July 22, 2025
Welcome to MPA, Ms. Meg Wilkening ‘18! With a well-established connection to Mounds Park Academy, also having been on the speech and debate coaching staff, Ms. Wilkening now joins the Lower School as a fourth-grade teacher.
From what school/organization are you coming?
I have been coaching debate at MPA for the last five years. This will be my first year as a full-time teacher!
Tell us about your education and past experience.
I have a degree in political science from the University of Minnesota. I attended law school for a year at St. Louis University, but realized I missed working with students at MPA. After completing my first year of law school, I switched to a master’s in education program at the University of St. Thomas. I am scheduled to graduate with a master’s in elementary education in 2026.
What did you find appealing about MPA?
How much time do you have to listen to what I love about MPA? Seriously—I graduated from MPA in 2018, have coached at MPA for the last five years, and am beyond excited to start teaching here. I have lifelong friends from my graduating class and use skills I learned as an MPA student every day. I have been blown away by the passion, talent, hard work, and intelligence of MPA’s students in my years as a coach (and have enjoyed winning several state debate championships!) MPA feels like home to me.
What lasting impact do you plan to have on MPA and its students?
I hope that my classroom will be a place of joyful learning, where every student will feel seen and valued. I really believe that MPA students can change the world, and I want to help them along the way. I want to foster a habit of curiosity and lifelong learning in my students.
What’s your big dream?
To coach former fourth-grade students in Upper School debate!
What are you passionate about?
I love to spend time with my family! We love to play card games, go for walks, spend time at the lake, and watch all the sports! I am also a big animal person and have two cats, a dog, and a horse.
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
In March of this year, my husband and I welcomed our beautiful baby daughter to the world. Also, I’m a big Vikings fan!
