Mounds Park Academy | 2011–2012 Annual Report
What does it mean to you? At MPA, opportunity is at the core of our mission, our philosophy, and how we grow with our students every day. We believe that allowing our students to experience, explore and engage in a wide variety of activities and subjects not only deepens their everyday experience at school, but cultivates a life-long love of learning.
Here, our students truly do it all. Every day is an exercise in self-discovery, on a path to uncovering who they truly are and becoming who they were meant to be. Which is why we want to thank you for supporting MPA in the many ways that you do. Your generosity, passion and enthusiasm for MPA keeps the spirit of the school burning brightly every day and makes it abundanly clear that MPA is truly the place to be and become.
The hand-drawn headings that you see in this document were created by MPA Lower, Middle and Upper School students.
When Board Chair Robin Brooksbank asked Beth Averbeck and Charlene McEvoy to take on the challenge of the 2011-12 Annual Fund, they were ready to go. With children in all three divisions, Beth and Charlene felt they had a grasp on the importance of current parents to the Annual Fund initiatives as well as the need to grow alumni support. Whether it was
CO - CHAIR
Beth Averbeck Charlene McEvoy
EDUCATION– NEW PARENTS
Christina Beck Anne Brataas Lori Guggenheim
EDUCATION– ALUMNI
Kari Kunze-Hoeg Mike Velin ’06
handing out hot chocolate, calling through the night during GiveMN 2011 or giving their precious weekend hours to strategy sessions, Beth and Charlene did it all. GiveMN 2011 was a huge success story— MPA won a prize for being one of the top ten fundraisers in Minnesota. But GIVE MPA Day
ADVISORY/ STEWARDSHIP
Robin Brooksbank Lori Tapani Traci Tapani
PARTICIPATION
Amanda Campbell Missy McDonald Tammy Sinkfield
was even more fun. The spring push to give generated over $25,000 dollars to support Mounds Park Academy in just 24 hours. Beth and Charlene recommend a repeat experience. GROW Although we did not make the goal of $550,000, Beth and Charlene raised nearly $500,000—a grand total of $490,505.15.
CL ASS 2011
Every dollar raised makes an essential difference for our beloved faculty, growing
CALLER
body of alumni, and ultimately will enrich our students’ experiences in the classroom. Thank you Beth and Charlene for all of your hard work!
SUSTAIN/ STEWARDSHIP
Fay and Bob DeBellis Howard Green Ray Grinsteinner Char Ferlic Peter and Karla Myers Bridget Fitzgerald Cynthia Mueller Suzanne Strack Wade Peterson ’87
LEADER : $10,000 to $24,999
BUILDER : $1 ,000 to $2,499
US Bancorp Foundation
Anonymous
Ali and Joy Alizadeh
Wells Fargo Foundation - Educational
Brad and Lynn Berning
Anonymous (2)
Matching Gift Program
Tom and Karen Lansing
Ronald and Donna Bailey
Annie and Jim Winsor
Dan and Heidi McKeown
Karen and George Benz
Judith Wood
Ford and Catherine Nicholson
John P. Berdusco
Brenda and Wade Woodson
Nancy Simek
John and Ruth Bergerson
Jim Wright and Jeanne Danaher
Frank and Judith Tschida
James Blomquist
Charlotte Wilcox
Dana Boyle
MENTOR : $500 to $999
John Brower and Ellen Higgins
3M Foundation
PARTNER : $5,000 to $9,999
Larry and Linda Burstein
Anonymous (4)
Anonymous (2)
Jenean and Peter Cordon
Margaret and Randy Beahrs
Fosten and Beverly Boyle
Peter Dahlberg and Anuradha Tummala
Steve and Nancy Beck
Robert and Fay DeBellis
Michael Dai and Gail Engstrom
Kofi Bruce and Amy Christensen-Bruce
Jamie and Cindy Gardner
Matthew and Judith Dugas
Jim Caspers and Cory Pope
Paul and Lori Guggenheim
Ecolab Foundation
Martin and Julie Chambers
Kevin and Polly Hart
Lawrence and Lynn Ehren
Chris Colantti and Connie Sanborn
Jeremy and Tricia Hedberg
Brit Etzold
George and Erin Connolly
Jeffrey and Jacqueline Mudge
Michael and Joyce Eyerly
Deane C Manolis & Nancy G Manolis
Dwight Opperman
Rahoul Ghose and Lynne Bardy
Charitable Giving Fund
Target Corporation-Take Charge of Education
Alfred and Ingrid Lenz Harrison
Jim and Joanie Delamater
John and Dana Wood
Imation
Howard and Nancy Dunlavy
Pete Jacobs and Carol Hatcher
Fred and Carol Entwistle
ADVISOR : $2,500 to $4,999
Harvey and Suzanne Kaplan
Dan and Elizabeth Esch
Tamra and Rick Anderson
Anthony and Randee Killeen
Allan ’93 and Trine Flinn
Anonymous (2)
Maurice Kuypers and Denise Rutherford
Charles Flinn, Jr. and Elizabeth Hayden
Gregg and Robin Brooksbank
Randy and Jenny Lindrud
Judy and Steve Lewis
Courtenay Brown ’91
Ted and Aileen Lyle
Walter Galicich and Stefanie Swanson Galicich
Tom and Nancee Bruggeman
Betty Myers
Bretta Grinsteinner
James ’97 and Samantha Cordon
Leslie and Chris Neugent
Ray Grinsteinner
John and Gretchen Corkrean
Richard and Nancy Nicholson
Sixto Guiang and Jennifer Mehmel
Mike Downs and Ronit Yalon
Rob and Mary Nicoski
Joe and Shari Hammer
Troy Emmans
Diane Ogren and Jeffrey Hill
Bob and Nancy Harper
Todd and Tara Fruchterman
Stein Olson
Wally and Deborah Hilke
Gary and Ellen Galbavy
Dan O’Neill and Nancy Etzwiler
Mark and Andrea Honda
James and Joan Gardner
Christopher Parish ’95
Norman Jones and Sandra Schreur Jones
GiveMN
Bob and Jenny Peterson
Steve and Cathy Lauring
Annie and Howard Green
Tom and Dee Polacek
Joe and Chris Levesque
Randy Herman and Sharron FitzGerald
Andrew and Karen Portis
Jim and Dawn Loving
Vladimir and Silvia Hugec
Anudeep Rahil and Timinder Biring
Phil and Stephanie Martineau
Chris and Jeanine Jesmer
Rajendra and Anuja Rao
The McQuade Family
Mike and Martha Krikava
Robert Roach and Nancy Reid
Mr. John and Ms. Hanne Messerich
Alan and Sandy Law
Timothy and Melinda Samsel
Paul and Karen Montour
Medtronic Foundation
Jeff Schackor and Mary Eret
Morgan Stanley
Cynthia Meyer and Cynthia Mueller
Dr. Ronald and Mrs. Susan Schwartz
MPA Alumni Association
Jay and Catherine Millerhagen
Jim and Audrey Schwieger
Alan and Lynn Muir
Myers Foundation, Inc.
Securian Foundation
Chad Nicholson ’97
Peter and Karla Myers
Dan and Emily Shapiro
Pondie Nicholson Taylor ’02 and Mark Taylor
Brent and Melissa Peacock
The Strand Family Fund of The
Dr. and Mrs. Randall Norgard
Jim Poradek and Katharine Gotham
Saint Paul Foundation
Douglas A. Olson and Charlene E. McEvoy
Amy Smith
Lori Tapani and Daniel Sjoquist
Heather Parish ’92
Traci Tapani
Chris and Dwight Porter
United Health Group
Premier Banks
10–14 Years Consecutive Giving
20–24 Years Consecutive Giving
Matching Gift Company
15–19 Years Consecutive Giving
25+ Years Consecutive Giving
Faculty/Staff
David and Maria Reamer
Gina Wallraff
Jon and Grace Buck
Rich Rolfs and Mary Zygmunt Rolfs
Brian and Peggy Willett
Lisa Buck and John Wensman
Salem Foundation
William Zimmermann
Hien Bui
Michael and Jonelle Sampson ’01
Andrew ’93 and Margaret Burke
Tim and Mary Scanlan
DONOR : Up to $250
Rachel Bye and Rita Amendola
Kristin and Jay Schantzen
Leah Abbe Bloem
Annika Callaghan ’05
Joseph and Christi Schmitt
Mandy (Abdo) ’92 and Bill Sheahan
Cathryn Camacho ’04
Mark and Wendy Schrandt
Jill Abramson ’91 and Jonathan Malamy
Joseph Campanelli and Margaret Huff
Steve Siegel Family
Abdikafar Aden and Hawo Hersi
Amanda Campbell
Beth Slocum and Robin Brown
Alerus Financial
Arne and Susan Carlson
Stephen Spencer and Stephanie Sommer
Jonathan Allan ’03
Ann Caspar and Ravi Balasubrahmanyan
Joseph Springer and Joan Ireland
Drew Allen ’06
Jolene and Jon-Christopher Catudio
Tom and Lisa Staples
Ben and Therese Anderson
Dennis and Sara Cernohous
Rob and Amy Stolpestad
Jane and Mark Anderson
Amit and Namarta Chandra
Sanjay and Anju Syal
Michael Anderson ’06
Adam and Jennifer Ciresi
Peter and Suzanne Thompson
Ted and Joan Anderson
Rose Mary Colorafi
Peter and Mary Jo Thrane
Jennifer (Mace) Andrew ’96
Peter and Laura Colton
Edward ’93 and Megan Titcomb
Farhad Anklesaria and Krista Nelson
Randy Comfort and Lisa Fisher-Comfort
Norm Troullier and Christine Stanson
Anonymous (19)
Maureen Conway and Wayland Campbell
Mary B. Vergin
Abe and Kristen Appert
Ashley Cooper
Mike and Stephanie Vergin
John and Julie Appert
Patricia Corkrean
Colleen Winters and Erich Schwab
Todd and Tina Arsenault
John Cotterell ’04
Mike Wisniewski
Erik and Lisa Aunan
Richard Crabb ’00
Jennifer Austin-McGrath
Steven and Dianne Cunningham
MENTOR : $250 to $499
Bob and Julie Averbeck
Diane Dahl and Chuck Bransford
Anonymous
Jack and Kanta Awasthi
Neil and Marcia Dahlquist
John and Deb Campbell
Yazdan Bakhsh and Bassema Alsabbagh
Marina Dale and Brian Harms
Dr. Karl Chun and Ms. Jane Neumann
John Baldwin
Jennifer Daly
Anthony Collins and Bridget Fitzgerald
Asha Bandal ’00
Richard and Nancy Dana
Ken Dahlberg and Mari Espeland
Michael Bander and Ellen Rest
Richard Davis and Alice Roberts-Davis
Robert DeGregorio
Carolyn Bates
Vicki Day
Jose and Carolina Del Solar
Alain Baudry
Karl and Lainie DeBoer
Anne Devout Atchison and Randy Atchison
Julie Baum ’91
Dr. and Mrs. Jeff Dichter
Curtis and Lisa Dunn
Ruediger and Ana Baumgart
James and LeeAnn Diedrich
Larry Edwards and Missy McDonald
Rachelle Beauchane
David Dierenfield and Anne Street
Loren and Shirley Espeland
Shawn Beauchane
Mary Anne Dietz
David and Beth Finch
Carter and Christina Beck
Beverly and James Docherty
General Mills Box Tops for Education
Elin Beck ’08
Molly Dolan
Richard and Carol Gross
Mary and Bryan Beggin
Stephen and Sandra Dvorsky
Kemps Nickels for Schools
Dr. Richard and Mrs. Kay Bendel
Parker Eberwein
Ken Kixmoeller and Kim Otness
Stéphanie Bernatchez and Dennis Davidson
Don and Pat Effenberger
Lamont and Rebecca Koerner
Barbara Berwald
Robert and Kristen Ehren
William LeMire and Elizabeth Jansen LeMire
Frank Bezdicek
Jake and Laura Eibon
Tasslyn and Dan Magnusson
Joy Bigalke-Danielson
Joy and Loir Elazary
John and Sarah Myers
Emily (Spilseth) ’91 and Bryce Binstadt
Ann Entwistle ’02
Kevin Nepsund and Karen Ta
Kathleen Bischel Beddow and Earl Beddow
Markus and Sandra Erben
Curt and Anne Petersen
Brad and Angela Bliese
Joseph and Lynette Erchul
Wade Peterson ’87
Jessica Blue
Gregory Erickson and Jamie McNaughton
Jerry and Mona Poehling
Carolyn Borow and Brad Moore
Essilor Prescription Safety Eyewear
Chip and Suanne Sardi
Andrew Brainerd ’03
Daniel Ethier
Lawrence Schultz
Doug Braun-Harvey
Yuen Fai and Maria Ng
Patrick and Grace Spencer
Megan Bridges ’97
Danielle Faribault
Drs. Scott and Cristina Thomas
Tom and Heather Broneak
Ralph and Loanne Thrane
10–14 Years Consecutive Giving
20–24 Years Consecutive Giving
Matching Gift Company
15–19 Years Consecutive Giving
25+ Years Consecutive Giving
Faculty/Staff
William Fiedler and Ruth Martinez
Lisa Holter Ankel and Felix Ankel
Lee and Barb Lyons
Catherine Finch
Mr. and Mrs. Kristian J. Horvei ’00
Sheri (Boerbon) Lyons ’86 and Thomas Lyons
Melonie Fischer
Kelly Humphrey
Bill Madigan
Les and Meredith Forgosh
Joe and Tricia Hutton
Barry Madore and Kirstin Scanlan Madore
Robert and Laurie Foss
Carey and Warner Ide
William and Suzanne Magee
Robert M. Frame III
Nadine Smith Ide
Kevin Maione and Lisa Plaxton
Dr. and Mrs. Dominic Frecentese
Alex Isaac ’04
Vincent and Diane Mako
Marilyn Fritz Shardlow and John Shardlow
Sarah Jahn
Gordon Mammel ’03
Lisa, Kevin and Kaitlyn Gaeu
Kapil and Tina Jain
Yatheendhar and Nisha Manicka
Nick and Ingrid Gangestad
Douglas and Kimberly Jakway
David and Belinda Manolis
Karli Gasteazoro ’03
John and Carol Jakway
John Marien
Rachel Gates ’02
Scott and Mary Jane Jallen
Judith and Todd Marshall
Chris ’93 and Katie Gehrz
Beth Janke and Betsy Furman
Wayne and Patricia Marzolf
Shannon Gherty Anderson ’00
Brook ’93 and Anne Johnson
Michele Maturen
and Brad Anderson
Dan ’88 and Tanya Johnson
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin McElvain
Molly Gherty ’02
Don and Monica Johnson
Dave and Chris McGaha
Lisa Gilliland
Evelyn and Steve Johnson
Leman and Sharon McLean
William and Nancy Given
Joy Johnson
Laura McPherson ’04
Rosa Glade Arnold and Scott Arnold
Michael and Summer Johnson
Elizabeth Melton
Cheryl Godbout Bandal
Frank and Shiahid Judge
Hillary Mercer Graves ’96 and Richard Graves
Kevin and Linda Goodno
Philip and Rosanne Kaplan
Steven Merchant
Jon and Carla Grabanski
Lauren (Sperry) ’00 and Steve Kavan
Marian Messing ’07
Raymond Grabanski
Bryan Kelly ’07
Richard H. Meyer
Dr. John L. Grant and Mrs. Mary Buerkle-Grant
Peter Kieselbach ’06
Brian and Laura Millberg
Jim and Nansee Greeley
Thomas Kieselbach and Anna Davies
Amie and Jane Miller
Jeremy and Kristi (Wood) Green ’89
Yamini Kimmerle
John Miller
Eric ’91 and Kirsten Gregerson
Nicole and Aaron Koen
Judith A. Miller
Katie Gross ’01
Terese and David Koppen
Michael and Kimberly Miller
Kristin Gross ’05
Joe Kordosky
Paula Miller
Peg Guilfoyle and John Baillie
Karen Kozen-Lien
George Mills ’04
Wendy Gulden and Edgar Vant
Paul Kramer ’05
Tom Mischke and Rosie O’Brien
Dr. Christopher and Mrs. Monica Haas
Jeffrey and Robyn Kramer
Nancy Misra and Brian Stenquist
Daniel and Amy (Kemper) Haase ’90
Gerry and Marcia Kraut
Janet and Dan Moody
Clare Halloran ’03
Robert and Sheri Kreischer
Matt and Jane Moore
John Halloran and Dianne Wright
Sanjay and Tricia Kuba
Melinda and Jorma Moore
Ruth Hamberg ’05
Nathan and Amy (Effenberger) ’01 Kuchta
Satchel Moore ’04
Allan Hammel
Jan and Fred Kunze
Charles Moser
Doug and Diane Hands
Kari and Jeffrey Kunze-Hoeg
MPA Faculty
Shemeko Hang ’05
Nancy and David Lage
MPA World Language Department
Brian and Debra Hanson
Gaetan and Cheryl Lambiase
Lisa Mueller
Shimon and Roberta Harosh
Karen and Greg Langseth
Garrett Mulrooney and Anissa Mediger
John and Catherine Harvanko
Olivia Lansing ’06
Himadeep Muppidi and Anila Prabhu
Thomas E. Haskett and
Matthew and Shari Larson
Dan and Katie Murr
Patricia McJames Haskett
Soren Larson ’07
Bryanna and Michael Nagan
Jenelle (Charbonneau) Hastings ’98
Ann Laundry and Larry Doucette
Courtney Nagle and Scott Burnett
Doug and Jolayne Hauge
Jeffrey and Kelly Lavers
Michael and Donna Nathe
Fritz Hauschild ’03
Ue and Nhia Lee
Charlie and Jane Neimeyer
Nancy Hauschild
Louis and Janice Leichter
Gail and Jerry Neren
Chris and Amy Hawley
Alisa Lein ’96
Eric Netteberg and Julie Wrase
Teri Heil
Ken and Doreen Leopold
Brad and Lori Nidersson
Larry and Kim Heinemann
David and Mary Beth Lichtor
Betty and Glenn Nordling
Peter Hendrickson and Mindy Keskinen
David and Terryl Liebgott
Kari and Michael O’Keefe
Rose Hendrickson
Scott and Carrie Lindgren
Jesse Okie and Mary Harrington
Alexandra Hiniker ’05
Lisa Litchfield
Steve Olson and Diane Gobran
Gary and Carol Hitz
Gary and Mary Lunstad
Patrick Opatz and Stephanie Hawkinson
James and Sandy Hoeg
Will Lyle ’07
Gloria Ortega-Gerdts
Emily Osman ’06
Will and Jayne Sillman
Nan Wille and Richard Cecchettini
Patti and Kent Osman
Ranjit Singh and Anna Baxter-Singh
Carol and Anton Wilson
Jennifer and Timothy Otremba
Tammy Sinkfield
Scott and Nancy Wilson
Maureen Otwell
Cedric Skillon and Doneka Scott
The Wine Thief and Ale Jail
Adam Pabarcus ’03
Caitlin Smith ’02
Gayle Winegar
Lisa and Craig Pederson
Dr. James and Mrs. Joanne Smith
Art and Debbie Wineman
Scott Peeler and Amelia Becker
Dr. Kenneth and Ms. Karen Smith
Daniel and Genevieve Winga
Yorke and Lois Peeler
The Smith Family
Emily and Anderson Wingfield
Ed and Kris Pendergast
Richard Smith and Anne Bendel
WIPFLi
Philip Petermann
Sandy K. Smith and Gregory Giesen
Thomas Wolfe and Sally Silk
Kristine Petersen
Renee and David Sonka
Sum and Ka Ling Wong
Curtis and Linda Peterson
Paul and Claire Spilseth
Lisa and Jim Woodruff
Derek ’89 and Cheryl Peterson
Jay and Joni Springer
Adam Wooldridge
Dianne Peterson
SRI
Renee and David Wright
Garry and Mary Ann Peterson
Deedee Stacy
Jeff and Kris Wroblewski
Richard and Mary Jo Pfannenstein
Lawrence and Karen Stang
Katherine Young
William Platz and Todd Savage
John and Karen Staral
Robert Zeglovitch and Jane Young
Keith Pulling
David Steffes ’98
Dawn and Peter Zimmerman
Sadiq Punjani and Anila Habib
Katherine Steffes Dean ’97 and Matthew Dean
Russ Purdy and Amy Schneider Purdy
Elaine and Stuart Steinman
John and Kelsi Rahm
James Stewart and Florence Monsour
Mrs. V. J. Ramezzano
Renette and Scott Stinson
Theresa Reardon Offerman and Leo Offerman
Douglas Stone and Kristine Vick
Tony and Lori Reimers
Remi Stone
Kevin Rhodes and Melinda Lopes
Shane and Suzanne Strack
Trudy Richter
Peter and Wendy Sullivan
Valerie Rigsbee ’03
Pam and Sean Sutton
John and Julee Rimarcik
Eleanor Swanson
Joe Rose ’92
Quang Ta and Hoa Dang
Meg Rose ’89
Stephen and Angeline Tan
Mary Rossini and Bill Anderson
Sam Thao and Mee Vang
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph L Rozinka
Xiong and Ger Thao
Mansur and Nazifa Sajady
Xoua and See Thao
John Saltness
Mitch Thomsen and Sue Moses
Sue and Steve Samuelson
Edward ’93 and Megan Titcomb
Erik Sand ’03
Mani and Harini Upadhyaya
Erica Savage ’01
Christopher Utgaard ’92
Thomas and Judith Savage
Sharon Utgaard
Savy Source For Parents
Michael and Lisa Vale
Anne Roth Scalia
David and Nancy Van Dyke
Mark Scheible and Beth Wegner
John and Betsy Van Hecke
Mr. Chris and Mrs. Alison Schell
Patricia Vanderslice
Ginna Schultz and Alejandro Diaz Andrade #
Chris and Vallay Varro
Gary and Suzanne Schwartz
Scott and Sarah Veith
Laurel Schwartz ’11
Michael Velin ’06
Mike and Barb Scinto
Tom and Nancy Vick
Katy Selb
Sally Walker
Rollie and Murt Seltz
Todd Wandell ’95
Bradley Seum and Natalie Waters Seum
Renae Wantock
William ’88 and Stephanie Seymour
KaTrina and Paul Wentzel
Ellyn (Scibora) Shapiro ’91
Karen West ’06
Marc and Kathy Shapiro
Lyle and Colleen Wick
Stephanie and Patrick Shea
Gavin Wilkinson and Karlyn Peterson
10–14 Years Consecutive Giving
20–24 Years Consecutive Giving
Matching Gift Company
15–19 Years Consecutive Giving
25+ Years Consecutive Giving
Faculty/Staff
LEADERSHIP Carey Ide
2011-12 BOOK FESTIVAL “KINGDOM OF READING WHERE BOOKS RULE”
Chris Hawley
From March 5 to March 9, Mounds Park Academy was
Secretary
Amy Stolpestad
transformed into a magical kingdom of books, reading, fun, and
Treasurer
Shane Strack
mystery. Did you check out the enchanted forest? What about
President Vice President of Grade Reps Vice President of Funding
Beth Finch
the Middle School Café? While the Book Festival is primarily a
Lower School Co-Chairs Middle School Co-Chairs
DIVISIONAL REPRESENTATIVES
community building event, it also supports MPA’s commitment to
Sandra Schreur Jones
these funds have provided special book collections, reference
Mike Offstein
materials, a display case, furniture, author and illustrator visits,
Cindy Gardner
and much more.
reading and raises funds to support our library. Over the years,
Karen Kozen Upper School Chair
Chris Levesque
Developing the love of reading, the ability to connect with what inspires them, and the motivation to find the time in busy schedules for reading are our top priorities. As the “storehouse of knowledge,” the MPA Library staff ultimately seeks to provide students with the resources to inspire personal growth and a broader understanding of their world. Each year, the funds raised through the Book Festival and the generosity of the Parents Association help us accomplish this goal.
PHASE T WO TECHNOLOGY 2011-12 brought Phase Two of directed support from the Parents Association. The proceeds from fundraisers like the magazine drive, poinsettia sale, and spring plant sale were used to support the purchase and installation of a video projection system in the Nicholson Center. This has been a much needed addition to MPA, providing the opportunity for better presentation of information by speakers and increased access by our students to advanced technological presentation systems.
Abdallah Chocolate Shoppes Mandy (Abdo) ’92 and Bill Sheahan Afton Alps Recreation Area Afton House Inn Ali and Joy Alizadeh Ben and Therese Anderson* Tamra and Rick Anderson Anderson, Helgen, Davis & Nissen, LLC Anonymous (9)* Todd and Tina Arsenault* Arthur Murray Dance Studio ArtiCulture John P. Berdusco Bradley and Lynn Berning Emily (Spilseth) ’91 and Bryce Binstadt Bloomington Theatre and Art Center Dana Boyle Fosten and Beverly Boyle Breadsmith Gregg and Robin Brooksbank Greg Burger Cannon River Winery Jolene and Jon-Christopher Catudio Cedar Pet Clinic Dennis and Sara Cernohous Dr. Karl Chun and Ms. Jane Neumann* ComedySportz Twin Cities Como Zoo and Conservatory George and Erin Connolly* Jenean and Peter Cordon John and Gretchen Corkrean* Cossetta Italian Market Ken Dahlberg and Mari Espeland* Peter Dahlberg and Anuradha Tummala Marina Dale and Brian Harms Robert and Fay DeBellis Dick’s Sporting Goods Dodge Nature Center Downtowner Car Wash Robert and Kristen Ehren* Dan and Elizabeth Esch Les and Meredith Forgosh* Funkie Gardens Gary and Ellen Galbavy* Walter Galicich and Stefanie Swanson Galicich* Nick and Ingrid Gangestad Jamie and Cindy Gardner Gibbs Museum of Pioneer & Dakota Life Annie and Howard Green Ray Grinsteinner*
Paul and Lori Guggenheim*
Rob and Mary Nicoski
Shimon and Roberta Harosh*
Diane Ogren and Jeffrey Hill*
Kip and Nicole Hartung
Old Log Theater
Jeremy and Tricia Hedberg*
Douglas A. Olson and Charlene E. McEvoy*
Randy Herman and Sharron FitzGerald
Papa Murphy’s Take N Bake Pizza
History Theatre
Christopher Parish ’95*
Bret and Jennifer Hokanson
Park Square Theatre
Vladimir and Silvia Hugec
Brent and Melissa Peacock
Kelly Humphrey
Bob and Jenny Peterson
Joe and Tricia Hutton
Karlyn Peterson and Gavin Wilkinson
Hyatt Place
William Platz and Todd Savage
Illusion Theatre
Tom and Dee Polacek*
International Wolf Center
Pool and Yacht Club, Inc.
Douglas and Kimberly Jakway
Jim Poradek and Katharine Gotham
John and Carol Jakway
Chris and Dwight Porter
James Sewell Ballet
Prom Management Group Inc
Chris and Jeanine Jesmer*
Punch Neapolitan Pizza
Joe’s Garage Restaurant
Anudeep Rahil and Timinder Biring*
Norman Jones and Sandra Schreur Jones
John and Kelsi Rahm
Jungle Theater
David and Maria Reamer
Anthony and Randee Killeen*
Rich Rolfs and Mary Zygmunt Rolfs*
Nicole and Aaron Koen
Thomas Rudd and Patricia Furlong*
Kowalski’s Market
Amelia Ruth
Mike and Martha Krikava*
Deborah Sagstetter
Daniel and Julianne Lannon
Salute Dental
Kate Larson
Sue and Steve Samuelson
Matthew and Christine Larson
Kristin and Jay Schantzen
William LeMire and Elizabeth Jansen LeMire*
Lawrence Schultz*
Let’s Dish
Gary and Suzanne Schwartz*
Joe and Chris Levesque
Dr. Ronald and Mrs. Susan Schwartz
Lexus of Maplewood
Srinivasan Seshadri and Hema Ramaswamy*
Linder’s Garden Center and Greenhouses
Bradley Seum and Natalie Waters Seum
Lutsen Resort & Sea Villas
Ranjit Singh and Anna Baxter-Singh
MacPhail Center for Music
Todd Snell and Julia Garofalo Snell*
Bill Madigan
Patrick and Grace Spencer
William and Suzanne Magee
Jay and Joni Springer
Anthony and Michele Magistad
St. Paul Saints
Maplewood Audi
Stages Theatre Company
Maplewood Community Center
Renette and Scott Stinson
Maplewood Mercedes Benz
Rob and Amy Stolpestad*
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin McElvain
Sweatshop Health Club
Mr. John and Ms. Hanne Messerich*
Stephen and Angeline Tan
Michael and Kimberly Miller
Lori Tapani and Daniel Sjoquist*
Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Traci Tapani
Minnesota Children’s Museum
The Cottage House Inn
Minnesota Swarm Professional Lacrosse Team
The Minnesota Timberwolves
Minnesota Twins Baseball Club
The Red Balloon Bookshop
Minnesota Zoo
The Rivertown Inn
Miroslavich Photography
The Village Scoop
Mark Mossman
Dr. Scott and Dr. Cristina Thomas*
MPA Theater Department
Peter and Suzanne Thompson*
Lisa Mueller
Tiny Acorn Portraits
Peter and Karla Myers
Edward ’93 and Megan Titcomb
Courtney Nagle and Scott Burnett
Norm Troullier and Christine Stanson
Ford and Catherine Nicholson*
Ursula’s Wine Bar & Cafe Usborne Books Michael Velin ’06 Vertical Endeavors Warners’ Stellian Appliance Co Weisman Art Museum Zachari Wetz ’99 White Bear Lincoln Mercury, Inc. Wild Mountain - Taylors Falls Recreation Scott and Nancy Wilson* Zosha Winegar-Schultz ’12 Colleen Winters and Erich Schwab Renee and David Wright
Mounds Park Academy alumni are active in their communities in
Wuollet Bakery
ways that bring the mission of MPA alive throughout the world. We are grateful that those alumni also take a moment to give
*Faculty Sponsors and Fund-A-Need Donors
back to MPA. Below is the total class participation of giving to MPA—whether to the MPA Annual Fund, the Alumni Endowment for Financial Aid, Breakthrough Saint Paul, or other funds. Thank you! We are grateful for your support and proud of the difference you are making in the world.
Class % of Class Giving 1986 25% Ali and Joy Alizadeh Bob Averbeck John Brooksbank ’12 Dan Bruggeman Lisa Buck Pam Frecentese Jesse Golfis ’96 Katharine Gotham Chris and Jeanine Jesmer* MPA Class of 2016 MPA Class of 2017 MPA Class of 2018 MPA Class of 2019 MPA Class of 2020 MPA Class of 2021 MPA Class of 2022 MPA Class of 2023 MPA Class of 2024 MPA Class of 2025 Richard Meacock Dan O’Neill and Nan Etzwiler Doug Olson and Charlene McEvoy* Anna Orbovich ’08 Gloria Ortega Paul Peterson Kathleen Sheridan The Wine Thief and Ale Jail *Faculty Sponsors
1987 16% 1988 12% 1989 13% 1990 4% 1991 19% 1992 19% 1993 11% 1994 2% 1995 10% 1996 6% 1997 8% 1998 6% 1999 4% 2000 12% 2001 6% 2002 12% 2003 16% 2004 11% 2005 12% 2006 15% 2007
11% **
2008
4% **
2009
1% **
2010
No gifts received **
2011
1%**
Total:
11%
** Not actively solicited
1982 LEGACY SOCIET Y Karen and George Benz Fosten and Beverly Boyle Gregg and Robin Brooksbank Peter and Jenean Cordon Mike Downs and Ronit Yalon Suzanne and Bob Flotten James and Cindy Gardner James and Joan Gardner Lance ’93 and Betsy (Brewer) ’95 Harris Robert Kreischer Since the founding of MPA in 1982, our community has demonstrated considerable philanthropic generosity. That wonderful tradition continues with the 1982 Legacy Society. The 1982 Legacy Society is a group of benefactors who wish to support MPA’s
David and Susanna Meyer Peter B. and Karla Myers Gail and Jerry Neren
mission of educational excellence by including the school in their estate plans.
Ford Nicholson
Since the very beginning, MPA has offered a unique educational program that truly
Christopher Parish
develops the whole child – academically, artistically, and athletically. Members of the 1982 Legacy Society contribute to MPA’s continued ability to offer every student this individualized path to learning. In fact, that learning continues for a lifetime. An MPA experience helps alumni develop into knowledgeable, self-confident, ethical, and
Jesse Okie and Mary Harrington Brent and Melissa Peacock Wade M. Peterson Chris and Dwight Porter Susan and Bill Sands
compassionate adults.
Mary Ann Smith
The 1982 Legacy Society allows MPA to thank you for caring deeply about the
Glen Taylor
importance of education at MPA now and in the future. If you would like more
Sandy Kreischer Smith Louis and Camille Wainwright
information, please contact Mike Downs, Head of School, at 651-777-2555.
The Head’s Circle honors the gifts of those families that give $2,500 or more to the Annual Fund. This group of donors provides critical and substantial support to MPA’s operations. Their philanthropic leadership is part of what makes the difference between a great school and an extraordinary school. Gifts from Head’s Circle members directly impact the lives of students by ensuring the best quality teachers, the incredible co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and a mission driven focus from all members of the community.
Each year, the MPA Alumni Association offers a $500 grant for use towards an alumnus’ research, education or service project. The purpose of the grant is to support alumni activities that align with the MPA mission of global responsibility and life-long learning. The grant program was created in 2006 and it is funded entirely by alumni and community giving. It is open to any MPA graduate and it is awarded on an annual basis through a competitive application process.
2012 RECIPIENTS L ARA DEL AMATER ’06 traveled to Cusco, Peru and volunteered at CerviCusco, a non-profit medical clinic dedicated to preventing cervical cancer. The grant will support the work of the clinic in providing screenings to disenfranchised and impoverished Peruvian women.
BERYL K ACZMARCZIK ’08
traveled to Peru as a member
of Engineers Without Borders. She used the grant money to purchase a DNA extraction kit, which identifies pathogenic illnesses in water. The kit will help increase access to clean water in underdeveloped areas.
In May 2012, Mounds Park Academy was named a Malone
All incoming Mounds Park Academy students accepted to
Family Foundation Partner school. With a gift of $2 million
grades 7-9 with a demonstrated financial need are eligible
dollars from the Malone Family Foundation, MPA is now able
to apply for the Malone Scholar Program. Successful
to provide financial aid for high-achieving, low-income students
candidates will demonstrate the following characteristics:
attending MPA. Mounds Park Academy was one of 11 schools nationally in 2012 to receive this prestigious opportunity to serve talented students.
• Malone Scholars should be high achievers (generally top 5% of their class). • Malone Scholars should be highly involved and
The MPA Malone Scholars program is guided by the desire to
independent learners.
identify, enroll, and support these unique learners because the
• Malone Scholars should be effective communicators.
whole child philosophy and participatory, hands-on experiential
• Malone Scholars should act with respect and integrity.
education provided by outstanding experienced faculty members allow the very best educational opportunities for students to reach their full potential.
Dear Friends, Thank you so much for your commitment and support of Mounds Park Academy this past year. We’d like to use this opportunity to give you an update on funding and other activities that occurred in 2011-12. Parent and overall community participation in the 2011-12 MPA Annual Fund was commendably high, continuing the superb levels of participation the school has seen over the past few years. A special thank you to Beth Averbeck and Charlene McEvoy, who co-chaired the Annual Fund and helped the school achieve these great results. MPA is accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS), and 2011-12 was the final step in our seven-year reaccreditation cycle, the previous reaccreditation taking place in 2005. Reaccreditation is an opportunity for reflection and evaluation, and while this process requires extra work on the part of our faculty and staff, we welcomed it. The last step involves an on-site review by a visiting team of independent school administrators and teachers from around the country. We received the team’s final report this past spring and are grateful for the commendations and recommendations for growth addressed by the team. We’d like to give thanks to Nansee Greeley and Scott Peeler, our steering committee co-chairs, for their expert guidance. The reaccreditation process identified our greatest strength, strong student and faculty relationships, and we are proud to say it is a true MPA tradition. Close relationships between faculty and students are the centerpiece of our nurturing educational environment. From Lower to Upper school, our students view teachers as supportive adults, both inside and outside their classrooms, and it is this relationship that ultimately leads to an exceptional education. The visiting team from ISACS “witnessed magical teaching and engaged
Robin Brooksbank
learning happening throughout the school in authentic and
Chair, MPA Board of Trustees
creative ways.”
Mother of Julia ’09, John ’12 and Joe ’17
When you walk through the halls of MPA you’ve no doubt experienced the positive spirit and loyalty for the school community by students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends. As we continue in the 31st year at MPA, we know that
Mike Downs
change can bring opportunities and are both excited and
Head of School
committed to ensuring the school thrive for 30 more. Thank you for everything you do.
MPA ALUMNI ENDOWMENT FOR FINANCIAL AID
Michael Velin ’06
third grader until he graduated in 1992. It was
Patrick Wand ’03 and Scarlett Robinson
his hope that Mounds Park Academy never
The MPA Alumni Endowment for Financial Aid
Andrea Wedul ’95
become an elitist school.
reached an initial goal of raising $25,000 this
Gayle Winegar Mary Ann Lockhart
year. As a representative and leading fundraiser the first award of $1,000 to a member of
ALUMNI PARENT FINANCIAL AID FUND FOR DIVERSIT Y
the Class of 2013 along with a contribution
The purpose of the Alumni Parent Financial Aid
MIDDLE SCHOOL FIELD TRIP ENDOWMENT FUND
to the general financial aid fund for current
Fund for Diversity is to provide financial aid for
A new endowment in 2011-12, the purpose of
MPA students. This endowment honors MPA’s
students with demonstrated financial need at
the Middle School Field Trip Endowment Fund is
tradition of giving back to the school.
Mounds Park Academy. The donors hope this
to provide financial support for field trips in the
endowment will help to ensure that the MPA
Middle School. The funds from this endowment
Mandy (Abdo) ’92 and Bill Sheahan
student body remains a diverse population.
should support (but are not limited to) service
Jill Abramson ’91 and Jonathan Malamy
As such, first preference for awards should
learning, outdoor environmental education
Tamra and Rick Anderson
be to support and enhance diversity in the
and other field trips that support the curricula.
Jennifer (Mace) Andrew ’96
student population. Diversity shall be defined
The hope of the donor is that these funds will
Anonymous (7)
by the Head of School in collaboration with the
support the growth of these experiences when
Cathleen Bartholic ’06
academic leadership of Mounds Park Academy.
and as the financial situation of the school
for the endowment, Chris Parish ’95 presented
improves.
Julie Baum ’91 Megan Bridges ’97
Jesse Okie and Mary Harrington Anonymous
Courtenay Brown ’91 James ’97 and Samantha Cordon
COMING OF AGE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
ROBOTICS
Juliet Dana ’05
Anonymous
Fosten and Beverly Boyle
Mark ’95 and Mindy Farrell
Karen and George Benz
Neil and Marcia Dahlquist
Allan ’93 and Trine Flinn
Darrell Bigalke
FIRST
Brian Clarke ’02
Ramsis and Norma Gobran
Larry and Donna Found
MPA Parents Association
GiveMN
FINANCIAL AID – WASHINGTON DC TRIP
Clare Halloran ’03
Anonymous
Joseph Springer and Joan Ireland
Rachel Gates ’02
The REELL Foundation Sally Walker
Kerry Herman ’07 Michelle Hesterberg ’07
GENERAL ENDOWMENT
Kate Johnston ’98
Randy Herman and Sharron FitzGerald
THEATER DEPARTMENT
Daniel ’86 and Lauren Kaplan
Beth Slocum and Robin Brown
Anonymous (2)
Kari and Jeffrey Kunze-Hoeg
Christopher Ward ’98
Dr. Karl Chun and Ms. Jane Neumann Mike and Martha Krikava
Kimberly (Storey) ’90 and Drake ’88 Lightner Dr. and Mrs. Russell Luepker
INNOVATION FUND
Tim and Diane Law
Ande ’99 and Kristi (Anello) ’00 Lund
Anonymous (2)
Tom and Dee Polacek
Stanley Maragos ’95
MUSIC DEPARTMENT
YEARBOOK
Sarah O’Connor ’87 and Patrick Jackson
Garry and Mary Ann Peterson
Gary and Ellen Galbavy
Barry Madore and Kirstin Scanlan Madore
Jeffrey and Jacqueline Mudge
Adam Pabarcus ’03 Tripp Parker ’87
THE MAT THEW GARDNER ENDOWMENT FUND
Wade Peterson ’87
The purpose of the Matthew Gardner
Meg Rose ’89
Endowment Fund is to provide financial
Ellyn (Scibora) Shapiro ’91
aid each year for qualified students with
Rolf and Barbara Singford
demonstrated financial need at Mounds Park
Erika Strand ’95 and Daniel Olmos
Academy. This endowment honors the memory
Mitch Thomsen and Sue Moses
of Matthew Truman Gardner, who attended
Conor Toohey ’99
Mounds Park Academy on opening day as a
Christopher Parish ’95
Dr. Ronald and Mrs. Susan Schwartz
In honor of Mandy Abdo ’92
Keith Pulling
In honor of Kelvin Okada ’12
Wendy Schlenner
John Saltness
Amy Okada
Stephanie and Patrick Shea In honor of Lorraine Anderson
Beth Slocum and Robin Brown
In honor of Chris Parish ’95
Garrett Mulrooney and Anissa Mediger
Scott and Sarah Veith
Danielle Faribault
Nan Wille and Richard Cecchettini In memory of Auntie Nancy
Brian and Peggy Willett
In honor of Kristine Petersen
The Honda Kids
WIPFLi
Allan ’93 and Trine Flinn
In honor of Mary Beggin
In honor of Nick Dugas ’11
In honor of Chris Porter
Annie and Howard Green
and one year of college down!
Ford and Catherine Nicholson
Matthew and Judith Dugas In honor of Brock Bliese Brad and Angela Bliese
In honor of Karen Rossbach In honor of Allan Flinn ’93
Allan ’93 and Trine Flinn
Judy and Steve Lewis In honor of Quinn Campbell Doug Braun-Harvey
In honor of Mike Scinto In honor of John and Kaia Flinn
Marian Messing ’07
Charles Flinn, Jr. and Elizabeth Hayden In memory of Jan Caruth
In honor of Marilyn Shardlow
Dan O’Neill and Nan Etzwiler
In honor of Alayna Fox
Curt and Anne Petersen
Charlie and Jane Neimeyer
In honor of Chloe Castaneda ’12
In honor of Al Greimel
Jennifer Austin-McGrath
Marian Messing ’07
In honor of Martha Castellnos
In honor of Dan Haase
Allan ’93 and Trine Flinn
Allan ’93 and Trine Flinn
Mike and Martha Krikava
Annie and Howard Green
In honor of Jack Cotterrell ’04
In honor of the Humanities Teachers
Alex Isaac ’04
who shaped how I teach
Jennifer (Mace) Andrew ’96 In honor of Don Shult Babette and Jeffrey Apland In honor of Chris Staral ’06 John and Karen Staral In honor of the marriage of Susan and Loren Taple Philip and Rosanne Kaplan
Juliet Dana ’05 In memory of Catherine DeGregorio
Janet and Dan Moody In honor of Zosha Winegar-Schultz ’12 Lawrence Schultz
Frank Bezdicek
In honor of Chris Jensen
Rose Mary Colorafi
Brian Clarke ’02
In honor of the 12-year friendship of
Steven and Dianne Cunningham
Satchel Moore ’04
Zosha Winegar-Schultz ’12 and
Robert DeGregorio
Audrey Berdahl-Baldwin ’12
Mary Anne Dietz
In honor of Chris Kehoe ’04
Larry Edwards and Missy McDonald
Alex Isaac ’04
Joseph and Lynette Erchul
Gayle Winegar In honor of Renee Wright
Essilor Prescription Safety Eyewear
In memory of Alan Law
Allan ’93 and Trine Flinn
Lisa Gilliland
William LeMire and Elizabeth Jansen LeMire
Annie and Howard Green
Gary and Carol Hitz
In honor of the Middle School Faculty
In honor of Diane Yanchek
Karen and Greg Langseth
Dan O’Neill and Nan Etzwiler
Garrett Mulrooney and Anissa Mediger
Allan Hammel
Vincent and Diane Mako MPA World Language Department
In honor of Benjamin Neri
Alan and Lynn Muir
Melonie Fischer
Michael and Donna Nathe
(dollars in thousands) Current Assets
2012
2011
Cash and Cash Equivalents
2,198
2,619
Due from Breakthrough Saint Paul
87
–
Accounts Receivable Net of Allowance
2
33
Pledges Receivable - Current Position
28
156
Other Assets
92
161
2,407
2,969
23,061
23,963
–
96
5,032
2,892
135
450
Total Current Assets Property and Equipment, Net Other Assets Pledges Receivable, Net of Current Position Investments at Market Deposits with Bond Trustees Bond Issuance Costs Net of Amortization
333
353
5,500
3,791
30,968
30,723
Accounts Payable
90
247
Accrued Expenses
749
1,055
–
127
Deferred Revenue
944
931
Bonds Payable, Current Portion
345
325
Total Other Assets Total Assets
As of June 30, 2012
Current Liabilities
Due to Breakthrough Saint Paul
Bond Interest Payable Total Current Liabilites
21
22
2,149
2,707
Long-Term Liabilities Valuation of Interest Rate Swap Agreement
1,437
883
Bonds Payable, Net of Current Portion
7,773
8,117
Asset Retirement Obligation Total Long Term Liabilities Total Liabilities
199
189
9,409
9,189
11,558
11,896
14,767
16,318
609
573
Net Assets Unrestricted: Undesignated Temporarily Restricted Permanently Restricted
4,034
1,936
Total Net Assets
19,410
18,827
Total Liabilities and Net Assets
30,986
30,723
For the Year Ended June 30, 2012 (dollars in thousands) Revenue (net of Financial Aid $2,266K)
2012
Expenses
2012
Tuition and Related Fees
8,605
Instructional Programs
5,998
Malone Grant
2,000
General and Administrative
1,554
Contributions
699
Plant Operations and Maintenance
905
Auxillary Programs
502
Auxiliary Programs
604
Investment Return and Interest Earnings
180
Fundraising
380
Change in Valuation of Interest Rate Swap Other Revenue and Support
(554) 303
Total Revenue
11,735
Financing Expenses
450
Depreciation and Amortization
1,259
Total Expenses
11,150
*Excludes Breakthrough Saint Paul
2011–2012 Revenue
2011–2012 Expenses
Tuition and Related Fees
Instructional Programs
Malone Grant
General and Administrative
Contributions
Plant Operations and Maintenance
Auxillary Programs
Auxiliary Programs
Investment Return and Interest Earnings
Fundraising
Change in Valuation of Interest Rate Swap
Financing Expenses
Other Revenue and Support
Depreciation and Amortization
Down the hall, past the foreign language classrooms, is a stellar
Breakthrough Saint Paul students continued their exceptional
example of how Mounds Park Academy reaches out to the greater
work, toward the end goal of attending college, during the 2011-
community through Breakthrough Saint Paul. As a subsidiary
2012 school year. Well over 225 hours were spent in the hallways,
organization of MPA, Breakthrough works with 230 Saint Paul Public
classroom, cafeteria, recital hall and Nicholson Center over the course
School 7th through 12th grade students to help prepare them for
of the year. This time pays big dividends when BSP students become
college with an academically rigorous summer and school year
juniors and begin their work with BSP College Essay Coaches and
program. BSP employs a Students-Teaching-Students Model, which
the BSP College Counselor (see sidebar). Like the Class of 2011,
involves hiring older students who are passionate about education to
the members of BSP’s Class of 2012 graduated from high school
teach younger students during a six-week, full-time summer program.
and are now attending colleges across the country. The average
And if you heard cheering during a summer visit to MPA, then you
annual scholarship amount for the group is $23,000 and several
have witnessed the excitement and enthusiasm for learning that
earned prestigious awards, such as the Wallin Scholarship, The
encapsulates BSP!
Gates Millennium Scholarship and full rides to schools like Tufts and Occidental. All of BSP’s talented scholars have overcome adversity in
This year, Breakthrough Saint Paul celebrated its eighth summer
order to accomplish their goal of going to college.
at Mounds Park Academy with its annual Celebration event in the Nicholson Center. Nearly 500 family members, friends and BSP
By hosting Breakthrough Saint Paul, the Mounds Park Academy
supporters joined 120 Breakthrough Middle School students and
community is helping to ensure that Breakthrough Saint Paul’s
26 Aspiring Teacher Interns to watch the BSP students perform and
motivated students are able to go to college, regardless of the
display their summer learning in a Breakthrough-typical fun and
challenges they face.
enthusiastic way.
Breakthrough Saint Paul is able to provide the college counseling experience that MPA students receive thanks to MPA Alumni and professional College Counselor, Wade Peterson (’87). His focused work with the BSP juniors and seniors has garnered admission to schools like Stanford, Macalaster, Tufts and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, to name just a few. Students begin working with Wade one-on-one and in small groups during the spring of their junior year of high school. Wade surveys the students about their academic interests and helps to tailor a list of colleges that best suit the personality, needs and degree options of each individual BSP scholar. Wade also ensures that each student is participating in test-taking practice session so that their ACT and/ or SAT scores best reflect the students’ abilities. At the same time, MPA Alumni Parent and BSP Board member Chris Porter coordinates with students to assign them to a one-on-one college essay coach. As Wade puts it, “the college essay coaches, led by Chris Porter, do a phenomenal job of bringing out the special voices of BSP students. They really get the students to tell their own stories.” Throughout the fall, Wade expends tremendous energy making sure that the BSP seniors are on track to not only get applications submitted, but also ensure that the applications are top quality. Most importantly, Wade follows through on all aspects of the college application process in a way that the BSP students’ school counselors are unable to do because of time and capacity constraints. For this reason, BSP students are truly getting an independent school-like experience with their college counseling. When asked why working with BSP is so satisfying, Wade responded, “It is very gratifying working with students who are well-prepared, eager to learn, and ready for college. Most are first-generation college students, and this is a particular joy to see, as they are often the first in their family to head off to college.” Wade is helping to change the trajectory of many BSP families, as 83% of BSP students will be the first in their family to go to college and 59% speak a home language other than English. Going to college is a dream for many of our immigrant families and Wade’s work helps to ensure that the children are fulfilling that dream. Wade sums up the evolution of his time working with BSP: “In my three years working with BSP, I have grown to realize how special it is. I look forward each day to working with the amazing students and teachers. I think BSP meshes perfectly with the mission of MPA. I think BSP adds a lot to the MPA Community. It is a truly special organization. I encourage the MPA Community to become more involved with BSP.”
2051 Larpenteur Avenue East Saint Paul, MN 55109 651-777-2555 moundsparkacademy.org
Mission Statement 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.
What We Value • Students who are involved and engaged in their own education • An atmosphere of open discourse and academic rigor • A balance of academics, arts and athletics • Experiential learning led by exceptional faculty • Mutual respect and meaningful service • Technology as an integral part of learning • A school-wide spirit of innovation