October 12, 2023
from Bill Hudson, head of school
I first heard of Mounds Park Academy from a neighbor whose son attended MPA. That was over 25 years ago, and although I wouldn’t have imagined at the time that I would become the head of school, MPA captured my imagination. The school they described seemed too good to be true, but upon further research, and now from my first-hand experience as a parent and head of school, I know it is true.
October is Share MPA Month, a way for our community to come together and show our support for MPA by spreading awareness of our school. It is human nature to want to share that which has had an impact on us. Whether it is a new movie, TV show, book, or podcast—even a school—we are naturally inclined to want to share our experience with others. Sharing your love of MPA with those who may not yet be familiar with our school is, by nature, a generous act of kindness—you are trying to help the prospective family find a wonderful school community and a second home.
Community member referrals are the most important way that new families come to MPA. Current families have vast networks of people, including friends, colleagues, neighbors, extended family members, acquaintances through activities, and more. When a family comes to us via a community member referral, we know they are mission-aligned and likely to be an excellent fit.
How can you help us Share MPA?
- Throughout the month, you’ll see daily social media posts worth sharingI I encourage you to share those with your network or with individual families who you think may be a great fit for MPA. If you’d like to be featured with your thoughts, please complete the form found at mpa.link/storyshare.
- Another great way to help is to directly share MPA with a friend, neighbor, or colleague through a personal connection and then complete the steps found on this page. Reaching out to make a personal connection is typically the most effective way to recommend MPA. This could be done over a cup of coffee, a heartfelt email, in the stands during a game, on a treadmill at the gym, or even over the proverbial water cooler. Who knows, you may even receive a tuition credit for your time.
- Don’t miss the pop-up Sharing Shops, including the one today, October 12! We’ll be sharing tools and resources that will help you share MPA, such as a new lawn sign, bumper sticker, or an application fee coupon code to give to a friend. You are also warmly invited to join us on October 27 at drop-off for our Share MPA Coffeeshop!
- Finally, consider inviting a friend to one of two very special upcoming events on the horizon. I ask that you help spread the word about our PreK-12 MPA Preview event on Sunday, November 5, 2-4 PM, our largest admission event of the year. Lastly, Friday, November 17 is Bring a Friend to MPA Day. Current students in first grade through ninth grade are invited to bring a friend to MPA for a special day of learning and fun.
When it comes to restaurants, movies, or hotels, we often make our choices based on the recommendations of our friends and family. It’s no coincidence, given we have more in common with those closest to us and who share similar interests, tastes, and values. For instance, according to the Nielsen Company, 84 percent of consumers say they either completely to somewhat trust recommendations from family, colleagues, and friends about products and services, making these recommendations the highest source for trustworthiness.
Thank you in advance for sharing MPA this month!
