May 18, 2017
by Dr. Bill Hudson, Head of School
In the battle with my children over the internet, the Circle has become my favorite tool and their nemesis. If you haven’t heard of it, it is a device that connects to the home Wi-Fi and enables parents to set limits on what children are accessing online, when they can access it, and for how long. It allows us to monitor and filter what and how Mateo and Ari are using the internet. It drives the kids crazy, but gives us parents a modicum of relief in the never-ending, always contentious, struggle over screen time and technology.
The advancement of technology has made navigating childhood and adolescence increasingly complex, not only for students but for their parents as well. In particular, social media and online safety have been of particular concern. Although the research on the effects of internet use on adolescent social development is inconclusive, educators are working to better understand social interactions through technology in the larger context of adolescent development so they can help students grow into healthy and happy adults.
Mounds Park Academy recently announced a partnership with TPT-Twin Cities PBS, an organization that shares our deep commitment to the academic, social, and emotional growth of young people. We look forward to being new best friends!
William Kluge, a member of the Mounds Park Academy Class of 2017 and Lake Elmo resident, shared with the MPA community on May 1, National Reply Date, that he has received and will accept a four-year merit scholarship to Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York. He selected Marist for its exceptional cybersecurity program, reflecting MPA’s college counseling philosophy that ensures each student finds the right fit.
Ruby was inspired by MPA’s annual seventh grade novel writing project, which Ms. Atchison started more than 30 years ago. She took the assignment further by connecting with local publisher Sigma’s Bookshelf. Ms. Meras kindly assisted with the editing process, and the book is now available for purchase on Amazon. Ruby is the kind of self-motivated dreamer and doer that rigor with purpose at MPA fosters!
Congratulations to the cast, crew, orchestra members, and production staffers of Pippin who worked tirelessly to create this incredible, thought-provoking Spring Musical for our community! And a very special thanks to Ms. Gregg for her leadership!
Don’t miss out on the community building, exquisite cuisine, and wonderful entertainment at the Spring Auction on Saturday, May 13 at the Union Depot!