October 17, 2025
“I worked at MPA for five years before Emma was born,” Deedee recalls. “When she joined our family, it was obvious only a parent could tend to her. She was ‘full blast,’ as one of her five-year-old friends put it.”
Deedee stepped away from her classroom to embrace life at home, nurturing Emma’s energy and individuality.
“When she reached school age, I was worried about how she would navigate the large class sizes and stricter rules in a public-school setting,” Deedee said. “Emma started kindergarten at MPA because we realized she needed a place where she could be feisty and still survive the adults she would encounter.”
Growing up surrounded by MPA’s mission and community left a lasting imprint.
“Being raised at MPA, Emma knew she was charged with making the world a better place,” Deedee said.
Even through college and during her career at the Environmental Protection Agency, Emma couldn’t escape the dinner-table conversations about MPA’s changes, challenges, and hopes for the future.
Emma shared, “Growing up at MPA with my mom nearby meant that school always felt like home to me. I walked these halls from kindergarten through graduation, with my mom teaching here the whole time. I remember spending time in her classroom before and after school, coloring at her desk or helping sharpen pencils while she got ready for the day.”
Those early moments instilled in Emma a deep connection to learning and community.
“Some of my favorite memories as a student are tied not just to my classes and friends, but also to the comfort of knowing my mom was part of the same community,” she said. “Now, returning as a teacher myself at the same age my mom started teaching here, it feels special to follow so closely in her footsteps. I feel privileged to stand in front of students where I once sat and to be colleagues with my mom in the place that shaped both of us.”
When Emma began thinking about a career shift, she found herself drawn back to the same kind of classroom that had once inspired her.
“She told me she needed a feedback loop that was immediate and robust,” Deedee said. “She wanted to share her passion for chemistry and the environment with young people who will have the power to enact change and with whom she could ‘go down a rabbit hole’ for deeper understanding. She will find those things here.”
Now, as mother and daughter, teacher and colleague, Deedee and Emma are living proof of the lasting impact of MPA’s mission, connection across generations, curiosity that endures, and the joy of lifelong learning that continues to come full circle.
Q&A Between Deedee And Emma Stacy
What are some of your favorite memories from those early years?
Deedee: Emma was in kindergarten the day she “lost” her first tooth—and she took the expression literally. Somehow, the tooth ended up in the kindergarten coatroom. We looked everywhere. After about 30 minutes of searching, I was steering a sobbing child across the parking lot when a voice behind us called out, “I FOUND IT! I FOUND IT!” It was Ms. Petersen running toward us. She didn’t give up even when we did.
Emma: Theater, speech, and debate were huge parts of my MPA experience. Whether it was the adrenaline of a tournament round, the excitement of putting on a play, or the late nights rehearsing with friends, those activities taught me so much about confidence, creativity, and teamwork.
What stands out to you most about the MPA community and its traditions?
Deedee: When Emma was in third grade, a visiting artist in residence admired her work and said, “Wow. Someday you will be an artist.” Emma immediately replied, “I am already an artist.” That moment captured what I love about MPA—the confidence students develop to see themselves as capable, creative individuals.
Emma: Homecoming Week has always been one of my favorite traditions. I loved how the whole school—from the youngest students to the seniors—came together for the spirit days, games, and celebrations. It’s that sense of belonging and joy that makes MPA so special.
What unique contributions or traditions connect your experiences across generations?
Deedee: Emma is actually the reason the K-8 swimming program exists. I started it when she was in second grade, and it’s now celebrating its 20th year. It’s amazing to think of how something that began for her classmates has become a lasting MPA tradition.
How does it feel to see your daughter back at MPA as a teacher?
Deedee: The poem Emma once wrote for her teacher, Anne Atchinson, imagined her working in a remote lab connected to the land. She’s given up that dream to be here and to make a difference in the lives of future scientists. The planet’s future is in their hands. For me, being colleagues means I know the chemistry program is in good hands. Her mentors have shown her the same compassion and guidance they once gave her as a student. Having Emma here is something I never dreamed would happen, and seeing her around the academy lifts my spirits like nothing else. My daughter is back home.
What excites you most about teaching alongside your mom?
Emma: It feels powerful to be part of a generational presence at MPA. I hope to continue the impact the original Ms. Stacy has had, while also making my own mark as I seek to influence students and the way they see their world. My mom and I have always been a pretty good team, and in my new role, I’m grateful to know she’s still nearby.
