March 26, 2026
from Paul Errickson, Middle School director
Springtime brings with it change and renewed growth. It can be one of the most exciting and hectic times in our school year as we work to wrap everything up by the end of the school year and reflect on the growth and achievements of our year of learning together.
It is often during these days in early spring, as a science teacher and naturalist, that I like to share the story of a child and a butterfly. You’ve probably heard it before (I even shared it with our students last year). The short version is that there’s a man who watches a butterfly struggle to emerge from its cocoon and, thinking he is helping, cuts it free—only to discover that without the necessary struggle, the butterfly’s wings never strengthen, leaving it unable to fly. What he didn’t realize is that the difficult process is what prepares the butterfly for life, and the story reminds us of those challenges and obstacles, rather than being burdens, are often exactly what enable us to grow, gain strength, and ultimately soar.
Looking ahead, we have many, many opportunities for growth (and potential discomfort) for our Middle School students. Next week brings the end of our third quarter, and I know that students and teachers are working to finish the quarter strong! In April and May, we have book battles and science fairs, concerts and musicals, MAP testing, and field days fast approaching. Please keep a close eye on our calendar here in Panther Post and communications through your child’s Schoology account for updates and information on all that we have going on.
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! We will 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
- Tuesday, March 31: MS G5 Science Fair, 2:30-3 PM, Family Commons
- Friday, April 3: End of Quarter 3
- Wednesday, April 8: MS Meeting, 10-10:30 AM, Recital Hall
- Wednesday, April 8: Cultural Celebration Day, 3:15-5:30 PM, Family Commons
- Monday, April 13: No Classes, Professional Development, Panther Den Closed
- Wednesday, April 15: MS Meeting, 10-10:30 AM, Recital Hall
- Wednesday, April 15: ISACS Parent Series – Happier Parenting: Evidence-Based Strategies for Improving Parent Happiness, 6:30-7:30 PM, Virtual, Register >
- Thursday, April 16: Book Club With the Head of School, 6-7:15 PM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library, RSVP >
