November 9, 2021
MPA will be hosting a follow-up on-campus vaccination clinic on Monday, November 29 from 4-8 PM. We will be offering first or second Pfizer vaccinations for anyone age five or older (including adults), first or second Moderna vaccinations, as well as Pfizer or Moderna booster shots for those who are eligible.
In addition to welcoming MPA community members, this clinic will be open to anyone and is being offered in partnership with Health Care Strong. Please help us spread the word by sharing this page with your network. You do not have to have attended the first clinic to attend this clinic.
DETAILS FOR ALL
- Please download above, print, complete, and bring the consent form for all those who will be receiving vaccinations. This will help the process move along more quickly and efficiently.
- Bring your vaccination card (if applicable).
- All injections will be provided by a highly-trained medical professional and the 15-minute observation period will be staffed by medical professionals as well.
- Please enter at door 2, the Atrium, which is to the left of the flag pole near the south entrance.
- COVID-19 vaccinations are free and do not require insurance.
- Do not attend the clinic if anyone in your household has had COVID-19 within the past 14 days, has any symptoms of COVID-19, or is currently quarantining due to close contact exposure.
DETAILS FOR CHILDREN
- Any student or adult age five (on the day of the clinic) or older may be vaccinated at this event with their first or second vaccination.
- Students to be vaccinated should wear short-sleeved shirts and be rested. They should have had something to eat prior to arriving.
- Students younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and must present a vaccination consent form (download above, print, complete, and bring).
DETAILS FOR ADULTS
- Students 18 or older do not need parental consent to be vaccinated.
- Click here to determine your eligibility for a booster.
We’re grateful to share that approximately 60% of our newly-eligible unvaccinated children received their first vaccination at the clinic on November 8. We strongly urge you to consider vaccinating your children so that they may remain healthy, safe, and happy on campus.
If you are unable to attend this clinic, please visit mn.gov/vaxforkids to learn more about other options and get information.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to covid@moundsparkacademy.org should you have any questions or need any additional information or resources.
Meet Alumni Board Member Adi Boeder Risner ’02
November 5, 2021
Adi Boeder Risner ’02
For what grades did you attend MPA?
K-6 and 10-12 (relocated to Belgium 7-9)
Why did you choose to pursue a position on the Alumni Association Board?
Over the last year, my interest in the Alumni Association peaked as I noticed more and more alumni choosing Mounds Park Academy for their children. As a member of the Parents Association at MPA, connecting with all parents is a delightful part of my role, but I especially enjoy relating to other alumni parents given our shared experiences and values. Last year, the Kindergarten class was composed of 20% children of alumni! I pursued a position on the Alumni Association Board to better serve as a bridge between alumni and current and/or prospective parents.
In what ways do you see yourself as a supporter of MPA and its mission?
Well, I send my kids to MPA!
What are you currently doing, professionally and/or personally?
My husband and I were married in 2014 in Estes Park, CO, and we now have two sons and a bulldog together. We moved back to the Twin Cities from Denver in 2018 to be closer to family and for the boys’ education. I’m currently a Statistician at 3M. I recently re-entered the corporate workforce after staying home with my youngest son for 3 years. Fun fact, I also make soap – lots and lots of soap!
How did you get to where you are in your career? Did you attend college and if so, where? Are there some career moves or other key experiences or relationships that have inspired you?
After graduating from MPA in ’02, I received my bachelor’s at St. Olaf College in both mathematics and economics. I worked at an actuarial firm for several years before relocating to Denver in 2011, for the mountain lifestyle. Here, I completed my master’s in business intelligence at the University of Denver, Daniels College of Business. In the years to follow, I worked at a major healthcare company, building statistical models and training data scientists on predictive modeling techniques. I find that I’m most inspired when I accept the challenge to change perspective. For example, the best move that I ever made (both personally and professionally) was taking some time off to stay home and focus on family. The change was scary and uncertain, and no-one thought it was a suitable role for me, but ultimately taking that leap was an extremely gratifying decision that continues to provide benefits. Finding fulfillment at home changed my perspective of who I was and what I can contribute to the world. Not only did I soak up the quality time with my kids but I was also able to recalibrate my goals for the future. I think that anytime you allow yourself to change perspective you’re given the opportunity to grow.
How did your MPA experience prepare you for your life today? How did MPA help you dream big and do right?
At MPA I felt regularly encouraged, challenged, and respected in my approaches to problems, without fear, judgement, or social pressure. Most importantly, I think that MPA provided me with a safe environment to pursue a wide-range of multiple disciplines and to make balanced choices about my interests. The emphasis that I felt on exposure and balance over perfection prepared me for an evolving future full of choices that I didn’t yet know existed.
What’s next? Any aspirations—personal or professional—that you’d like to share?
I’m really excited to wear multiple hats this year – Alumni Board Member, Parent’s Association Grade Rep, MPA parent, and full-time working mom. Fun times!
Please share your favorite MPA story.
I vividly recall, as a high schooler, spending most of my free time in Ms. Buck’s classroom, working on my ceramics projects. There was always some detail that needed fine-tuning or some creative process to map out, or maybe I just loved the smell of the clay. Either way, her classroom was always open and I knew that I could expect her cheerful smile. This was my favorite part of the day.
November 4, 2021
from Bill Hudson, Head of School
Helen Keller, one of the great American authors, activists, and advocates, said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” These are such simple, yet enlightened words, that illustrate the profound power of community collaboration. I believe, from the bottom of my heart, that schools should be epicenters of deep collaboration—among students, faculty, staff, families, alumni, and other community members.
Just this week on campus, students, faculty, and staff came together to do so very much:
- Upper School physics students worked in small lab groups using a bicycle wheel to understand rotational motion by feeling it between their hands.
- STEM Ed Club students created curriculum for and hosted a Nature Event for their Lower School friends.
- Student Council members organized a Nitro-Ball Tournament to benefit future projects in a fun and joyful way.
- Volleyball players rallied the student body to show up for them at sections and show their support in a huge way.
- AP Spanish students worked in discussion groups, debating topics such as regional/cultural/religious differences, after having only been in class for two days.
- Middle School students lined the hallways in small groups, using marshmallows and spoons to investigate math and science in a three-dimensional, dynamic way.
- Lower School faculty Mari Espeland and Heather Mastel collaborated on their annual second grade production of “The Tales of Anansi the Spider” for the sixth year in a row.
- Staff designed and implemented a COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic on campus in just 24 hours, benefitting the MPA community and beyond.
- Faculty and staff brought concerts back to MPA with both a successful livestream and an in-person way to engage with the Instrumental Concert.
- Eighth grade faculty collaborated on the Future City project, providing an interdisciplinary approach for students designing a waste-free city 100 years in the future utilizing a circular economy.
I could go on and on, but none of the above would be possible without collaboration, connectedness, and community.
Now, its our turn to come together—literally and figuratively—to show our support of MPA and the experiences created here each day. This year’s Fall Campaign, “Let’s Join Together,” launches November 8 and lasts until November 19, culminating with our Give to the Max Day of Giving on November 18. A very special, in-person kick off, will be held outdoors on Friday, November 5, from 2-4 PM. Come to campus, come together, and celebrate the start of this very special time at MPA.
This year’s Fall Campaign is particularly meaningful because it coincides with the 40th anniversary celebration of the founding of our school. Our goal this year is to raise $350,000 to support students, teachers, and to bridge the gap between tuition and the cost of an MPA education—tuition only covers approximately 80 percent of MPA’s expenses. Your gift will ensure students, faculty, and staff have the tools, resources, and support they need to come together today and tomorrow to do so much.
I want every family, especially our new families, to know that giving at MPA takes on many forms. Every gift is valued and participation at any level is deeply appreciated. Sentiment matters more than size and we encourage every family to give at the level that is right for them.
Joining together at MPA may look a little bit different for a little bit longer, but whether we’re together in spirit or in person, we can accomplish so much. You can learn more about the Fall Campaign and what the MPA Fund supports by visiting moundsparkacademy.org/support-mpa.
Connecting With The Parents Association This November
November 4, 2021
Thank You!
The PA extends hearty thanks to Renee Roach and Leslie Todero for organizing a wonderful Lower School Halloween Party! Thanks, also, to all of you who helped Leslie and Renee organize the party and to all the party-day volunteers! So much goes into planning these events, and it is awesome to have such great help. Well done, all!
Spruce Up, This Saturday Afternoon
Help spruce up Mr. Thomsen’s outdoor area. Saturday will involve more tidying up, removing weeds, saplings, and helping to improve the access to MPA’s prairie and pond for students to learn and enjoy. Saturday, November 13, 2-4 PM, meeting near the Upper School entrance. If you have any questions, please email Michelle Mick at michelle_wessely@yahoo.com.
Saturday Morning Parent Meet Up!
Join us Saturday, November 13 from 9:00-10:30 AM at Swede Hollow Cafe, 725 East 7th Street, St Paul, MN. Dropping Upper Schoolers off at debate or sports? Running errands during Saturday activities? Drop in and make some connections with other MPA parents. We will meet outside, weather permitting, or in the upper conference room. Hope to see you there!
Help Create This Year’s Middle School Café
The Parents Association invites you to envision the Middle School Café. This is a remarkable opportunity to help host the event at school, get into the building to catch a glimpse of your kid and meet new parents! The Middle School Café is a program aimed at building community within the Middle School and is anticipated the week of January 24 this coming year.
We’re forming the Middle School Café planning committee now which will brainstorm ways to use the $3,000 budget allocated by the PA Board. The planning committee will meet weekly from November 8-January 14 to brainstorm the Café theme and organize the plan to deliver the Café. During the week of January 17 the committee and volunteers will create the Café. Volunteers will also be asked to host the event and debrief during the week of January 24.
If you’re interested in being on the Middle School Café planning committee please email Christine Larson, PA Middle School Co-Lead at chrisandmatt1289@gmail.com. If you can’t commit to the committee, no worries, there will be advertised opportunities closer to the Café.
PA LS Co-Lead Position Open
The PA Board is looking for an additional member. The Lower School Co-Lead position is currently open. As a Lower School lead, you would be working in tandem with Michelle Mick to create community and connect people throughout MPA. Lower School Leads also attend and vote at monthly board meetings, oversee and support the Lower School PA events, and serve as conduit between families and school administration. Contact Michelle Mick at michelle_wessely@yahoo.com if you are interested.
Microfunding Grants Available
Microfunding provides funds for projects and programs, existing or new. It is open to student organizations, teachers and parent volunteers. Requests must benefit the mission of the MPA PA. Requests that are recurring from year to year are discouraged. This program is supported by the Parents Association dues, which are paid by MPA families. The PA encourages student groups to use these funds. We look forward to supporting MPA student organizations, and classrooms for many years to come. Please fully review the procedure and application forms before submitting. Applications are available here.
Meet Retired Faculty Member Mary Beggin
November 4, 2021
Mary Beggin
Position while at MPA
Teacher of second, third, and fourth grade
How many years did you work at MPA?
20
What do you miss most about MPA?
I miss the children with their laughter, hugs, and their excitement that they showed each day! I also miss my colleagues and our chats each morning.
What have you been up to since leaving MPA?
I love my retirement! I am able to travel to see my children and grandchildren. I am sleeping in, staying up late, reading lots of books and making cards. I am finally able to get back to spending time with my husband and friends and enjoying outings. I am able to walk and exercise each day and feel so relaxed and happy. I also have been able to sub and do what I loved-just teach!
Vaccination Clinic At MPA Monday
November 3, 2021
Given the FDA authorization of COVID-19 vaccinations for children age 5 and older, MPA will be hosting an on-campus vaccination clinic on Monday, November 8 from 4-8 PM.
In addition to welcoming MPA community members, this clinic will be open to anyone and is being offered in partnership with Health Care Strong. Please help us spread the word by sharing this page with your network.
We will be offering Pfizer vaccinations for anyone age five or older (including adults) as well as Pfizer or Moderna booster shots for those who are eligible.
DETAILS FOR ALL
- The vaccination clinic will be led by Health Care Strong, with assistance from members of the MPA community who are medical professionals. All injections will be provided by a highly-trained medical professional and the 15-minute observation period will be staffed by medical professionals as well.
- Please enter at door 2, the Atrium, which is to the left of the flag pole near the south entrance.
- COVID-19 vaccinations are free and do not require insurance.
- Do not attend the clinic if anyone in your household has had COVID-19 within the past 14 days, has any symptoms of COVID-19, or is currently quarantining due to close contact exposure.
DETAILS FOR CHILDREN
- Any student or adult age five (on the day of the clinic) or older may be vaccinated at this event.
- The second dose of this two-dose series will be administered on campus on Monday, November 29, 4-8 PM.
- Students to be vaccinated should wear short-sleeved shirts and be rested. They should have had something to eat prior to arriving.
- Students younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and must present a vaccination consent form (print above and bring or sign at the clinic).
DETAILS FOR ADULTS
- Students 18 or older do not need parental consent to be vaccinated.
- Click here to determine your eligibility for a booster.
We’re grateful to share that 97% of our eligible students are vaccinated and 98% of our faculty and staff. That level of vaccination has contributed to our ability to keep the MPA community healthy, safe, and happy on campus. Just as we have with our families with older children, we strongly urge you to consider vaccinating your younger children at this time.
If you are unable to attend on Monday, please visit mn.gov/vaxforkids to learn more about other options and get information. We hope to offer future opportunities on campus as well.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to covid@moundsparkacademy.org should you have any questions or need any additional information or resources.
October 28, 2021
Don’t Miss This Year’s MPA Fall Campaign Kick-Off
November 5, 2-4 PM under the tent in the West Parking Lot.
The MPA Fall Campaign volunteer committee invites you to attend a family gathering to celebrate MPA and the start of this year’s fundraising drive. Join us before, during and after drop off and bring your students along! We will gather to enjoy popcorn, cider, music, conversation and simply being together as an MPA community.
Learn more about the Fall Campaign and how the community joins together to bridge the gap between the cost of an MPA education and tuition.
Thank you to our volunteer parent committee members: Christine Larson (Chair), Heidi Baldwin, Jenn Gatti, Clarence Knox, Barry Madore, Bridget Mayer, Brett Schreiber, and Eric Whittington.
October 28, 2021
from Natalie Waters Seum, Director of Admission and Communication
Once per month throughout the school year, a member of the Institutional Advancement team will be writing a guest Head’s Message in place of Dr. Bill Hudson’s. We hope these articles provide families with additional perspectives from throughout the MPA administrative team.
If you’ve been through the admission process in recent years, you’ll recognize this question: “What drew you to MPA? What do you want out of a partnership with a school that will help your child grow and learn?” In short, we’re asking families what they are searching for in a new school community.
In my (brief) time in admission, I’ve come to realize there are three relatively simple things that most families seek. They want their child to be:
- known and understood—not just a number;
- loved for who they are—not who others thing they should be; and
- challenged, appropriately—not too much and not too little.
When we searched for a kindergarten for my now-junior, Henry, we were looking for those very same things. My mother-in-law, Robbie Seum, was the Upper School director at the time and it was generally assumed that MPA would be the perfect fit for our family. The sticker shock spurred us to cast a wider net and I brought her with me to every open house in the east metro. Afterward, I wallpapered my dining room walls with Post-it flip charts that detailed the pros and the cons of every school we explored. In the end, it was her wisdom—the wisdom of a trusted friend—that truly helped us make the right decision. As friends, and family in this case, our values were aligned. She knew that we were searching for Henry to be known, understood, loved for who he is, and challenged appropriately and she knew that’s what MPA offered.
Fast forward to this week and I have the privilege of thanking 33 “Robbies” for recommending MPA to a friend, family member, or colleague who completed the application process and perhaps enrolled. Along with the thank you notes are either tuition credits or refunds that range from $125 to $1,000. I’m only able to thank the current families whom we are aware of—there are so many more of you recommending MPA in your networks that we’ll never be able to properly thank, so please consider this a personal note of thanks to you.
Both internal MPA data and external research show the importance and power of these community member referrals. Internally, it continues to be the most important way families come to MPA and the primary indicator that a family will eventually enroll. Why? It is all about aligning values. People in your network have similar values as you—you are searching for similar things—and they trust your recommendation as someone who has found what they are searching for. Nielsen data shows that “92% of respondents trusted referrals from people they knew.” None of this is news to me and it’s likely not news to you either because you very likely came to MPA due to a community member referral, just like we did.
The families of our 138 new students this year are having an incredible experience according to the New Family Survey. On a scale of 1-5, they rate their transition a 4.7 on average. They rate their experience with the admission process a 5.0. On that same survey, they named 40 faculty and staff who have been particularly helpful and 30 students—what an incredibly warm and welcoming community we have!
If you would like to share MPA in your network and perhaps receive a tuition credit next year at this time, please learn how here. Or, simply reach out to me at nwatersseum@moundsparkacademy.org. Sharing your love of MPA with people who are searching is, by nature, a generous act of kindness—you are trying to help the prospective family find a wonderful school community and a second home. And I promise we will take exceptionally good care of them.
October 28, 2021
from Renee Wright, Lower School Director
End of Trimester 1 Report Cards
It is hard to believe that we are approaching the end of Lower School Trimester #1. The first trimester of the school year ends November 12. Teachers have been reflecting on your child’s progress and will begin putting together a written report to summarize that progress based on your child’s individual needs, the goals discussed at the October conferences, and grade level expectations and outcomes. It is important to remember that we don’t expect skill mastery at this point in the school year and believe it is important to acknowledge effort and the progress your child is making academically, socially, and emotionally. These reports will be sent out to parents for review via email on November 22, 2021. Make sure to take time to read the report card to get a good understanding of your child’s progress. Share all or part of the report card with your child in a developmentally appropriate manner. Remember to praise your child for their hard work and accomplishments. Engage your child in a conversation about school and share highlights from each subject area. Let your child know that school is important, and the key things leading to success are putting forth strong effort, persisting through challenges, making responsible choices, and making steady progress.
CHAMP Assembly
Kindergarteners and their teachers will host a virtual CHAMP Assembly on Wednesday, November 10. The focus of the assembly will be on respect and how it relates to accountability. Teaching students to show respect is essential to being a contributing member of our classrooms, school, home, community, and world. Kindergarten students will play an important role in delivering the message about respect at the assembly. Classroom activities and discussions will follow the assembly. The integration of CHAMP into classroom work increases engagement, helps students make connections, and encourages students to apply these skills in the global world.
How can parents teach and reinforce respect at home?
- Have rules in your home about respect.
- Give children a voice in decision making.
- Speak politely to your children.
- Give your children your full attention.
- Discipline your children with respect.
- Teach children manners.
- Try to understand why your child is being disrespectful or behaving in a disrespectful manner.
*See the full article on respect at parents.com.
Halloween In Lower School
Halloween is a magical time in Lower School and promotes imagination, playfulness, and connection. Halloween will be celebrated at MPA on Friday, October 29. Students are encouraged to wear costumes. They must be non-violent, cannot include items that are made in the likeness of weapons, and must be respectful and non-offensive to culture, gender, and stereotypes. The Parent Association will host Halloween parties outdoors (weather permitting) for every Lower School grade level. Volunteer parents will help with the festive parties. Students will enjoy Halloween treats and Halloween games. Later in the day students will parade in costume for their family and friends on the outside sidewalk to spread some Halloween cheer. Family members and friends are welcome to join us for the parade at 2:30 PM that afternoon.
National Lights On Afterschool Event
In connection with the Works Museum our Panther Club staff will host a virtual family engineering night on October 28 at 6:30–7:30 PM. The focus of this event is a Creative Cardboard Challenge in honor of the National Lights on Afterschool initiative. Families can gather creative supplies from their home, use their imagination, and build innovative things out of cardboard. The ZOOM link for the event can be found on the MPA calendar.
Birthdays in Lower School
We continue to celebrate the birthdays of Lower School students. All students are allowed to have a non-uniform day on their birthday or half-birthday as a special privilege and treat. Each student is presented with a special gift from Mrs. Wright for their birthday to make them feel appreciated and special. Our Lower School birthday bulletin board is a way to share with our community the birthdays each month. This board is designed and displayed by our wonderful Lower School parent volunteers each month.
No Classes Monday, November 1
There are NO classes on Monday, November 1 due to a “grading day” for all faculty. PreK Panther and Panther Club will be open that day but note that pre-registration is required. Please contact the Lower School Office or Russ Purdy if you wish to register. Late registration fees may apply.
Dates to Remember
- October 28: Family Engineering Night with the Works Museum at 6:30 – 7:30pm
- October 29: Halloween Festivities and 2:30pm Parade
- November 1: No Classes
- November 24, 25, 26: Thanksgiving Break/NO CLASSES
- November 29 – December 2: SPORTS WEEK in Lower School. (More information to follow)
October 28, 2021
from Dr. Jenn Milam, Middle School Director
Happy Fall, Y’all
I do hope each of you are well and were able to enjoy our extended Fall Break! Returning after some rest and relaxation has helped to bring everyone’s disposition to a place of greater balance and calm.
Our Parent’s Association is thrilled to be hosting some FALL GATHERINGS for families! I hope you’ll take the opportunity to be engaged, meet new people, and begin to build your parent network all while having a little fun!
Class of 2026 – 8th Grade Family Night
Karen Weiss and Sally Doherty are hosting 8th grade families at Little Foot Farm (13575 40th Street South – Afton, MN 55001) on Friday, October 29th from 6-8PM. Join for hot dogs, s’mores and beverages. Dress for the weather and come for some fun! The kindness of your RSVP is requested, and questions can be sent to Christine Larson (chrisandmatt@hotmail.com).
Class of 2028 – 6th Grade Family Night
A “more fun than fright night” is being held on Saturday, October 30th from 3-5PM at Como Regional Park (1340 Como Avenue – St. Paul). Come for yard games and s’mores and dress for the weather! RSVP is gratefully accepted to Christine Larson (chrisandmatt@hotmail.com).
If your class isn’t having a get together yet, don’t fret! Reach out to your grade level representatives and plan something fun!
IMPORTANT: COVID Protocols and Symptom Response
Just a reminder that any/all symptoms through our AUXS app and/or via email to COVID@moundsparkacademy.org.
Please do not email your divisional offices, directors, or teachers of an absence due to symptoms. It is important that all notifications are sent to Jennifer Rogers-Petitt, our COVID Health and Safety lead, so that you can be supported and informed of possible next steps including, but not limited to, the need to remain home, secure a negative test prior to return, and/or quarantine per CDC guidance.
iTERM Registration Starts Now!
Registration forms have been handed out and emailed to parents. Please read it carefully, review the online iTERM brochure, and return the form with your student’s three top choices to the Middle School office no later than Friday, November 5. Students who do not return the form will be placed into an iTERM course based on space availability at my discretion.
If you have already signed up for the trip to Puerto Rico or Quebec, you do not need to return an iTERM course form.
Halloween at MPA
As we look forward to celebrating Halloween at MPA together, it is important that we adhere to our MPA community expectations and guidelines regarding costumes, discourse, and representation. Halloween can be a magical time for imagination, playfulness, and connection. Middle School students are invited to wear their Halloween costumes to school on Friday, October 29.
The following are guidelines for Halloween costumes at MPA:
- Weapons or items that are made in the likeness to represent weapons, are not allowed. These can include, but are not limited to, guns, swords, pitchforks, knives, pocketknives, and/or spears.
- Masks that completely cover a student’s face and head are not allowed. A student needs to be able to be recognized at school, participate in classes throughout the day, and not have their identity obscured by their costume.
- Symbols, words, or other representations that are currently, or have been historically used to trigger and/or discount others’ identities are not allowed. These can include, but are not limited to symbols of white supremacy, gang affiliation, racial or ethnic tokenism, homophobia or transphobia, and ableism.
- Middle School costumes must also adhere to the dress code expectations that all “personal body parts” are covered, regardless of a student’s gender identify or gender presentation.
#IAmNotACostume: A Note about Cultural Appropriation
As our young people begin selecting costumes, it is important that we are sensitive to issues of cultural appropriation. “Cultural Appropriation is the act of taking significant elements (symbols, dress, words, practices, etc.) from a culture that is not your own and removing all original context or meaning, usually with the goal of using these elements for entertainment, marketing, or exploitation.” (https://www.lspirg.org/costumes) When selecting a costume for Halloween, I would ask that you engage your student in a conversation about the purpose of their costume (Is it just for fun? Or is there an underlying message behind it?), ask them to consider if anyone may take offense to their costume and the representation it suggests (Is it possible that others may view the costume as a mockery of a particular culture? Does the costume seek to make a token of traditional cultural symbols not held by your family culture?) and encourage them to reflect upon the way that their costume may be experienced by those around them, thus seeking to build empathy and critical thinking – two values we hold dear here at MPA.
We want Halloween to be a fun, imaginative, and magical celebration of the fall season in a way that not only values the childhood experience but, so too, those cultures, (re)presentations, symbols, and traditions deeply held and honored by each of us in our unique lived experiences.
For more information on cultural appropriate and Halloween costumes, you might find some of these links helpful:
• Laurier Students’ Public Interest Research Group
NOTE: MPA faculty, staff, and administration reserve the right to ask a student to remove items/costumes if they are deemed inappropriate, offensive, or otherwise not in line with the spirit of fun and celebration.
Halloween Carnival—GRADES 5 + 6
The 5/6 grade Student Council has been busy planning for the annual Halloween Carnival. The carnival is for 5th and 6th grade students and is held immediately after school on Friday, October 29, from 3-4:30 PM. Cost to attend the event is $10 and is required the day of the event – please . The fee covers pizza, snacks, drinks, and goodie bags for attendees.
If you would like to donate items, snacks, or perhaps volunteer (limited volunteers are invited), please email Jess Powell, Student Council faculty advisor, at jpowell@moundsparkacademy.org.
NOTE: The 7/8 Dance is not being held on Friday, October 29. We are hoping to hold our winter dance in December and continue to watch COVID case numbers and work toward ensuring that we can hold a dance safely together. Stay tuned!
End of Quarter 1–Friday, October 29
Friday is the end of first quarter. Your student’s advisor will be working with them to ensure that all assignments are submitted, and they finish strong. Please take a moment in the coming week to check-in with your student to ensure they are following up, asking for clarification, and seeking support where needed. Any assignments not submitted by Friday, will not be accepted.
No Classes Monday, November 1–Grading Day
At the end of each quarter, you’ll notice on the calendar there is a GRADING DAY—this allows teachers to finalize grades and prepare for the next quarter. Please make note on your calendars that there are no classes on Monday, November 1. We will warmly welcome students after the long weekend on Tuesday, November 2 for the start of Quarter 2.
Colder Weather is Upon Us!
A hallmark of the MPA experience is that we go outside to recess every day that the weather is above -15 degrees. We are also fortunate enough to have an amazing sledding hill once the snow falls. Please begin encouraging your Middle Schooler to dress appropriately for the weather, wear a coat, bring mittens/gloves/hat, and if they’d like, bring snow boots and snow pants when the time comes.
Recess is an important part of our day – it’s good for the brain, body, and soul! Students are not allowed to stay indoors for recess – so having cold weather gear is important and makes for happier kiddos!
Planners! Use Them, Check Them, Be Accountable
Student planners were distributed last week, and we have been working diligently on learning to use them consistently, productively, and in a way that supports self-regulation and success. Please ask your student about their planner, ask them to show you their progress, and remember that their planner is their first line of organizational super-power!
If your student continuously shares that their planner is “missing”, we need to know that as it is an essential part of our teaching effective executive function and self-management strategies – we will happily provide them another planner!
Water Bottles—A Necessity!
A full day of learning is a full day that requires water – PE, academic classes, arts classes, lots of movement and activity! Students need water bottles, and they need to drink water consistently. Please send a water bottle, that can be kept at school, labeled with your student’s name, with them each day. We do not have cups, disposable water bottles, or any other way for student to remain hydrated!
More Middle School Parent Chats
We had so much fun at the last two and enjoyed the time to be together, let’s do some more!
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- Wednesday, November 10, 8:15-9:30AM
- On campus at MPA! Bring your coffee/tea and your wonderings! We can even take a spin through the building and peek in our kids!
- Thursday, November 11, 5:30-7PM
- Off-Campus Social! Place to be determined – hoping to catch those who can’t sneak away during the day!
- Friday, November 19, 11:30-1PM
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- Let’s meet for lunch at Panera Bread in Maplewood!
It’s always fun to get together and chat with some awesome MPA Parents! Hope to see you there!
Important Dates
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- Oct 29: End of Quarter 1—All Assignments and Assessments Due
- HALLOWEEN @ MPA, Students are invited to wear costumes to school!
- 5-6 HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL, 3-4:30 PM, Cost is $10!
- Nov 1 GRADING DAY – NO CLASSES
- Nov 2 Quarter 2 Begins
- Nov 19-21 Middle School Show
- Oct 29: End of Quarter 1—All Assignments and Assessments Due
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- Wednesday, November 10, 8:15-9:30AM