May 16, 2024
from Dr. Bill Hudson, head of school
In 2017, when Edutopia, a well-respected educational foundation, asked its readers to describe the traits of a life-changing teacher, very few of the responses were about test scores or academics. People overwhelmingly said that great teachers make their students feel safe and loved, believe in their students, model patience, and help their students reach their full potential—all qualities that remain largely unmeasured. I can’t think of a better way to describe the impact of fourth-grade teacher Scott Wilson and library assistant Kristy Petrich, who are retiring from MPA this year.
Many people will be surprised to learn that teaching is Scott’s second career. From 1987-1998, Scott owned and operated a successful restaurant in Winter Park, Colorado. He went back to school and earned a master’s degree in elementary education at the University of St. Thomas. Scott began substitute teaching at MPA in 1999 before becoming a permanent teacher in the 2000-01 school year. Since then, Scott has taught kindergarten, first, second, and fourth grades at MPA.
Colleagues and students describe Scott as kind, gentle, patient, and wise. Scott has always been flexible and supportive of his colleagues. “I once heard someone refer to him as the ‘Lower School Handyman’ because if there’s a flat tire, someone stuck in a ditch, or in need of a help hanging lights or fixing a faucet, he is there,” shared fellow fourth-grade teacher DeeDee Stacy.
Scott is a science wizard and champion of the Makerspace. “Scott is exceptional at giving the children opportunities to use their own minds and creativity when doing science experiments,” said kindergarten teacher Kristine Petersen. For instance, Ms. Petersen was fortunate to work with Scott when he taught kindergarten and was responsible for teaching science for both classes. Ms. Petersen recalls the day he had the kindergarten students make slime. After spending time learning with Mr. Wilson, “my class was sent back to me with smiles bigger than the sun! They had slime in their hair and slime on their clothing. They entered my room with joyful giggles and excitement to share their time with Mr. Science. I heard them exclaim, ‘Best Day Ever!’ Science is supposed to be messy and full of discovery, and he is a master science teacher!”
Kristy Petrich began her service at MPA in 2014 as a library assistant. Like Scott, Kristy came to education later in her career. Before coming to MPA, Kristy worked in customer service at a veterinarian clinic, in the photography business, and in project management for a construction business.
Kristy is a warm and welcoming presence for all who visit the library; she is helpful, energetic and dedicated to fostering a love of learning among MPA students,” said librarian Stephanie Kollm. “She’s also a great resource to faculty and staff for finding their next great read and has established herself as a trusted colleague when anyone needs an ear or a sounding board. I rely on her immensely, and her absence will be deeply missed next year.”
Kristy is funny and easy-going, and she has built a high level of trust with the students. They respect her and value her caring, thoughtful demeanor. “Kristy is perpetually willing to lend a hand, help solve a problem, or showcase a smile and share a laugh,” shared first-grade teacher Shelley Steingraeber. “I have enjoyed talking about great books with her that we’ve read and what book I should read next.”
You are invited to make a gift in honor of Scott and Kristy to the Luminare Fund. Created in 2017, the Luminare Fund honors the legacy of MPA retirees by fueling the interests and passions of their colleagues. It funds programs, opportunities, events, and services that directly benefit our exceptional faculty and staff and demonstrate the high regard and deep appreciation the MPA community has for them. You are also welcome to share a note with the retirees to express your grattitude.
All teachers aspire to have a positive impact on our students. Of course, teachers strive to be their best, to employ the very best pedagogy, techniques and strategies, and excel in their respective academic area. However, and more importantly, at MPA teachers strive to touch the hearts of their students. Teaching as a career is much more than a job or a transaction between employer and employee. It is transformational. I can safely say that our retirees this year have been transformational in the lives of their students and in the history of the school.
Please join me in the Martin Lenz Harrison Library on Thursday, May 30 to honor Scott and Kristy. The celebration will be from 4-6 PM, with a brief program at 4:30 PM. I hope to see you there!
