February 13, 2026
We are delighted to share that Dr. Julie Winn will join Mounds Park Academy as our Lower School assistant director beginning February 17. Dr. Winn comes to MPA from Minnehaha Academy and brings more than 25 years of experience as both an elementary educator and school leader.
Lower School director James Ewer shared, “Julie was the clear choice. The committee held the highest level of confidence in her, and she consistently rose to the top across every part of the process.” He continued, “She brings real energy, a natural connection to our mission, and a sharp vision for how she will contribute right away. She leads with character, reflects with intention, and does not shy away from challenging the status quo in service of kids and community.”
Over the course of her career, Dr. Winn has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, literacy consultant, curriculum director, and, most recently, director of teaching and learning at Minnehaha Academy. She has worked in public, charter, and independent school settings, leading curricular and program innovation, instructional coaching, and faculty development across PreK-12 environments. She is also the co-founder of RefineEDU, a consultancy consortium that specializes in faculty development, leadership development, and curricular and instructional design for private and independent schools.
Dr. Winn earned a Bachelor of Arts from St. Olaf College, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Gordon College, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Bethel University.
When asked what drew her to MPA, she shared, “Dream Big. Do Right. Could it get better than that? From the very first conversation, it was clear that MPA was a special place, exuding a warmth, connection, and community I immediately wanted to be a part of.”
This role reflects our continued commitment to strengthening the systems that support both teaching and belonging in the Lower School. In her role, Dr. Winn will:
- Strengthen student experience and belonging in the Lower School by cultivating a visible, engaged presence that supports students’ academic, social, and emotional growth and helps every child feel known and valued.
- Partner with faculty to support instructional excellence and program coherence, contributing to curriculum conversations, student support systems, and initiatives that reflect MPA’s whole-child philosophy.
- Collaborate with families and divisional leadership to enhance communication and systems that advance the Lower School’s strategic goals.
Reflecting on the impact she hopes to have, Dr. Winn shared, “I truly believe my life’s purpose is making the world better, brighter, and more accessible for every single child. I want to see thriving young people, with deep roots and wide wings.” She added, “I am here to serve teachers, students, and families with deep love and a commitment to high excellence.”
Outside of school, Julie and her family enjoy travel and food, exploring new cities and cultures whenever they can. Her “big dream” includes enjoying tapas and paella in a small café by the ocean in Spain. At home, life is lively with two dogs and two cats—as she says, “Never a dull moment.”
We cannot wait to welcome Julie to MPA and partner with her in the meaningful work ahead. Read more from Dr. Winn and mark your calendars for the next Lower School Family Forum on March 6, 8:15-9:45 AM in the library, to connect with her more deeply.
