Lower School

April 23, 2026

from Julia Ross, Lower School learning specialist 

It is hard to believe that the end of the year is quickly approaching! As we get closer to the final FastBridge assessment of the school year, which begins on May 11, we’re excited for students to have the opportunity to show how much they’ve grown over the course of the school year.

At school, homeroom teachers will be talking with students about how this assessment is a chance to show what they know, reflect on their growth, and put forth their best effort. We remind students to take their time, not to overthink, and to trust all the learning they’ve done this year.

Continuing this conversation at home can be incredibly helpful. As it gets closer, encouraging your student to simply try their best and feel confident in their progress can make a big difference in how they approach taking the test. It is also important, as always, to make sure they get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy breakfast on testing days to help them feel focused and ready to try their best!

We are so proud of the growth our students have made and look forward to celebrating all they’ve learned. Please reach out to me, Julia Ross, Lower School learning specialist, with any questions!

from Dana Distad, Lower School counselor

As we reach the end of another school year, it’s hard not to pause and reflect just how much growth has taken place—not only academically, but socially and emotionally. Our students have spent the year learning how to name their feelings, navigate friendships, repair when things feel hard, and advocate for what they need. These are skills that don’t always show up on report cards, but they are the foundation for everything else. Read More

April 9, 2026

from James Ewer, Lower School director

At MPA, we want our students to grow not only as learners but also as thoughtful, empathetic, and courageous human beings. That kind of growth asks something of adults, too. It asks us to keep reflecting, keep learning, and keep widening the stories, voices, and perspectives we center in our community.

During Women’s History Month, our Lower School faculty and staff engaged in reflection around the lives, lessons, and legacies of women who have shaped history and continue to shape the world around us. What emerged from that reflection was powerful. It reminded us that this work is not about celebrating one month and moving on. It is about continuing to build a school community where children learn to see themselves, value others, and understand their role in creating a more just and compassionate world.

Several important ideas stayed with us.

Leadership is not one thing. Sometimes it is bold and public. Sometimes it is quiet, steady, and rooted in deep listening, courage, and integrity.

Representation matters deeply. When children see people from different backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences leading, creating, advocating, and making change, it broadens their sense of what is possible. Read More

March 26, 2026

from James Ewer, Lower School director

The final stretch. full of growth, joy, and reflection.

Welcome back from spring break. I hope your family found moments of rest, joy, and renewal. As we step back into the rhythm of school, I find myself deeply grateful for this Lower School community. Every day, we are reminded that schools are at their best when children feel seen, valued, affirmed, and loved for exactly who they are. Thank you for trusting us with your littles, partnering with us in their growth, and helping make this community one rooted in care, belonging, and possibility.

As we move into this final stretch of the school year, families may naturally begin thinking about progress, growth, and what still lies ahead. This is an important time to pause and notice not only what children know, but who they are becoming. You may be wondering where your child has grown in confidence, independence, resilience, or responsibility. You may also be noticing areas where they still need support, practice, and encouragement. That is exactly right for this point in the year. The months ahead are not simply about wrapping things up. They are about helping children stay engaged, finish strong, and recognize that growth is often built one small step at a time.

One of the most meaningful things families can do during this season is create space for simple reflection at home. This does not need to feel formal or heavy. A few thoughtful questions during dinner, on the drive home, or at bedtime can help children make sense of their year and see their own growth more clearly. You might ask: What is something you are proud of from this school year? What is something that used to feel hard but feels easier now? When did you show kindness, courage, or leadership? What is one thing you still hope to accomplish before the year ends? Questions like these help children build confidence, self-awareness, and gratitude. They remind our littles that learning is not only about what happens on paper, but also about how we grow as people and how we care for others along the way. Read More

February 26, 2026

from Julia Ross, Lower School learning specialist

As we get closer to spring break, I encourage you to keep your student reading! Even 15-20 minutes a day can make a big difference in maintaining progress and confidence. This can look like reading books your child chooses, listening to audiobooks, and following along with the text, practicing sight words, or taking turns reading aloud to each other.

If you are traveling over the break, here are some easy (and fun) ways to keep the reading up:

• Pack a reading bag with a few books your child chooses to read.
• Listen to an audiobook together and ask your child questions.
• Have your child read signs, maps, menus, and more.
• Start a vacation journal and write (and read back) a few sentences about what they did each day.
• Keep the routine of reading a few minutes before bedtime.

All the small moments add up, and keeping reading part of the routine, even in simple ways, helps maintain the strong progress your child is making!

from Dana Distad, Lower School counselor

As we head into spring break, I want to wish your family a moment in time filled with rest and renewal. Breaks are a wonderful opportunity for children (and adults!) to reset routines, reconnect with family and friends, and truly relax. Whether your plans include travel, time outdoors, or simply slower mornings at home, these moments help children recharge socially and emotionally. Encourage plenty of play, fresh air, conversation, and downtime. A little extra connection and calm can go a long way in supporting a strong finish to the school year.

Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful spring break! Read More