April 16, 2026
from Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon, head of school
What does it mean to belong? I think about this a lot. I often think about questions such as: What provides comfort? What creates space to develop confidence and pride? How does an environment affect one’s ability or willingness to share their own story?
Belonging. It’s something I believe we all want to say we feel in most, if not all, places and spaces we inhabit. According to The Kids Mental Health Foundation, kids who feel like they belong, “Do better academically, are less focused on being bullied or excluded, build friendships easier, and learn new skills.” While my motto will always be students first, I believe it is fair to say that those reasons and outcomes apply to adults as well.
Two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of meeting MPA alums in the Bay Area. As my time at MPA grows, and I meet more alumni, there is a consistent theme I am able to pull from my conversations—MPA left a lasting impression because somewhere within their time as students within our community, each alum could name a place, space, event, or teacher that created the validity of belonging within the community. It’s a moving experience to hear people’s stories, and to learn of what made moments special, and sometimes hard. Just like my time in New York, it felt like I was catching up with old friends. To be welcomed into that opportunity for reflection and conversation is a privilege and one that I do not take lightly.
Shortly after I returned, I attended our latest group of senior speeches. As I sat in the audience, I was drawn into the stories shared by our students. They spoke of their love of music, their challenges and joy in learning new instruments, and the beautiful feeling of growth and success. Throughout the year, I have watched our seniors support each other, especially when delivering their speeches. Some have participated in ensembles and performances to help a student share their story, while others served as listeners to help practice and prepare. They have thanked their classmates, faculty, and staff here at MPA who have made them feel seen, heard, and loved.
Each day, we continue to strive to create belonging for all students. It’s not easy work. There isn’t a perfect recipe or playbook—every school and workplace would look and feel exactly the same. At Mounds Park Academy, I believe we remain open to creating that space, and it happens with the input and help from all members of our community. On behalf of MPA, I thank you for the formal and informal conversations, surveys, and attendance at our events. Each and every action deepens our opportunity and ability to create belonging for all.
Tomorrow, I am excited to celebrate our community at the Spring Auction and to formally move into phase two of the Center for Inclusive Teaching and Learning through this year’s Fund a Need. The development of the CITL and the renovation of the Panther Center support MPA’s continued efforts to ensure we continue to have places we belong—as students, playmates, colleagues, and families.
