Lower School Division News

November 12, 2026

from James Ewer, Lower School director Autonomy, Decision-Making, and Exercising Your Voice: PreK Votes!   Election Day came to PreK, and the big question on the ballot was one that has sparked friendly debates for generations: Apples or Oranges?    Each student had the chance to make an independent choice, cast a ballot in the voting box, and take part in a real classroom election. The experience was complete with one very important reward: official "I Voted!" stickers proudly worn by all participants.

And the winner?
 
Well, let's just say the race was incredibly close. With votes split almost evenly between the two fruity favorites, the class discovered something important: they love fruit in all its forms. While there wasn't a clear champion, every student's voice was heard, every vote counted, and everyone had fun participating in the process.
 
The future of voting is looking bright!

Germ Busting And Building Healthy Habits In Second Grade! 

Second graders have been busy becoming germ busters! To kick off their healthy habits unit, students brainstormed which surfaces around MPA they thought might be the germiest. After making their predictions, they rubbed a piece of clean bread across their chosen surface and placed it in a plastic baggie with a little moisture. Now, the bread is tucked away in a dark spot, and students get to check in each week to observe the changes. It’s a fun (and maybe a little gross!) way to see how many germs are hiding in places we touch every day!

But being healthy is about more than keeping germs away... Second graders are also exploring the everyday habits that help our bodies and minds feel their best. They are talking about healthy food choices and learning about what makes a balanced plate. They’re also sharing ideas about healthy habits, from staying active and getting enough sleep to reading a book to take care of our mental health, too. 

From busting germs to making healthy choices all around, our second graders are growing healthy habits one day at a time!

Two grades. Two very different classrooms. One shared truth.

In PreK, our youngest learners stepped up to a ballot box, made a choice that was theirs alone, and learned that their voice counts, even when the room splits right down the middle. In second grade, students made predictions, put them to the test, and are now watching the evidence grow on a slice of bread. Along the way, they are learning that taking care of yourself means a balanced plate, a good night’s sleep, and a good book.

Look closer, and you see the same thing happening in both rooms. Our students are learning to think for themselves and to care for themselves. They make choices, test ideas, and own what they discover. That lesson doesn’t live in one unit. That is who we are at MPA, every single day.

This is why this work stays beautiful. The big lessons start small. An “I Voted!” sticker. A baggie of bread in a dark cupboard. A four-year-old who learns her vote matters. A seven-year-old who learns his habits matter. We get to watch that growth up close, and it never stops moving me.

As we head toward Thanksgiving, ask your child about their week. Ask what they chose. Ask what they noticed. Ask what surprised them. Their answers might surprise you, too.

Fall Campaign

At MPA, possibility is everywhere. It is in our classrooms, on our stages and athletic fields, in the spaces where students gather, and in the people who help each student discover who they are and what they can become. Your generosity helps make those possibilities possible. From November 15-21, highlighted by Give to the Max Day on November 19, every gift is an opportunity to make an impact. Please join members of the MPA community next Thursday, November 19, at 2:20 PM in the Nicholson Center for the annual Lip Sync Assembly, a storied and special celebration of community. Learn more by clicking here. 

A Look Ahead 

• Friday, November 13: LS Family Forum, 8:15-9:30 AM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library
• Sunday, November 15-Saturday, November 21: Fall Campaign
• Wednesday, November 18: LS CHAMP Assembly, Nicholson Center
• Thursday, November 19: Give to the Max Day
• Thursday, November 19: PreK-12 Give to the Max Day Assembly, 2:20-3 PM, Nicholson Center
• Friday, November 20: LS Spirit Day
• Friday, November 20: LS November Birthday Lunch & Family Feast Day, 12:10-12:40 PM, Family Commons
• Monday, November 23: PreK-12 Indigenous Heritage Month Assembly, 2:20-2:50 PM, Lansing Sports Center
• Monday, November 23: Indigenous Heritage Month Celebration, 3:30-5 PM, Family Commons
• Wednesday, November 25-Friday, November 27: No Classes, Campus Closed, No PreK or Panther Care
• Tuesday, December 1: Returning Family Indexed Tuition Reapplication Deadline
• Tuesday, December 1: CITL Distinguished Speaker Series: Supporting Your Child Through Anxiety: The Only Way Out is Through, 12-1 PM, Virtual
• Thursday, December 3: Robotics Event with Panther Club, 5-8 PM, Family Commons