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Family Focus 2-17-22

02/18/2022

Kris Sauer

2021-22, February 2022

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

February 17, 2022

Dear BA Families:

United in prayer. This week one of our students was in a tragic accident. He is recovering thanks to prayers and miracles. We ask for your continued prayers for Andrew Caron and the Caron family as he heals and recovers. What a blessing that we can come together to support and care for each other through prayer.

LONG WEEKEND AHEAD: Please don't forget that you have a long weekend. Friday, Feb. 18 and Monday, Feb. 21 are "No School Days." Not only is this a great opportunity for scholars to relax or travel, but it is also a great time to make up any late work.

APPRECIATION OF STAFF: Please thank your Faribault bus drivers and the BA van driver on Wednesday, Feb. 23 for Bus Driver Appreciation Day in our District. Cards and tokens of gratitude appreciated!

BA REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2022-23:  Enrollment is a two step process:
1) FACTS-this is where you re-enroll your scholar for next year and set up your payment plan. 2) TADS-this is where you go to complete a tuition assistance request, if desired. Award letters and tuition agreements are sent in May to enrolled students. SIGN UP BY MARCH 1 (deadline extended!) to take advantage of all scholarship offerings and BA covering the $10 FACTS enrollment fee. Reach out to Kris Sauer with questions or to set up time for support.

HIGH SCHOOL ACT SCIENCE PREP COURSE @ BA: Will your scholar be taking the ACT this April? Plan to attend the ACT Science Prep course, free to BA scholars, with Cathy Guth on Wed., March 9 from 6-8 p.m. and Sat., March 12 from 9-11 a.m. Scholars will need to attend both sessions to complete their preparation. ACT Prep is taught in our English and Math classes but science prep is offered annually through these workshops. SIGN UP in the BA Office by Feb. 25, no cost. REMINDER: ACT spring test sign up is also due by Feb. 25 online: (ACT Test SIGN  UP)

COVID Updates: Masks recommended. This week BA had one positive COVID case. We had two students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 61 COVID positive student cases and 9 staff. 

• BABS-April 9: Raffle tickets now available. Order yours HERE. Volunteers and auction items needed! See ideas on our webpage from group events to auction items (BABS link). Contact Teresa, our new Development & Marketing Assistant to donate your time, talent, or treasure.
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $280,445. What an incredible response! Gifts continue to be accepted through June 2022. Additional gifts help us increase staff salaries, expand programs and support for students, and care for our building and grounds: Donate Online (click)  
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are nearly at $7 million!

KUDOS: Thank you to all of our scholars and parents who came to help host a fantastic open house this past Sunday! We continue with shadow visits and tours and encourage you to invite others to consider joining the BA Family. Also, don't forget to check out the Paradise Center for the Arts art opening reception this Friday, Feb 18 featuring BA scholar, Summer Heselton!

• Feb 18: NO SCHOOL
• Feb 18: Paradise Center for the Arts gallery opening reception, 5-7pm
• Feb 21: NO SCHOOL
• Feb 23: Bus Driver Appreciation Day
• Feb 24: Gr 10 & 11 NET Retreat, Shieldsville
• Feb 28: Parent Class Registration Info Night (see below)
• March 1: No fee FACTS re-enrollment & TADS financial aid deadline for full scholarship consideration extended!
• March 1: 9th Grade Youth Frontiers Retreat @ BA (more info below)
• March 4: Class registration forms due, students grades 8-11
• March 4: Band & Choir Concert
• March 5: MS Robotics teams @ State; MS Honors Band in Austin
• March 10: Conferences (Sign up will be out next week)
• March 10: BAAA Easter Flower order deadline. Order yours HERE (Store ID=440); see below for more info & QR code
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

BA Activities Association (BAAA) Annual Easter Flower Fundraiser! This annual Easter flower fundraiser is now online! The BAAA will receive 30% of all plant sales, with proceeds going to offset the costs of athletic uniforms, choir robes, robotics fees, etc. Orders must be completed by 10 PM on Thursday, March 10. NO LATE ORDERS WILL BE ACCEPTED. Products can be picked up in the BA lobby April 12 & 13. Please contact your fundraiser chair: Clarice DeGrood or via 507-838-8073 with questions. Thank you for your support! Find the link to order HERE (Store ID = 440 and BA is the seller's name) or scan the QR code for a direct link: 

Tuition Tax Documents: Please remember that your tax deduction for tuition spans two school years. TADS information can be downloaded from your account under Reports/Tax Year. Find the process from obtaining tax information from FACTS HERE. 

 & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. The application deadline was just extended to March 1 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

PARENT SUPPORT PROGRAM: Phoenix Counseling, with a Catholic focus, is our counseling association and is available to BA parents. Please visit their website for videos and resources as part of the "Peace of Mind" for families supported by Catholic Schools' Center of Excellence. (Link to website). 

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

9th Grade Retreat March 1: 9th graders will participate in a Youth Frontiers Respect Retreat sponsored by the Rotary Club of Faribault here at BA. Please click HERE for more information about Youth Frontiers and to watch a video about the Respect Retreat. 

Class of 2022 College Scholarship & Other Info:
Tri-Lakes Sportsmen's Club will be offering a $500 dollar scholarship again this year to students with a love for the outdoors planning to attend a 2 or 4 year post-secondary program. Find the application HERE, due to Ms Roessler by March 10, 2022.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.  Deadline extended to March 1, 2022!

Friday Focus 2/11/22

02/14/2022

Kris Sauer

February 2022, 2021-22

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

February 11, 2022

Dear BA Families:

Discerning your vocation is a journey. Over the weekend I attended the Honor Band concert, stopped in to visit our Robotics Team and cheered on our Spelling Bee participants from afar. Our basketball teams and coop athletes continue to compete and excel. I am overjoyed to see our scholars thrive with their unique skills and gifts - a part of discerning God's special call for each of us. Thank you for partnering with us in this journey. Please join us on Sunday and invite families to our Open House, Feb. 13 from 11am-1pm!

APPRECIATION OF STAFF: This week was National Counselor's Week, see below. Send a card to Ms. Roessler to show your appreciation for all she does for our scholars. We also wish to thank our Lunch Ladies this week - send them a Valentine on Monday to show your love!

BA REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2022-23:  Enrollment is a two step process:
1) FACTS-this is where you re-enroll your scholar for next year and set up your payment plan. 2) TADS-this is where you go to complete a tuition assistance request, if desired. Award letters and tuition agreements are sent in May to enrolled students. SIGN UP BY FEB 22 to take advantage of BA covering the $10 FACTS enrollment fee and ensure your scholar's spot. Reach out to Kris Sauer with questions or to set up time for support.

COVID Updates: Masks recommended. This week BA had one positive COVID case. We had five students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 60 COVID positive student cases and 9 staff. Visit our COVID webpage for all the updated information. Find COVID testing sites HERE; one free at-home testing box available at school. BA will also have N95 masks available next week.

• BABS-April 9: Volunteers and auction items needed! See ideas on our webpage from group events to auction items (BABS link). Contact Teresa, our new Development & Marketing Assistant at tlebens@bacards.org to donate your time, talent, or treasure.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are nearly at $7 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $280,400. What an incredible response! Gifts continue to be accepted through June 2022. Additional gifts help us increase staff salaries, expand programs and support for students, and care for our building and grounds: Donate Online (click)  

KUDOS: Congratulations to Aiden Tobin for 100 wrestling wins! 

• Feb 13: Winter Open House; pre-register HERE
• Feb 14-17: 8th graders @ Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center
• Feb 18: NO SCHOOL
• Feb 21: NO SCHOOL
• Feb 22: No fee re-enrollment deadline; TADS financial aid deadline for full scholarship consideration.
• Feb 24: Gr 10 & 11 NET Retreat, Shieldsville
• March 1: 9th Grade Youth Frontiers Retreat @ BA (more info below)
• March 5: MS Robotics teams @ Stated
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

School Counseling Update: BA's school counselors, Shane Roessler and Stephen Uphus, wanted to share the following message and resources with our BA community: "The theme this year for National School Counseling Week is #Better Together.  School counselors work with students on their vocational/career plans, academic concerns and personal concerns.  For all of us, especially students, all three things tend to rely on the each other. School counseling is most successful when we work as a team.  That team includes other mental health professionals, school staff, school administration, parents and community members.  All of these members rely on one another to create the best environment for students to be successful.  We know that we are truly better together.  Thank you for working with us!"

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

PARENT SUPPORT PROGRAM: Phoenix Counseling, with a Catholic focus, is our counseling association and is available to BA parents. Please visit their website for videos and resources as part of the "Peace of Mind" for families supported by Catholic Schools' Center of Excellence. (Link to website). 

Tuition Tax Documents: Please remember that your tax deduction for tuition spans two school years. TADS information can be downloaded from your account under Reports/Tax Year. Find the process from obtaining tax information from FACTS HERE. 

 & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. Application deadline is February 22 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

9th Grade Retreat March 1: 9th graders will participate in a Youth Frontiers Respect Retreat sponsored by the Rotary Club of Faribault here at BA. Please click HERE for more information about Youth Frontiers and to watch a video about the Respect Retreat. 

Class of 2022 College Scholarship & Other Info:

Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) Students of Integrity Scholarship. BBB will award scholarships to high school seniors graduating in 2021-2022 school year, who personify all the best aspects of high character in their personal choices and actions. Recipients are selected primarily based on a written essay. The call for entries are open now and until the deadline of February 16, 2022, at 4pm. 

Tri-Lakes Sportsmen's Club will be offering a $500 dollar scholarship again this year to students with a love for the outdoors planning to attend a 2 or 4 year post-secondary program. Find the application HERE, due to Ms Roessler by March 10, 2022.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.

Family Focus 2-5-22

02/07/2022

Kris Sauer

2021-22, February 2022

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

February 5, 2022

Dear BA Families:

Welcome February! Despite the cold, the sun is shining and reminds me of how our Saints lead us in example and through the darkness of winter. In celebrating Catholic Schools' week reminds us of our Saints and the joy of living out our faith in our school communities. Help us spread the good word of our Catholic Schools of Faribault and invite families to our Open House, Feb. 13 from 11am-1pm!

BA REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2022-23:  We are pleased to also announce new CIS classes with Marquette University and extended courses through Catholic Virtual. More details will be in the curriculum guide that will be published in February. Sign up early and apply for financial aid via TADS to ensure the most financial aid opportunities for your scholar. Our school is growing; early registration is encouraged!

COVID Updates: Masks recommended. Return to a regular class schedule next week. This week BA did not have any positive COVID cases. We had five students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 59 COVID positive student cases and 9 staff test positive. Visit our COVID webpage for all the updated information. Find COVID testing sites HERE; one free at-home testing box available for each BA student. Stop in the front office. BA will also have N95 masks available later in February.

• BABS-April 9: Volunteers and auction items needed! See ideas on our webpage from group events, to auction items (BABS link). Contact Teresa, our new Development & Marketing Assistant at tlebens@bacards.org to donate your time, talent, or treasure.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are nearly at $7 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $269,500. We have surpassed our goal of $255,000! THANK YOU! If you haven't given, yet, please consider a gift through June 2022. Additional gifts help us increase staff salaries, expand programs, and care for our building and grounds: Donate Online (click)  
• Hyvee Easy Fundraising Idea: Need a reusable bag? When you purchase one at Hyvee they donate back to BA! Be sure to indicate us on your purchase! 

KUDOS: Congratulations to our Gopher Conference Honors Band participants Anne Azelton '25, Madelyn Bauer '22, Matthew Croke '22, Alaisha Garcia-Lopez '23, and  Penelope Parrish '24, and the following high school students who will have their artwork on display at the Gopher Conference Art Exhibition at WEM this weekend: Camryn Belmont '22, Justin Delesha '22, Isabella Dokkestul '24, Tyler Hogate '24, Amelia Pemrick '24, Zachary Velishek '24.

• Feb 5: Gopher Conference Honors Music Concert & Art Exhibit, 1:30pm @ WEM High School - see flyer below
• Feb 6: Rome Trip Bake Sale Fundraiser @ 8, 10, 12 DMCC Masses
• Feb 7: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Taco John's
• Feb 13: Winter Open House; pre-register HERE
• Feb 13-17: 8th graders @ Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center
• Feb 18: NO SCHOOL
• Feb 21: NO SCHOOL
• Feb 22: No fee re-enrollment deadline; TADS financial aid deadline for full scholarship consideration.
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

Rome Trip Bake Sale Fundraiser Feb 6 
BA students going on the Theology Department Rome Trip this June will be holding a fundraising bake sale following the 8am, 10am and 12pm Masses at Divine Mercy Catholic Church on Sunday, February 6. Please stop by for some tasty baked treats!

Tuition Tax Documents: Please remember that your tax deduction for tuition spans two school years. TADS information can be downloaded from your account under Reports/Tax Year. Find the process from obtaining tax information from FACTS HERE. 

 & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. Application deadline is February 22 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

Class of 2022 College Scholarship & Other Info:

Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) Students of Integrity Scholarship. BBB will award scholarships to high school seniors graduating in 2021-2022 school year, who personify all the best aspects of high character in their personal choices and actions. Recipients are selected primarily based on a written essay. The call for entries are open now and until the deadline of February 16, 2022, at 4pm. 

Tri-Lakes Sportsmen's Club will be offering a $500 dollar scholarship again this year to students with a love for the outdoors planning to attend a 2 or 4 year post-secondary program. Find the application HERE, due to Ms Roessler by March 10, 2022.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.

Family Focus 1-28-22

02/02/2022

Kris Sauer

2021-22, January 2022

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

January 28, 2022

Dear BA Families:

Happy Catholic Schools Week! Starting on Sunday, please join us at the 10 a.m. DMCC Mass as we celebrate with thousands of Catholic schools nationwide for Catholic Schools Week. As part of the week's celebration, BA students will participate in daily prayer, trivia and service projects: 1) A challenge to bring in as much non-perishable food items for St. Vincent de Paul as possible (winning class earns a pizza party); 2) Scholars will create Valentines and Thank You cards for area nursing homes and health care workers; 3) BA SnoBall Court will bring treats to their DMCS buddies. Share the great news about Faribault Catholic Schools and invite families to our Open House, Feb. 13 from 11am-1pm!

WIN Day - Wednesday, Feb. 2-No Regular Classes: This Wednesday is our second WIN day scheduled to help students who were out on quarantine make up missed assignments and tests. It is also an opportunity for students and teachers to schedule individual support as needed. The Middle School teachers coordinate their schedule and High School teachers set up a schedule with students. If you have a scholar who wants additional support, please have them set that time up with the teachers. Most teachers schedule students between 8-Noon, although other times can be arranged. Typically, in the afternoon, teachers attend meetings. We do not anticipate any additional WIN days, however, we remain flexible based on needs.

BA REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2022-23: NEED HELP? Stop in on Monday, Jan. 31 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for assistance with applying for aid and enrollment.  We are pleased to also announce new CIS classes with Marquette University and extended courses through Catholic Virtual. More details will be in the curriculum guide that will be published in February. Sign up early and apply for financial aid to ensure the most financial aid opportunities for your scholar. Our school is growing; early registration is encouraged!

COVID Updates: Masks recommended. This week BA had four scholars with positive COVID cases and eight students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 59 COVID positive student cases and 9 staff test positive. Visit our COVID webpage for all the updated information. Find COVID testing sites HERE; one free at-home testing box available for each BA student. Stop in the front office. BA will also have N95 masks available later in February.

• BABS-April 9: Our BIGGEST event of the year,  Bethlehem Academy Backers and Supporters (BABS)! New this year - featuring local restaurants, enticing games, musical entertainment and a live and silent auction! Our Fund-A-Need goal this year is to raise $75,000 for an additional BA student vehicle. Please plan to attend, meet other BA parents and alumni, and enjoy a night out! Volunteers and auction items needed! See ideas on our webpage from group events, to auction items (BABS link). Contact Teresa, our new Development & Marketing Assistant at tlebens@bacards.org to help. 
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are nearly at $7 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $269,500. We have surpassed our goal of $255,000! THANK YOU! If you haven't given, yet, please consider a gift through June 2022. Additional gifts help us increase staff salaries, expand programs, and care for our building and grounds: Donate Online (click)  
• Hyvee Easy Fundraising Idea: Need a reusable bag? When you purchase one at Hyvee they donate back to BA! Be sure to indicate us on your purchase! 

KUDOS: Congratulations to all of our Snoball candidates! Thank you to Brent Zabel, Sharie Piehl, and BA Staff for coordinating this week's activities. 

• Jan 29: SnoBall (Gr 9-12 semi-formal girl-ask-boy dance). Grand March & SnoBall Queen Coronation @ 8pm, dance ends at midnight. Livestream link HERE. Post-Prom SnoBash event 9-11:30pm @ Faribault's Elks Lodge
• Jan 30: Catholic Schools Week, BA Mass @ DMCC, 10am
• Jan 31: Enrollment & Financial Aid Registration Assistance Night @ BA, 4:30-6:30pm
• Jan 30-Feb 6: Catholic Schools Week, week-long food drive + other activities-see below for details
• Feb. 2: WIN Day-No regular classes. Students scheduled for support.
• Feb 3: Student of the Month, 7:30am, Cafeteria
• Feb 6: Rome Trip Bake Sale Fundraiser @ 8, 10, 12 DMCC Masses
• Feb 7: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Taco John's
• Feb 13: Winter Open House; pre-register HERE
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

Enrollment and Financial Aid Registration Assistance Night Jan 31: Having trouble logging in to FACTS? Need help filling out your enrollment or TADS financial aid form? We are here to help! Bring your passwords and financial documents to BA Monday, January 30 from 4:30-6:30pm. We will have staff on hand in Rm 106 to work with you. 

Welcome Stephen Uphus to the BA Team!
Hello, everyone! My name is Stephen Uphus, and I am the new counseling intern here at Bethlehem Academy for the middle school. I am currently pursuing my school counseling master's degree through Winona State University and will be working with Mrs. Roessler with middle school students for the duration of the academic semester until I finish my degree in May, when I (hopefully) can find a job as a school counselor! I am originally from Stillwater, MN and graduated from Saint John's University in 2017 with an undergrad in psychology. I spent the last two and a half years in the Lewiston-Altura school district, working as an administrative assistant, substitute teacher, and paraprofessional in both the high school and elementary school. Additionally, I have had the privilege of serving in the Minnesota Army National Guard since 2016 first as a tank crew member and now as a communications officer. My wife, Ashley (Radatz '13), is a graduate of BA and we are both excited that I have the opportunity to work in her old school! She and I moved to town about a month ago; we both love to travel, be outdoors, and spend time with family! I will be working out of BA on Tuesdays and am here to assist students with academic planning (both during and beyond high school), career readiness, and provide any other social/emotional support needed for their time in school. Please come say hello, I am looking forward to meeting and working with all of you! 

 & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. Application deadline is February 22 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

Class of 2022 College Scholarship & Other Info:

Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) Students of Integrity Scholarship. BBB will award scholarships to high school seniors graduating in 2021-2022 school year, who personify all the best aspects of high character in their personal choices and actions. Recipients are selected primarily based on a written essay. The call for entries are open now and until the deadline of February 16, 2022, at 4pm. 

Tri-Lakes Sportsmen's Club will be offering a $500 dollar scholarship again this year to students with a love for the outdoors planning to attend a 2 or 4 year post-secondary program. Find the application HERE, due to Ms Roessler by March 10, 2022.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.

Family Focus 1-21-22

01/24/2022

Kris Sauer

2021-22, January 2022

Leave a comment

"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

January 21, 2022

Dear BA Families:

Our BA scholars are back on track during this short but cold week! We gathered for Mass and Adoration as part of the national "9 Days for Life" which continues through to next Thursday. Our Peer & Campus Ministry students are collecting baby items or donations for Pregnancy Options. Please support us in prayers or a donation as we support life. You are also encouraged to join Minnesotan's on Saturday with the Parish at the Minnesota March for Life. (Email to confirm attendence)

CONGRATULATIONS TO SNOBALL CANDIDATES: This next week we kick of our Snoball Week activities! A fun winter tradition at BA, congratulations to our Court: Madelyn Bauer, Ellie Cohen, Mercedes Huerta, Molly Lund, and Jennifer Robert.  Here's a look at the schedule:

• Monday-Jan. 24: White Day (Full in-person learning) - PJ day
• Tuesday-Jan. 25: Red Day (Full in-person learning) - Beach day
• Wednesday-Jan. 26: WIN Learning Day- No regular classes but all students needing to make up assignments or tests or receive additional support should schedule time to come in and meet with teachers. Teachers will also be scheduling time with students
• Thursday-Jan. 27: White Day (Full in-person learning) - Jersey Day
• Friday-Jan. 28: Red Day (Full in-person learning) - Class Color Day: 6^th grade-red; 7^th grade-yellow; 8^th grade-green; 9^th grade-purple; 10^th grade-orange; 11^th grade-pink; 12^th grade-blue (1 p.m. Prayer Service & Snoball Court Activities)

BA REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2022-23: Announcing new CIS classes with Marquette University and extended courses through Catholic Virtual. More details to follow. Sign up early and apply for financial aid to ensure the most financial aid opportunities for your scholar. Our school is growing; early registration is encouraged!

COVID Updates: MASKS REQUIRED through Jan. 29. This week BA had five scholars with positive COVID cases and 10 students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 55 COVID positive student cases and 9 staff test positive. Visit our COVID webpage for all the updated information. Find COVID testing sites HERE; one free at-home testing box available for each BA student. Stop in the front office.

• BABS-April 9: Our BIGGEST event of the year,  Bethlehem Academy Backers and Supporters (BABS). This is great night out in support of BA! Food featuring local restaurants, games, entertainment and a live and silent auction are part of the evening. Our Fund-A-Need goal this year is to raise $75,000 for an additional BA student vehicle. Please plan to attend! Volunteers and auction items also needed! See ideas on our webpage from group events, to auction items (BABS link). Contact Teresa, our new Development & Marketing Assistant at tlebens@bacards.org to help. 
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $242,800. We are over 98% of the way to our goal of $255,000! If you haven't given, yet, please consider a gift through June 2022: Donate Online (click)  
• Hyvee Easy Fundraising Idea: Need a reusable bag? When you purchase one at Hyvee they donate back to BA! Be sure to indicate us on your purchase! 

KUDOS: To our scholars, families and staff during this recent increase in COVID cases. Thank you for your flexibility, your support, and your care.

• Jan 24-28, SnoBall Week: See above for dress down theme days.
• Jan 28: Campus Ministry Pregnancy Options drive deadline
• Jan 28: Youth Basketball/Future Cardinal Night @ boys basketball game; sign up HERE. 
• Jan 29: SnoBall (Gr 9-12 semi-formal girl-ask-boy dance) + Post-Prom SnoBash event; see more info in high school section below.
• Jan 30: Catholic Schools Week, BA Mass @ DMCC, 10am
• Jan 31: Enrollment & Financial Aid Registration Assistance Night @ BA, 4:30-6:30pm
• Jan 30-Feb 6: Catholic Schools Week, week-long food drive + other activities-see below for details
• Feb 3: Student of the Month, 7:30am, Cafeteria
• Feb 7: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Taco John's
• Feb 13: Winter Open House; pre-register HERE
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

SPRING TRAP TEAM Registration deadline Jan 24: We have room for more people on the Spring Trap Team! Interested students need to contact Coach Rost by email and let him know so he can invite you through the league. Start dates and spring team fees still to be determined. Students need to be signed up by Monday, January 24. You MUST contact Coach Rost so he can give you the code to sign up. Email: todd@adventurespecialties.com

Catch the Bus to the MCCL March for Life this Saturday, Jan 22! On Jan. 22, 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court's disastrous Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton decisions eliminated laws protecting unborn children nationwide. Each year, pro-life Minnesotans mark the anniversary of Roe and Doe with the MCCL March for Life. There will be a free coach bus to take for the March for Life tomorrow, Jan 22. It will arrive in Faribault around 8:45am at the Speedway gas station, 2519 Lyndale Ave. The bus will leave the parking lot at 9am sharp. You will be dropped off at the Cathedral for the prayer service and then you can either walk or ride down to the Capitol. The bus will arrive back in Faribault around 2:45pm. If you are interested in going or have questions, please contact Kay Keller at 507-330-4559 theporklady@hotmail.com

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

January 28 Youth Basketball Night: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

Jan 29 SnoBall Dance Info: The January 29 SnoBall is a girl-ask-boy (Sadie Hawkins) semi-formal dance for students in grades 9-12. Tickets are on sale during high school lunches ($30/couple, $15/single) Friday, Monday and Tuesday (Jan 21, 24, and 25) and in the front office on Wednesday, January 26 during our no-class WIN day. Typically, the girls purchase a tie for their date that matches their dress. The girls arrange for a bouquet and boutonniere with a local florist that the boy picks up and pays for the day of the dance. Boys wear a dress shirt (most choose black), tie and nice pants; girls wear semi-formal dresses. Couples usually go out to dinner with a group of friends prior to the Grand March. Parents and guests gather in the gym at 8:00pm for the Grand March, where participating couples are introduced and the SnoBall Queen is crowned. As per current activities/athletics policy, spectators/visitors will be asked to wear a mask, but student participants will not. Usually, the Mother-Son/Father-Daughter dance follows coronation, then parents and guests depart and the dance begins. The dance ends at midnight.

SnoBash, Jan 29: Junior parents are hosting SnoBash at the Elks Lodge in Faribault Saturday, Jan 29, from 9-11:30pm. To purchase advance tickets, please place payment in an envelope ($20/ticket) and drop in the designated basket in the BA office.  On the envelope, please identify the number of tickets, names and an email address for confirmation.  The post prom committee will collect from the office, send confirmations, and have a list of pre-paid individuals at the door the night of SnoBash.

Info for Seniors
College Scholarships:

• Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) Students of Integrity Scholarship. BBB will award scholarships to high school seniors graduating in 2021-2022 school year, who personify all the best aspects of high character in their personal choices and actions. Recipients are selected primarily based on a written essay. The call for entries are open now and until the deadline of February 16, 2022, at 4pm. 

• Faribo 4 Kids is again offering the Thomas Laughlin Scholarship. THREE $1,500 scholarships will be given again this year for students attending any form of higher education.  Find the 2022 scholarship application HERE. Applications must be postmarked by March 18, 2022.

College/FAFSA Resources: The Minnesota Office of Higher Education is offering a series of webinars from Feb 5-March 1 to help you learn more about the FAFSA (financial aid), how to compare offers from schools (once your child has applied), scholarships and how to navigate the system of paying for any level of education after high school. To register any of the webinars using Zoom, visit https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJItdu6hrjIqG4mCsdrn5Tv. Visit https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/ for information about each of Minnesota’s financial aid programs. Questions can be directed to the state’s financial aid hotline: (651) 642-0567.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.

Family Focus 1-14-22

01/20/2022

Kris Sauer

2021-22, January 2022

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

January 14, 2022

Dear BA Families:

Special Prayers for the long weekend (No school Monday and Tuesday)! Please join me in prayers for students, staff, families and our community as we continue to battle illness and absences in school and work due to COVID. Thank you for your partnership throughout this time period. At this point, we do not anticipate moving to online learning next week as most of our scholars who are out on quarantine will return on January 19. See the COVID update below and on our website, updated weekly.

9 Days for Life: This next week we are praying with thousands of Catholics across the country as part of the bishops' pro-life novena, 9 Days for Life: Wednesday, January 19 - Thursday, January 27, 2022. After Mass on Wednesday, January 19 we will have special prayers and exposition. All students will have time in Adoration and families are encouraged to join us in the Adoration Chapel.

CONGRATULATIONS! Our BA & DMCS Robotics team and Spelling Bee participants shined this past week. What a joy to see their excitement and efforts as they pursue excellence in their academics - the pillar of study. Special congratulations to our Robotics Teams that will be going on to compete at State. Two of our Spelling Bee participants will compete at Regionals in Rochester as well, congratulations to Owen Dotterweich '27 and Megan Cina '27.

Tuition approved and registration out for 2022-23: Please review the separate letter and email sent regarding tuition, registration and financial aid and scholarships. Reach out with any question! Our school is growing; early registration and scholarship applications encouraged.

COVID Updates: MASKS REQUIRED due to the high rates in our County and State and increased numbers in the BA community. We will re-evaluate this next week, but know that numbers are not decreasing in our community or at BA at this time. This week BA had nine scholars with positive COVID cases and 16 students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 50 COVID positive student cases and 9 staff test positive. Visit our COVID webpage for all the updated information. Find COVID testing sites HERE; one free at-home testing box available for each BA student. Stop in the front office to pick one up. 

Quarantine update with approval from MDE & the Archdiocese:

• COVID Positive - Isolate for 5 days, return with a negative test on the 6th day. Must wear a mask for 5 additional days (school may be requiring masks regardless.) Without test may return after 7 days on the 8th day.
• COVID in household - Quarantine for 5 days, return with a negative test on the 6th day. Must wear a mask for 5 additional days (school may be requiring masks regardless.) *Typically in the same household we have found most of the family does get COVID so it is best to quarantine the family.
• The Minnesota State High School League still requires 10 days before participating in athletics.

• BABS: Our BIGGEST event of the year,  Bethlehem Academy Backers and Supporters (BABS) event is Saturday, April 9. This is great night out in support of BA! Food, games, and a live and silent auction are part of the fun. Our Fund-A-Need goal this year is to raise $75,000 for an additional BA student van. Please plan to attend! Volunteers and auction items also needed. Contact Teresa, our new Development & Marketing Assistant at tlebens@bacards.org
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $242,800. We are over 98% of the way to our goal of $255,000! If you haven't given, yet, please consider a gift through June 2022: Donate Online (click)  

KUDOS: To our basketball coaches and athletes, as well as our coop athletes. Your dedication to your sport and hard work is admirable and I love watching your energy on the court and as you compete. KEEP IT UP!

• Jan. 16: Morristown Prom Pancake Breakfast @ American Legion, 8:30am-12:30pm
• Jan 17-18: NO SCHOOL, MLK & Teacher Workshop Day 
• Jan 19: Campus Ministry Dress Down Day, proceeds to Pregnancy Options
• Jan 24-28, SnoBall Week: See below for dress down theme days
• Jan 28: Youth Basketball/Future Cardinal Night @ boys basketball game; sign up HERE. 
• Jan 29: SnoBall (Gr 9-12 semi-formal girl-ask-boy dance) + Post-Prom SnoBash event; see more info in high school section below.
• Jan 30: Catholic Schools Week, BA Mass @ DMCC, 10am
• Jan 31: Enrollment & Financial Aid Registration Assistance Night @ BA, 4:30-6:30pm
• Jan 30-Feb 6: Catholic Schools Week, week-long food drive + other activities to be announced
• Feb 3: Student of the Month, 7:30am, Cafeteria
• Feb 7: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Taco John's
• Feb 13: Winter Open House; pre-register HERE
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

Campus Ministry Pregnancy Options Drive Jan 19-21: Students in Campus Ministry are collecting diapers, wipes, bottles and blankets for Pregnancy Options next week. Find donation boxes by the front office and in Ms. Shimota's room. They are also hosting a Pregnancy Options Dress Down Day ($1 dress down, $2 hats or leggings) on Friday, Jan 21.

SnoBall Week Dress Down Days, Jan 24-28: The Senior Class has chosen the following dress down themes for SnoBall Week: Mon, Jan 24-Pajama Day; Tues, Jan 25-Beach Day; Wed, Jan 26-Dress Your Best (Mass) Day; Thurs, Jan 27-Jersey Day; Fri, Jan 28, Color Day: Gr 6-red; Gr 7-yellow; Gr 8-green; Gr 9-purple; Gr 10-orange; Gr 11-pink; Gr 12-blue. We will have SnoBall Court assembly Fri, Jan 28 starting at 1pm. See HS section below for SnoBall Dance information.

2022-2023 Re-enrollment & Financial Aid: Re-enrollment emails for returning 2022-23 scholars have been sent via FACTS. Find full instruction for setting up your Family Portal HERE.  Financial aid applications are now available for 2022-2023. Apply via TADS at this link & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. Application deadline is February 22 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Enrollment and Financial Aid Registration Assistance Night Jan 31: Having trouble logging in to FACTS? Need help filling out your enrollment or TADS financial aid form? We are here to help! Bring your passwords and financial documents to BA Monday, January 30 from 4:30-6:30pm. We will have staff on hand in the front lobby to work with you. 

Host Family Needed! We are seeking a host family for Yerim, 7th gr Catholic girl from South Korea, who wishes to join us at BA this school year. Stipends provided, tuition/fees/expenses paid by the family. Contact Kris Sauer or Haewon at KoAm (720-339-7710 and/or by email at administrator@koameduall.org) if interested.

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!
\

January 28 Youth Basketball Night: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

SnoBall Dance Info: The Jan 29 SnoBall is a girl-ask-boy (Sadie Hawkins) semi-formal dance for students in grades 9-12. Typically, the girls purchase a tie for their date that matches their dress. The girls arrange for a bouquet and boutonniere with a local florist that the boy picks up and pays for the day of the dance. Boys wear a dress shirt (most choose black), tie and nice pants; girls wear semi-formal dresses. Couples usually go out to dinner with a group of friends prior to the Grand March. Parents and guests gather in the gym at 8pm for the Grand March, where participating couples are introduced and the SnoBall Queen is crowned. Usually, the Mother-Son/Father-Daughter dance follows coronation, then parents and guests depart and the dance begins.

SnoBash, Jan 29: Junior parents are hosting SnoBash at the Elks Lodge in Faribault Saturday, Jan 29, from 9-11:30pm. To purchase advance tickets, please place payment in an envelope ($20/ticket) and drop in the designated basket in the BA office.  On the envelope, please identify the number of tickets, names and an email address for confirmation.  The post prom committee will collect from the office, send confirmations, and have a list of pre-paid individuals at the door the night of SnoBash.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.

Family Focus 1-7-2022

01/11/2022

Kris Sauer

January 2022, 2021-22

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

January 7, 2022

Dear BA Families:

Happy New Year! January is always a busy month for Catholic schools. Many events and activities are already on our schedule. We look forward to our student artwork on display starting today at the Paradise Center for the Arts, the DMCS/BA Spelling Bee next Thursday, a Knowledge Bowl meet, sporting events, author visit, SnoBall and Catholic Schools' Week. Check the calendar below for upcoming events.

Tuition Approved for 2022-23: The Bethlehem Academy Board members aspire to keep tuition low and increase scholarships while ensuring that staff salaries and benefits are improved. Thanks to fundraising efforts and increased enrollment in partnership with all of our school families, alumni, and donors, this next year tuition will only increase by 1%. A detailed letter will be sent out separately next week with specific information and updates.

Parent Programs: Please find links and information for two special parent resources to support you especially during some of the challenges our families have been experiencing. Father Louie will be leading a parent session to help guide you this winter. See below for all the details and to sign up. Through our counseling partnership with Phoenix Counseling, parents also have access to additional resources with a Catholic focus. Please visit their website for videos and resources as part of the "Peace of Mind" for families supported by Catholic Schools' Center of Excellence. (Link to website). 

COVID Updates: MASKS REQUIRED for the next two weeks due to the high rates in our County and State and increased numbers in the BA community. Masks will be required while at school and at Mass through Jan. 21st. We will re-evaluate at the end of these two weeks. This week BA had seven scholars with positive COVID cases and nine students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 41 COVID positive student cases and 7 staff test positive. Find COVID testing sites HERE; one free at-home testing box available for all BA students. Stop in the front office to pick one up. 

ADDITIONAL MASK DONATIONS NEEDED! Please bring to the front office if you are able to help.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: 

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: Congratulations to our winners! 1st prize - Jon & Selena Hager; 2nd prize - Conrad & Ardyce Bahe; 3rd prize - Mark Duchene. Thank you to all participants - we raised $12,000!
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $216,300. We are over 87% of the way to our goal of $255,000. THANK YOU FOR TRIPLING YOUR DONATION! If you haven't given, yet, please consider a gift through June 2022: Donate Online (click)  

KUDOS: To student artists Grace Kelzer, Karlie DeGrood, Reagan Kangas, Gabriella Banks, Kacie Hofius, Summer Heselton, Vincent Vollbrecht, Zachary Velishek, Mallorie Pavek, Jonathon Vold, Camryn Belmont, Fernando Reyes, Brooklyn Becker, and Lucy Cunningham, whose artworks go on display today at the Corey Lyn Creger art gallery at the Paradise Center for the Arts.

• Jan 7: Paradise Center for the Arts student gallery opening reception, 5-7pm
• Jan 7: Youth Basketball/Future Cardinal night @ girls game
• Jan 11: Dining Night Out @ Godfather's for Prom
• Jan. 13 - 8:30 a.m.: Spelling Bee in BA Gym
• Jan 14: Knowledge Bowl Contest
• Jan. 16: Morristown Prom Pancake Breakfast
• Jan 17-18: NO SCHOOL, MLK & Teacher Workshop Day 
• Jan 28: Youth Basketball/Future Cardinal Night @ boys basketball game; sign up HERE. 
• Jan 29: SnoBall (Gr 9-12 semi-formal girl-ask-boy dance, see more info in high school section below)
• Jan 30-Feb 6: Catholic Schools Week
• Feb 13: Winter Open House; pre-register HERE
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

FACTS Parent Portal Set Up:  If you haven't logged in to FACTS recently, a reminder that you will have to "set up" your FACTS Family Portal to access your accounts. Username is your full email address; previously set up password should work. Find full instructions HERE.

2022-2023 Re-enrollment & Financial Aid: 2022-2023 re-enrollment for returning students will open next week via FACTS. Watch your email for further information. Financial aid applications are now available for 2022-2023. Apply via TADS at this link & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. Application deadline is February 22 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Host Family Needed! We are seeking a host family for Yerim, 7th gr Catholic girl from South Korea, who wishes to join us at BA this school year. Stipends provided, tuition/fees/expenses paid by the family. Contact Kris Sauer or Haewon at KoAm (720-339-7710 and/or by email at administrator@koameduall.org) if interested.

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

January Youth Basketball Nights: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  





Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

SnoBall Dance Info: The Jan 29 SnoBall is a girl-ask-boy (Sadie Hawkins) semi-formal dance for students in grades 9-12. Typically, the girls purchase a tie for their date that matches their dress. The girls arrange for a bouquet and boutonniere with a local florist that the boy picks up and pays for the day of the dance. Boys wear a dress shirt (many choose black), tie and nice pants; girls wear semi-formal dresses. Couples usually go out to dinner with a group of friends prior to the Grand March. Parents and guests gather in the gym at 8pm for the Grand March, where participating couples are introduced and the SnoBall Queen is crowned. Usually, the Mother-Son/Father-Daughter dance follows coronation, then parents and guests depart and the dance begins.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.

Family Focus 12/17/21

01/05/2022

Kris Sauer

2021-22, December 2021

Leave a comment

"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)








December 17, 2021

Dear BA Families:

Blessed third week of Advent. This week at Mass not only did we celebrate Advent, but we honored Mary through the remembrance of her appearance to Juan Diego, as "Our Lady of Guadalupe." God ensures that His message is brought to people all over the world - "Go and make disciples of all nations!" What a wonderful time of year to celebrate His message.

2021 Christmas Video Greeting: Together with Divine Mercy Catholic School Principal Gina Ashley, MERRY CHRISTMAS from all of us at our Catholic Schools of Faribault. Watch the Christmas greeting video HERE. 

Parent Programs: Please find links and information for two special parent resources to support you especially during some of the challenges our families have been experiencing. Father Louie will be leading a parent session to help guide you this winter. See below for all the details and to sign up. Through our counseling partnership with Phoenix Counseling, parents have access to additional resources with a Catholic focus. Please visit their website for videos and resources as part of the "Peace of Mind" for families supported by Catholic Schools' Center of Excellence. (Link to website). PLEASE NOTE - BA has not received any Tik Tok threats but takes all posted concerns seriously working with families, counselors and the County when needed. If you see or hear of any concerns or threats to BA, or regarding students individually, please alert school staff. THANK YOU.

COVID Updates: Masks will be recommended but not required when we return from break. This week BA had no additional positive COVID cases and all students will be off of quarantine. Please remember this may need to be changed again if we see an increase in cases. We did, however, have several fluenza and bronchitis cases, so please monitor your child for symptoms. Since the start of the year we have had 35 Covid positive student cases and 6 staff test positive. ADDITIONAL MASK DONATIONS NEEDED! Please bring to the front office if you are able to help.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: 

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: It's not too late! Raffle tickets make great stocking stuffers! Prizes are $2021, $1021 and $521. You can drop off your order form in the entry way next week and still get in the drawing. Please find an order form HERE. Drawing will be held December 31-only 400 tickets remain!
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $140,400. We are over 50% of the way to our goal of $255,000. THANK YOU! Please consider a donation through June 2022: Donate Online (click)  END OF YEAR GIFTS WILL HELP US TRIPLE OUR DONATION AND REACH $200,000 by January 31, 2022.

KUDOS: Congratulations to our bands and choirs for their beautiful Christmas concerts and special thanks to Mr. Wendt and Mr. Battles. Kudos to the following students who were nominated to play in the Gopher Conference Honor Band in February, chosen for their leadership and musicianship: Anne Azelton '25, Alaisha Garcia-Lopez '23, Penelope Parrish '24, Matthew Croke '22, and Madelyn Bauer '22. We're also celebrating our Robotics Middle School Team who will be going to State and our Knowledge Bowl placed 8th out of 19 teams at their first competition!

• Dec 20-Jan 2: Christmas Break - No School
• Jan 3: School resumes, RED day
• Jan 7: Youth Basketball Night @ Girls home game - see below
• Jan 11: Dining Night Out @ Godfather's for Prom
• Jan. 13 - 8:30 a.m.: Spelling Bee in BA Gym
• Jan 14: Knowledge Bowl Contest
• Jan 17-18: NO SCHOOL, MLK & Teacher Workshop Day 
• Jan 29: SnoBall (Gr 9-12 semi-formal girl-ask-boy dance)
• Jan 30-Feb 6: Catholic Schools Week
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 
• The Salvation Army needs bell ringers: Sign up here  www.registertoring.com

ALL BA UPDATES

Rome Trip Bake Sale Dec 19: BA students going on a pilgrimage to Rome this June, are hosting a bake sale at Divine Mercy Catholic Church to fundraise their trip. Please stop by after the 8am and 10am Masses on December 19 to support these students and get delicious treats! 

FACTS Parent Portal Set Up:  If you haven't logged in to FACTS recently, a reminder that you will have to "set up" your FACTS Family Portal to access your accounts. Username is your full email address; previously set up password should work. Find full instructions HERE.

2022-2023 Re-enrollment & Financial Aid: 2022-2023 re-enrollment for returning students will open January 10 via FACTS. Watch for further information. Financial aid applications are now available for 2022-2023. Apply via TADS at this link & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. Application deadline is February 22 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Online School Store Launched @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

January Youth Basketball Nights: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  





Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. 

Family Focus 12/10/21

12/14/2021

Kris Sauer

December 2021, 2021-22

Leave a comment

"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

December 10, 2021

Dear BA Families:

Blessed second week of Advent. Campus ministry gathered us for our weekly Advent prayer prior to Mass. As you celebrate at home, here are some additional family Advent resources, click "Advent." In addition, we invite you to join us for our Christmas concerts. Our Choirs will perform this Sunday, Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. in IC Church and our Band concert will be Monday at 7 p.m. in the BA Gymnasium.

Snow Days: Today is our first snow day. For our first 2 snow days we will have "no school days" - no online learning. Any additional snow days will be online learning days. Like today, we follow Faribault Public Schools in calling a snow day. If you did not receive a notice via text or email please let the office know. We also post on our website and on Facebook when this occurs. In addition, all of today's evening activities are canceled. Today is a school scheduled "red day" - therefore, Monday will be our "red day." Students are also reminded to bring their $1 as we moved "Ugly Sweater Day" to Monday. Bring $2 if your scholar wants to wear a hat or leggings.

COVID Updates: Masks remain required in classes as an additional mitigation strategy for our final week prior to break. This week BA had no additional positive COVID cases; we have two active COVID cases and four additional students required to quarantine. Since the start of the year we have had 35 total positive student cases and 6 staff test positive. Please help us stay in-person by following these mitigation strategies. Bishop Hebda recently urged additional mitigation strategies for large indoor gatherings. See his Dec 1 letter HERE and his Dec 9 Video HERE. ADDITIONAL MASK DONATIONS NEEDED! Please bring to the front office if you are able to help.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: 

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: Great stocking stuffers! Prizes are $2021, $1021 and $521. One more week to get your ticket! Please order HERE or call and email the office. Drawing held December 31.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $89,400 with a match of $50,000! Our goal is $255,000 for critical needs of our school. Please consider a donation through June 2022: Donate Online (click) 

KUDOS: To all of our basketball teams and coaches as they begin the season! Also, we wish to congratulate our coop sports members in wrestling, hockey, dance line and swimming for their hard work in getting off to a great start! Special congratulations to our Students of the Month in specialist classes: Cecilia Azelton, Carter Pavek, Claire Wisdo, Aiden Tobin, Aubrey Howard, Kacie Hofius, Caiden Lamphere, and Michael Crone.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Additional activities and sporting events online.

• Dec. 12: BA Choir Christmas Concert, 2pm, IC Church
• Dec. 13: BA Band Christmas Concert, 7pm, Van Orsow Auditorium
• Dec. 13: SADD Ugly Sweater Dress Down Day (rescheduled)
• Dec 13: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Basilleo's - see below 
• Dec. 15: Knowledge Bowl meet @ Rochester
• Dec. 16: Prom Dining Night Out @ A&W - see below
• Dec. 17: Rome Trip Dress Down Day; FFA Competition Day
• Dec 20-Jan 2: Christmas Break - No School
• Jan 7: Youth Basketball Night @ Girls home game - see below
• Jan. 13 - 8:30 a.m.: Spelling Bee
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 
• The Salvation Army needs bell ringers: Sign up here  www.registertoring.com

ALL BA UPDATES

Staff Xmas Lunch Help: Home and School needs your help! We are hosting our annual Christmas Luncheon for the BA Faculty and Staff Thursday, Dec 16 and are looking for donations of your time and treats! If you can help, please sign up HERE. 

Rome Trip Bake Sale Dec 19: BA students going on a pilgrimage to Rome this June, are hosting a bake sale at Divine Mercy Catholic Church to fundraise their trip. Please stop by after the 8am and 10am Masses on December 19 to support these students and get delicious treats! 

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Prom/Post-Prom Fundraisers
The Junior Class is hosting several fundraisers to raise money for Prom; Junior and senior parents are likewise hosting several fundraisers for the Post-Prom event. See below for dates and information:

• CANCELED Dec 10-& 11 Post-Prom Apple Pies @ Hy-Vee: Hy-Vee had a supply chain issue; we have had to cancel this fundraiser.
• Dec 13 Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Basilleo's; 10% of all purchases Monday, Dec 13 from 4-10pm - including gift cards! - will go back to the BA After Prom Party. Take-out and delivery will be available in addition to dining in the restaurant. 
• Dec. 16: Prom Dining Night Out @ A&W - a portion of all sales from 4pm to close - both in the restaurant and via the drive through - will go towards BA's 2022 Prom hosted by the Junior Class.

Online School Store Launched @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!













Holiday Scrip Now Available! Click HERE for a flyer with more information.

January Youth Basketball Nights: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  





Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. 

Family Focus 12/3/21

12/09/2021

Kris Sauer

2021-22, December 2021

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

December 3, 2021

Dear BA Families:

Welcome Advent! As we begin Advent our hearts seek the renewal of Christ in this Season of Hope. Our students attended Reconciliation this week as we began Advent. Join us each week at our Mass for additional Advent prayers and reflections led by Campus Ministry. Family Advent resources are available, click "Advent." Faribault is also hosting a special Winterfest this Saturday, join the fun at: Winterfest in Faribault! 

Benefactor's Brunch: This Saturday we will honor four BA supporters inducting them to the Court of Honor. This year we recognize Sister Mary Margaret Murphy, Russ Kennedy, Dr. Walter Neihaus '55 and Mary Heideman. All four benefactors exemplify the spirit of our four Dominican Pillars: Prayer, Study, Community and Service, by supporting BA with gifts of time and treasure for many years. We are blessed!

Snow Days: Should we have a snow day in December, please know that our first 2 snow days are no school days - no online learning. Any additional snow days will be online learning days. We follow Faribault Public Schools in calling a snow day, and notify our families via text, email and Facebook when this occurs. 

COVID Updates: Currently masks are required in classes as an additional mitigation strategy. This week BA had 3 positive COVID cases in quarantine with no exposure at school. There are no additional students required to quarantine at this time. Since the start of the year we have had 35 total positive cases. Please help us stay in-person by following these mitigation strategies. ADDITIONAL MASK DONATIONS NEEDED! Please bring to the front office if you are able to help.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: 

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: Great stocking stuffers! Prizes are $2021, $1021 and $521. Please get your ticket order form HERE. Drawing held December 31, 2021.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift, the stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more.
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $78,900 with a match of $50,000! Our goal is $255,000 for critical needs of our school. Please consider a donation through June 2022: Donate Online (click) 

KUDOS: Congratulations to Justin Delesha who completed his Eagle Scout project out at Calvary Cemetery.  He constructed a compost and dirt depository at the south end of the cemetery. Special congratulations extended to all BA students featured in this month's Art Exhibit at the Paradise Center for the Arts and thanks to Mr. Hillesheim for all of his preparations for the beautiful exhibit.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Additional activities and sporting events online.

• Dec 4: Benefactor's Brunch
• Dec 7: WIN Day
• Dec 10: SADD Ugly Sweater Dress Down Day-proceeds to St. Vincent de Paul for toys and food items
• Dec 10-11: Apple Pie Prom fundraiser at Hy-Vee - see below
• Dec. 12: BA Choir Christmas Concert, 2pm, IC Church
• Dec. 13: BA Band Christmas Concert, 7pm, Van Orsow Auditorium
• Dec 13: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Basilleo's - see below 
• Dec. 15: Knowledge Bowl meet @ Rochester
• Dec. 16: Prom Dining Night Out @ A&W - see below
• Dec. 17: Rome Trip Dress Down Day; FFA Competition Day
• Dec 20-Jan 2: Christmas Break - No School
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 
• The Salvation Army needs bell ringers: Sign up here  www.registertoring.com

ALL BA UPDATES
Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Prom/Post-Prom Fundraisers
The Junior Class is hosting several fundraisers to raise money for Prom; Junior and senior parents are likewise hosting several fundraisers for the Post-Prom event. See below for dates and information:

• Dec 10-& 11 Post-Prom Apple Pies @ Hy-Vee: BA's Post-Prom committee is making and selling apple pies on Friday December 10 from 4pm to 8pm and Saturday December 11 from 11am-3pm. Pies are $12.99. Volunteers needed! Sign up to help HERE. 

• Dec 13 Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Basilleo's; 10% of all purchases Monday, Dec 13 from 4-10pm - including gift cards! - 

  will go back to the BA After Prom Party. Take-out and delivery will be available in addition to dining in the restaurant. 

• Dec. 16: Prom Dining Night Out @ A&W - a portion of all sales from 4pm to close - both in the restaurant and via the drive through - will go towards BA's 2022 Prom hosted by the Junior Class.

Candy Grams! Help support the BA Rome pilgrimage trip! Candy canes with a message can be ordered for $1 each. Candy canes will be delivered Dec 17. Return the order form attached with payment (write "Candy Gram" on the envelope) to the front office by Dec 10. 

Online School Store Launched @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

Counselor's Resources: Twice a month in homeroom prior to Mass, our school counselor is providing homeroom teachers with a Mass-linked reflection to share with students. Find today’s reflection HERE.

Holiday Scrip Now Available! Click HERE for a flyer with more information.

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION