Mounds Park Academy MPA Now Spring 2017

SPRING 2017

STEAM The MPA Way + Makerspace Addition + Inspiring Teaching + Alumni Now + Dedicated Volunteers

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This edition of MPA Now highlights a host of both new and timehonored ways that MPA seamlessly integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. The acronyms STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) are in vogue these days throughout educational circles. Schools across the country have seized upon them to demonstrate their commitment to 21st century education.

But the pedagogy behind these terms are not new to MPA. Apple’s late, often-cited CEO Steve Jobs attributed much of his company’s success to collaboration between designers and computer scientists, famously noting, “It’s technology married with liberal arts, married with the humanities, that yields us the results that make our heart sing.” The cross-curricular integration of science, technology, engineering, art, and math has been present since our founding in 1982. Furthermore, their grounding in a progressive, liberal arts, college prep curriculum is distinctively MPA. Human beings by nature strive to innovate, improve, advance, solve, and evolve. The arts and humanities, along with science, technology, and math, provide a foundation and context for students to dream big and do right. This holistic approach allows students to transform the wildness of their imagination into inspiration for others through the development of skills in creativity, empathy, problem solving, perseverance, and more.

We live in a time when knowledge and information are ubiquitous and accessible in seconds. What is crucial for success in today’s world is what we do with the knowledge we have. Critical, creative, and innovative thinking is the “new smart” in a world where machines will be, in many ways, smarter than we are. Cultivating such a mindset is the imperative schools must rise to meet.

Entrusting students with the technology and tools needed to create, together with the mindset necessary to appreciate how they are embedded in and can transform our world, is the MPA way.

STEAM at MPA is not a fad or a buzzword, but a distinctive iteration of cross-curricular, hands-on, experiential learning. When students take deep content knowledge in those areas, and are asked to use it to address the problems they see, they become inspired to stir the human spirit, stand for justice, and shake the world.

Mounds Park Academy.

Dr. Bill Hudson Head of School

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, more than ever.

In This Issue SPRING 2017

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WEAVING A TAPESTRY

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TODAY AT MPA

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GENEROSITY HELPS CULTIVATE THE MAKERS OUR WORLD NEEDS NOW

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TELL US ABOUT YOUR SELFIE

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INSPIRING TEACHING with KAREN ROSSBACH

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PARENT PASSION CREATES STEAM CLUB

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FIVE QUESTIONS with MIKE SCINTO

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GET INVOLVED, GIVE BACK, STAY CONNECTED

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ALUMNI NOW

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PARENTS OF ALUMNI STAYING CONNECTED

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DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS

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LEAVING A LEGACY

OUR MISSION We teach students to think independently, communicate effectively, and act with respect and integrity in a diverse community that models intellectual ambition, global responsibility, and the joy of learning.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Brent Peacock, Chair | Beth Finch, Vice Chair | Matt Larson, Secretary | Chris Jesmer, Treasurer | Tamra Anderson Stephen Arsenault | Kofi Bruce | Michael Dai | Carolina Del Solar | Nancy Etzwiler | Jennifer Gatti | Rahoul Ghose Tom Hockert | Bill Hudson, Head of School | Bob King | Karen Kozen-Lien | Kathleen Lamey | Dan Shapiro | Jessica Wong '05 For comments, questions, or address changes: Natalie Waters Seum, Director of Communications & Marketing at communications@moundsparkacademy.org

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“Since 1982, MPA has known that in order to be a successful citizen—whether that means having a good job, or being an engaged member of society, or simply being happy—you have to have a rich understanding of all areas of knowledge,” said Kari Kunze, director of studies. MPA wholeheartedly embraces STEAM and adds the humanities to create a tapestry for our students known as deep learning.

To do this, exceptionally creative faculty draw upon multiple disciplines to teach a flexible curriculum. In Lower School recently, an Innovation Lab project brought together a literacy unit on fairy tales with a science unit on weather and air. Students worked in teams and followed the design thinking process commonly used in business and technology— empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test—to create an air system that would save Jack after the giant chopped down the beanstalk and he was left stranded in the clouds.

“Without even realizing it, my students were using vocabulary and reviewing information learned across subject areas,” said Kari O’Keefe, first grade teacher. Students used multiple skills and intelligences to learn multiple objectives, scaffolding their learning by building their knowledge of one subject area upon another.

According to O’Keefe, “Once the challenge was introduced, the students’ wheels immediately began turning. As they worked through each stage, the students showed increased motivation and were challenged to cooperate and persevere throughout the entire process.”

“Learning is a tapestry here. If subjects are taught in one dimension, the kids only see one dimension. But that’s not very interesting. At MPA, education is in 3D. That’s what creates the richness of the understanding,” said Kunze. “These connections help them understand the greater purpose behind the academic rigor.”

MPA’s intimate size, close community, and commitment to collaboration makes this easier. Connections happen over lunch in the cafeteria and through quick conversations in the hallways, often including the students. “We know what one another is teaching and we know how to bring these concepts together. When we weave it together, the kids love that. They feel more confident learning a new topic when they have background knowledge that clearly applies,” explained Kunze. Students benefit from faculty intentionally pooling their efforts to maximize relevance and connections among content areas.

In Middle School, science teacher Bill Madigan stresses upon his students that science isn’t just about discoveries and theories. “There is math that gets you to theories and then you need to communicate your findings and results. Science is everywhere, just as math and English are,” he said.

In his eighth grade science class, students recently learned about the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius that destroyed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. As an assessment of their understanding, Madigan asked them to write a newspaper that covered the events of that fateful day. “Every day students here are communicating their findings, learning, and discoveries through analysis questions and discussions.”

Our culture is increasingly focused on the STEM subjects and many of the careers of our future may in fact be in those areas. “That said, in order to be successful in those areas, if you don’t have a background in the arts and humanities, what you do with that knowledge is not going to be creative. It may not be interpreted correctly. And it will likely not be used in ways that positively impact our world,” said Kunze.

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Holding all subject areas with the same regard—in a holistic way—is a principle upon which MPA was founded and one that truly prepares our students for the future. “The arts allow students to see the world in new and different ways, and that new vision will allow them to apply their science, technology, engineering, and math knowledge with the creativity and innovation our 21st century world needs,” said Daniel Ethier, Middle School math teacher.

This approach cultivates students who can and want to do it all. At the Upper School level, the schedule is designed so that students are able to take three or four electives each year. Students do not need to choose between choir and engineering design or between ceramics and advanced argumentation. Our students can be mathematicians, scientists, and artists simultaneously. That is the time-honored and time-tested MPA way.

Upper School math teacher Wendy Sullivan explains, “Our students are curious and interested in a wide variety of things. Many of my math students are really into robotics, but they also love band, choir, and ceramics as other ways to express themselves. I believe this is a result of them being exposed to all of it in Lower and Middle Schools and not feeling pressure to pursue one strength over another. In my math class, this means that the students bring a wide array of experiences into the discussions. They see connections that go beyond math,” she said.

Realizing how interconnected our world and its problems are typically comes much later in life. However, MPA students learn this early and often. “As our students work collaboratively, present their ideas to peers, and listen carefully to what others have to share, they are preparing for the complexity of future challenges. As effective communicators, they will be ready to work in an environment where many people need to come together to share knowledge and ideas to make progress towards innovative solutions,” shared Hannah Sullivan, Upper School science teacher.

“If you add the humanities to STEAM, making it STHEAM, that is what the academic portion of whole child education has meant to MPA since the beginning,” said Kunze. “MPA is continuing to bolster all areas of our academic departments and always looking for ways to make them even more integrated and less isolated.” MPA’s students— and more importantly, our world—will continue to benefit from the resulting tapestry.

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MPA CREATES BRILLIANT, CONFIDENT, EXPRESSIVE, AND EMPATHETIC STUDENTS THROUGH STHEAM. SOREN LARSON CLASS OF 2007

The skills that I gain from MPA's approach to STEAM are thinking outside the box ... even thinking like there is no box.

It helps you be able to come up with new, original ideas.

NATHAN C. CLASS OF 2023

I think creative thinking builds tolerance with ambiguity, and allows for building connections and successfully communicating and partnering with others. I have no idea how to teach my child this, so I am grateful it is being introduced at such a young age. It will simply become part of her foundational thinking as she prepares for who she will become out in the world.

MIKKI WILLIAMS LOWER SCHOOL PARENT

The arts help our students see the world as others see it, and that empathy is critical to applying science and technology in an ethical and moral manner.

I think that the A in STEAM is what makes MPA MPA. I have said this to as many people who will listen!

WENDY SULLIVAN UPPER SCHOOL MATH TEACHER

DANIEL ETHIER MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH TEACHER

KIDS LOVE A-HA MOMENTS. AND THROUGH CROSS-DISCLIPINARY LEARNING WE, AS TEACHERS, SET THEM UP TO HAPPEN. KARI KUNZE DIRECTOR OF STUDIES

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ROBOTICS SUCCESS MPA’s robotics program began in the fall of 2011 when two students, Brendan Boyle '14 and Connor Olson '13, teamed up with then academic technology coordinator Nicole Koen. The team has grown and advanced each year and is now 25 students strong under the leadership of Marc Shapiro, with assistance from Hannah Sullivan, both MPA science faculty.

After receiving this year’s challenge on January 7, the MPArors had six and a half weeks to design, wire, code, build, and troubleshoot a working robot. On February 21 at 10:59 PM, they bagged and sealed the robot per FIRST Robotics’ rules. Unable to touch it again until the competition in early April, the team has an advantage this year—a second robot!

According to coach Shapiro, the team built a practice robot as a “test bed” before the build season began. After bagging the competition robot, they reproduced some of the systems that were on it and added them to the test robot. This positioned them to go to the next level, as they were able to refine the systems, and get in more time for the drive team to practice. Both robots benefited from the donation of a CNC router by current MPA parents, Brian and Jennifer Boyle.

Adding to the team’s advancement, the students re-organized into sub teams— building, coding, electronics, marketing, fundraising, and more.

"Each year, there are challenges that inspire us to ask how we can do better next year. I am so excited for the future of robotics at MPA,” Shapiro shared.

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Photos: Jarvis Zhang '17

Boys 7/8 Basketball

Photo: Jarvis Zhang '17

2015-16 CAA Divisionl Champions JOY PAJAMARAMA

UPPER SCHOOL INAUGURATION TRIP

Smiles and the joy of music were shared in our community

Students traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the

recently at the Pajamarama Concert. The orchestral

inauguration of the 45th President of the United States.

concert and nearly all of the carnival-style games were

In addition to witnessing this historic event first-hand,

carefully planned, designed, developed, and performed

they were able to tour several historical sites, visit

by Upper School orchestra students for current and

with U.S. Senator Al Franken, and even make local and

prospective Lower School students and their families.

national news along the way. To read reflections, please

All attendees enjoyed the long-standing event!

visit moundsparkacademy.org/inauguration.

Photo: Jarvis Zhang '17

ABBY GOODNO

BRENDAN CONNOLLY

Congratulations to Abby Goodno '18, who is the MPA Girls

Brendan Connolly '17 captured the title of MPA Boys

Basketball all-time leading scorer with a total of 1,305

Basketball all-time leading scorer with a total of 1,102

points! She is currently working toward a 2,000-point

career points, breaking a 19-year-old school record held

career total, with her senior year on the horizon.

by Rob Werner '98. Congratulations!

In an effort to further tap into the enthusiasm and connections of our community, MPA has formalized its Ambassador Network. These important volunteers may be current parents, alumni, parents of alumni, or friends of the school. Time commitments range from minimal to significant.

AMBASSADOR NETWORK

For more information about this opportunity, email admission@moundsparkacademy.org.

THANK YOU for being our partners on the journey to find the next generation of freethinkers, free spirits, risk takers, right makers, dreamers, and doers!

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Generosity Helps Cultivate The Makers Our World Needs Now In the fall of 2016, MPA received a very generous gift of $500,000 to build a Makerspace on campus. When it opens in August, it will be a hands-on, creative center for the community (at MPA and beyond) to gather, share, create, innovate, and, most importantly, inspire each other as they engage deeply in the STEAM disciplines both during and outside of school hours.

“We know that the best education occurs when critical

coordinator role. The Makerspace will serve as a resource

thinking and deep content knowledge are used as the

room used by all different classes, across each division,

base for growing flexible and essential skills in problem

and in different contexts. MPA’s culture of making and

solving, perseverance, and creativity. The Makerspace

innovation will expand and be embedded across all

follows and encapsulates a trajectory at MPA that

curricular areas.

includes the iLab, Digital Fabrication Studio, and Robotics Lab and encourages our students to innovate in big and

“In the 2300 square feet space, students will progress

small ways,” said Dr. Bill Hudson, head of school.

through two zones to make their dreams become a reality.

They will start in the collaborative zone where they will find

In addition to advancing MPA’s success in the STEAM

movable, flexible furniture, collaboration tools, and soft

disciplines, the Makerspace will advance character

materials used for prototyping like cardboard, clay, string,

development as students take risks, develop skills in

etc. Then they will progress to the other zone where they

perseverance, and iterate from perceived failures to

will find equipment such as 3D printers and scanners,

achieve success. “Through it, character-building traits

laser cutters, sewing machines, vinyl cutters, power tools,

collectively known as grit, including creativity, curiosity,

and more,” said Koen.

open-mindedness, persistence, social responsibility, and teamwork will be nurtured,” said Hudson.

Teachers PreK–12 are excited to use the space and will self-select for professional development over the

An advisory committee composed of students, teachers,

summer months. They will co-teach in the Makerspace

administrators, parents, and outside experts has been

with support from Koen, using both design thinking and

meeting regularly and working closely with the selected

project-based learning. Scaffolding these two methods

architect and builder. Demolition of the space has begun

of instruction will help create an environment for creative

and construction will be complete before the start of the

problem solving and an avenue for innovation.

2017–18 school year.

“This gift is a shining example of how philanthropic In addition to helping guide the construction process, the

support allows MPA to exceed expectations and above

committee developed a comprehensive pedagogy. The

all else, foster the gifts, talents, and mindsets that are

educational program will flow from that, with leadership

already within our students. I am so very grateful,”

from Nicole Koen, who will soon transition from academic

said Hudson.

technology coordinator to the newly created Makerspace

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This will be a space where all are welcome— it’s for everyone. It is a place for discovery, growth, and community!

Nicole Koen Makerspace Coordinator

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For Dreamers And Doers WHAT IS A MAKERSPACE? • A collaborative learning space where the community can gather, share, create, innovate, and inspire each other.

• A place where students can creatively pursue their own learning, both on their own or with others, through experiential, interdisciplinary learning driven by interest and inquiry.

• An incubator for innovation where questions are valued above answers, students learn by doing, and the final product is determined and assessed by the individual.

WHY A MAKERSPACE? • Present students with opportunities to follow their own intrinsic path to discovery.

• Enable, motivate, inspire, and empower students to take control of their own learning.

• Connect liberal arts thinking with 21st century skills and competencies through practical, handson, interdisciplinary, problem-based projects.

• Place the right tools and materials in the hands of students so they can develop the literacies to remake our world into a more democratic, equitable, and humane place.

• Actively encourage students to pursue their passion, learn more deeply, and connect to the subject matter in new and creative ways and develop new skills that can be brought to the classroom.

• Strengthen the MPA mindset and culture of creativity, collaboration, trust, resiliency, and problem solving in our community.

Working renderings of the future MPA Makerspace

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TELL US ABOUT YOUR SELFIE with

Maahi Bhalla Class of 2029

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WHEN DID YOU COME TO MPA AND WHAT WAS THE TRANSITION LIKE? I came to MPA … I’m going to say I did it when I was almost … Umm, I don’t remember. Okay, just before the first part of the year. I came in September. For kindergarten. It felt like fun here. When I was in PreK, I cried. Here I didn’t cry because I thought it was a pretty good place.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MPA MEMORY? My favorite school memory is going outside and feeling how the weather is. And then I also love staying inside

It's like a party. It's so fun. The teachers are nice and tell you it's okay to make an accident. You know, you don't have to do it perfectly.

Maahi Bhalla Class of 2029

and doing beautiful artwork. And some of my favorite memories are in the Monday Morning Meetings … to find out who won the CHAMP awards. And if Mrs. Wright says a kindergartener, it’s so exciting!

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? On the weekends, I like to go to the movie theatre or watch

DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN ANY ACTIVITIES?

Jessie or Full House on TV. I usually play with my toys,

If I’m not in Panther Club, then I go home and just play

dolls, color, and read very many books. I also spend a lot

around. And during the weekdays I go to my mom’s gym

of time with aunts, uncles, and cousins and I love to take

and learn tennis, swimming, and yoga. Oh! And I also go

care of them.

to dance class. I do STEAM Club and Drawing Class here at MPA, too.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCHROOM FOOD?

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR

Ummm, pickles. And, I like baby corn. Sometimes they

AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES AT MPA?

serve it, but not all the time. I like their pizza. And I like

I like to find out what we’re making (in STEAM Club) and

cheese and lettuce. And I like their tortillas with tomatoes,

I like to use the different materials and I like the smell of

lettuce, and cheese … like tacos and burritos.

them. And about Drawing Class, I like that she gives us easy, slow steps … that’s why it takes a long time to do it

IF YOU COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE, WHERE

… so then it comes out more beautiful.

WOULD YOU GO? Easy one. I would just say Mexico. And Anguilla. Anguilla is

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE SPOT

an island in the ocean. It’s pretty short from St. Marten.

ON CAMPUS?

You take the plane, you fly, go over and down, get on a boat

What’s a campus again? Oh, umm, my favorite spot …

and then you are there. That’s the island.

I’m just going to say I like almost the whole thing.

Especially the Upper School hallway and the area of

IF YOU MET SOMEONE WHO WAS UNFAMILIAR

gym and Panther Club.

WITH MPA, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL THEM ABOUT OUR SCHOOL?

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES AFTER GRADUATION?

It’s a big school and there are so many fun things to do. We

Oh my goodness. That is such a hard question. I will just

have pajama day and we celebrate really cool things about

chill at home and have a hot cocoa party. When I grow

your birthday and there’s so many fun classes. It’s like a

up, I might want to be a teacher. Or a doctor. Oh yes, I

party. It’s so fun. The teachers are nice and tell you that

decided I will be a doctor.

it’s okay to make an accident. You know, you don’t have to do it perfectly.

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INSPIRING TEACHING with

KAREN ROSSBACH

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One might think that after teaching art at Mounds Park Academy since the school’s opening in the fall of 1982, Karen Rossbach would be content to rest on her laurels, content with a curriculum that is established and well-rehearsed. In truth, as her own artistic passions expand, she is constantly retooling her classes in order to pass along new knowledge to her students K–12.

“Learning new things and exploring new ideas is exciting for an artistic person because that is creativity in a nutshell.

That’s why we teach art, because it allows us to continue to change, grow, and be creative,” she said. Her most recent advance is the addition of a digital art class, Digital Mediums, that combines students’ inherent and learned creativity

The collegiality among our exceptional faculty and the passion they have for this school are as alive today as they were in 1982.

Karen Rossbach Art Teacher

with technology in new and exciting ways. After continuing professional development through the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design and the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Karen was ready to share her newfound knowledge with her students.

One of her favorite cross-curricular examples in Lower School is the Parade of States project, a collaboration between homeroom,

“Part of the reason I wanted to teach this class is because

technology, library, visual art, and music faculty. Assigned a

I get to keep learning. There are things the kids know that

state, each student researches, writes, performs, and curates

I don’t know, and that’s a vulnerable position to be in as a

an exhibit as they share their state with classmates and guests.

teacher. In some ways, I am catching up, but in some ways

Learning is not confined to one classroom, but rather expansive

I have knowledge that they don’t have because of how I use

because of this intense, intentional collaboration of subjects.

technology and the perspective I bring to the conversation,” Karen shared.

“I find that the students who have the most difficulty with the linear aspects of learning come to my class and have the most

Digital Mediums allows students who are digitally inclined

success. I love that the commitment to teaching the whole child,

to integrate art techniques and graphic software in order

since the earliest days, has remained of utmost importance here

to create art in ways that fit with MPA’s technology goals,

at MPA. Each child can find a place to be successful because we

advancing their creativity, knowledge, and work in other

offer each child a place to shine,” Karen shared.

courses. “They are using these skills on projects in ways I never imagined. They now have more options available to

Helping our community understand how true MPA is to its

them for an English project, for example, as they know how to

founding principles is important to our school’s history as well as

utilize other mediums to express their knowledge. I see their

to founding faculty members like Karen.

confidence as makers continue to expand.”

“We met all summer long, here in the backyard of the school, by Making cross-curricular connections is easy for Karen. “I

the library. None of us knew if we would have a job in the fall, but

have always seen art as integral to other subject areas—it’s

we all had passion for this school. We opened our doors to 104

another medium in terms of expression. In this case, because

students. I believed in the school’s philosophy then and I believe

it is digital, we are able to combine subjects very easily.

in it today. How we work with each other, what we do with kids,

Students working on tessellations in math can bring one

and the freedoms we have to be creative … all of that has kept

into the painting program to enhance it or into an animation

me here.”

program to animate it. In life, that’s what students need to know how to do. They need to make connections using the

Students benefit every day from the passion, knowledge, and

breadth of their knowledge.”

creativity Karen continues to expand here at MPA.

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Born from a parent discussion

I see leadership, courage, collaboration, creativity, and resilience every time I volunteer.

These are the characteristics that make great men and women.

group, STEAM Club has become

Karl Anderson Lower School Parent Volunteer

type of engaging, collaborative

the place to be after school at MPA. With winter and spring sessions topping nearly 50 percent of the Lower School enrollment, it is clear that this programming is what students (and their parents) love.

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PARENT PASSION CREATES

“Our parents are so passionate about STEAM. They all have

“I see even the littlest students trying things over and over

a variety of backgrounds that feed into the curriculum and

again. They are becoming so persistent. And while most of

the program design,” said Nicole Koen, academic technology

them are able to do everything on their own, they are also

coordinator and STEAM Club co-advisor. From simple

happy to ask for help, which is really important. They are

experiments with the PreK through first grade students, to

asking questions and solving problems in ways that build their

following the scientific process with students in grades two

creative confidence,” said Debbie LaChapelle, PreK teacher

through four, each week’s activity is age appropriate and

and STEAM Club co-advisor. “I love how each activity is open

always experiential.

ended and that we never place limitations on the students’ ideas. It’s just like preschool, but blown up!”

While the winter sessions may focus on topics like air pressure, coding, circuits, ziplines, and acceleration, in the spring, all eyes turn outside as students become “citizen scientists.” They explore the extensive rainwater gardens and pond on campus, studying and monitoring the plants, water quality, and native animals. By combining scientific research and lessons in citizenship and social action, students gain a greater understanding of the environmental issues facing our world and how their knowledge can serve a greater purpose.

The inclusion of art in this afterschool activity was seen as essential from the beginning. “To be a scientist, you need to be creative and look at things from different ways,” said Koen. Sally Richie, STEAM Club parent volunteer couldn’t agree more. “I believe that art has been overlooked by many

Parent volunteer Mikki Williams explained a recent project

educators, parents, and students as merely a form of drawing

she appreciated because it felt like play, but truly introduced

or rudimentary technique. However, art is a critical piece as it

scientific theory: “I would typically never have a conversation

helps in the design component of engineering and technology.

with five-year-olds about ‘air pressure.’ However, through

The combination of all five areas make creations limitless,”

STEAM Club, it’s now part of their world, and they learned it

she said.

by simply shooting paper rocket ships off of the end of straws.

They learned that the harder they blew, the more distance

“Each week, our volunteer sign-up is full, but our parents

they achieved. They learned that ‘leaks’ in the structure

keep coming because they know they are welcome, valued

inhibited success. And their giggles were infectious!”

partners. This program would not run like it does if it weren’t for the parents and their involvement, their excitement, and

As is typically the case at MPA, students are gaining much

their support of STEAM at MPA,” said Koen.

more than just knowledge in the STEAM disciplines.

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Theatre teacher Heather Mastel and fourth graders are warming up with the interactive dance song, "Pop See Ko," a favorite with MPA students.

Join us or invite a friend to an upcoming Admission Event!

Open House • Saturday, November 19 at 1 PM Lunch @ MPA • Tuesday, December 13 at 11 AM Open House • Thursday, January 26 at 5 PM (grades PreK–4) Open House • Sunday, January 29 at 1:30 PM (grades 5–12) Lunch @ MPA • Wednesday, March 15 at 11 AM Office of Admission | admission@moundsparkacademy.org 651-748-5577 | moundsparkacademy.org 21

WHEN DID YOU JOIN THE MPA COMMUNITY? I came to MPA in August of 1987. I have taught Lower, Middle, and Upper School physical education classes each year. For the last 15 years, I have also taught health to fifth and sixth graders.

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO MPA? After graduating from college, I accepted a teaching job in California where I lived and taught for four years.

I always looked forward to “coming home” and living in the Twin Cities again. I applied to be a physical education teacher and Girls Soccer coach at what was then a very young MPA. I was thrilled to be offered the position!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MPA MOMENT? When the Girls Soccer Team won the Section Championship and qualified for the State Tournament in 2002. We were up against a state power in Simley High School and our team played an unbelievable game, winning 1-0. That team’s group of players, and the years on both sides of that senior class, were remarkable individuals and student athletes at MPA. They helped build a strong school and soccer program.

Our success was even more memorable because at the same time, across town, our Boys Soccer Team also won their Section and qualified for State.

WHAT’S YOUR SECRET TALENT? I’m a pretty good rope jumper.

WHAT’S A LITTLE-KNOWN FACT ABOUT YOU?

WITH MIKE SCINTO Physical Education and Health Teacher 22

One of my bosses at MPA was once a student of mine in physical education and the captain of the soccer team that I coached.

Mr. Scinto cares deeply about all of his students, ensuring they have exceptional experiences in the classroom and on the fields.

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51%

MPA FUND

$395,550 of $550,000 goal 216

TOTAL VOLUNTEER HOURS

$2.2 Million IN SCHOLARSHIPS AND

$546,942

TUITION ASSISTANCE MADE POSSIBLE IN PART

RESTRICTED GIFTS

AVERAGE GIFT PER DONOR

BY DONATIONS AND ENDOWMENT FUNDS

THANK YOU!

MPA's fiscal year runs July 1–June 30. All figures are as of March 1, 2017.

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PARTICIPATION

4,510

TOTAL NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS

$849

CURRENT PARENT

$952,877

TOTAL DOLLARS RAISED

It's MPA. We Help Each Other Here.

Jennifer Gatti MPA Trustee and Development Committee Chair When my family came to MPA in 2006, we knew we’d be part of a community—a place where people are personally invested in the school, where students thrive academically and individually, and where we feel welcomed. What we didn’t expect was how suddenly the depth and power of MPA’s community would come alive for our then five-year-old daughter, realized in the form of the Tooth Fairy.

Claire was in kindergarten, and on this particular fall day she lost a tooth at school. She quickly ran to the nurse’s office to package up her prize … and within an hour lost track of that lost tooth. Convinced that the Tooth Fairy would now bypass her, Claire collapsed in the hallway in tears. Without hesitation, MPA’s community leapt into action. Two eighth grade girls saw Claire, asked why she was sad, and set out

On campus recently with Jennifer Gatti and daughters Claire '19 and Greta '24

to fix the problem. They found some Altoid mints, gracefully carved one into the shape of a baby tooth, and secured it for the trip home. They wrote a compelling letter to the Tooth Fairy, explaining the situation and offering this excellent substitute. Most importantly, they embraced Claire with respect, compassion, and understanding.

“MPA is what it is because of its community members.”

All was well that night—the Altoid tooth and letter were tucked safely under Claire’s pillow, and the Tooth Fairy

Alumni and their parents stay engaged long after graduation,

arrived on schedule. When I reached out to the girls to share

supporting the school as active boosters. Families and

my thanks, they were gracious but a bit surprised. “You don’t

friends of MPA rally to fund special projects like the

have to thank us,” they said. “It’s MPA. It’s what we do. We

Fab Lab, Virtual Classroom, tennis courts, restrooms, and

help each other here.”

Upper School Commons. Major gifts are setting the stage for the next phase of capital investment at MPA, including

In just a few heartfelt words, those wise Middle School

the Makerspace that will debut this fall.

students summed up how and why people support MPA. This isn’t just an educational community—MPA is a

Our faculty, families, students, and supporters have created

community of commitment, where people give generously

a vibrant and unique school that radiates excellence

in so many ways. Our volunteers plan and staff everything

and reinforces relationships. It’s a place where every

from classroom parties and teacher appreciation days to

contribution counts and where we can all dream big and do

large-scale events like the annual Book Festival and Spring

right, making a difference today and for the generations to

Auction. Our donors generate more than $1 million in

come. It’s humbling, wonderful, and inspiring. I’m so grateful

charitable giving each year for MPA’s programs and facilities.

for the MPA community, and I’m so glad to be here with you.

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For more than three decades, MPA has engaged thousands of students in a transformative college-preparatory education that empowers them to think independently, act with integrity, and achieve their goals. MPA has been a springboard for our students’ ongoing success, allowing alumni to excel in their chosen fields while remaining deeply connected to MPA’s entrepreneurial spirit.

A Message From The Alumni Association Board

2016–17 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Annie Stewart '11, Chair Erica Brewinski '96, Vice Chair Mike Velin '06, Treasurer Brendan Byrne '06, Secretary Nate Bander '09

James Cordon '97 Alumni Association Board Member

Karl Berget '07 I graduated from MPA in 1997 and received my bachelor’s degree from Colgate University in 2001. I currently reside in Glen Ridge, N.J. with my wife Samantha and my two daughters Madelyn, age six, and Amelina, age three. I work as a financial advisor for Morgan Stanley in New York City. This is my first year serving on the Alumni Board and I am honored to have the opportunity.

Sam Brown '94 James Cordon '97 Erica Isaac Christopher Parish '95 Vance Ryan '08 Jacob Schwartz '09 Jake Sheehan '05 Jessica Wong '05

I am an MPA “lifer,” having started in kindergarten. While at MPA, the school's slogan was, “We don’t teach kids what to think, we teach them how.” It wasn’t the textbooks or the lessons or the assemblies that stuck with me; it was the ability, capacity, and hunger for knowledge that did. I encourage you to consider how MPA has shaped your life and what lessons you have taken away that still hold with you today.

MPA is stronger than ever and still shaping young minds to be the leaders of the future. If you have not visited in a while, I encourage you to find the time to stop by and say hello. You will be amazed at the traditions still in place juxtaposed with the innovation and forward thinking you would expect from a place like MPA.

Special Liaisons: Dana Boyle Nansee Greeley If you are interested in joining the Alumni Association Board of Directors, please email alumni@moundsparkacademy.org.

I would also encourage us, as an alumni base, to recognize that we are a crucial link in MPA’s continued commitment to excellent education and to try to find a way to give back. Whether it is with your time, talents, or resources, I hope that each of you can find a way to give of yourself to ensure the continued success of the school we cherish.

Go Panthers!

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We are currently accepting nominations, which will be reviewed during the May board meeting.

Thank you for getting involved!

SPRING AUCTION— YOUR DREAM DESTINATION

THE GOLD SOCIETY

Get your Alumni tickets at a reduced price today!

involvement and generosity with the GOLD Society!

Join us on Saturday, May 13, at the Union Depot in Saint Paul for exquisite cuisine, a host bar, live music, games, and a live and silent auction. All proceeds will support your alma mater and benefit the freethinkers

We are happy to highlight our young alums for their Graduates of the Last Decade who contribute $25 or more will be recognized for their support. For more information, contact us at alumni@moundsparkacademy.org.

and free spirits just like you. More information may be found at moundsparkacademy.org/springauction. We can’t wait to see you there!

Sign up for our e-newsletter! Send your contact information to alumni@moundsparkacademy.org to receive Alumni News about fellow Panther alumni, upcoming

REUNION WEEKEND SEPTEMBER 22 AND 23, 2017 Mark your calendar for Homecoming/Reunion Weekend 2017! Classes celebrating their milestone reunions include 1992, 1993, 2002, 2003, 2012, and 2013.

events, reunions, and more.

Tell us what’s new with you! Do you have an exciting accomplishment or announcement to share? Let us know at alumni@moundsparkacademy.org.

More information will be sent in the coming months about on and off campus events for all alumni. We are looking forward to welcoming you home.

ALUMNI UPDATES SEAN ADAMS '03: Began working for Medtronic as a

Is your child part of the next generation of dreamers and doers?

senior program analyst in July 2016 supporting product development projects in deep brain stimulation and spinal cord.

ABBY HERTZ '02: Featured in The New York Times for her immersive theater production, LUST. ALEX KORN '04: Recently visited his seventh continent and had a ski trip this winter with fellow Panther, Robby Potish ’04, who he’s been skiing with since the third grade!

TIM KOERNER '03: Celebrated his 10th year working in the nonprofit sector, currently as the mobile food program manager for The Open Door in Dakota County, and recently completed his MBA in social entrepreneurship from Augsburg College.

LAURENT KUEHNL '05: Played Don Jose in The Tragedy of Carmen in February at the Skylark Opera Theatre in

MPA is honored to offer the Children of Alumni Program, further enabling you to provide an MPA education to your young children. While enrolled in kindergarten through grade five, children of alumni receive 100 percent of demonstrated financial need with a minimum tuition contribution of $5,000 per child.

Contact Craig Dodson, Director of Admission, with questions or to arrange a visit! cdodson@moundsparkacademy.org | 651-748-5519

Saint Paul.

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MPA Fosters Entrepreneurial Spirit Adam Orandi '88 grew up in a big family in Fergus Falls,

companies,” Adam shares. Reserving a little time for

Minn., before he and his mother moved to Saint Paul. In

relaxation, Adam enjoys snow skiing in California and Utah,

eighth grade, he enrolled in MPA, where he immediately felt

as well as beaches (Hawaii has the best, in his opinion).

at home. “MPA really nurtured me while challenging me—it

He also flies a private plane.

was just what I needed when I needed it.”

When it comes to giving back to his industry and his Adam says his MPA education served him well as an

community, he’s active there, too. Adam serves on

entrepreneur and business leader. “MPA taught us to be

the American Pistachio Growers Association Board of

independent thinkers and, through healthy, emotional, and

Directors and has been involved in state and federal policy

engaging discussions, we were expected to decide where

development for his industry. Adam also volunteers with the

we ethically stood on key issues. We were taught to dig deep

local Boys & Girls Club.

in search of truth, find our position, and defend it. It was powerful.”

As for favorite MPA memories, Adam stays connected with teachers like Ms. Shardlow and Mr. Meacock, and he fondly

After studying business in college, Adam chose to join

recalls Ms. Conway’s “Scramble for Africa” project as well

his father in California on the family’s farm, where they

as the amazing hands-on science experiments that

cultivated heritage varieties of Persian pistachios, some

Dr. Wainwright led.

brought when his father immigrated to the U.S. in the 1950s.

In 2010, after a stint in the retail food and beverage industry and some real soul-searching, he returned to purchase, modernize, and expand their processing capabilities. They currently have a large grove and process pistachios for another 25 growers in California’s San Joaquin Valley.

In 2014, Adam married Pamela, a marketing and public relations specialist who now works with him at ARO Pistachios. “I love that we are a family farm that’s making it in a world surrounded by big global food

“I have such fond memories of all my classmates and can’t believe how well everyone is doing in so many diverse fields.”

Adam Orandi spoke to us from ARO Pistachio headquarters in Visalia, Calif. A sixth-generation pistachio grower on his father’s side, Adam has taken a circuitous route to the challenging and rewarding career that he loves.

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A Global Good Citizen Stephanie Richard '94 is a global good citizen with a passion for social justice, exemplifying MPA’s tagline, “Dream Big. Do Right.” Her legal and policy work in the field of human trafficking is winning awards and improving the lives of people all over the world.

Stephanie and her identical twin sister Nicole started at MPA as second graders. A self-described “late bloomer,” Stephanie remembers how MPA’s close, warm environment gave her the confidence to take risks and try lots of different things. This has inspired her to take the risks required throughout her bold career.

After graduating from Rice University magna cum laude, with a triple major in English, policy studies, and sociology,

Stephanie Richard's work in the Peace Corps inspired her to help halt and bring awareness to the global issue of human trafficking.

Stephanie passed up several great job offers for a chance to follow her dream and join the Peace Corps. “It was

Since law school, Stephanie has worked tirelessly at

especially meaningful to me because our mother had

the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking (CAST),

wanted to apply to the Peace Corps the first year it was

initially providing direct legal services to survivors and

created, but was talked out of it by people who felt it was

now managing a team of paid and pro bono lawyers, while

inappropriate for women.”

directing policy work with a national coalition of partners.

When asked what motivates her despite a daunting load,

It was during Stephanie’s posting in a small Ukrainian

Stephanie answered, “It’s a privilege to work with the

city that she was first exposed to human trafficking, also

survivors. They are unique individuals who’ve taken these

called “modern day slavery.” There to provide leadership

risks to improve their lives or help their families. I find it

development to youth and deliver interactive teacher

such an honor to work with them.” She also loves the ability

training, she saw two female friends—both smart women

to dig into technical aspects of the law and craft cutting-

with Ph.D.s—become mail order brides. At least one ended

edge policy. Two big priorities right now are to develop better

up in the sex trade. “I saw how it starts with people of

data for supporting critical policy work and to bring survivor

limited opportunities who want to improve their lives or the

voices to the advocacy community and key decision makers.

lives of their families. Unfortunately, this initiative and dream for something better can easily turn into exploitation—not

Recalling MPA’s impact, she credits the school with her

just in other countries, but every state in the U.S., too,” she

passion for learning and her education in written and oral

explained.

communication. “Writing has been the foundation of my career, and I know that MPA played a key role in helping me

Stephanie studied law at the American University

develop those valuable skills,” she said.

Washington College of Law, where she received a full scholarship. Her interests deepened after working for a

Stephanie maintains a feeling of closeness with her

woman who helped write the United Nations Trafficking

classmates, claiming to know every alum (at least from her

Protocol and the original U.S. law, the Trafficking Victims

class and earlier years) who is living in the Los Angeles

Protection Act of 2000. She also helped host one of the

area. “One MPA friend even moved into the neighborhood

first anti-trafficking conferences in the U.S., where key

after coming to my housewarming party!”

organizations came together for the first time.

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Parents of Alumni Staying Connected

Parents of Alumni MOUNDS PARK ACADEMY

From this foundation grew a lively and engaging list of strategies. On the social side, parents enjoyed events such as a Saint Paul Gangster Tour, a Ghost Excursion at Fort Snelling, and a Lift Bridge Brewery Tasting and Facility Tour. On the educational front, parents donned beekeeping gear to learn about the art of making honey. Parents of Alumni has hosted educational speakers for the community and luncheons to reconnect parents, the administration, and teachers. And, in recognition of the feeling of loss when students leave home, Parents of Alumni hosts an evening reception in the fall for parents of college age students to Jeanne Danaher with husband James Wright and

share concerns and reconnect.

daughter Megan Wright at MPA commencement '14.

Jeanne Danaher Parents of Alumni Board Chair

All parents of former students are automatic members of the Parents of Alumni. There are no membership fees, no extraordinary commitments, and we meet only four or five times a year. I encourage transitioning parents not to lose the bonds

I am delighted to tell you about the Parents of Alumni

created over the years, to become active members for personal

organization, which was officially formed last year. We are

growth and entertainment, and to preserve and promote the

a group of parents of former students whose goals are to

connection that could afford opportunities for graduates as

stay connected to the MPA community and provide social

they transition into adulthood. Please connect with us via

networking opportunities for our members. More specifically,

email at ParentsofAlumni@moundsparkacademy.org.

the Parents of Alumni offer entertaining social events and lifelong learning to help keep parents connected to one

All the best and I hope to meet you at the turn.

another, to MPA, and to function as a resource to the MPA community.

UPCOMING PARENTS OF ALUMNI EVENTS The group casually formed several years ago as a way to continue the valued relationships with parents and MPA after students graduated. It started with purely social gatherings as a way to preserve the long-standing relationships built throughout the school years. The founding parents also realized the enormous potential value in these relationships in terms of networking opportunities for their students during and after college. These bridges to internship experiences, access to career-building wisdom, and potential employment opportunities were treasured resources not to be lost.

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May 2017 Spring Auction September 2017 Parents of Alumni and Teacher Social November 2017 Parents of Alumni College Years Social + More information to follow—watch your email!

YOUR DREAM DESTINATION

Mounds Park Academy’s 2017 Spring Auction will be held at Union Depot in downtown Saint Paul the evening of Saturday, May 13. Exquisite cuisine, a host bar, live music, games, and silent and live auctions will make it an evening to remember for our school community. We hope you will join us at MPA’s only fundraising event of the year!

Visit moundsparkacademy.org/springauction for more information about sponsorship opportunities and to purchase your tickets.

Join us for “Your Dream Destination” Scott and Jennifer Holloway Spring Auction Chairs We hope that you will join us as we gather for an evening of support and connection at this year’s Spring Auction. Held at the beautifully renovated Union Depot in downtown Saint Paul, we are excited to chair the event in a historic venue reminiscent of the golden age of travel and exploration.

Attending the Spring Auction is an easy and fun way to give back to MPA as the purchase of each ticket helps support the school.

“We are big believers in building connections within the MPA family community.”

The auction is more than a gathering place—it is a

MPA has been such a powerful experience for our daughter

spectacular event. The evening includes a silent auction,

and our family over these past four years. The people that we

Great Gatherings, Mystery Boxes, and a live auction of a

have met, the skills that our daughter has learned, and the

select number of fantastic destinations and prizes. And the

friends that we have made have been so rewarding. We hope

evening culminates with the exciting Fund-A-Need event.

to see you at the Union Depot on May 13 to support this

Last year, Fund-A-Need raised more than $100,000 in

great institution.

just 10 minutes, with the proceeds going to improve the school’s main visitor and student restrooms.

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JIM SCHWIEGER aka King of Cardboard

Jim Schwieger wears many hats at MPA—retired teacher, grandparent, and now, volunteer. After 40 years of teaching science, 26 of which were at MPA, he couldn’t stay away from the school environment.

“People retire and are supposed to go do what they love. What I really love is what’s here. To retire and come back is just a continuation of what really gives me enjoyment,” he shared.

Jim’s foray into volunteering was in the Library, managing books and spearheading projects for librarian, Nancy Lage. His latest work involves a model of the Chrysler Building and constructing a wall to better define the Upper School Library space. Jim found his volunteer place: “I immediately loved it—I loved helping her in particular because she is such an interesting and professional person.”

Middle School-age students hold a special place in his heart, and he delights in chaperoning nearly all of their fieldtrips. “My kind of humor works best with seventh and eighth grade students," Jim explained.

Jim is often called upon to volunteer in the Middle School science classrooms as well. Bill Madigan, science teacher, recently invited him in to evaluate his students’ work. They had researched possible locations to build a research station within Yellowstone National Park. In groups of three or four, they prepared a proposal to pitch to Mr. Schwieger, who listened, asked clarifying questions, and ultimately selected the best proposal from each of the three classes. “He comes in wearing a park ranger’s shirt complete with homemade ranger badge.

Who else but Schwieger?!” said Madigan.

MPA is incredibly thankful for the immeasurable impact Jim has left, and continues to leave, on this school and its children.

PAT WYANT

aka Obstacle Course Guy

Pat and his wife Jill researched many schools before choosing MPA for their son Jake who is now in second grade. “We knew right away when we came here that this was the place for all of us,” he said. “MPA promotes kindness, respect, inclusion—qualities we want to raise Jake to have.”

As a stay-at-home dad, Pat has become a dedicated volunteer. On any given day, he could be found setting up the obstacle course for a Parents Association party, volunteering in the classroom or on the playground, leading the Lower School Hockey Club, organizing an activity for STEAM Club, or serving on the Makerspace Advisory Committee. With a background in information technology, he loves that MPA gives students exposure to a wide variety of engaging science and technology curricula, in high, low, and no tech ways.

“What I do here through volunteering aligns with my passions,” he said. “And, I love getting to know Jake’s friends, his teachers, and other parents.” MPA couldn’t be more grateful for the dedication and passion Pat brings to our campus.

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CARI SIMONSON aka Spelling List Extraordinaire

“I want my boys to know how strongly I believe in their education— that investing in it is worth my time,” said Cari, mom to Ethan in third grade, Colin in eighth grade, and Henry in 11th grade.

Cari loves to spend her time volunteering in the classrooms with reading groups and spelling test preparation. She also helps coordinate a variety of Parents Association initiatives, and serves on the Parents Association board as its secretary. Add in her work with the Spring Auction, duty free lunch, and her time in the Library and she is at MPA more days than not.

“My boys aren’t very forthcoming with information, so it’s really nice for me to be on campus and get a feel for what’s happening. Across all ages, everybody always seems happy here and looking out for each other—just generally so happy to be at school. It’s nice to be in the middle of that,” she said.

“Cari is such a passionate volunteer! She willingly jumps into any activity and works to benefit all students,” said Renette Stinson, third grade teacher. Cari is remarkably generous with her time, patience, and creativity. This entire community benefits from all that she gives.

Mounds Park Academy extends its gratitude to the Parents Association for its leadership in promoting community and supporting MPA’s mission. Countless volunteers demonstrate their commitment to the school’s mission and values on a daily basis through their work.

New this year, the Parents Association organized multiple cultural celebrations designed to bring our diverse community together. They helped families celebrate holidays such as Diwali, Chinese New Year, and Feliz Navidad to rave reviews. These events opened minds to traditions not celebrated before at MPA in inclusive and joyful ways.

Other traditional Parents Association projects continued including Microfunding, Book Festival, Middle School Café, the Grade Representative Program, Faculty & Staff Appreciation, Lower School classrooom parties and much more.

If you are interested in getting more involved with the Parents Association, please email Christine Larson and Amanda Campbell, co-presidents, at mpapa@moundsparkacademy.org.

Volunteer at Volunteers are so important to the fabric of our community! Whether you have a little time or a lot, there is an opportunity on campus that aligns with your interests and passions. Please contact LaTasha St. Arnault, director of development and community engagement, at 651-748-5532 to express your interest in volunteering at MPA! 33

Beverly and Fosten Boyle Impact Generations to Come

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Fosten and Beverly Boyle left a generous $100,000 planned gift to MPA’s endowment upon their passing. They had come to know and love the school as volunteers, committee members, and beloved grandparents of five students, Brendan Boyle '14, and Olivia '18, Cecilia '20, Sylvia '24, and Julia '25 Hawley.

After the late Bradley Boyle and his wife, Dana, chose MPA for their son Brendan, Amy and Chris Hawley were close behind, much to the delight of Fosten and Beverly.

“They grew up knowing MPA as we did through the years,” reflected Amy Hawley. “They became immersed in many different ways, fell in love with the community, and clearly saw the benefits. They saw the level of education, which my father would always place a huge value on, as well as the emphasis placed on character development.”

Fosten and Beverly came from humble beginnings—Fosten was a first-generation immigrant from Canada. Hawley explained: “His entire family immigrated from Canada.

One of the main reasons my grandparents chose to do that was to get a better education for their children. All three sons graduated from Mahtomedi and all three went to college, too.”

After meeting in high school, Fosten and Beverly were married for more than 50 years. Fosten served in the Army and Bradley was born just after his return from duty. Fosten worked at the Red Owl grocery store before moving to human resources with Hamm’s Brewery and then Honeywell. “He was the vice president of human relations at Honeywell and served on the executive team. He did that for 12 years, which is quite unheard of at that level and speaks volumes as to who my dad was,” Hawley shared.

“The house was my mom’s job and she did it very well!”

Hawley laughed. “If you speak to anyone who knew my parents, they would remark about their strong partnership.

They were always a team and they had a very solid marriage.

Even though my dad was successful, everyone knew how much my mom supported my dad and vice versa.”

Hawley recalled a very difficult time in the family’s life, which inspired her parents to make provisions for MPA in their will.

To have a school that sets kids up for the best possible success is hugely important and valuable. It didn’t surprise me at all that my parents were going to continue to invest in that beyond their lives.

Amy Hawley MPA Parent and Daughter of Beverly and Fosten Boyle “They probably decided to leave a legacy gift after Bradley passed away suddenly in 2008. You see the school through a different lens when something like that happens. The support that our entire family received was remarkable. If they had a commitment prior to that, I know they made a larger one after that,” said Hawley.

In the years to come, Brendan was their connection to Bradley and they were overjoyed to see Brendan thrive at MPA. Beverly was able to see Brendan graduate, an achievement that was very important to them as a couple. “That’s some of the meaning—it’s hard to put that into words,” shared Hawley.

Beverly and Fosten were thoughtful givers who gave to improve our world, not for public recognition. “They didn’t give to many places upon their passing. If their heart moved them and they believed in the cause, they gave. By giving to MPA, they were investing in a place that was very important to the whole of the family,” Hawley shared.

After graduating from MPA, Brendan went to North Carolina State University, where he is a pre-med major. All four of the Hawley children are thriving on campus and benefitting from the gift of their grandparents, who would be so proud to see just how each of them is blossoming. “Our entire family wants to see the school succeed for generations to come. A strong education is the key to a successful life, however one chooses to define that. To have a school like this, that sets kids up for the best possible success, is hugely important and valuable. It didn’t surprise me at all that my parents were going to continue to invest in that beyond their lives.”

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NON PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID TWIN CITIES, MN

2051 Larpenteur Avenue East Saint Paul, MN 55109

PERMIT NO. 4800

651-777-2555 moundsparkacademy.org

STAY ON CAMPUS FOR SUMMER AT MPA! JUNE 12–AUGUST 11 June 12–16: Panther Camp | Mad Scientist’s Lab June 19–23: Lower and Middle School Enrichment Classes June 26–30: Lower and Middle School Enrichment Classes

at

July 3–7: Panther Camp | Party in the USA July 10–14: Panther Camp | Camp Contraptions July 17–21: Panther Camp | Adventure Week July 24–28: Panther Camp | Wild World of Animals July 31–August 4: Panther Camp | Summer Celebration August 7–11: Panther Camp | Wizard School Visit moundsparkacademy.org/summer for more information and to register!

We are excited to have you on campus this summer!

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