Mounds Park Academy

Parents Association News And Events March 5, 2026

March 4, 2026

In case you missed it, here is the March edition of Parent Press!

Upcoming Events

Lower School Family Forum | Friday, March 6: 8:15-9:45 AM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library

Come and welcome our new Lower School assistant director, Dr. Julie Winn!

Community-Wide Parents Association Meeting | Thursday, March 26: 3-4 PM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library

Please join us for a preview of upcoming Parents Association–sponsored events and volunteer opportunities as we look toward the end of the school year and beyond.

During our time with administration, Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon and Mr. Paul Errickson will share information about MPA’s nine competencies and what they mean for our school community.

Parents Association Book Club with Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon | Wednesday, April 16: 6 PM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library, RSVP >

Please join Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon and fellow book-loving parents at the MPA library for a discussion of Richard Osman’s “We Solve Murders.” Blending sharp humor, clever twists, and heartfelt moments, We Solve Murders delivers the same irresistible charm and smart plotting that fans of “The Thursday Murder Club” love—with a fresh new cast and a thrilling, modern edge. Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven mysteries with both laughs and layered intrigue. We hope to see you there!

Stronger Each Time We Rise

March 2, 2026

from Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon, head of school

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending an event sponsored by St. Catherine University in connection with the Manitou Fund, featuring Kelly Hall-Tompkins, world-renowned violinist and entrepreneur. Watching and listening to her play arrangements from “Fiddler on the Roof” and other pop and classical pieces gave me goosebumps. Her music transported my mind into an imaginary space of wonder and creativity.

Following her performance, she and Sarah Hicks, also world-renowned for her orchestral conducting, came together to reflect on their past, present, and future experiences as female leaders. Together, they spoke about the importance of knowing and creating one’s own sense of belonging. During the Q&A, Kelly Hall-Tompkins shared a reflection that resonated deeply with me as I think about education, our students, and the world we are preparing them to navigate. I will do my best to paraphrase what she offered:

“There is no doubt that you will fall or fail. It’s how quickly you get back up and try again that will determine your ability to succeed. You might see what you believe to be the result in the distance, but if you don’t get there, what did you learn along the way? Where did the journey take you?”

Her words lingered with me, and I see that same message reflected in our own community.

Last Friday afternoon, I attended our annual Upper School SnowDaze event. It had been nearly 15 years since I last wore a pair of ice skates. With the help of a “walker,” I made it around the rink once before deciding it might be better for me to cheer and observe others as they confidently (and sometimes nervously) made their way across the ice. Students of all levels took to the rink. I watched them encourage one another, hold hands, laugh, fall, and get back up again. Read More

Welcome To MPA, Mr. Baker!

February 26, 2026

Welcome to MPA, Mr. Michael Baker! Mr. Baker will be joining us as a part-time school nurse through District 622, taking over for Ms. Deb Stone, who will be retiring in March. We are so thankful to Ms. Stone for her time with us, and are excited to introduce Mr. Baker!

From what school/organization are you coming?
I am coming from ISD 622.

Tell us about your education and past experience.
I earned a registered nursing degree from Century College, a law degree from William Mitchell College of Law, a master’s degree in education from City College of New York, and bachelor’s degrees from the University of Minnesota. I also served with the United States Army, spent six years teaching elementary, and 40 years as a business owner, before I went to nursing school.

What did you find appealing about MPA?
MPA has a great mission statement and is educating leaders for tomorrow.

Parents Association News And Events February 26, 2026

February 26, 2026

Join Us At Trivia Night!

Dust off those thinking caps! It’s time for the third annual MPA Parents Association Trivia Night on Friday, February 27, from 6-8 PM, in the Family Commons! Join with fellow parents for dinner, socializing, and a chance to hold the title of Parents Association Trivia Night Champion.

It’s not too late to join with fellow parents for an evening where useless knowledge finally pays off. We’re serving up a delicious dinner by Sage and bringing in the pros from Trivia Mafia to host the ultimate showdown.

Competitive but friendly, the night’s vibe is all about fun—no need to bring a team, as we’ll pair you with fellow parents for an evening of arcane facts, new connections, and lively competition, with glory, bragging rights, and real prizes on the line for the winners. We hope to see you there.

Lower School Family Forum | Friday, March 6: 8:15-9:45 AM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library

Come and welcome our new Lower School assistant director, Dr. Julie Winn!

Parents Association Book Club with Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon | Wednesday, April 16: 6 PM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library, RSVP >

Lower School Division News February 26, 2026

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! Read More

Middle School Division News February 26, 2026

February 26, 2026

from Paul Errickson, Middle School director

With i-Term 2026 quickly approaching, we are excited to wrap up February in fine fashion. Here in the Middle School, students have been working to honor our Black History Month, we’ve had some exciting Middle School Meetings, and we just hosted an amazing Middle School talent show this afternoon.

For i-Term this year, we will have students creating podcasts, skateboard decks, and new characters in D&D, dogsledding, enjoying racquet sports, golf, snowboarding, climbing, learning the customs and culture of Quebec and Scandinavia, and fixing all sorts of broken things, along with just trying to survive in the Middle School (Survivor i-Term). We are excited for the plethora of options and the opportunity to take a break from our classrooms. Please join us next Friday, March 6, from 2-3 PM in the Family Commons and Middle School T for the i-Term Fair.

On Wednesday, March 4, from 4-6 PM, we are excited to join our Upper School BSU in celebrating Black History Month in the Family Commons. The theme this year is “Rooted”—this theme invites us to consider the foundations that ground us, the histories that shape us, and the communities that sustain us. Read More

Upper School Division News February 26, 2026

February 26, 2026

from Mark Segal, Upper School director

As we move into the final stretch before spring break, I want to thank our students, families, and faculty for the focus, care, and commitment that define our Upper School community. With just over a week (187 hours to be exact) remaining until break, there is still meaningful academic work underway. There are projects to complete, assessments to prepare for, and responsibilities that require students to remain fully engaged. This time of year can feel demanding as our workload continues to feel as though there is no end to it, but it is also an opportunity to reinforce the habits of perseverance and organization that will serve our MPA Upper School students well beyond the classroom.

Maintaining strong routines and high standards right up to the start of spring break matters. The learning that happens in these final days before a pause is not superfluous—it is an essential part of our curriculum and our shared commitment to excellence. We ask students to continue arriving at school prepared, managing their deadlines and assignments thoughtfully, and supporting one another as classmates, peers, and friends. Doing our best work, even with a two-week break just days away, is a skill that translates directly to college, careers, and adulthood. The American Psychological Association shares, “educational research shows that students who sustain their engagement through the end of a term perform better on cumulative assessments, and maintaining this academic momentum into spring break improves motivation when we return. At the same time, cognitive science tells us that planned breaks enhance memory consolidation and reduce mental fatigue. Rest, especially sleep and time away from screens, is linked to lower stress and stronger emotional resilience in adolescents.”

At the same time, spring break offers an important and well-earned opportunity for rest. We encourage students to use this time intentionally to recharge both physically and mentally. Whether that means spending time outdoors, reconnecting with family and friends, or simply slowing down and stepping away from our technological devices and the daily academic demands, allows students to return to school on March 23 refreshed and better prepared for the “push” to the end of the school year. Read More

A Chance To Experience MPA On A School Day!

February 20, 2026

The school day PreK-12 MPA Preview is Friday, April 24, 8:30-10 AM! With community members as your hosts, you’ll visit classrooms to see students and teachers in action. The event will end with an opportunity to connect with school leadership and ask any questions you may have—both about the year ahead and what the MPA journey can look like in the years to come. This event is designed for the adult members of your family—if you will be bringing a child, please do let us know.

MPA Previews are signature PreK-12 events designed to introduce you to the faculty, students, and families who make MPA the exceptional learning community that it is. You’ll hear from a variety of perspectives, be engaged in conversation, experience what a day in the life of an MPA student is like, and leave with a much better understanding of the MPA way.

RSVP today to discover why Mounds Park Academy is the #2-ranked private school in Minnesota.

RSVP Today

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Parents Association News And Events February 19, 2026

February 19, 2026

The MPA girls and boys basketball teams have a doubleheader tomorrow evening on their home court. Support them and MPA Athletics by keeping the crowd happy and fed during the games! No previous experience needed.

Join Us At Trivia Night!

One week from tomorrow, Friday, February 27, from 6-8 PM, is the third annual Parents Association Trivia Night in the Family Commons! Join with fellow parents for dinner, socializing, and a chance to hold the title of Parents Association Trivia Night Champion.

Trivia hosted by Trivia Mafia. You do not need to organize a team. We’ll match you up with others upon arrival. More details can be found here.

Please register by Tuesday, February 24. Walk-ins are welcome, but if you need childcare, you must sign up in advance!

Upper School Quarterly Coffee
Please join Mark Segal and Upper School parents at the upcoming Upper School Parents Association Quarterly Coffee on Wednesday, February 25, from 8-9 AM in the Porter Conference Room. This meeting will have an open forum format where parents will be able to ask questions and strengthen relationships with other Upper School parents as we enter the spring season. A calendar of Upper School-centric spring events will also be shared. We look forward to you joining us at this wonderful community event.

The Center For Inclusive Teaching And Learning

February 19, 2026

from Dr. Lori-Anne Brogdon, head of school

Two years ago, when interviewing for the head of school role at MPA, I remember learning about the formation of the Center for Inclusive Teaching and Learning (CITL). Diagnosed with a fair share of learning differences myself, I connected deeply with the concept. Learning about the CITL made me excited to hear that MPA wanted to further its goal of supporting and knowing each child for who they are and what they bring to school each day, inside and out.

Since arriving at MPA, I have seen evidence of the efforts developed through phase one, including the use of common language, awareness, and implementation of Universal Design for Learning in the classroom. Conversations supporting all students—with and without learning differences—occur on a daily basis. Students have greater agency in their learning environment-choosing where to sit, how to help regulate their bodies and minds, and what technology tools may help expand their ability to absorb and process information.

As Ashley Goetzke shared in her recent communication for this year’s Spring Auction paddle raise, “Phase Two of the Center for Inclusive Teaching and Learning is about creating a space that reflects who we are as a school and who we want to become. Not a space for ‘some’ students. A space for all students. A space for focus and testing, for tutoring and enrichment, for collaboration and creativity. A space where rigor and support exist together. A space that signals to current and prospective families that MPA understands how students learn in 2026 and beyond.” Read More