April 22, 2019
Upper School science teacher, parent of an alumna
What do you love about MPA?
I love that it offers a liberal arts, whole child experience. Students spend each day doing a variety of things as they learn about themselves and the world.
How many years have you been at MPA?
I’ve been here for 27 years—since 1991!
How does MPA nurture students who forever dream big and do right?
MPA takes the time to nurture students’ interests and gives them a multitude of experiences to help them see the wide range of things those interests relate to.
If you have worked at another school, how has your experience at MPA been different?
The small size makes it easier to communicate with colleagues and to help ensure that no student gets “lost in the shuffle.” I like that I am in charge of my budget and the chance to obtain materials, in the right amounts, to maximize the learning from each lab.
What would you tell a parent considering MPA?
Consider how MPA offers a wide range of offerings, the small class sizes, teachers who are interested in and get to know all of their students. Teachers and administrators are accessible to their students. Each student can be in a multitude of extra curricular activities without a lot of prior experience.
In what ways are you preparing students for life in the 21st century?
By helping them see that they can handle difficult and rigorous material. By engaging them in subject material and how that material intersects with society at large. By nurturing teamwork, curiosity, and imagination.
What do you hope for MPA students in 20 years?
I hope that the students who graduate from MPA are filled with excitement and optimism for their future.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your MPA experience?
My daughter graduated from MPA in 2013. She had the chance to play on three varsity sports and take a wide range of classes. This was instrumental in her successful tenure at St. Olaf where she graduated in 2017 with majors in psychology and English.
Mounds Park Academy, a PreK-12 private school in Saint Paul, is currently accepting applications for the 2019-20 school year. For more information about admission and to schedule your tour, visit moundsparkacademy.org/admission. We look forward to getting to know your family!
