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
Students from Mounds Park Academy earned a record number of placements at a prestigious national speech and debate tournament held on the campus of Harvard University, marking the most successful showing in program history. Below are the results from the tournament:
Congratulations to the Mounds Park Academy alpine and Nordic ski teams that turned in strong performances at their respective state meets, highlighted by top-10 individual finishes and a fifth-place team result by the boys Nordic team!
The MPA Muslim Student Association (MSA) and families have the honor of hosting a Ramadan Iftar Celebration. The MSA warmly invites all members of the Mounds Park Academy community—students, families, alumni, faculty, and staff—to come together in the spirit of unity and reflection. The Iftar will be held on Thursday, February 26, 5-8 PM in the Family Commons.
At the 2024 Spring Auction, our community said “yes” to strengthening how we support all learners through the Center for Inclusive Teaching and Learning. Teachers were equipped with new strategies and tools to meet students where they are. Classrooms became more flexible, more thoughtful, more responsive. But there is still so much more we can do to not only support neurodiverse learners but all students at MPA.
Join us as we come together as a community to celebrate Black history, culture, and contributions through a powerful, engaging, and student-led experience for Rooted: A Black History Month Showcase on Wednesday, March 4, from 4-6 PM in the Family Commons, Nicholson Center, and Upper School Commons. Throughout February, students across all divisions have been exploring this year’s theme, Rooted, reflecting on history, identity, creativity, excellence, resilience, and community. Their learning and projects will culminate in a dynamic evening celebration that highlights student voice, artistry, and leadership.
From Gavin Thorson ’22
Kaija Kunze-Hoeg ’22 is a senior at Wellesley College and is majoring in international relations and economics while competing on the college’s volleyball team.
