Middle School

`Hear From Mr. Errickson`

Students here are appreciated for who they are while also being challenged to take risks in a safe environment. The Middle School faculty understands that some of the most dramatic social, physical, emotional, and intellectual changes of a person’s life take place during these adolescent years, and we approach our students with empathy and sound teaching practices to meet the developmental needs of all learners.

Middle School Director

Paul Errickson

Phone

`Real-World Application`

As expectations begin to rise in Middle School, academic rigor also intensifies. Teachers incorporate increasingly abstract concepts delivered at a progressively faster and developmentally appropriate, faster pace.

MPA Middle Schoolers frequently venture beyond campus to apply, deepen, and expand their learning. Whether studying animal science at the Minnesota Zoo or engaging in local service, students see the real-world significance of their classroom learning. They are encouraged to think big about how their knowledge impacts our shared future—an approach MPA considers the ultimate form of academic rigor.

EXPLORE LOWER SCHOOL CURRICULUM

`One Week. One Class. Zero Grades.`

Innovation Term (i-Term) is a signature Middle School program that offers students an intensive learning experience in a single class of their choice. This is inquiry-based, experiential learning that goes far beyond what can normally happen in the classroom. Students in small, mixed-grade classes go into the community, work with subject-matter experts, and ignite some serious passions along the way.

Whether they stay close to home, travel up north, or venture outside the country, i-Term is one of the most remembered and talked about week of an MPA Middle School student’s year.

DIVE INTO I-TERM

Student creating clay artwork in pottery class

Experiential Independent Interdisciplinary Supportive Inclusive Creative Supportive

Integrated by Design

At MPA, Middle School students thrive through a whole-child approach that fosters both academic and personal growth. They engage in a wide range of classes—including arts, world language, and physical education—with subject-matter experts. Integrated curriculum connects learning across subjects, while more than 15 student-led clubs and 12 athletic options empower students to explore passions, build character, and develop leadership, teamwork, and a strong sense of self.

DISCOVER MORE OPPORTUNITIES

Students celebrating during a tournament

YOUR TYPE OF MIND CALLS FOR OUR TYPE OF EDUCATION

Education that awakens your senses and encourages respectful discourse, at every turn. That unleashes a sense of wonder, a depth of inquiry, and a joy of learning.