A Lifetime of Leading, Loving, and Serving

Mrs. Anna Marie Bergeland, a longstanding teacher at Stella Maris Academy who is affectionately known as "Mrs. B" to her community, sat down to share her inspiring journey and the profound impact on Duluth Catholic education in her life. Her story is a testament to the power of a receptive heart, community, faith, and unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds.

Mrs. B's journey with Stella Maris Academy began serendipitously. "Well, actually the school found me," she recalls. A chance connection through a former neighbor led to an interview with Sister Peter Damian, the principal at the time. What started as a part-time position teaching physical education quickly blossomed into a full-time role and a lifelong calling. "I never ever dreamed I'd work in a Catholic school," she admits, reflecting on her initial job search in the public school system. Yet, the warmth and active involvement of the families at Stella Maris Academy drew her in, creating a sense of belonging that has lasted for decades.

The school's mission of "leading, loving, and serving" resonates deeply with her. She finds joy in the weekly Mass, where students take an active role in every aspect of the service. "I love so much that the kids are doing the whole Mass," she enthuses. "It does so much more beyond what we see them doing. They become really good public speakers, and they're very comfortable being in front of people when they speak." This hands-on approach to faith and education exemplifies the school's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Mrs. B's dedication to Stella Maris Academy was put to the test during a personal crisis when her son was diagnosed with leukemia. The outpouring of support from the school community during this challenging time solidified her bond with the institution. "So many people on staff stepped up," she remembers gratefully. "We had a wonderful priest at the time, and he said, 'Don't worry about things. We'll take care of everything for you.'" This experience underscored the school's commitment to supporting families in crisis, going beyond mere academics to provide a true community of care.

The impact of Mrs. B's tenure at Stella Maris Academy extends far beyond her classroom. She takes pride in helping new teachers, ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed. "I want them to be successful. I want the school above all to be successful," she states emphatically. Her dedication to the school's reputation and her willingness to go above and beyond have made her an invaluable asset to the Stella Maris community.

While changes over the years have brought challenges, such as the loss of teaching middle school grades, her enthusiasm for her work remains undiminished. She cherishes the relationships she builds with students and the joy of seeing them grow year after year. "I used to love when my older kids would come in my office, just to sit and chit-chat," she reminisces, highlighting the unique bond she forms with her students.

The rewards of teaching at Stella Maris Academy continue long after students graduate. Mrs. B beamed with pride as she shared, "I feel very honored by these students, to the point where they're graduating from high school, and I get an invitation to their graduation parties. I've been invited to students' weddings before." These enduring connections are a testament to the lasting impact of the education and values imparted at Stella Maris Academy.

Looking to the future, Mrs. B is optimistic about the continued success and growth of Stella Maris Academy. The school's reputation for excellence in education and character development has led to increasing enrollment, with many families seeking alternatives to public education. "We keep getting more and more students every year," she notes. "I think what we're doing and what people are hearing about us speaks for itself."

A poignant anecdote from a parent underscores the transformative power of the Stella Maris experience. Mrs. B recounted, "We have a family here... the mom told me this story. She said, 'We were on your waiting list for a couple of years.'... After a couple of months being here, she said, 'We made a huge mistake. I wish we would have had our kids from day one in the school. That's how amazing this school is.'"

As Stella Maris Academy continues to fulfill its mission of transforming the world one student at a time, Mrs. B's unwavering dedication and the school's commitment to excellence in Catholic education stand as beacons of hope and inspiration. Her story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact educators can have on the lives of their students and the enduring value of a faith-based education in shaping future generations.