February 13, 2025
from Mark Segal, Upper 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
- Tuesday, February 18: US Nordic Ski Banquet, 4:30-6:30 PM, Family Commons
- Wednesday, February 19: US Band & Orchestra Concert, 7:30-9 PM, Nicholson Center
- Monday, February 24-Friday, February 28: SnoDaze Week
- Wednesday, February 26: US Vocal Concert, 7:30-9 PM, Nicholson Center
- Thursday, February 27: Remember the Time: A Black History Month Showcase, 4:30-6:30 PM, Family Commons
- Friday, February 28: US SnoDaze Student Body Event, 3:15-5 PM, MPA Pond/Lansing Sports Center
Like an anxious parent, I felt myself getting more excited for the sound and sight of the coach bus pulling onto campus. It had only been 55 hours since the students and their four chaperones had departed, but there was a noticeable feeling of something missing, knowing that the Class of 2027 was in Hackensack, Minnesota, enjoying their time at the annual Deep Portage field trip.
Field trips have long been recognized as valuable educational tools that extend learning beyond the classroom walls. The Journal of Research in Science Teaching recently published findings from a study that shares, “Students who participate in field trips demonstrate increased engagement, deeper understanding of concepts, and improved retention of learned material.” MPA Upper School students have visited the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) to examine centuries-old ceramic pieces, researched for the History Day Project at the University of Minnesota library, and performed holiday musical pieces for community members at a local hospital and care facility. This is just a sampling of the off-campus experiences students have had this year, with many more planned for the upcoming months.
Academic and social development through off-campus field trips plays a crucial role in student growth. The American Educational Research Association shares that “Off-campus experiences facilitate the development of essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and adaptability.” These experiences and interactions provide students with “real world” opportunities to practice using these skills preparing them for future academic and professional environments.
I was sitting at my desk as I heard the hum of the bus as it pulled up to the North entrance. Seeing the students exit the bus talking about their experience in the Northwoods (snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, sleeping outside under the stars in below-zero temperatures, etc.) put a smile on my face. Their stories and positive reactions confirmed the reason our students step away from their “traditional learning,” and we are committed to providing field trip experiences.
See you on campus soon!
Important Information
- If your student will be absent, late, or needs to be excused early from school, please contact the Upper School administrative assistant, Chanda Williams, at cwilliams@moundsparkacademy.org.
- We are entering the Winter Concert season. Please help your student plan for the Upper School Band and Orchestra concert on Wednesday, February 19, and the Upper School Choral concert on Wednesday, February 26. If you have not yet seen the tremendous musical talent of our students, please join us at one or both of these upcoming concerts. You won’t regret it!
- 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:
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- 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!
