April 10, 2025
from Dr. Bill Hudson, head of school
As we step into the vibrant season of spring, I find myself drawn to the quiet beauty and symbolism this time of year brings. The longer days, the budding trees, the chirping of birds, the honking of geese, and the first signs of green pushing through the soil remind us of the steady, hopeful rhythm of renewal. For those of us in education—and perhaps especially in the Upper Midwest where winter holds on tightly—spring is more than just a season. It is a metaphor for the growth, energy, and transformation that we see unfolding daily within our school community.
At MPA, spring invites us to pause, reflect, and celebrate how far we’ve come this year. We see this in the confidence of a kindergartner who now walks into school independently, in the curiosity of a fourth grader asking big questions, and in the thoughtful determination of a senior finalizing their post-secondary decision. These moments—large and small—mark the progress of a school year that, like spring itself, began in stillness and has blossomed into joyful, dynamic growth.
Spring also gives us the gift of perspective. Just as trees begin to leaf out again after a long winter, our students begin to show us the fruits of their learning. They take risks, solve problems, express ideas, and test out who they are becoming. These moments of discovery and stretch are not always linear—they often arrive with a mix of messiness and magic—but they are the very heart of a transformational education. And they mirror what we as adults know to be true: real growth takes time, intention, and courage.
For our faculty and staff, this season offers a chance to reflect on their own growth as educators and caregivers. One of the many things I admire about our team is their continual pursuit of excellence—not perfection, but a thoughtful commitment to reflection, collaboration, and learning. Whether it’s through engaging in professional development, sharing best practices across divisions, or simply taking a moment to recalibrate before the final weeks of school, our faculty embraces renewal in ways both personal and professional. They know that modeling lifelong learning is one of the most powerful lessons they can offer our students.
As we approach the final stretch of the school year, I want to acknowledge the role each of you plays in this cycle of growth and renewal. Your partnership, encouragement, and belief in MPA’s mission are deeply felt. I am especially grateful for the ways you show up for your children and for our school community—with your presence at events, your thoughtful questions, and your willingness to grow alongside us. In particular, I am humbled by the incredible generosity of this community to the Hudson Fund for Resilient Students.
In the coming weeks, we will celebrate milestones, such as Graduation, the Senior Walk, Moving Up Ceremony, Kindergarten Graduation, prepare for transitions—a new Lower School director and a new head of school, and make space for reflection. We will also keep our eyes on what’s ahead, with joyful anticipation for summer adventures and the promise of a new school year. But for now, I hope we can all pause to notice the beauty of this season—and the beauty in each other’s growth.
Thank you for your continued trust, for walking alongside us, and for sharing your children with us. They are blooming in ways both seen and unseen, and we are honored to be part of their journey.
