April 14, 2025
from Takele Thompson-Nelson ’18
One reason I decided to return to MPA as a coach was that I was asked by fellow teammates who were also leaders and captains, Brendan Connolly ’17 and Cooper Olson ’16. I was eager to join the team, knowing that I would have those two by my side. I returned in hopes of passing on the knowledge and values that were given to me through my time at MPA. I also love basketball!
It means a lot to be able to mentor the next generation. However, those feelings are also partnered with fear. To have people, especially kids, relying on you is a powerful thing. But I know I wouldn’t be put in this position if I wasn’t ready. When coaching, I want to make sure that I’m not just hitting the Xs and Os because life is more complicated than that. In my time here at MPA, my coach is someone I could look up to and who helped guide me through other aspects of life beyond sports. I believe that it is my responsibility to also take that role for my athletes if needed.
My past experience as an MPA athlete has filled me with immense pride for everything related to being a Panther. Every win, loss, or game has an emotional connection for me because that was something I used to be a part of. I believe that being an alum and now a coach has created a strong bond between my passion for the team and the school. I am not just a coach but a previous athlete. This connection has given me my “why,” which is the fuel that has guided me to come to MPA every day with the same passion and love I had when I was a student here.
On Wednesday, April 9, the Parents Association hosted Cultural Celebration Day, an evening celebrating the diversity of backgrounds at MPA with food, music, dance, and community.
from Mark Segal, Upper School director 
from Paul Errickson, Middle School director
from Jennifer Le Varge, Lower School director 
The Parents Association is all about supporting families in building community throughout the school year. Thank you for all the ways you showed up this year! Join in to keep growing connections through the spring.
from Dr. Bill Hudson, head of school
Our MPA speech team is state-bound! Congratulations to the Section 4A champs and reigning state champions. The team title was powered by a complete effort that saw 20 students earn a berth to the state meet:
Mark your calendars for an interactive workshop on Wednesday, May 14, from 6-8 PM in the Family Commons that will provide MPA parents and staff with the tools and language they need to be supportive allies to transgender and nonbinary community members at MPA! This event is being hosted by MPA’s Rainbow Club and Gender Inclusive Schools.