January 30, 2025
from Mark Segal, Upper School director
Mark Your Calendars
- Friday, January 31: Returning Family Re-Enrollment Agreements Sent
- Friday, January 31: US Senior Performances, 8-9:15 AM, Recital Hall
- Friday, January 31: US Winter Show “Sherlock Holmes: The Hound of Baskerville,” 7-9 PM, Black Box, tickets >
- Saturday, February 1: US Winter Show “Sherlock Holmes: The Hound of Baskerville,” 7-9 PM, Black Box, tickets >
- Tuesday, February 4: Speech Tournament, 3-10 PM, MPA Campus
- Wednesday, February 5: US G10 Retreat, Deep Portage Retreat Center
- Thursday, February 6: US G10 Retreat, Deep Portage Retreat Center
- Friday, February 7: US Classes Meet
- Friday, February 7: US G10 Retreat, Deep Portage Retreat Center
- Monday, February 10: MS/US Students & Screens Community Discussion, 1:45-3 PM, Recital Hall
- Wednesday, February 12: All School Pairing Assembly
- Thursday, February 13: US Senior Performances, 8-9:15 AM, Recital Hall
- Friday, February 14: No Classes, Professional Development
- Saturday, February 15: Returning Family Re-Enrollment Deadline
- Monday, February 17: No Classes, Presidents’ 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
In today’s rapidly evolving world, young adults who identify as members of Generation Z (Gen Z), those 13-28 years old, stand at a unique crossroads of societal change. Recent research from the Pew Research Center indicates that Gen Z students face challenges and opportunities in their educational journey. As digital natives, those who have grown up in a “connected” world (technologically speaking) bring distinctive perspectives and needs to school communities. Even though they are frequently found using their technological devices (computers, tablets, cell phones, video games, etc.), they crave authentic interpersonal connections and seek why they need to learn what is being taught.
According to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Higher Education, Gen Z students demonstrate stronger engagement when they understand the practical applications of their coursework. This aligns with this generation’s logical approach to education. They want to know why some concepts “matter” and how they connect with the real world. The Harvard Educational Review says that this “purpose-driven learning approach” leads to stronger retention and application of knowledge. Gen Z learners value information taught to them and seek genuine and authentic ways in which that information applies to them in their pursuit of finding the right “fit” for college and a future profession. The International Journal of Educational Research states, “when educators share relevant personal information and create opportunities for meaningful dialogue in class, student engagement increases by up to 40 percent.” Building relationships and connections between students, teachers, and the taught curriculum leads to genuine interactions and honest discussions.
These connections don’t only exist at MPA; they are what sets our community apart from our peers. We thoughtfully and intentionally provide opportunities for our students to fulfill their desire to receive a meaningful education while strengthening interpersonal and long-lasting relationships with their teachers and peers. Feedback from our students and alumni validates our approach and explains why we do what we do.
See you on campus soon!
Important Information
- The Winter Show class has already successfully performed three showings of “Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery” and has two more fabulous performances this weekend. The Baskerville family curse haunts the moors of England in the classic murder mystery. Sherlock Holmes and his assistant, Dr. Watson, unravel a treacherous plot involving the untimely death of Sir Charles Baskerville. This action-packed and comedic murder mystery is appropriate for all ages. The final two shows will be held in the Black Box Theatre on Friday, January 31, at 7 PM and Saturday, February 1, at 7 PM. Tickets can be purchased here.
- 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.
- Students & Screens Community Discussion: Security, Safety, and Technology Controls, Monday, February 10
During the October and December Students & Screens events, parents shared curiosity about online safety, security, and technology controls and a longing for some practical tools. In February, we will focus on these areas of interest and provide opportunities for parents to engage with each other and with our facilitators as we work together to strengthen our roles as adults in support of our students.Parents, please join us on Monday, February 10, from 1:45-3 PM in the Recital Hall to engage in discussion on these topics. The discussion will be led by MPA parent Corey Ganser and supported by Jay Dean, Upper School assistant director; Paul Errickson, Middle School director; and Michael Moran, director of academic technology. If you are interested in joining this community discussion, please RSVP using this form. - 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!
