When math teacher Betty Baerg was named a Teacher of Excellence by the Adventist Alumni Association (AAA) in 2003, husband Bob, Monterey Bay Academy’s (MBA) science teacher, was not be far behind. He was named a Teacher of Excellence for 2004.

Throughout their distinguished 38-year careers, Betty and Bob have received many awards together, including the Zapara Excellence in Teaching Award in 1991 and La Sierra University’s co-Alumni of the Year in 1985.

“We’re a good team,” Bob said. “I’m very humbled. It is my passion to be on the cutting edge of academic excellence in the classroom.”

That passion has also continued outside of the classroom with Bob’s dedication to the academy’s audio/visual needs. “Not only is he a master in the classroom, but the amazing number of hours he puts in outside his classroom to continually improve Adventist education has always been inspiring to me,” says Principal Bill Keresoma.

Dr. Ramona Clark, class of ’57 and a current school board member, sent her five children to MBA. “I am very grateful to Bob and Betty Baerg for their outstanding teaching in math and science. Three of them pursued related careers as a commercial airline pilot, orthopedic surgeon and certified public accountant,” says Clark. “The Baergs’ impact as dedicated teachers and Christians is profound.”

As the Baergs retire this year, their impact will continue. Donna Baerg, their youngest daughter and the current vice principal at MBA, will become the academy’s new math teacher.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about Monterey Bay Academy, please contact Jason Mustard at 831-728-1481, ext. 1221, or by e-mail at info@montereybayacademy.org.