Welcome to Mariner Middle School
Mariner Middle School strives to empower active learners in an emotionally supportive and engaging educational environment.
Mariner Middle School has been named a 2025-26 Minnesota School of Excellence, an honor awarded by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association (MESPA). This status is given to a select group of Minnesota schools that sustained a one-to two-year commitment of research and self-reflection to improve their schools. Their peer-reviewed application is centered around six standards of effective schools. Through purposeful systems, collaborative leadership, and an unwavering focus on improvement, Mariner Middle School has built an environment where both staff and students are supported to do their best work.
In response to the honor, Principal Christina Pierre recognized the value of a supportive school team. “This honor reflects the incredible community that is at the heart of Mariner Middle School. I am proud of the work we have done to ensure that Mariner is a place where students, families, and educators can thrive.”
“Mariner Middle School is what excellence looks like through their commitment to listening deeply, acting with purpose, and investing in well-being,” said MESPA Executive Director Michelle Krell. “Their work demonstrates the powerful outcomes possible when leadership is responsive and asset-based.”
History of Mariner
Our Mission
At Mariner Middle School, we:
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Love our diversity it is an important part of who we are
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Want our community to feel like a family that is nurturing, respectful and fun
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Value our students’ unique strengths and abilities, in and out of school
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Embrace each student’s growth and changing identity
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Strive to create quality, caring people who are lifelong learners
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Commit to the success of every student
I love the energy, enthusiasm and open-mindedness of middle school students. I enjoy spending time in classrooms, meeting with students, and collaborating with parents and teachers. During middle school, students become capable of learning more complex material. They also become increasingly independent and self-reliant. Middle school is an exciting and important time for students! I've worked in the White Bear Lake School District since 1994. I taught mathematics in the middle school and high school, then served as an associate principal at both campuses of the high school. I believe schools are most effective when school leaders work together with parents and teachers to help students succeed.
Mariner Middle School is an incredible place to teach and learn. As the Associate Principal at Mariner Middle School my purpose is to ensure all students are safe, all students belong, and all students learn. I have been an instructional leader for White Bear Lake Area Schools since 2016. My teaching background is in Physical Education, Adapted Physical Education, and Health. I am a Google Certified Educator, Trainer, and Innovator. I am committed to continual improvement and I believe in aligning initiatives to a shared strategic vision. This is going to be an incredible school year. I look forward to seeing you in the hallways. Go Bears!
Middle school is such a pivotal time in the lives of students and their families. I am beyond excited to serve during the process. As the Dean of Mariner Middle School I am committed to upholding the school's values around creating a safe and equitable learning environment for all students. I have served as an educator for over 12 years and most recently as the district wide MTSS coordinator (Multi-tiered System of Supports) here in the WBLAS. My background is in equity and PBIS work (Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports). I believe in proactive solutions that allow students the ability to maintain their dignity and unique characteristics! I look forward to the coming school year and being a part of the Mariner Middle School family. Go Bears!!