May 13, 2021
MPA is very happy to introduce new faculty and staff to the MPA community! Please note: Some of these individuals are familiar faces who have been with us this year in temporary positions. They applied to continue at MPA, completed the application and interview process, and we are so very grateful to re-welcome them to the community long-term.
Keith Braafladt
What position will you be holding at MPA?
Part-Time Technology and Innovation Teacher
From what school/organization are you coming?
Most recently I worked as a consultant developing educational materials and activities for museums and educational organizations and before that I worked at the Science Museum of Minnesota
Tell us a little bit about your education and past experience.
I’m an artist and educator. I led the Learning Technologies Center at the Science Museum of Minnesota for many years, developing curriculum, materials and experiences for learners of all ages. I am a graduate of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. I’m also a good short order cook!
What did you find appealing about MPA during the interview process?
I really appreciate the efforts of MPA in supporting experiential learning, and supporting these efforts with the amazing maker space. I was very attracted to the ideas around collaboration and—as the mission states—of creating “a balance of academics, arts, and athletics” for the students so that these different aspects prepare you for self-growth, learning and engagement in community.
What’s your big dream?
Contributing to equity and change in my community. I live just a few blocks from George Floyd square.
What are you (and/or your family) passionate about?
I’m a life-long learner and really believe in supporting people of all ages begin and continue to see themselves as learners. I really appreciate the research and work of Carol Dweck on growth and fixed mindsets – that notion that everyone can learn and grow throughout your life.
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
I am an artist working with sculpture, photography, video, computer programming and most recently oil painting.
Chris Hopkins
What position will you be holding at MPA?
Physical Education Teacher
From what school/organization are you coming?
Saint Agnes School
Tell us a little bit about your education and past experience.
I graduated with a Physical Education degree from SUNY Brockport and a Master’s Degree in General Professional Education from SUNY Potsdam. I have been teaching Physical Education for the last five years and taught college classes before that.
What did you find appealing about MPA during the interview process?
MPA is a diverse and inclusive community that I wanted to be a part of.
What’s your big dream?
To be a Division One Basketball Coach (my wife is a Division One coach in cross country and track)
What are you (and/or your family) passionate about?
We love heading to State Parks on the weekends, We love participating and watching sports.
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
This is my second stint at MPA, I coached track and field here from 2014 to 2016.
Sean Ryther
What position will you be holding at MPA?
Physical Education/Health Teacher
From what school/organization are you coming?
Hilltop Primary School – Westonka Public Schools
Tell us a little bit about your education and past experience.
I have a Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of Northern Iowa and did my undergraduate studies at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I have 17 years of experience ranging from 10 years in Elk River, two years at an International School in South Korea, and five years at Hilltop Primary School. Prior to my formal teaching, I was Youth Development Coordinator for the YMCA. I was also an Activities Coordinator and Site Coordinator at the YWCA in Mankato. I have coached multiple sports allowing me to pour into students in their extracurricular activities.
What did you find appealing about MPA during the interview process?
The mission statement was discussed by every one of the committee members showing me that the mission isn’t something just on a website or a piece of paper. I had the opportunity to teach a lesson in front of the panel and showcase my passion. The chance to meet many different people allowed me to hear how great MPA was from others.
What’s your big dream?
My dream is that because of the interactions I had with other and the love I showed to others that their lives are truly changed for the better and they too can show that same kind of love to others.
What are you (and/or your family) passionate about?
I am passionate about family. Whether its riding bikes, building forts, playing board games, swimming, road tripping or just daily adventures, I love my time with my family. Fitness and being active is also a passion of mine.
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
I swam in all the Great Lakes with three of my good friends in 16 hours and 26 minutes. Just one of my fun spontaneous adventures.
Liz Schwalen
What position will you be holding at MPA?
Upper School Learning Specialist
From what school/organization are you coming?
Totino-Grace High School
Tell us a little bit about your education and past experience.
I hold a Master’s in Special Education from Bethel University and a license in the area of Learning Disabilities. I have been serving a diverse population of students at Totino-Grace High School for 18 years. In addition, I bring with me a parent perspective as I personally have two children with dyslexia. I believe everyone is capable of learning; however, we learn in different ways. My commitment to my students is to challenge them by building on their strengths, encouraging them in a safe environment, and helping them become the best versions of themselves.
What did you find appealing about MPA during the interview process?
I was impressed by how comprehensive the interview process was, and I am grateful for the opportunity to explain in detail my skills, experiences, and traits within such a welcoming environment. The Administration and Search Committee were incredibly helpful and patiently answered all my questions. Even though I was a summer hire, I sensed the joy in learning and strong community connection through the Student Panel. I was touched that these students came to MPA on their summer break to connect with me.
What’s your big dream?
I dream of a time when all people can joyfully find their true selves and the world will adjust for the better.
What are you (and/or your family) passionate about?
I am passionate about spreading kindness, whether it be through a simple thank you, a listening ear, or in teaching my three kids to be friends to everyone. Some extracurriculars we enjoy doing as a family are messy art/science projects, biking, traveling, swimming, and soccer.
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
I have been practicing yoga for over 18 years and hope to someday land a handstand.
Carlie Erdahl
What position will you be holding at MPA?
Preschool Assistant Teacher
From what school/organization are you coming?
CNN
Tell us a little bit about your education and past experience.
I graduated from California State University Fullerton in 2017. While my major was in Cinema and Television Arts, spending the last six months working at MPA as a Lower School assistant has inspired me to pursue a Masters in Teaching beginning this fall. Outside of the academic setting, I work as a Girl’s soccer coach for Minneapolis United Soccer Club. Prior to moving back to Minnesota in 2020, I was a Technical Operations Assistant for CNN in Atlanta, Georgia.
What did you find appealing about MPA during the interview process?
From the minute you enter the building, it’s clear that MPA radiates joy, promotes passion for learning, and prioritizes acceptance for everyone. Perhaps the most inspiring part of the interview process was hearing the teachers talk about the preschool program and what it means to them. Their excitement and passion is contagious and further solidified my decision to pursue a career in education.
What’s your big dream?
Someday I hope to have my own classroom with my own collection of school supplies and teacher trinkets.
What are you (and/or your family) passionate about?
Sports are a major passion of mine. I’m a huge advocate for getting more girls into organized sports. As a soccer coach, I’m able to see their pride, excitement and confidence grow as they improve and master new skills. As a soccer player, being able to hold my own, work as a team and have fun is something that I hope to pass onto my students and my future children.
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
I’ve been playing soccer since preschool! I played for high school, college and most recently a minor league team in Atlanta. I currently coach for Minneapolis United!
Genevievre Colianni
What position will you be holding at MPA?
Third Grade teacher
From what school/organization are you coming?
St. John Paul II Catholic School
Tell us a little bit about your education and past experience.
I have a Bachelors in Architecture and Sociology from Connecticut College and an MAT in Childhood Education from Manhattanville College. Over the course of the past decade, I’ve honed my classroom teaching practice at multiple grade levels in various school settings. (That sounds very dry, but I promise I am fun!)
What did you find appealing about MPA during the interview process?
What I found most appealing about MPA during the interview process was that the community was so genuine and inviting. Each person I spoke with had something unique to share with me about MPA, but the underlying message was the same: “We are a family.”
What’s your big dream?
Not to sound cheesy, but I am living it. Teaching is one of my longtime joys and I am so looking forward to getting back to the classroom! As far a larger dreams dreams go, I hope to reduce carbon emissions.
What are you (and/or your family) passionate about?
In our family, we believe in the power of kindness, the magic in reading, and the wisdom nature holds.
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
My husband and I just bought our first house! We are very much looking forward to making it ours, and enjoying the new backyard with our 9 month old daughter and Labrador puppy. Read More
Do you have room to spare? Space in your heart for another family member? A desire to expand your family’s perspective of the world? MPA is seeking host families for several international students for the 2021-22 school year.
Mounds Park Academy, including the building and grounds, business office, heads office, development, admissions, communications, athletics offices, and all division offices will be closed July 3-11, 2021. We appreciate your patience while employees spend time with their families. We will respond to emails and voicemails immediately upon our return!
Due to the extreme heat advisory and air quality alert in place today, the Mounds Park Academy Class of 2021 Commencement outdoor event has shifted to Sunday, June 6 at 9 AM. This will help us ensure a safer and more pleasant graduation experience for our seniors and their families, as well as staff and faculty.
The Parents Association is looking forward to the incoming school year and the Grade Rep program, which is integral in building our school community. If you’re interested in becoming a grade rep for the 2021-2022 school year, please email Julie Bixby at 
The fifth grade Math Masters team competed at the end of April through a virtual competition. Five fifth grade students made up this team: Emre K., Liam L., Andrew L., Harper S., and Chris T. As a team, they took second place!
Join the MPA Parents Association Board! Although there are varying time commitments, the experience is consistently rewarding. We have several positions open including Grade Rep. Coordinator and Vice President. The deadline to submit your name is Tuesday, May 25. For more information (and submissions) please reach out to Kim Jakway (
Save the date to celebrate MPA Homecoming 2021 on Saturday, October 2!
The Alumni Association Board is looking for new members for the 2021-22 year! Reconnect with your MPA roots, make your voice heard on important alumni topics, and make an impact on the MPA community. “Serving on the Alumni Association Board has been a great way to stay involved with, and give back to the MPA community,” says Kathryn Andersen ’09. “I’ve gotten to know MPA alumni outside of my graduating class, reconnected with our wonderful faculty and staff, and even met current students through my work on the board.” The alumni board seeks to foster a sense of community, among alumni, to cultivate relationships with other members of the MPA community, and to support Mounds Park Academy in fulfillment of its mission.
Mounds Park Academy competed at the NIETOC National Tournament this past weekend. The team finished ranked 14th in the nation!