Upper School

March 26, 2026

from Mark Segal, Upper School director

As we approach the end of quarter three on Friday, April 3, final exams provide an important opportunity for students to pause, reflect, and demonstrate the learning they have built throughout the term. By using a process called retrieval practice, research in cognitive science consistently shows that revisiting and recalling previously learned material strengthens long‑term understanding. University of Minnesota Center for Educational Innovation studies on cumulative assessments have found that larger assessments, those that ask students to connect ideas across a unit or course, “support deeper learning and longer retention compared to studying information only once or for short‑term recall.” In this way, final exams significantly improve long-term knowledge retention and information that students will rely on in future courses.

While the words “final exam” can sound intimidating, MPA Upper School exams are designed to function much like larger unit assessments, rather than high‑pressure, “make‑or‑break” and “all or nothing” tests. Educational research in Springer Nature Link emphasizes that, “when exams are aligned with what students have already practiced through classwork, discussions, and prior assessments, they serve as a meaningful extension of learning instead of a surprise or stand‑alone event.” In our upper school courses, teachers prioritize clear expectations, review opportunities, and familiar question formats so that students can approach exams with confidence and preparation.

Final exams also play an important role in helping students synthesize ideas and see connections across a full quarter (nine weeks) of learning. This process mirrors how learning works in the real world, building on prior knowledge, applying skills in new contexts, and thinking across topics. Rather than emphasizing memorization, our exams focus on reasoning, problem‑solving, and demonstrating understanding in ways that align with the course and students’ academic goals. Read More

February 26, 2026

from Mark Segal, Upper School director

As we move into the final stretch before spring break, I want to thank our students, families, and faculty for the focus, care, and commitment that define our Upper School community. With just over a week (187 hours to be exact) remaining until break, there is still meaningful academic work underway. There are projects to complete, assessments to prepare for, and responsibilities that require students to remain fully engaged. This time of year can feel demanding as our workload continues to feel as though there is no end to it, but it is also an opportunity to reinforce the habits of perseverance and organization that will serve our MPA Upper School students well beyond the classroom.

Maintaining strong routines and high standards right up to the start of spring break matters. The learning that happens in these final days before a pause is not superfluous—it is an essential part of our curriculum and our shared commitment to excellence. We ask students to continue arriving at school prepared, managing their deadlines and assignments thoughtfully, and supporting one another as classmates, peers, and friends. Doing our best work, even with a two-week break just days away, is a skill that translates directly to college, careers, and adulthood. The American Psychological Association shares, “educational research shows that students who sustain their engagement through the end of a term perform better on cumulative assessments, and maintaining this academic momentum into spring break improves motivation when we return. At the same time, cognitive science tells us that planned breaks enhance memory consolidation and reduce mental fatigue. Rest, especially sleep and time away from screens, is linked to lower stress and stronger emotional resilience in adolescents.”

At the same time, spring break offers an important and well-earned opportunity for rest. We encourage students to use this time intentionally to recharge both physically and mentally. Whether that means spending time outdoors, reconnecting with family and friends, or simply slowing down and stepping away from our technological devices and the daily academic demands, allows students to return to school on March 23 refreshed and better prepared for the “push” to the end of the school year. Read More