February 26, 2026
from Julia Ross, Lower School learning specialist
As we get closer to Spring Break, I encourage you to keep your student reading! Even 15-20 minutes a day can make a big difference in maintaining progress and confidence. This can look like reading books your child chooses, listening to audiobooks, and following along with the text, practicing sight words, or taking turns reading aloud to each other.
If you are traveling over the break, here are some easy (and fun) ways to keep the reading up:
- Pack a reading bag with a few books your child chooses to read
- Listen to an audiobook together and ask your child questions
- Have your child read signs, maps, menus, and more
- Start a vacation journal and write (and read back) a few sentences about what they did each day
- Keep the routine of reading a few minutes before bedtime
All the small moments add up, and keeping reading part of the routine, even in simple ways, helps maintain the strong progress your child is making!
from Dana Distad, Lower School counselor
As we head into Spring Break, I want to wish your family a moment in time filled with rest and renewal.
Breaks are a wonderful opportunity for children (and adults!) to reset routines, reconnect with family and friends, and truly relax. Whether your plans include travel, time outdoors, or simply slower mornings at home, these moments help children recharge socially and emotionally. Encourage plenty of play, fresh air, conversation, and downtime. A little extra connection and calm can go a long way in supporting a strong finish to the school year.
Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful Spring Break!
from Dr. Julie Winn, Lower School assistant director
Games are a fantastic way to play and learn together as a family. Spring Break is the perfect time for some games, AND build some math fluency! I wanted to share some of my favorite age-appropriate math games that require no more than a deck of cards and a little bit of time. Playing a game each day will keep kiddos sharp and those math facts right on the tip of their tongue. Family + Fun + Games = Learning!
from James Ewer, Lower School director
As you step into Spring Break, I hope your days make room for what matters most in the Lower School.
Time. Presence. And lots of love poured into your littles. Dana reminds us that calm and togetherness help children truly recharge. Julia reminds us that a few minutes of reading each day protects confidence and growth. Dr. Winn reminds us that learning can be joyful, quick, and shared.
That is the thread. Little moments done with care add up to something powerful.
One simple prompt for the week: Ask your child each day, “What was one moment you felt loved today?” Then listen. Let that answer shape tomorrow.
Whatever your break looks like, I hope it includes laughter, fresh air, and unhurried time with the people who make your child feel safe and known. We cannot wait to welcome students back, ready for a strong finish.
Peace and love,
Mr. Ewer
2026 MPA Spring Auction: Rooted In Purpose
Join us for the 2026 MPA Spring Auction: Rooted In Purpose, on Friday, April 17, at the Lowlands in St. Paul! Join us as we gather in celebration of the people and purpose that make Mounds Park Academy such a special community, while raising critical support for our students, staffulty, and programs. Sponsorships and tickets are available NOW! Family Sponsorships can be purchased here, Business Sponsorships can be bought here, and tickets can be bought here. (Ticket prices increase to $125 after March 15.)
Help Make the Evening Unforgettable!
We are seeking exciting contributions to elevate the event, including:
- MPA Exclusive Silent Auction items
- Live Auction Experiences
- Spirits and Wine Donations
- Curated Gifts and Experiences
Your support helps create a joyful, meaningful evening while making a lasting impact on MPA.
Visit the event website or contact Ashley Goetzke, director of development and community engagement, at agoetzke@moundsparkacademy.org to learn more or get involved.
Let’s make this a night to remember.
Mark Your Calendars
- Friday, February 27: G3-12 SnoDaze Assembly, 2:20-3 PM, Lansing Sports Center
- Friday, February 27: PA Family Trivia Night, 6-8 PM, Family Commons, Register >
- Wednesday, March 4: Black History Month Celebration, 4-6 PM, Family Commons, Nicholson Center, & US Commons
- Thursday, March 5: LS G1 Troll Story Celebration, 8-9 AM
- Friday, March 6: LS Family Forum, 8:15-9:45 AM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library
- Monday, March 9-Friday, March 20: No Classes, Spring Break
