June 12, 2026
We are thrilled to announce that Mrs. Erika Beernink will continue serving as a Lower School assistant permanently at MPA. Get to know Erika better below.
Tell us about your education and past experience.
Before joining MPA’s Lower School to help this past fall, I helped coach MPA’s Middle School Robotics Team. Prior to that, I volunteered at my children’s previous schools, practiced Estate Planning and Probate law, worked in investment management, management consulting, and, a really long time ago, taught ballet.
What did you find appealing about MPA?
When we came to our first family visit, I was immediately attracted to MPA’s health as an institution. Everything from student outcomes to facilities to the strategic plan to the benefits for faculty felt well-tended and cared for. That kind of health supports a strong and vibrant community, something that I wanted to be part of.
What lasting impact do you plan to have on MPA and its students?
Strong communication skills! Whether a student is picking up copies for their classroom teacher or calling home to find out the afternoon’s plan, I will always be there to help our students, their families, and our teachers stay connected and get the answers they need.
What’s your big dream?
To live abroad long enough to deeply understand the culture, language, and beliefs of a different part of our planet.
What are you passionate about?
My family loves food and travel. Sharing great food while traveling—that’s the best!
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
I am an only child originally from California, and have lived in six different states.
