Five Things I'm Excited About This Year

September 10, 2026

from Kristina Doyle, director of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging As I step into this new role, I've been struck by how much heart already lives in this community. Here are a few things I can't wait to build alongside you: 1. Getting to know your family. I'll be hosting welcome gatherings and small meet-and-greets across the school this fall, including my Quarterly DEIB Family Forums (dates and times below). All families are welcome! We met for the first time this week and we'll meet again in the PCR from 8:15-9:15 AM on:

• Tuesday, November 10
• Tuesday, February 2
• Friday, April 16

2. Celebrating who we are, all year long. Each month we'll mark a heritage or cultural observance together—through all-school assemblies and celebrations, featured books and media in the Library, and even special menus in the Family Commons. Here are our assembly and celebration dates/times (all in the Lansing Sports Center, unless otherwise noted):

• Hispanic Heritage Month | Tuesday, October 13, 2:20-2:50 PM
• Indigenous Heritage Month | Monday, November 23, 2:20-2:50 PM
• Black History Month Assembly | Tuesday, February 2, 2:20-2:50 PM
• Lunar New Year Celebration | Wednesday, February 3, 3:30-5 PM, Family Commons
• Arab-American Heritage Month Assembly | Friday, April 30, 2:20-2:50 PM
• AANHPI Heritage Month Assembly | Friday, May 21, 2:20-2:50 PM

3. Spaces where students feel they belong. We're creating affinity and belonging groups where students can connect over shared experiences and identity. My hope is that every child finds at least one place at MPA where they feel fully known.

4.  Making it easy to find what you need. My goal is to curate a resource guide for families—reading lists, conversation guides, and tools for talking with kids about identity, difference, and belonging—and gathering them in one easy-to-find place.

5. Listening first. This is my entry year, and my top priority is to listen well before I build. I'll be creating regular opportunities to hear from families, and I genuinely hope you'll take me up on them. Your voice will shape this work.

Please always feel welcome to connect with me at kdoyle@moundsparkacademy.org or 651-748-5560!