November 5, 2020
by Dr. Bill Hudson, Head of School
Life these days seems a little like standing in a dinghy in rough seas, not knowing when the storm will be over. It has been difficult for many of us to get our sea legs, to find our balance. Over the last eight months, I have often felt tossed about in my own little boat, alone and at the mercy of factors outside of my control. The responsibility of reimagining and reopening school safely in the midst of a pandemic at times seemed crushing. Finding balance felt illusive.
And yet each day I spend in the midst of this amazing community is pure joy and offers a renewed sense of purpose. Yesterday was a perfect example. Lower School students gathered virtually for the second time this year to further explore their CHAMP (Character Happens At Mounds Park) character trait for the year, “perseverance”. The theme was brought to life through the delightful new book, “I Promise”, written by LeBron James, and was read to students by the book’s illustrator. The assembly ended with a special chant led by Lower School music teacher Mari Espeland, followed by students making an “I Promise” pledge to persevere through adversity. I was inspired by the students and a specific line from the book, “Get right back up and let my magic shine.”
In just a few days, we will launch our annual fall campaign, “You Give.” You give joy, belonging, purpose, and so much more to benefit the MPA Fund. As is common in independent schools and colleges, tuition alone does not fully cover the costs associated with providing an exceptional education and we rely upon the generosity of our community to help bridge the gap. Through the MPA Fund, we are able to provide the necessary resources to make critical investments in our curriculum, facilities, health and safety measures, and in our faculty who love and inspire our students every day.
You are invited to a fun, virtual kick-off event on Monday, November 9 from 7-7:30 PM. The entire family is invited to join me for this special event that includes a brief state of the school update, great student speakers, and a community sing of our school song. To make it even more fun, a special challenge donation from a generous donor will be made if 50% of our community joins the call!
The spirit of philanthropy and joyful giving at Mounds Park Academy is vibrant. I humbly ask you to join me in meeting our goal of $350,000 by November 20. Please know that every gift is valued and participation at any level is appreciated. You may also be interested in knowing that 100% of faculty and staff gave to the MPA Fund last year together with 100% of the Board of Trustees, and I expect it will be the same again this year.
It is important to remember, and I remind myself often, that there is strength in community. Even in the midst of a terrible storm, we find stability when we lash our boats together and persevere. MPA has been fortunate throughout its history to meet every challenge, opportunity, and obstacle because of our can-do spirit and with the help of our generous community. Together, let us create joy, discover purpose, and celebrate the MPA community.
