, but for educators, families, and others throughout our region. 

As we come closer to finishing our fundraising efforts so that construction can begin this spring, MPA is not waiting for the completed physical space to implement shared learning and stronger communication. Over the summer months, the Learning Support Team developed guidelines for the process of reviewing and approving accommodations. In addition, support plans were reviewed and shared with families in advance of the school year to promote conversation between home and school. 

New this year, the CITL Distinguished Speaker Series will bring expert voices and timely learning opportunities to MPA, creating opportunities for families, educators, and community members to learn together. In partnership with Phoenix School Counseling, a five-part series will explore topics including parenting and technology, supporting children through anxiety, strategies for neurodivergent children and teens, and the developmental needs of the adolescent brain. The first session, “Sturdy Parenting and Technology,” will be held on Wednesday, September 23, 12-1 PM, virtually. Click here to RSVP, and please invite a friend! All are welcome.  

The CITL will also host additional learning sessions led by MPA alumni and outside leaders, bringing expert knowledge from a variety of fields to the MPA community. Students and Screens will also return as part of the Distinguished Speaker Series.  

Thank you for your continued support in the development of the Center for Inclusive Teaching and Learning. As a tried-and-true thread, finding the joy in learning throughout MPA’s community remains the center and driving force for all we do, together. As always, I look forward to MPA’s continued growth and learning with you!