June 19, 2019
Meet Ian Cunningham, who we are thrilled to welcome back after he completed his student teaching with us just last fall! Mr. Cunningham is joining the Middle School faculty as the new social studies teacher for grades five and six. He is a recent graduate of the University of Minnesota with a Master of Education in social studies, and his Bachelor of Arts in history with a minor in youth studies is also from the University of Minnesota. He brings a wonderfully positive energy to the Middle School and is already a beloved member of our community, especially by students. He is a talented young teacher with a real passion for the social studies, an ability to connect students with content, and a commitment to equity, justice, and goodness.
What did you love about MPA right away?
I love the sense of community and support at MPA. I know Dream Big, Do Right is more than a catchy slogan here, because I have seen firsthand how both ideals are woven into not just the classrooms, but the sports, clubs, activities, and everything else the MPA community has to offer. During my interview process, the current 5th graders took turns asking me questions about myself and my teaching style, and I think that was the best part of the entire process. I have many friends and classmates who are interviewing at many schools around the greater metro area, but none of them were asked questions by the students themselves.
What’s your big dream?
To be honest, my big dream for a long time has been to become a social studies teacher! Now that I have seen this dream come true, my next big dream is to one day, many years down the road, earn a Ph.D. My big dream for the upcoming school year is to get to know my students and have a productive, educational, and tremendous year!
What are you (and your family, if you so choose) passionate about?
I am very passionate about community. I want everyone in a school building, most importantly the students, to feel welcome, seen, and heard every single day. Outside of school, I enjoy exploring the Twin Cities, reading books, and watching documentaries.
What’s your secret talent?
My secret talent involves computer hardware. I have built my own computer (that I am using to type these answers) and I find the whole process of how computers work really interesting.
We can’t wait to welcome you back, Mr. Cunningham! Stay tuned for more extended Q&A profiles of the amazing faculty and staff joining our community in the 2019-20 school year!
