October 2, 2019
What do you love about MPA?
Almost everything! MPA has an emphasis on inclusion and kindness which defines the community overall. Within that circle, there is a freedom for individuals to explore what drives and inspires them and to develop their own identities and passions. Kids are free to try to do it “all” with a broad sampling of high-quality experiences in arts, academics, and athletics, and/or to delve deeply into a particular interest. I’m amazed by my children’s aspirations and achievements to date at MPA. I’m even more impressed by the confidence they have gained from engaging deeply with material in their academic courses at MPA, and in the organizational, public speaking, empathy, leadership, and teamwork skills they are honing. I am certain they will make a meaningful contribution in whatever area they choose to direct their energy.
How is your child encouraged to dream big and do right at MPA?
When weighing the financial and personal commitment to enrolling at an independent school like MPA, we worried about our girls being insulated in a school with less socioeconomic diversity than other educational options. And although we continue to be attentive to the impact this reality might have on our girls’ development, we have been astounded by the spontaneous commitment to altruism and advocacy our kids have made at MPA. They are more excited to talk about what’s new in the student-run Social Change Club than in almost any other activity they participate in. We couldn’t have asked for a bigger “win” in this area, which is even more wonderful because this was something we worried about before our kids started at MPA.
How has your experience at MPA been different from other schools your child has attended?
The dedication of teachers and administrators at MPA is truly outstanding. Once you’ve experienced that level of responsiveness and commitment as a parent, it’s hard to accept anything less. Thank you for spoiling us!
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your MPA experience?
My kids thrive on challenges. MPA provides those challenges in an age-appropriate manner which respects them as humans, and as individuals with special strengths and challenges. I am so appreciative of the creative ways that MPA has allowed them to pursue individualized curricula. As an alumnus of the school, I am proud that the features I valued most in my own education are still alive and well MPA, and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to share them with my kids.
What would you tell another family considering MPA?
Come!
Mounds Park Academy, a PreK-12 private school in Saint Paul, is currently accepting inquiries for the 2020-21 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!
