Join Us For Remember the Time: A Black History Month Showcase

A cultural celebration in the Family Commons. Join us for Remember the Time: A Black History Month Showcase as we come together as a community to celebrate Black history, culture, and contributions in a powerful and engaging way on Thursday, February 27, from 4:30-6:30 PM in the Family Commons! Throughout February, students across all divisions will explore themes of fun facts (Lower School), innovations (Middle School), and legacy (Upper School), leading up to an incredible school-wide presentation.

On February 27, the school will open at 3:15 PM for visitors to tour the building and experience the incredible projects and displays created by our students. Then, at 4:30 PM, we’ll transition into a New Orleans jazz club experience for our showcase, featuring live music from Monique Blakey & The Experience and hosted by Pierre Douglas, a Twin Cities comedy staple known for his appearance on Comedy Central’s Hart of the City.

Guests will also enjoy authentic New Orleans cuisine prepared by Chef Ronnie. The celebration will conclude at 6:30 PM.

Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details! You won’t want to miss this unforgettable event! Please contact Eddie Grant, assistant director of equity and belonging, at egrant@moundsparkacademy.org with any questions.


Middle School Division News February 13, 2025

Middle School students working together.from Paul Errickson, Middle School director

Mark Your Calendars 

  • Friday, February 14: No Classes, Professional Development
  • Saturday, February 15: Returning Family Re-Enrollment Deadline
  • Monday, February 17: No Classes, President’s Day
  • Wednesday, February 19: MS G7/8 Affinity Group Meeting, 2:30-3 PM, Panther Center
  • Monday, February 24-Friday, February 28: SnoDaze Week
  • Thursday, February 27: Remember the Time: A Black History Month Showcase, 4:30-6:30 PM, Family Commons
  • March 3-March 7: MS i-Term

On Monday, we hosted our third edition of the Students and Screens program with a discussion centered on how to keep our children safe online by gaining an understanding of some of the controls available and the different ways that students can access different sites, social media, and discussion groups online. MPA parent Corey Ganser led our group in a discussion about the different ways that parents can work alongside their children through conversations and providing some guardrails so our children are safe and exposed to different parts of the internet and social media at developmentally appropriate times.

Our lively discussion included some questions about the appropriate time and ways to progress a child’s use of technology, with some parents sharing stories and anecdotes of how their child may have found themselves on programs or in chats that they probably should not have been a part of. As I shared with the group, “I have yet to meet a parent who said, ‘I wish I gave my student a phone or access to social media sooner than I did.’”

Read More


The Power of Hopeful Skepticism: Preparing Students, and Ourselves, for a Complex World

Lower School teacher interacts with a student. from Dr. Bill Hudson, head of school

Over my 30+ years in education, I’ve been called many things, some of which I can’t repeat here. Most often, I’ve been called naïve or an optimist, most of the time meant as a criticism. Truth be told, I’d rather be naïve than a cynic, believing people are generally selfish and untrustworthy. I’d rather be an optimist rather than have a negative outlook on life and expect the worst from people and from life.

After reading “Hope for Cynics” by Jamil Zaki, Stanford University professor and director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab, I can now proudly say I am a hopeful skeptic. A hopeful skeptic is someone who balances optimism with critical thinking. They are open to possibilities and potential but also approach claims, ideas, and situations with a questioning mindset. This person is not cynical or dismissive but instead seeks evidence, logic, and reason while maintaining a belief in positive outcomes.

Zaki writes about a test by psychologists Walter Cook and Donald Medley devised to identify good teachers. They asked hundreds of teachers whether they agreed with these three questions (and 47 others):

  1. No one cares much what happens to you.
  2. Most people dislike helping others.
  3. Most people are honest chiefly through fear of getting caught.

According to Cook and Medley’s research, the more a teacher agreed with these statements, the worse their rapport with students. Out of curiosity, but knowing the probable outcome, I did a snap poll of MPA teachers. The vast majority disagreed with all three statements with a small handful agreeing with only one. It didn’t surprise me that 97% of our teachers are low or low-medium in cynicism. Read More


Remaining A Beacon Of Inclusivity, Integrity, and Courage

Lower School students celebrate with their hands up in the air. from Dr. Bill Hudson, head of school

Our values endure. Our resolve is unshakable.

Transitions, whether personal, institutional, or societal, bring both challenge and opportunity. They disrupt routines and ask us to think critically, act courageously, and reaffirm what truly matters. In moments of change—whether in our school, our communities, or on a global scale—we are called to return to our values and remain steadfast. At Mounds Park Academy, we want to be clear: our commitment to our mission and values is unwavering.

MPA is, and will always be, a place where students, families, and educators feel seen, valued, and supported. We are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, just, and equitable environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. Our mission calls us to nurture critical thinkers, compassionate leaders, and engaged citizens who have the courage to shape a better world. That mission remains steadfast.

In the recent community survey, MPA students consistently highlighted the welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment. They report strong bonds between the students, teachers, and staff, noting that the result is a close-knit, respectful culture. One student wrote, “I think the school is really good at making sure that every student feels valued and important and in accepting each person’s different situations and how that can affect their learning or experience. People here are very understanding and friendly and create an environment where you don’t feel scared to speak up.” Read More


Welcome To MPA, Ms. Allie DeLeo!

MPA's new student billing coordinator, Allie DeLeo. Welcome to MPA, Allie DeLeo! Ms. DeLeo will take over as our accounts payable, payroll, and student billing coordinator, and we are thrilled to introduce her to the community! 

From what school/organization are you coming?
I am coming from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design.

Tell us about your education and past experience.
I’ve spent the last 10 years working in the business office at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, where I also received my Bachelor of Fine Arts.

What did you find appealing about MPA?
MPA’s community of innovative thinkers, creative makers, and purposeful achievers made an instant impression on me.

What lasting impact do you plan to have on MPA and its students?
I value kindness and empathy and strive to make a positive impact on those around me. I’m always lunging forward to offer a helping hand, and I look forward to engaging with the community at MPA in any way that I can. Read More


The Path From Montessori To Mounds Park Academy

Upper School student working in the MakerspaceWhen it comes to making a school choice, there are so many different types of environments to explore. Each offers a unique approach to learning, with its own set of strengths, challenges, and benefits for each individual child.

The transition from Montessori to a PreK-12 college prep school like Mounds Park Academy might seem like a big leap, but many of the traits your child developed in Montessori–like their independence, curiosity, and a love of learning–create a very solid foundation for them. At MPA, we work with families to take things one step at a time and embrace these new challenges and opportunities.

How Does A Montessori School Experience Compare To Mounds Park Academy?

Montessori schools are rooted in principles that emphasize child-centered learning. Students are encouraged to be independent, self-directed learners who explore subjects at their own pace. The American Montessori Society states, “Montessori education is student-led and self-paced but guided, assessed, and enriched by knowledgeable and caring teachers, the leadership of their peers, and a nurturing environment.” MPA honors philosophies similar to a Montessori environment while maintaining a level of academic rigor that prepares students academically for college. While the goal of Montessori schools is to inspire a love of learning, Mounds Park Academy achieves this through academics taught in an experiential way. Read More


Five Reasons To Apply Today

Middle School students are hugging at recessThis message is from MPA’s Office of Admission from the February 2 issue of Inside MPA. Click here to get in touch with Admission and learn more!

Thank you to those who attended our last PreK-12 event of the year, the January MPA Preview! Whether you brought home a piece of your own printmaking art or had a climbing wall adventure, we hope you enjoyed your time with us as much as we did giving you a genuine preview of our school and community.

With the final PreK-12 event of the year comes the end of our admission season, meaning the February 15 application deadline is approaching quickly and we are beginning to see all of the future Panthers who are ready to begin an MPA journey of their own. If you have not yet completed your application, we have five reasons to share why your family should begin your MPA journey by applying today.

1. Academic Rigor With Purpose

At every grade level, MPA finds a developmentally appropriate way to incorporate rigor–not just for the sake of a rigorous education, but to challenge students to push themselves and apply their knowledge to critical thinking and real-word problems to be solved. “Students gain a great sense of satisfaction from taking a project from idea to reality and seeing it meet expectations when it comes to fruition. This exemplifies engineering at Mounds Park Academy and in the real world,” says Mark Shapiro, MPA Upper School physics teacher, on what rigor with purpose looks like. MPA’s curriculum, coupled with small class sizes, allows for more collaboration, creativity, and opportunities for students to become well-prepared for college and beyond. Read More


MPA Students Recognized by MSAA

The Art Department is thrilled to share the list of students honored in the 2025 Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards!

The Scholastic Art Awards is a highly competitive, nationally recognized competition for students ages 13-18. Gold Key awards will go on to competition at the national level.

This display of awards represents a variety of mediums, styles, and techniques, as well as countless hours of work over the course of years of skill development. We are so proud of the accomplishments of these artists!

  • Yuhan Zou ‘25, Drawing, Gold Key, “目”
  • Ella D. ‘29, Painting, Gold Key, “Defused Emotions”
  • Jenny Liao ‘28, Painting, Gold Key, “Winter Owl”
  • Juliun Menasco ’27, Photography, Gold Key, “Froggy Curiosity”
  • Nicole Kim ‘27, Fashion, Silver Key, “Background Spotlight”
  • Lucy Smith ‘25, Mixed Media, Silver Key, “Artist Blues”
  • Grace Nelson ‘26, Painting, Silver Key, “Intergalactic”
  • Zayna N. ‘30, Photography, Silver Key, “Sage”
  • Cosmo Vanzyl ‘26, Ceramics, Honorable Mention, “Bloom”
  • Cosmo Vanzyl ‘26, Ceramics, Honorable Mention, “Trust”
  • Amy Xiang ‘26, Drawing, Honorable Mention, “Fireworks”
  • Marlaina Minear ‘25, Drawing, Honorable Mention, “Self-Portrait”
  • Laila Mosley ‘26, Painting, Honorable Mention, “Savory & Sweet Dining”
  • Sukey R. ‘29, Printmaking, Honorable Mention, “Balanced Composition Lino Print”
  • Sophia T. ‘29, Printmaking, Honorable Mention, “Leaves in Symmetry”
  • Thomas Dickson ‘26, Printmaking, Honorable Mention, “Street Print”
  • Yuhan Zou ‘25, Sculpture, Honorable Mention, “Fresh Breath”

See an album of their award-winning work here!


Middle School Division News January 30, 2025

Middle School students working with fire in a lab.from Paul Errickson, Middle School director

Mark Your Calendars 

  • Friday, January 31: Returning Family Re-Enrollment Agreements Sent
  • Friday, January 31: MS G5-8 Talent Show, 12:30-3 PM, Nicholson Center
  • Tuesday, February 4: LS/MS Lunch & Learn: G5 Pizza Panel, 11:35 AM-12 PM, Rooms 150-151
  • Wednesday, February 5: MS G7/8 Affinity Group Meeting, 2:30-3 PM, Panter Center
  • Thursday, February 6: LS/MS Evening Conferences, 3:30-8 PM
  • Friday, February 7: No LS/MS Classes, Conferences
  • Friday, February 7: LS/MS Conferences, 8 AM-5 PM
  • Monday, February 10: MS/US Students & Screens Community Discussion, 1:45-3 PM, Recital Hall
  • Tuesday, February 11: MS Quarterly Coffee, 8-9:30 AM, TBD
  • Wednesday, February 12: All School Pairing Assembly
  • Friday, February 14: No Classes, Professional Development
  • Saturday, February 15: Returning Family Re-Enrollment Deadline
  • Monday, February 17: No Classes, Presidents’ Day
  • Wednesday, February 19: MS G7/8 Affinity Group Meeting, 2:30-3 PM, Panther Center

As we turn the corner in our school year by heading into a new semester, I find myself really excited about the work and opportunities ahead. This week, we will have had our Grade 5 Music Share on Thursday and the Middle School Talent Show on Friday afternoon, with close to 20 acts from all our grades and faculty.

Heading into February, we have our Winter Conferences coming up at the end of next week on the evening of February 6 and all day on February 7. Lower and Middle School students have conferences, while Upper School students still have classes. Please remember that all Middle School students are required to attend their conferences. The window to sign up for conferences closes on Friday evening, so check in there soon if you’re hoping to get some time with your child’s teachers.

Read More


MPA Seeking International Student Host Families

A MPA Host Family poses for a picture. Do you have room to spare? Space in your heart for another family member? A desire to expand your family’s perspective of the world? MPA is seeking host families for international students for the 2025-26 school year!

Between the adults in their school and home lives, our international students feel supported, nurtured, and loved while living so far from their families. This is vital to their success and the strongest testament to everything our MPA host families and staff do to care for our international students.

We would love it if you and your family considered hosting an international student for next school year. As you and your family consider hosting, here are some topics that may arise. The information below is by no means an exhaustive list, but it may answer some of the initial questions you have and prompt additions ones as well:

Stipend

  • A 10-month stipend of $10,000 will be directly deposited in equal installments of $1,000/month on the first of each month for the previous month, September through June.
  • An early installment of $500 will be deposited on August 1 in preparation for your student’s arrival; the remaining $500 will be deposited on September 1.
  • The daily stipend rate of $30/day will be taken from and disbursed to host families who are providing respite care for a student, as needed.

Transportation

  • Host families are responsible for providing transportation to and from school and school-related activities.
  • Host families are responsible for providing transportation to and from the airport when the student travels.
  • Host families will work with their students in scheduling rides for social events.

Meals

  • All international students will receive the MPA school lunch. Host families and students do not need to pack lunches.
  • Host families are responsible for providing two meals on all weekdays and three meals on all weekend days.

By hosting an international student, you and your family have a unique opportunity to bring the language, culture, and perspective of another country into your home, allowing for a truly rich and genuine intercultural experience. The students will love to share their lives with you while becoming a part of your family, exploring Minnesota, and enjoying MPA student life all at the same time.

We hope you’ll consider opening your hearts and homes to one of our international students. If you have any questions, please contact Cory Becker-Kim, International Student Program Director and Advanced Language & Culture Teacher, at cbeckerkim@moundsparkacademy.org or 651-383-8961.

Click here to fill out a Host Family Application, and here for more information. Thank you so much for considering!