Lower School Archives

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.

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

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

How We Learn

The Admission Process

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

Join Us At The Ramadan Iftar Celebration!

February 18, 2026

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.

Ramadan is one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar, marking a period of deep spiritual renewal, reflection, and devotion. It commemorates the month in which the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs to purify the soul, practice self-control, and grow in compassion for those in need. The fast is not only a physical act but also a spiritual one—encouraging mindfulness, patience, and gratitude.

Each evening, the fast is broken with a meal called Iftar, beginning with dates and water, followed by a shared meal with family, friends, and community. Ramadan is also a time for increased prayer, charity, and acts of kindness. It strengthens community bonds and reminds all who observe it of the values of generosity, empathy, and unity.

The celebration will include a variety of Halal authentic dishes, drinks, guest speakers, and opportunities for reflection and connection.

All are welcome to join in this celebration and support the community as it comes together to share in the joy and meaning of Ramadan. Click here to RSVP!

Announcing The Fund A Need For The MPA Spring Auction!

February 17, 2026

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.

Over the past two years at MPA, we have watched possibility turn into progress. Last year, teachers partnered with an instructional coach and strengthened their practice through Universal Design for Learning. Flexible seating has entered classrooms. Collaboration across divisions has grown.

And we know we can do more. Read More

Join Us For Rooted: A Black History Month Showcase

February 17, 2026

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.

The school building will open at 3:15 PM for visitors to tour student projects and displays throughout the divisions. The Family Commons will open at 3:30 PM, where guests can gather, enjoy light soul food prepared by the one and only MPA legend Chef Ronnie, and participate in interactive opportunities connected to this year’s theme. The Nicholson Center doors will open at 4:20 PM, and the showcase will begin promptly at 4:30 PM. Read More

Then & Now: The Band Program

February 16, 2026

From Gavin Thorson ’22

As I look forward to my graduation this May from Montana State University, reflecting on how I’ve grown as an academic and as a human during my time in Bozeman, I have often thought about the version of myself that was in a similar position four years ago, in the waning months of my senior year at Mounds Park Academy. This review of the last four years of my life dredged up some of my fondest memories of that spring of 2022, and perhaps my happiest memories are of playing trumpet in the band.

The band program at MPA is special, and not least because of how it began. In 1983, music educator Sarah Kumagai was looking for a change. She had bounced between schools for years, and in those days when men dominated education, opportunities for serious advancement were nonexistent. A friend steered her in the direction of MPA: “a new, progressive school.” At her meeting with Bob and Sandy Kreischer, Kumagai proposed a band program which stipulated that each band student receive individual lessons. Only through one-on-one lessons would students ever receive the care and attention necessary to improve their musical skills. Other programs often grouped students together, which was detrimental in Kumagai’s view.

The Kreischers were ready and willing to take on a young woman as their band director, and regarding her proposal about lessons, they replied: “Great — do it!”

So began Kumagai’s 18-year tenure at MPA, which saw the school’s enrollment blossom and its music program similarly thrive. Students received individual lessons, and the volume of students eventually required the employment of an additional staff member for the band program. Eventually, Kumagai was working with the drama department on producing Broadway musicals, which provided challenging scores for Kumagai’s students who played in the pit band. MPA grew bigger and bigger and sent its many graduates off into the world with pleasant memories of making music with friends. “Thank you,” is what they say to Kumagai when they see her now. She says to them, “Thank you for playing with me.” Read More

Welcome, Dr. Julie Winn, Lower School Assistant Director

February 13, 2026

We are delighted to share that Dr. Julie Winn will join Mounds Park Academy as our Lower School assistant director beginning February 17. Dr. Winn comes to MPA from Minnehaha Academy and brings more than 25 years of experience as both an elementary educator and school leader.

Lower School director James Ewer shared, “Julie was the clear choice. The committee held the highest level of confidence in her, and she consistently rose to the top across every part of the process.” He continued, “She brings real energy, a natural connection to our mission, and a sharp vision for how she will contribute right away. She leads with character, reflects with intention, and does not shy away from challenging the status quo in service of kids and community.”

Over the course of her career, Dr. Winn has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, literacy consultant, curriculum director, and, most recently, director of teaching and learning at Minnehaha Academy. She has worked in public, charter, and independent school settings, leading curricular and program innovation, instructional coaching, and faculty development across PreK-12 environments. She is also the co-founder of RefineEDU, a consultancy consortium that specializes in faculty development, leadership development, and curricular and instructional design for private and independent schools. Read More