February 13, 2025
from Paul Errickson, Middle School director
Mark Your Calendars
- Friday, February 14: No Classes, Professional Development
- Saturday, February 15: Returning Family Re-Enrollment Deadline
- Monday, February 17: No Classes, President’s Day
- Wednesday, February 19: MS G7/8 Affinity Group Meeting, 2:30-3 PM, Panther Center
- Monday, February 24-Friday, February 28: SnoDaze Week
- Thursday, February 27: Remember the Time: A Black History Month Showcase, 4:30-6:30 PM, Family Commons
- March 3-March 7: MS i-Term
On Monday, we hosted our third edition of the Students and Screens program with a discussion centered on how to keep our children safe online by gaining an understanding of some of the controls available and the different ways that students can access different sites, social media, and discussion groups online. MPA parent Corey Ganser led our group in a discussion about the different ways that parents can work alongside their children through conversations and providing some guardrails so our children are safe and exposed to different parts of the internet and social media at developmentally appropriate times.
Our lively discussion included some questions about the appropriate time and ways to progress a child’s use of technology, with some parents sharing stories and anecdotes of how their child may have found themselves on programs or in chats that they probably should not have been a part of. As I shared with the group, “I have yet to meet a parent who said, ‘I wish I gave my student a phone or access to social media sooner than I did.’”
My top three takeaways:
- There’s no one right way to do all of this with your kids; just look to avoid the obvious wrong ways of doing it.
- The more you talk with your kids about technology (or, as Corey shared, play the games with them!), the more you are able to help them navigate these uncharted waters.
- It’s okay to say “no” or “not right now.” Corey shared with us (feel free to write to me for his information) many different ways that parents can use parental controls and network settings to ensure that their kids are not going too far with their technology use.
Around the Middle School this week, we have been sharing your insights and information gained in our family conversations last week, enjoying the book festival, and putting some of our final plans in place for i-Term (coming up in just a couple of weeks!) I hope you all enjoy the long weekend, with Friday and Monday off, and that we return to some warmer days with outdoor recess next week!
Don’t Miss the Event of the Year: The Gala of Gratitude!
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the 2025 MPA Spring Auction: Gala of Gratitude! Join us as we honor Dr. Hudson and celebrate his incredible legacy while raising critical support for our students, teachers, and community. Sponsorships are available now! Secure yours today to be featured on the community invitation and enjoy exclusive perks like early access to auction bidding and the return of the beloved Sponsorship Pre-Party.
Make this event unforgettable! We’re seeking exciting contributions to:
- Gifts of Gratitude (Previously known as “Mystery Boxes”)
- MPA Exclusive Silent Auction
- Wine Toss
- Live Auction
Your support ensures this night will be one to remember while making a lasting impact on MPA!
This can’t-miss event will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel. Check out the website to get an exclusive deal on a hotel for the evening.
Together, let’s make this a celebration of gratitude, community, and support like no other. Visit the event website or contact Ashley Goetzke, director of development and community engagement, at agoetzke@moundsparkacademy.org for details and to get involved. Let’s make this a night to remember!
