ST. LOUIS PARK, Minn. — Benilde-St. Margaret’s — a catholic school that started in 1907 — is a place steeped in history, a place where a history-making educator walks the halls.
Mike Jeremiah, a theology teacher, is the school’s longest-serving employee. He started in 1975, the year the school went co-ed.
Danielle Hermanny is the School President. She says 50 years in education is rare.
“I think Mike J would tell you for him, it’s a holy calling, to do what he does,” she said.
A walk through the cafeteria shows what he does is enthusiastically received. Students of all ages gravitate towards Jeremiah. One student says it’s his kindness.
“I guess I just love kids,” Jeremiah said.
He was studying to become a priest when he decided to change course and focus on teaching full-time.
“The sisters of St. Margaret’s said, ‘We are doing a merger with this boys’ school, would you ever consider that?’ Definitely,” Jeremiah said. “I came out here, interviewed and I got the job. I started in the fall of ’75, the year of the merger and I have been here ever since.”