Upper School Archives

Five Things To Know About MPA From Sean Barker

March 9, 2026

From fine arts to an opportunity for creative outlets, Mounds Park Academy pushes Sean Barker while allowing him space and individualized attention to grow. Read on for Sean’s top-five things to know at MPA!

1. MPA has an excellent fine arts program.

I have done choir at MPA for four years and orchestra for six. The fine arts program gives all students the resources and the chance to unlock and enhance their musical capabilities.

2. The small student-to-teacher ratio allows for more individualized learning.

Everybody learns in different ways, and having fewer students at MPA compared to teachers allows for a more individualized learning environment.

3. The Makerspace class gives students an opportunity to use their creativity.

I took the Makerspace class this year and had a very enjoyable time. It gives you the tools and the skills to learn or enhance craftsmanship. Also, all projects in the class give the opportunity to add a creative touch and make it your own.
Read More

Stronger Each Time We Rise

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

Upper School Division News February 26, 2026

February 26, 2026

from Mark Segal, Upper School director

As we move into the final stretch before spring break, I want to thank our students, families, and faculty for the focus, care, and commitment that define our Upper School community. With just over a week (187 hours to be exact) remaining until break, there is still meaningful academic work underway. There are projects to complete, assessments to prepare for, and responsibilities that require students to remain fully engaged. This time of year can feel demanding as our workload continues to feel as though there is no end to it, but it is also an opportunity to reinforce the habits of perseverance and organization that will serve our MPA Upper School students well beyond the classroom.

Maintaining strong routines and high standards right up to the start of spring break matters. The learning that happens in these final days before a pause is not superfluous—it is an essential part of our curriculum and our shared commitment to excellence. We ask students to continue arriving at school prepared, managing their deadlines and assignments thoughtfully, and supporting one another as classmates, peers, and friends. Doing our best work, even with a two-week break just days away, is a skill that translates directly to college, careers, and adulthood. The American Psychological Association shares, “educational research shows that students who sustain their engagement through the end of a term perform better on cumulative assessments, and maintaining this academic momentum into spring break improves motivation when we return. At the same time, cognitive science tells us that planned breaks enhance memory consolidation and reduce mental fatigue. Rest, especially sleep and time away from screens, is linked to lower stress and stronger emotional resilience in adolescents.”

At the same time, spring break offers an important and well-earned opportunity for rest. We encourage students to use this time intentionally to recharge both physically and mentally. Whether that means spending time outdoors, reconnecting with family and friends, or simply slowing down and stepping away from our technological devices and the daily academic demands, allows students to return to school on March 23 refreshed and better prepared for the “push” to the end of the school year. 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

MPA Speech Success At Harvard!

February 19, 2026

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:

Sidd Sastry: Octafinals in Impromptu
Kelvyn Boddipalli: Quarterfinals in Humor
Lucy Mayer: Quarterfinals in Oratory
Ash Klann: Quarterfinals in Oratory
Guy Schwieger/Nico Bergh: Quarterfinals in Duo
Kelvyn Boddipalli/Oslo Norcross: Semifinals in Duo
Oslo Norcross: Fifth place in Informative
Ash Klann: Champion in Impromptu

The results represent the highest number of placements Mounds Park Academy has ever achieved at the tournament and continue the program’s strong national momentum. Over the past year, the speech team has earned four National Circuit victories, underscoring its growing presence on the national stage.

MPA Skiers Shine At State Meets

February 19, 2026

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!

During the MSHSL Nordic ski state meet, the boys Nordic team posted its fifth-place finish, led by Soren Winikoff’s third-place showing. Eli Andre added a seventh-place finish, while Ansel Streier (70th), Zane Peterson (81st), and Torsten Lindenfelser (94th) rounded out the rest of the results in pursuit. Carter Short and Max Francois earned 16th in the team sprint to wrap up the team effort at the state meet. Soren and Eli’s placements also secured spots on the podium for the pair.

On the girls Nordic side, Megan Snider starred for the Panthers, placing 23rd individually. Soren, Eli, and Megan’s individual performances earned the trio all-state honors. 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