May 2, 2025
Mr. James Ewer will be joining us as Lower School director beginning July 1, 2025. Mr. Ewer brings with him a powerful blend of experience, conviction, and vision that will serve the Lower School—and the entire MPA community—exceptionally well. We are thrilled to introduce him to our community!
Tell us about your education and past experience.
For the past 14 years, I’ve dedicated my life to education—working across classrooms, leadership teams, and communities to create spaces where every child feels seen, challenged, and inspired. My journey has taken me from the front lines of teaching to the strategic work of school leadership, professional development, and instructional coaching. Along the way, I’ve led teams, reimagined systems, and built programs grounded in equity, joy, and high expectations.
I hold a master’s degree in school leadership from Harvard University, where I deepened my commitment to transformative, culturally responsive education. My work is rooted in the belief that education should be liberatory, and that the way we lead matters just as much as what we teach.
What did you find appealing about MPA?
This community feels truly special. From the moment I stepped in, there was a sense of warmth and honesty that stood out. People didn’t just share logistics or expectations—they shared their hopes and dreams. That openness, that willingness to be vulnerable and visionary at the same time, is what I felt most connected to. It reminded me that the heart of any thriving community isn’t just in its plans, but in the people who dare to imagine what’s possible together.
What lasting impact do you plan to have on MPA?
The lasting impact I hope to have on MPA and its students is grounded in transformation—of self, systems, and community. I want to help continue to build a culture where every student, especially those who have historically felt unseen, can recognize their brilliance, lead with purpose, and feel deeply connected to something greater than themselves. I aim to leave behind a legacy of courage, curiosity, and love.
What’s your big dream?
I want to compete on American Ninja Warrior with my son!
What are you and your family passionate about?
Watching my son grow and food are two of my greatest joys. If anyone’s ever up for baking cheesecakes or sweet potato pie, the Southern in me would be all in—I never pass up a good homemade dessert or a chance to connect over something sweet.
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
I’ve climbed Machu Picchu—and yes, it was just as breathtaking as the photos (and the altitude) suggest!
Mr. Ewer currently serves as the Lower School dean at Breck School, where he is a member of the academic leadership team and leads initiatives in teacher development, social-emotional learning, and affinity group programming. He also serves as the head track and field coach. Prior to his time at Breck, he was the principal of Loveworks Academy, a K-8 visual and performing arts school, where his leadership led to marked improvements in student outcomes, curriculum, operations, and governance. He holds a master’s degree in school leadership from Harvard University, a master’s in elementary education from Hamline University, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Thomas. Mr. Ewer is also a licensed principal in the State of Minnesota.
