Morgan Park Academy

Mrs. Kurut is the best!

Our series on the continues with Diego, our valedictorian, who earned Early Decision acceptance to Northwestern University, where he plans to study biological science on a pre-med track.

“As his English teacher for the past three years, I can say Diego is ‘an excellent student’ and ‘a pleasure to have in class.’ These observations should come as no surprise to anyone who knows him, and I am sure he has read comments like that on his report cards since kindergarten.

“Here’s a deeper truth: Diego is an antidote for a pessimistic vision of the future. He is an honestly good person who brings positive energy to any conversation. Besides being smart, he’s unassuming, kind, and dependable.

“As a scholar, Diego has a healthy curiosity about the world; he wants to find the why behind the what. Diego is willing to take risks in class discussion because he knows it is a good problem-solving strategy. He’s not just about the product, but the process.

“Throughout high school, Diego has been a highly accomplished competitive rock climber — and I can see why. It presents him with a mental and physical challenge. After MPA, I know he will keep climbing to ever greater heights, not to be ‘king of the hill,’ but to enjoy the view.”

— Ms. Carey

Explore the tag to see more of our fantastic graduating seniors — and stay tuned as the series continues!

Northwestern University

Our series on the continues with Jasmine, who plans to study political science at Clark Atlanta University.

“Jasmine is a strong, independent person whose confidence shines in every interaction, whether with her peers or adults. Her laugh is truly infectious, and she has a natural way of bringing joy and excitement to those around her. She turned her love of travel and her calm, rich voice into a thoughtful ‘where to go and what to eat’ podcast, sharing a piece of herself with others.

“On the tennis courts, she stood out not just for her skill, but for her determination and presence, and she helped make experiences like prom unforgettable for everyone.

“Jasmine has made this place brighter, warmer, and more fun simply by being herself. As she moves on, she will be deeply missed, but there’s no doubt she’ll continue to make a meaningful impact wherever she goes.”

— Mr. Ellis

Explore the tag to see more of our fantastic graduating seniors — and stay tuned as the series continues!

Our series on the continues with Chloe, who plans to study health sciences at Central Michigan University.

“Chloe is kind, friendly, and gracious, with a genuine warmth that makes others feel welcome and supported. She approaches everything she does with care and integrity, holding herself to a high standard and consistently striving to do her very best.

“Chloe first appeared in my art room during her freshman year, and from day one, it was clear she possessed a true artistic soul. She has never been one to submit work that falls short of her own expectations; regardless of deadlines, she remained dedicated until each piece reached a level she felt proud of. Her quiet determination and strong work ethic set her apart, and her willingness to revisit, refine, and grow has been remarkable to witness. Chloe’s gentle nature is reflected in her artwork, which is thoughtfully composed, meticulously detailed, and delicately rendered, revealing both patience and a deep sensitivity to her subject matter.

“Over the past four years, Chloe has taken every visual art class available, continually challenging herself and expanding her skills. Her resilience, curiosity, and passion have not only shaped her own growth but have also inspired those around her. She leads by example, showing that dedication, humility, and perseverance are just as important as talent.”

— Ms. Bloch

Explore the tag to see more of our fantastic graduating seniors — and stay tuned as the series continues!

Last call for raffle tickets!

In partnership with The Law Offices of Theodore London & Associates, we are offering a limited-time raffle for a $5,000 comprehensive estate planning package. This package is designed to help you or your family complete essential legal planning — something many intend to do but often delay.

Raffle tickets are $100 apiece, or $250 for 3 tickets. Only 50 entries are available!

Tickets: https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/donor-form/?svcid=renxt&formId=a8cbc128-bd2c-41ea-92ed-c5505f917209&envid=p-EfA0nWjEMUyoc_jiaL801Q&zone=usa

All-inclusive Estate Planning Package | $5,000 Value
* Living Trust: Helps protect your privacy, safeguard assets, and avoid probate.
* Certificate of Trust: Verifies your trust’s authority without disclosing private details.
* Quitclaim Deed Recording: Transfers property into your trust.
* Powers of Attorney (Two Sets):
* Healthcare Power of Attorney: Appoints a trusted individual to make medical decisions.
* Durable Power of Attorney: Ensures financial matters are managed effectively.
Tickets are available through Wednesday, May 27, with the winner announced on Friday, May 29.

Beyond the chance to win, every ticket directly supports the Innovation Fund, helping us continue to strengthen and advance MPA within our community.

Please email [email protected] with any questions.

Our series on the continues with Lilith, who plans to major in statistics and musical theatre and minor in art at Boston University after earning Early Decision acceptance.

“Even though I only got to know Lilith over these past two years, it feels much longer. I still remember when she came to ask whether AP Chemistry and my teaching style would work for her. That conversation showed something I came to appreciate quickly: Lilith thinks carefully about what she is stepping into, and she is honest about what she needs in order to succeed.

“Before I ever had her as a student, I knew who she was because I had seen her perform. I remember being genuinely struck by her voice, especially the emotion and control she was able to carry through it. I do not say that lightly, because I have always found it difficult to compliment something unless I truly mean it. Even then, it was clear that performance mattered to her in a way that went beyond simply being in a show.

“When I actually got to know Lilith, what stood out was her bluntness. She speaks directly, with nothing extra added to soften it. To some, that can feel harsh, but to me, it felt like a breath of fresh air. Over time, I came to see her as powerful and deeply genuine. She stands up for herself and says what needs saying, while still showing real vulnerability, which takes its own strength.

“Some of my favorite memories will always be the lunches, conversations, and moments after school with Lilith, Grant, and Jenny. As Lilith moves toward becoming an actuary, I hope her love for math keeps giving her direction, and I hope she never loses the artistic, intense parts of herself that made her unforgettable.”

— Mr. Villanueva

Explore the tag to see more of our fantastic graduating seniors — and stay tuned as the series continues!

Boston University

Our series on the continues with Cameryn, who plans to study psychology at Illinois State University.

“From her earliest days at MPA, it was apparent that Cameryn is a student possessing emotional intelligence, a quick wit, and big potential. Over the past four years, she has not only continuously risen to meet that academic potential, but continued to push its limits further and further in pace with her own growing abilities. Her calm confidence reveals itself in the kindness she shows her peers and teachers, her well-defined sense of fashion and self, and the passion she brings to her classes.”

— Profe. Svarlien

Explore the tag to see more of our fantastic graduating seniors — and stay tuned as the series continues!

Illinois State University

🎭📚 Fourth-graders wowed us with their Wax Museum projects, researching giants of history and then performing as museum figures who come to life with the press of a button. Their creativity, knowledge, and presentation skills made for an unforgettable interactive learning experience!

We’re having a blast at Academy Day, our annual field day and carnival, with fun and games for all ages!

☕ From business plan to campus destination.

When Morgan Park Academy’s BPA Coffee Corner opened its doors in January, it was more than just a new place to grab a latte — it was an opportunity for students to put entrepreneurship into practice. Just a few months later, that vision has exceeded expectations.

Designed, launched, and operated entirely by our Business Professionals of America students, the Coffee Corner has become a popular gathering spot at the beginning and end of the school day. Along the way, students have gained firsthand experience in budgeting, inventory management, marketing, customer service, teamwork, and leadership — learning lessons that simply can’t be taught from a textbook alone.

What began as a BPA entrepreneurial challenge has evolved into a thriving student-run business and a shining example of experiential learning at MPA. Every cup served represents hours of planning, problem-solving, and collaboration.

We’re incredibly proud of our BPA students for turning an idea into a lasting success and creating something that has become a valued part of campus life. Their hard work, professionalism, and entrepreneurial spirit continue to demonstrate what’s possible when students are empowered to lead, create, and make an impact.

Business Professionals of America