All School

Cultures Come Together, Celebrate

April 10, 2025

Lower School students dancing at Cultural Celebration Day. On Wednesday, April 9, the Parents Association hosted Cultural Celebration Day, an evening celebrating the diversity of backgrounds at MPA with food, music, dance, and community.

Some of the highlights of the event were beautiful dance performances by MPA parents and students, colorfully decorated tables set up by the hosts sharing their cultures and cuisines, the ever-popular henna artist, Bilkis, Boba by Treats, and a West African drum workshop. It was wonderful to experience the energy and engagement of community members. We hope to see you all next year!

A big thank you to the Cultural Celebration Day Planning Committee, cultural booth hosts, MPA staff, MPA student hosts, and event volunteers, who all helped make this event successful.

Upper School Division News April 10, 2025

April 10, 2025

Upper School student man a booth at Cultural Celebration Dayfrom Mark Segal, Upper School director 

Mark Your Calendars

  • Friday, April 11: New Student Enrollment Deadline
  • Monday, April 14: No Classes, Professional Development
  • Monday, April 14: US G11 SAT, 8 AM-1 PM, Room 150-151
  • Wednesday, April 16: US G10 College Counseling Parent Night, 6:30-7:30 PM, Recital Hall
  • Friday, April 18: US Senior Performances, 8-9:15 AM, Nicholson Center
  • Thursday, April 24: Spring Musical: “The Wizard of Oz,” 7-9 PM, Nicholson Center, Tickets >
  • Friday, April 25: MS/US Robotics Team Banquet, 5-8 PM, Family Commons
  • Saturday, April 26: Spring Musical: “The Wizard of Oz,” 7-9 PM, Nicholson Center, Tickets >
  • Sunday, April 27: Spring Musical: “The Wizard of Oz,” 2-4 PM, Nicholson Center, Tickets >

As the school year enters its home stretch, maintaining student motivation and engagement is increasingly important for academic success. Research from the American Psychological Association finds that student performance often declines during the fourth quarter, confirming that “spring fever” is a true and real educational phenomenon. The Association’s findings share that “while not a legitimate medical condition, ‘spring fever’ refers to the common feeling of restlessness, decreased motivation, and a desire for outdoor activities that can affect students as the weather warms and the school year nears its end.”

I would imagine this is especially true in communities like the Twin Cities, where our temperatures have been cold, and the students and educators arrived and went home from school in the dark. With proper support, open lines of communication, and strong, trusting relationships, students can maintain their momentum and finish the school year strongly. Read More

Middle School Division News April 10, 2025

April 10, 2025

A Middle School student dances at Cultural Celebration Day.from Paul Errickson, Middle School director

Mark Your Calendars 

  • Friday, April 11: New Student Enrollment Deadline
  • Monday, April 14: No Classes, Professional Development
  • Wednesday, April 16: MS G7/8 Affinity Group Meeting, 2:30-3 PM, Panther Center
  • Tuesday, April 22: MS Quarterly Coffee, 8-9:30 AM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library
  • Tuesday, April 22: LS/MS G4 Lunch-Up, 11:35 AM-12:30 PM
  • Wednesday, April 23: MS Author Visit, 8-9:30 AM, Recital Hall
  • Thursday, April 24: Spring Musical: “The Wizard of Oz,” 7-9 PM, Nicholson Center, Tickets >
  • Friday, April 25: MS/US Robotics Team Banquet, 5-8 PM, Family Commons
  • Saturday, April 26: Spring Musical: “The Wizard of Oz,” 7-9 PM, Nicholson Center, Tickets >
  • Sunday, April 27: Spring Musical: “The Wizard of Oz,” 2-4 PM, Nicholson Center, Tickets >
  • Wednesday, April 30: MS G7/8 Affinity Group Meeting, 2:30-3 PM, Panther Center
  • Thursday, May 1: MS/US G5/8 Parent Meeting, 6-6:45 PM, To Be Announced and Recital Hall
  • Thursday, May 1: MS Vocal Concert, 7-8:30 PM, Nicholson Center

As we head into our fourth quarter of the year, my question for our Middle Schoolers is, “How can you make this last quarter your BEST quarter?” Challenging them to reflect on all that they’ve learned so far this year and to finish off the year, over our final eight weeks of school, as strong as possible can be both challenging and rewarding. With so many different opportunities for our students to showcase their learning, from concerts and the musical to their final assessments, papers, projects, and presentations, we will work hard to keep them (and you) well-organized, prepared, and balanced for the work ahead.

Read More

Lower School Division News April 10, 2025

April 10, 2025

Lower School students examine a booth at Cultural Celebration Day.from Jennifer Le Varge, Lower School director 

Mark Your Calendars

  • Friday, April 11: New Student Enrollment Deadline
  • Monday, April 14: No Classes, Professional Development
  • Wednesday, April 16: LS CHAMP Assembly, 8:15-8:45 AM, Family Commons
  • Wednesday, April 16: LS Duty-Free Lunch with Parent Volunteers, 11:40 AM-12:40 PM, Playground and Family Commons
  • Thursday, April 17: Coffee with the Candidate for Lower School Parents, 8-9 AM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library
  • Tuesday, April 22: LS/MS G4 Lunch-Up, 11:35 AM-12:30 PM
  • Thursday, April 24: Spring Musical: “The Wizard of Oz,” 7-9 PM, Nicholson Center, Tickets >
  • Saturday, April 26: Spring Musical: “The Wizard of Oz,” 7-9 PM, Nicholson Center, Tickets >
  • Sunday, April 27: Spring Musical: “The Wizard of Oz,” 2-4 PM, Nicholson Center, Tickets >
  • Tuesday, April 29: LS Quarterly Coffee, 8:15-9:30 AM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library

Welcome to April! It’s hard to believe that we are almost at the end of the school year, with less than two months remaining. We’re still moving full steam ahead in Lower School. Read on for more updates!

No Classes: Monday, April 14

Please note that there are no classes on Monday, April 14. This is a day off for students and a professional development day for our teachers.

Lower School CHAMP Assembly: April 16 Read More

Parents Association News And Events April 10, 2025

April 10, 2025

MPA parents at Cultural Celebration Day. The Parents Association is all about supporting families in building community throughout the school year. Thank you for all the ways you showed up this year! Join in to keep growing connections through the spring.

Division Quarterly Coffees

  • Tuesday, April 22: Middle School Quarterly Coffee, 8-9:30 AM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library
  • Tuesday, April 29: Lower School Quarterly Coffee, 8:15-9:30 AM, Martin Lenz Harrison Library

National Teacher (Faculty & Staff) Appreciation Week: May 5-9

Help celebrate the MPA adult community that cares for and supports our children through the school year.

The Vibrant Season Of Spring

April 10, 2025

Dr. Hudson and a Lower School student look off the roof. 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. Read More

A Special Thank You From Dr. Hudson!

April 10, 2025

Dr. Bill Hudson addresses the crowd at the Spring Auction. from Dr. Bill Hudson, head of school

“From the depths of my heart, thank you for the extraordinary outpouring of love and support at Friday’s Gala. It was a beautiful and unforgettable evening—one that I will cherish always.

I am especially grateful to everyone who contributed to the Hudson Fund for Resilient Students. Your generosity will have a lasting impact, helping MPA students navigate unexpected challenges and continue to thrive in every way.

As I move through these final months as head of school, I look forward to connecting with many of you. Though my chapter in this role is coming to a close, please know that MPA will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Thank you to everyone who helped make the 2025 MPA Spring Auction: Gala of Gratitude an extraordinary success. Because of our community’s deep generosity, we raised more than $870,000 in support of MPA, including an incredible $164,565 for the MPA Fund and over $707,000 for this year’s Fund A Need, The Hudson Fund for Resilient Students. Click here to help further support the Hudson Fund!

These gifts are not only transformational, but they are also a testament to the strength, compassion, and commitment of our MPA community. It was truly moving to witness the love, camaraderie, and shared joy in the room, as well as the incredible support from those bidding and giving from afar. The evening was a beautiful celebration of all that makes MPA so special and a powerful tribute to the lasting legacy of Dr. Bill Hudson.

To our speakers, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees, thank you. Your presence and support made this night unforgettable, and we are endlessly grateful.

Congratulations to our auction winners, and a special shoutout to Mikki Williams, this year’s Golden Ticket winner!

To learn more about the spring auction, The Hudson Fund for Resilient Students, or to make a gift, please contact Ashley Goetzke, director of development and community engagement, at agoetzke@moundsparkacademy.org.

Save the date for next year’s event on April 17, 2026.

MPA Speech Team Wins Section Title

April 10, 2025

The MPA speech team poses together with the section title. Our MPA speech team is state-bound! Congratulations to the Section 4A champs and reigning state champions. The team title was powered by a complete effort that saw 20 students earn a berth to the state meet:

  • Warner Reid and Hazel Reid: First place, Duo
  • Paul Fertig: First place, Extemporaneous Speaking
  • Mari Minear: First place, Great Speeches
  • Kelvyn Boddipalli: First place, Humorous Interpretation
  • Oslo Norcross: First place, Informative Speaking
  • Ash Klann: First place, Original Oratory
  • Alyona Vietrova: First place, Poetry
  • Lucy Mayer: First place, Prose
  • Amila Avdic: Second place, Discussion
  • Guy Schwieger and Nico Bergh: Second place, Duo
  • Amal Sastry: Second place, Extemporaneous Speaking
  • Rowan Mulrooney: Second place, Great Speeches
  • Zainab Lodhi: Second place, Informative
  • Nabila Artan: Second place, Oratory
  • LuaClaire Robert: Second place, Poetry
  • Andrea Pugh: Second place, Prose
  • Sidd Sastry: Third place, Extemporaneous Speaking
  • Mina Kim: Third place, Great Speeches

Congratulations are also in order for coach Tanner Sunderman, who was awarded Central MN NSDA Coach of the Year! Tanner has been forwarded to the national level for consideration.

The MPA speech team is now preparing for another title defense in what would be their third consecutive state championship. The Panthers will get that chance on Friday, April 25, when they head to Shakopee High School for the Class A state tournament. Good luck, Panthers! We can’t wait to see how you’ll do.

Join Us For Family Allyship For LGBTQ+ School Community Members

April 9, 2025

Lower School students celebrating. Mark your calendars for an interactive workshop on Wednesday, May 14, from 6-8 PM in the Family Commons that will provide MPA parents and staff with the tools and language they need to be supportive allies to LGBTQ+ community members at MPA! This event is being hosted by MPA’s Rainbow Club and Gender Inclusive Schools. Please RSVP here!

Together, we will practice responses to challenging questions on LGBTQ+ topics and explore ways to communicate affirmation and celebration of LGBTQ+ community members visibly.
Basic definitions for LGBTQ+ terms will be provided along with age-appropriate resources to facilitate positive and accurate discussions with your family about gender identity and sexual orientation at home.

About Gender Inclusive Schools
Dave Edwards is a queer person, author, and career educator who has served in almost every role in PreK–12 school communities: special education paraprofessional, special education teacher, middle and high school classroom teacher, special education coordinator, dean of students, and assistant head of school. Dave was the lead instructor for the nontraditional teacher licensure program in emotional and behavioral disorders at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and a professor in the teacher preparation program at Hamline University before devoting his efforts full-time to Gender Inclusive Schools.

Dave is the proud parent to a transgender daughter. The discrimination she experienced in kindergarten led to his vocation of helping school communities create safe learning environments, which in turn informs “Gender-Inclusive Schools: How to Affirm and Support Gender-Expansive Students.” He serves on the board of the Minnesota Transgender Health Coalition, and his family is heavily involved with Transforming Families Minnesota. Dave has been quoted by the New York Times, Rolling Stone, NBC News, and Into. He lives in the Twin Cities, Minnesota, area. His book, “Gender Inclusive Schools: How to Affirm and Support Gender-Expansive Students,” was published in the fall of 2024.

About the Rainbow Club
The Rainbow Club is an LGBTQ+ affinity group for MPA parents and staff. What began as a small group of Lower School community members is expanding to include Upper and Middle School parents and staff. This group serves the community as a positive and safe space to talk about allyship, advocacy, sharing resources, and so much more!

We hope you will join us for this important event! Contact Rachael Weber at rachweb89@gmail.com with any questions.

 

Welcome Back To MPA, Michelle Korbel ’10!

April 7, 2025

Michelle Korbel, MPA's new director of human resources. Welcome to MPA, Michelle Korbel! Ms. Korbel will hold the position of director of human resources, and we are excited to introduce her to the community. 

From what school/organization are you coming?
I worked most recently for ArchKey Parsons Electric.

Tell us about your education and past experience.
I have my BA degree in Psychology from the College of Saint Benedict. After college, I spent a year volunteering with Americorps, helping individuals with barriers to employment find work. I’ve been doing HR for ten years now in banking, healthcare, and construction. Very excited to bring my HR experience to MPA.

What did you find appealing about MPA?
MPA is a special community that I feel so lucky to have been a part of growing up. I graduated in 2010 and went to school at MPA from kindergarten to 12th grade. I built amazing relationships with friends, faculty, and staff during my years as a student. When I heard about the opening, I jumped on it. I’m really looking forward to re-establishing old relationships, building new ones, and working together to enrich the employment experience at MPA.

What lasting impact do you plan to have on MPA and its students?
My goal is to enrich and enhance the employment experience at MPA by providing meaningful and valuable resources to, collaborating with, and supporting MPA employees. This will, in turn, help and empower employees to focus on their students, knowing they have an advocate in HR ready to listen and support them.
Read More