SMA secures facilities for new high school
Today Stella Maris Academy closed on the purchase of a building and property to house its upcoming high school, promising a bright future for the academy.
The facility, previously known as the Hills Youth and Family Services, closed to clients on June 30, 2021. Shortly thereafter, Stella Maris Academy submitted a purchase offer, accepted on August 23, 2021. Secured entirely by private donations, the buildings, property, and 140 acres of land directly adjacent to St. John’s parish and campus were purchased for $4 million, returning the facility to its Catholic origins.
Aided by this purchase, Stella Maris Academy will be opening its doors in the fall of 2022 to welcome the first traditional Catholic high school class to Duluth in more than 50 years, creating a continuum of Catholic school education that spans early childhood through post-secondary education.
The opening of the facility will take place in phases, beginning with academy leadership relocating operations to the building later this year. With a 140-acre property that includes a main campus building, gymnasium, and numerous outbuildings, the academy will support unique and meaningful learning opportunities for students at Stella Maris Academy. Students will benefit from an expansive facility that they can grow into and truly embrace God’s creation. From outdoor recreation to environmental sciences to conservation, this property lends so much opportunity to its students.
President of Stella Maris Academy, Mr. Andrew Hilliker said, “Many people have been working hard and praying for a long-term, viable place to welcome students to high school in the Fall of 2022. This property is bringing our efforts and goals to a very real and meaningful place. Our students will feel the benefits of this for years to come and we are forever grateful for the opportunity.”
The facility opened originally in 1910 as St. James Orphanage, operated by the Diocese of Duluth. Fr. Richard Partika, who lived at the orphanage as a child, celebrated his first Mass at the chapel in the building that exists today. In 1971, the diocese sold the property and orphanage to Woodland Hills, where it remained through the end of September with The Hills Youth and Family Services providing residential treatment to youth from around the region. During this time, multiple renovations and additions occurred on the property. As Stella Maris Academy grows into the building, renovations will be made appropriate for use as a learning center.
Later this year, Stella Maris Academy will welcome its students, families, local parishes, and the wider Duluth community to the property with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating this momentous occasion. A date has yet to be determined.