Category : January 2021
Family Focus 1/30/2021
02/03/2021
Kris Sauer
January 2021
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Dear BA Families:
Catholic Schools’ Week & SnoBall, Jan 30-Feb 5. As a Catholic school teacher and administrator, this next week truly shines. From being duck-taped to a wall, to praying with individual students and celebrating at a state-wide Mass with all Catholic schools, the Catholic school experience is life changing, for both staff and students. Please join us at Mass tomorrow, Saturday, Jan 30, at 4 p.m. at Divine Mercy Catholic Church, or connect with us online. BA students will be cantoring, reading, and participating in Mass as we begin the week long celebration of what truly makes us different!
TURN IN YOUR TALENT VIDEO! The Bethlehem Academy talent show will be Thursday, February 4th, as part of Catholic Schools Week. Just pre-record your talent by 3:30pm on Monday, February 1. The video will be presented to the whole school on Thursday. If you would like to participate, please sign up at this link. Students should see Mr. Gardner, Mr. Zabel, or Mr. Hillesheim with questions.
Schedule for the upcoming three weeks:
- Catholic Schools Week & Snowball Activities. Theme: Faith. Excellence. Service. See the activities and dress up days at the right.
- Feb 1: No Faribault busing
- Feb. 8-11: NWEA Map Testing for Middle School & Black History focus
- Feb. 11: We love our Kitchen Staff appreciation day! Student of the Month ceremony, 7:30am
- Feb. 12 & 15: No School
- Feb. 17: Ash Wednesday
- Feb 21: Pancake Breakfast / postponed to 2022
- Feb. 22-26: FFA Week
- Feb. 26: Winter concert postponed,watch for details.
- Feb 28, 11am-2pm: BA Open House
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- DRAMA & CHESS CLUB: Did you know this winter we started up two new clubs? Mr. Hillesheim and Mr. Madden reached out to support student interests.
- CELEBRATING KITCHEN STAFF-Feb. 11: Join us in thanking our kitchen staff on this day with a note, a gift card, an email, or a special treat!
- 2021-2022 Enrollment Update: Together with DMCS, BA is moving to FACTS Tuition Management system for the 2021-2022 school year. This change is a savings to our families and our school as TADS was increasing and adding fees. We understand that this will be a bit different this year, and will provide more detailed information on the process soon. Please feel free to contact us with questions. See the attached re-enrollment flyer for more information on the process for the 2021-2022 school year and watch for a more detailed email on Monday.
- 2021-22 FINANCIAL AID APPLICATIONS OPEN! Apply for scholarships at this link: financial aid app. Please be sure to take advantage of our scholarship program. The initial application deadline is February 20, 2021.
COVID Update: As of January 29, 2021, we had two new positive COVID cases and no additional exposure at school. We do have 12 students choosing distance learning full time and four students quarantining.
- All Illnesses: Please note, if your child is sick at any time, we do not expect them to join online learning. We want to give them time to recover. Just notify the attendance line as you normally would.
FUNDRAISER UPDATES:
- BA Annual Fund: Our goal is to raise $250,000 by June 30, 2021. As of January 15 we are at $172,218 -Thank you! We have another $50,000 pledged bringing us to 88% of our goal. WE CHALLENGE ALL DONORS TO SHARE THEIR ANNUAL FUND GIFT BY FEB. 14 - WE LOVE BA! We need only an additional $27,782 to reach our goal.
- BABS:We are looking for committee members to join our team of volunteers. If you like to decorate, call for donations, have a talent for arranging silent auction baskets, or just have great ideas, please contact me at my email below. See more information below. WE NEED YOU!
CONGRATULATIONS: To our 2021 SnoBall Queen candidates and their escorts: Abby Larson escorted by Jarrett Malecha, Caroline Sauer escorted by Jason Shuda, Verity Wray-Raabolle escorted by Kade Robb, Ashley Rost escorted by Carson Heselton, and Rylie Starkson escorted by Riley Kangas. Coronation will be live streamed on BA’s YouTube channel Friday afternoon, Feb 5, from Van Orsow Auditorium.
KUDOS: To our Peer MInistry and students who supported ProLife activities and events this past week.
I look forward to seeing families at Mass this weekend.
Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org
ALL-BA UPDATES
No Faribault Busing Mon, Feb 1
Faribault Public Schools will not be in session Monday, February 1. There will be no Faribault bus service on this day. The BA Van will operate on a regular schedule.
Sick students and distance learning
If your student is sick, please email the attendance line or call 507-334-3948. Please do not email your student’s teachers. We do NOT expect sick students to join classes online. They should stay home and check PowerSchool for missing assignments once they are well. A student will NOT transition to formal distance learning at BA unless an extended illness or quarantine warrants this transition. Contact Mrs. Reeder for online learning concerns/requests. Find full information on our sick/covid/distance learning policies here.
Parent Volunteers Needed: BA Activities Association
Bethlehem Academy will be selling Easter Flowers as a fundraiser for the BA Activities Association. We are looking for people to share their ideas and join our committee to explore other opportunities to increase the proceeds to the BA Activities Association. Some examples of what BA Activities Association funds help to support: New varsity uniforms on a rotating basis between sports; Wolf Ridge busing; After Prom donation; 2 Scholarships for rising seniors; Special requests for equipment and other items not in the regular operating budget (Examples: Batting cage, pitching machine, choir sound shells, band instruments, student council sound system for dances, portable sound system for softball games, drama/theatre, trap shooting.) Other past funded activities include re-finishing the gym floor, new sound system in the gym, football goalposts at Teepee Tonka, and remodeling the activities storage room, and donations to teams/clubs/ organizations that work concessions during the year. If you would like to be a part of the committee, please contact Clarice DeGrood at 507-838-8073 or by email at: degrood@kmwb.net. Thank you!
BABS April 10: Save the Date!! / Parent Volunteers Needed
Bethlehem Academy Backers and Supporters (BABS) is BA’s largest annual fundraiser and a fun adult social event where we celebrate BA and raise funds for our beloved school. BABS 2021 will be held the evening of April 10. This “Denim and Diamonds” themed event will feature casino games, a silent & live auction (virtual and onsite) as well as food and drink. All parents, alumni, and friends over 21 years of age are welcome to attend this gala event. Please save the date and plan to join us! Attendance will be limited. Volunteers as well as live or silent auction items are needed. Contact Mrs. Reeder if you can help this great event in any way.
Shadow Days & Tours
Does your student have a friend interested in BA? Invite them to join them for a shadow day or for a personal family tour. Sign up to shadow here; sign up for a family tour (offered Mon-Fri from 3-6pm) here. Applications are now open for 2021-2022! Find more information on our admission page.
Facemasks and BA Car Clings Available for Sale
We are now selling BA facemasks and car clings in the BA Front Office! Click here for more information. Send in payment (cash or check made out to BA) with your order to Tammy in the front office or email Tammy with any questions.
Wanted: Spring Sports Coaches
We have the following spring sports coaching positions open: Head Baseball, Assistant Baseball, Middle School Baseball, Head Track & Field, Assistant Track & Field (# of assistants to be determined). If you or someone you know is interested please contact Athletic Director Ed Friesen at efriesen@bacards.org. March 29 is the planned start date for spring sports.
HIGH SCHOOL UPDATE
Big Brothers Big Sisters of So MN Seeking 10th Grade Volunteers
The Big Brothers Big Sisters program is seeking a 10th grade female and 10th grade male student to be a BIG to a student at DMCS. This is a wonderful volunteer program that makes such a difference in the lives of participants! Contact Ms. Rogers if interested in being a Big.
Current 10th & 11th Grade Students: PSEO for Fall 2021
PSEO offers high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to take courses at eligible post-secondary institutions. Students must meet the admissions requirements of the post-secondary institution, but do not pay for tuition, fees, or books. They earn high school credit and, if students continue their education beyond high school, colleges or universities may choose to transfer their completed coursework through PSEO as college credits. Students interested in taking PSEO courses at South Central or other colleges and universities must discuss this option with the counselor prior to class registration, which will open to returning students the week of February 22. Please note that many schools have deadlines as early as the beginning of April. FAQs about PSEO can be found here on Counselor's Corner on the BA website. If you have any questions concerning PSEO, please reach out to Ms. Rogers at .
Important information: Shattuck ACT Site Closure
The Faribault Shattuck - St. Mary's testing site shows up on ACT.org when your student is registering for their test but it is closed to testing. DO NOT SIGN UP FOR SHATTUCK AS YOUR STUDENT'S TESTING SITE THIS SPRING. If your student has already signed up for the ACT, please have them check their account for where they have been scheduled to take their test. ACT may have changed the testing location without notifying you or your student. Shattuck being listed is a mistake through ACT, but it has not gotten fixed yet. Reach out to Ms. Rogers with any questions.
SENIORS:
Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation College Scholarship Program: Deadline March 1, 2021
The Schulze Family Foundation is committed to providing assistance to students from middle-income families who do not receive federal grant assistance. Schulze welcomes applications from students who have distinguished themselves through school, community and/or church activities while showing strong academic achievement in high school. Forty-six (46) scholarships of $5,000 per year will be awarded for four consecutive years of full-time enrollment with satisfactory academic performance. MN Catholic high school students must have completed their elementary education at a Catholic school to be eligible. If you are interested in your student applying, your student may find the application form on the Scholarships section of their Naviance Account. Please reach out to Ms. Rogers with any questions.
Other College Scholarship Opportunities
There are several local scholarships available with deadlines in March, including the Tri-Lakes Sportsman’s Club Scholarship, Faribo 4 Kids Thomas Laughlin Scholarship, Allina Health Orthopedics Sports Medicine Scholarship, and the Steele-Waseca Electric Coop College Scholarship. Have your students check the Scholarships section of Naviance (find video here; find Naviance information on our web page here) or email Ms. Rogers to find out more.
MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
MS Positivity Project
In our religion classes MS scholars will be looking for the characteristic of perseverance within themselves and in their classmates. Perseverance, a quality we want all of our students to strive toward, is our current focus. Please continue to have discussions at home on these topics.
AIM Higher K-8 Scholarship
The Aim Higher Scholarship is a $1,000, student-based scholarship awarded to K-8 students from families with demonstrated need. This year's application deadline is February 20, 2021. Application is via the online TADS financial aid form found here. Click here to find more information via the English flyer and the Spanish flyer.
DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH (DMCC) & SCHOOL (DMCS) UPDATES
DMCS Annual Catholic United Financial Raffle to Feb 28
Divine Mercy Catholic School students are selling $5 raffle tickets through Feb 28. Order tickets on their website or contact the school at 507-334-7706 if interested. Thank you for your support of our Catholic schools!
SCRIP Statements Early Feb
Look for your TRIP Statements (SCRIP statement summary) the first week in February. If you have not yet tried our Scrip Program, please contact Peggy Johnson, at pjohnson@dmcs.cc at DMCS for more information. She would be happy to help walk you through the process and answer your questions. Find out just how easy it is to earn credit towards your child's tuition!
WOMEN'S LENTEN SMALL GROUP OPPORTUNITY
Set a Fire is our “Blessed is She” reflection book for your Lenten journey this year. We believe every woman can fully live her life when she’s guided by the Holy Spirit. Divine Mercy Catholic Church is offering several in-person and online small group options. It is free to participate in the small groups; purchasing the book is strongly encouraged. There is an option on the form to purchase a book through us to save on shipping. Small groups start the week after Ash Wednesday (Feb 17). See the registration form for information on times and locations. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/setafire for more information.
Archdiocesan Synod 2021
As referenced in Mrs. Reeder’s message above, the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis Synod enters Year 2: “The Church Prepares” with a series of listening events each month. Inspired by the thousands of participants at the Prayer and Listening Events, this series connects their stories to the story of the Church. Each virtual event includes a talk, testimonials, and a live panel discussion including Archbishop Hebda. Registration is required to participate live. All events begin at 7pm; future dates are Jam 27, Feb 4, and Feb 9. Register online to participate and submit your questions! Zoom links will be sent to registrants prior to each event. Registration is limited to 500 participants per event. A flyer with more information is attached.
Middle School Edge/High School Youth Group
Middle School EDGE & High School Youth Group is open to all BA families. This is another great opportunity for your students to gather with others that want to grow in their faith and to enhance what they are learning in the classroom. Registration is required for both. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/faith-formation for more information.
COMMUNITY UPDATES
Faribault Soccer Association Summer Registration
Registration for the Faribault Soccer Association summer program is now open. The deadline to register for Traveling Soccer is February 6th. The players age is their age on December 31, 2021. Register online here; more information on the website here.
JO Volleyball, Gr 4-11 Sign Up
The Faribault Reds Volleyball Program is currently in the process of developing a plan for a JO Volleyball Season. All girls in grades 4-11 interested in participating are welcome! We do not have dates set at this time, but would be looking at mid-late February or early March for a start-up. Many play dates (especially for high school level athletes) would take place on Sundays as Saturdays may currently be used by winter sports teams for make-up games as needed. Please fill out the google form at this link for each player in your household that would be interested in playing. Please email Chris Bothun at bothunchristine@gmail.com with any questions or for more information.
ATTACHMENTS
* 2021-2022 Enrollment Information
Family Focus 1/22/2021
01/30/2021
Ed Friesen
January 2021
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Dear BA Families:
Today is the “National Sanctity of Human Life” day. President Ronald Reagan issued a presidential proclamation on January 13, 1984, designating this day for the first time in history, beginning with the Sunday of January 22 in 1984. This week Bethlehem Academy students shared prayers, petitions and reflections each morning. Peer Ministry led a reflection and a Hail Mary at Mass today. Classes spent more time in Adoration. Our Student Service Club created blankets and raised dollars to support Pregnancy Options of Faribault. We also had scholars attend, with parish families, the March for Life in St. Paul including Marty Brazil ‘21 who assisted Bishop Cozzens. As we close out this week, we invite families and students to participate with Pregnancy Options in downtown for special prayers and events starting at 6:30 p.m. In addition, the Diocese invites all families to join them with a new study this winter on the teachings of the Catholic Church. See the attached flyer for details.
Calling All Talented Students! The Bethlehem Academy talent show will be Thursday, February 4th, as part of Catholic Schools Week. Each act will need to be pre-recorded by 3:30pm by Monday, February 1. The video will be presented to the whole school on Thursday. If you would like to participate, please sign up at this link. If you have any questions, please see Mr. Gardner, Mr. Zabel, or Mr. Hillesheim.
Schedule for the upcoming three weeks:
- Mon, Jan 25: No School- Teacher Workday
- Tues, Jan 26-Fri, Jan 29: All students in person learning Tuesday through Friday. Wednesday is a regular class day this week. Friday Middle School Mass.
- Friday, Jan 29: High School club photos during WIN
- Catholic Schools Week & Snowball Activities. Theme: Faith. Excellence. Service.
- Sat, Jan 30 - SnoBall dance CANCELLED
- Sat, Jan 30-4pm: BA Catholic Schools Week Mass at DMCC - if your family would like to assist at Mass, please reach out to Mrs. Kratt or Ms. Shimota.
- Mon, Feb 1- Country vs. Country Club (Hats allowed) / NO FARIBAULT BUSING TODAY
- Tues, Feb 2- Jersey Day - Day of Giving: students will be creating valentine cards for area seniors
- Wed, Feb 3 - WIN DAY- No Classes - come in for support and projects
- Thurs, Feb 4- Pajama/Relaxed Clothes Day; Buddy Day with DMCS (virtual activities) and BA Talent Show presentation.
- Fri, Feb 5- Dress to Impress, HS Mass; Snoball Activities & Crowning
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- FREE LUNCH: Will continue through April 30 for all BA students.
- 2021-22 FINANCIAL AID APPLICATIONS OPEN! Apply early for scholarships at this link: financial aid app. Please be sure to take advantage of our scholarship program. The initial application deadline is February 20, 2021.
COVID Update: As of January 22, 2021, we have two new positive COVID cases and no additional exposure at school. We do have 11 students choosing distance learning full time.
- Updated Student Symptom Screening form and Decision Tree - click on the links for updated information.
- All Illnesses: Please note, if your child is sick at any time, we do not expect them to join online learning. We want to give them time to recover. Just notify the attendance line as you normally would.
FUNDRAISER UPDATES:
- BA Annual Fund: Our goal is to raise $250,000 by June 30, 2021. As of January 15 we are at $132,008 -Thank you! We have another $50,000 pledged bringing us to 73% of our goal. Remember, by making a larger donation in 2021, you may actually decrease your taxable income!
- BABS:We are looking for committee members to join our team of volunteers. If you like to decorate, call for donations, have a talent for arranging silent auction baskets, or just have great ideas, please contact me at my email below. WE NEED YOU!
KUDOS: To our Student Service Club for creating blankets in support of Pregnancy Options!
Have a blessed, long weekend. We will see students on Tuesday, January 26.
Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org
ALL-BA UPDATES
No Faribault Busing Mon, Feb 1
Faribault Public Schools will not be in session Monday, February 1. There will be no Faribault bus service on this day. The BA Van will operate.
Sick students and distance learning
If your student is sick, please email the attendance line or call 507-334-3948. Please do not email your student’s teachers. We do NOT expect sick students to join classes online. They should stay home and check PowerSchool for missing assignments once they are well. A student will NOT transition to formal distance learning at BA unless an extended illness or quarantine warrants this transition. Contact Mrs. Reeder for online learning concerns/requests. Find full information on our sick/covid/distance learning policies here.
FFA Meeting Tues Jan 26
Students in grades 7-12 are invited to join our next FFA meeting, held next Tuesday, January 26, after school at 3pm in Ms. Story’s classroom.
BABS April 10: Save the Date!!
Bethlehem Academy Backers and Supporters (BABS) is BA’s largest annual fundraiser and a fun adult social event where we celebrate BA and raise funds for our beloved school. BABS 2021 will be held the evening of April 10. This “Denim and Diamonds” will feature casino games, a silent & live auction as well as food and drink. All parents, alumni, and friends over 21 years of age are welcome to attend this gala event. Please save the date and plan to join us! Attendance will be limited and the auction portion will be both live and virtual. Volunteers as well as live or silent auction items needed. Contact Mrs. Reeder if you can help this great event in any way.
Basketball Games: Spectator Update
The number of spectators that can attend basketball games this season is limited due to State of Minnesota orders. The Gopher Conference is limiting the number to 2 spectators per participant. This restriction allows each school to better meet both social distancing guidelines and any contact tracking requirements should the need arise. (The Big 9 Conference is also limiting spectators to 2 per participant.) Varsity/JV parents have been contacted about the opportunity to purchase passes for the season. Contact Athletic Director Ed Friesen with any questions.
Please see our online school calendar for links to live-streams of games. The calendar is available on our school website (www.bacards.org) and our sports website (sports.bacards.org)
Shadow Days & Tours
Does your student have a friend interested in BA? Invite them to join them for a shadow day (classmates are encouraged to come together) or for a personal family tour. Sign up to shadow here; sign up for a family tour (offered Mon-Fri from 3-6pm) here. Applications are now open for 2021-2022! Find more information on our admission page.
Facemasks and BA Car Clings Available for Sale
We are now selling BA facemasks and car clings in the BA Front Office! Click here for more information. Send in payment (cash or check made out to BA) with your order to Tammy in the front office or email Tammy with any questions.
Wanted: Spring Sports Coaches
We have the following spring sports coaching positions open: Head Baseball, Assistant Baseball, Middle School Baseball, Head Track & Field, Assistant Track & Field (# of assistants to be determined). If you or someone you know is interested please contact Athletic Director Ed Friesen at efriesen@bacards.org. At this time, we believe the spring season will start late March or early April – a couple of weeks later than normal.
HIGH SCHOOL UPDATE
HS Club Photos Jan 29
On Friday, January 29, all high school clubs will have their photos taken for the yearbook. Many of the clubs have special t-shirts; students should bring them next Friday to wear for the pictures. Clubs involved are: SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), SSC (Student Service Club), Student Council, Peer Ministry, FFA (Future Farmers of America); BA Band, BA Choir, Chess Club.
HS Drama Club
BA is starting a Drama Club for high school students! The club’s first meeting will be held Wednesday, Jan 27 at 3:05pm in Mr. Hillesheim’s room. If your student is interested in any aspect of drama - both on stage or behind the scenes - please encourage them to attend.
Current 10th & 11th Grade Students: PSEO for Fall 2021
PSEO offers high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to take courses at eligible post-secondary institutions. Students must meet the admissions requirements of the post-secondary institution, but do not pay for tuition, fees, or books. They earn high school credit and, if students continue their education beyond high school, colleges or universities may choose to transfer their completed coursework through PSEO as college credits. Students interested in taking PSEO courses at South Central or other colleges and universities must discuss this option with the counselor prior to class registration, which will open to returning students the week of February 22. Please note that many schools have deadlines as early as the beginning of April. FAQs about PSEO can be found here on Counselor's Corner on the BA website. If you have any questions concerning PSEO, please reach out to Ms. Rogers at trogers@bacards.org.
ACT Test Prep Class through Faribault Community Education
As they have done in the past, Faribault Community Education is offering an ACT Test prep class through Advantage Test Prep (other classes and locations found at www.advantageprep.net). The 3-hour classes are held on 4 Saturdays starting January 30 at the Faribault Education Center. There is also an online class option. Click here for more information.
SENIORS:
FAFSA Updates 2021
The covid relief bill passed at the end of 2020 included some significant changes to the FAFSA. Here is an article that explains what changes were made. FAFSA is also providing a free educational webinar to the public on all recent changes to the college process on Wednesday, January 27 at 7pm. You can join through this Zoom Link. For other information about financing your student's education, please check out this page on the BA website, or reach out to Ms. Rogers at trogers@bacards.org with any additional questions.
College Deadline Update Emailed to Seniors: It is getting to that point where college deadlines have either recently passed or are coming up very soon! Contact Ms Rogers If you need: mid-year transcripts, information about schools/programs or pathways to your chosen trade, or help with scholarship applications. If you have received a decision about your application: update your application status in Naviance. If you have decided where you are going next year: update your decision status in Naviance. If you are still considering your plans for next year, email Ms. Rogers at: trogers@bacards.org to discuss your options.
College Scholarship Opportunities
There are several local scholarships available with deadlines in March, including the Tri-Lakes Sportsman’s Club Scholarship, Faribo 4 Kids Thomas Laughlin Scholarship, Allina Health Orthopedics Sports Medicine Scholarship, and the Steele-Waseca Electric Coop College Scholarship. Have your students check the Scholarships section of Naviance (find video here; find Naviance information on our web page here) or email Ms. Rogers to find out more.
MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
MS Positivity Project
In our religion classes MS scholars will be looking for the characteristic of perseverance within themselves and in their classmates. Perseverance, a quality we want all of our students to strive toward, is our current focus. Please continue to have discussions at home on these topics.
AIM Higher K-8 Scholarship
The Aim Higher Scholarship is a $1,000, student-based scholarship awarded to K-8 students from families with demonstrated need. This year's application deadline is February 20, 2021. Application is via the online TADS financial aid form found here. Click here to find more information via the English flyer and the Spanish flyer.
DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH (DMCC) & SCHOOL (DMCS) UPDATES
SCRIP Statements Early Feb
Look for your TRIP Statements (SCRIP statement summary) the first week in February. If you have not yet tried our Scrip Program, please contact Peggy Johnson, at pjohnson@dmcs.cc at DMCS for more information. She would be happy to help walk you through the process and answer your questions. Find out just how easy it is to earn credit towards your child's tuition!
You Can't Inspire without Fire! Speaker Jan 25
Guest speaker Joe Roueche will be at DMCC Monday, January 25th at 6:30pm. All are welcome! We will begin our night with practical guidance on how to grow in our own relationship with Jesus while leading others to Him followed by a time of Adoration. Faith is caught not taught so we must have faith alive so as to inspire that in those in our sphere. Four Steps shared on how to 'acquire the fire.'
WOMEN'S LENTEN SMALL GROUP OPPORTUNITY
Set a Fire is our “Blessed is She” reflection book for your Lenten journey this year. We believe every woman can fully live her life when she’s guided by the Holy Spirit. Divine Mercy Catholic Church is offering several in-person and online small group options. It is free to participate in the small groups; purchasing the book is strongly encouraged. There is an option on the form to purchase a book through us to save on shipping. Small groups start the week after Ash Wednesday (Feb 17). See the registration form for information on times and locations. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/setafire for more information.
Archdiocesan Synod 2021
As referenced in Mrs. Reeder’s message above, the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis Synod enters Year 2: “The Church Prepares” with a series of listening events each month. Inspired by the thousands of participants at the Prayer and Listening Events, this series connects their stories to the story of the Church. Each virtual event includes a talk, testimonials, and a live panel discussion including Archbishop Hebda. Registration is required to participate live. All events begin at 7pm; future dates are Jam 27, Feb 4, and Feb 9. Register online to participate and submit your questions! Zoom links will be sent to registrants prior to each event. Registration is limited to 500 participants per event. A flyer with more information is attached.
Middle School Edge/High School Youth Group
Middle School EDGE & High School Youth Group is open to all BA families. This is another great opportunity for your students to gather with others that want to grow in their faith and to enhance what they are learning in the classroom. Registration is required for both. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/faith-formation for more information.
COMMUNITY UPDATES
Pregnancy Options March for Life Event, Jan 22 (TONIGHT!) @ 6:30pm in Faribault
Pregnancy Options invites you to gather with them at 6:30pm January 22 in the street in front of Pregnancy Options (18 2nd St NW, Faribault). There will be hot apple cider and hot chocolate along with candles. We will be praying for the end of abortion, the overturning of Roe v Wade, and the strength of Pregnancy Options. Mayor Kevin Voracek will be present and will sign a proclamation on the Sanctity of Life in Faribault. Rep. Brian Daniels, Sen. John Jaskinski, and a representative from MCCL have been invited to come to share a few words.
Faribault Soccer Association Summer Registration
Registration for the Faribault Soccer Association summer program is now open. The deadline to register for Traveling Soccer is February 6th. The players age is their age on December 31, 2021. Register online here; more information on the website here.
Attached Files |
Family Focus 1/15/2021
01/15/2021
Ed Friesen
January 2021
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Dear BA Families:
Happy Snow! I hope that this heavier snowfall finds you safe and warm in your home. As our announcement shared yesterday, today is a snow day for our middle school students and an online learning day for our high school scholars. At this point in the year, we want to give our high school students every opportunity to be successful and stay on track toward their academic goals. Thank you for partnering with us in this goal. All afternoon activities and sporting events have been canceled for today.
Calling All Talented Students! The Bethlehem Academy talent show will be Thursday, February 4th, as part of Catholic Schools Week. Each act will need to be pre-recorded by 3:30pm on Monday, February 1. The video will be presented to the whole school on Thursday. If you would like to participate, please sign up at this link. If you have any questions, please see Mr. Gardner, Mr. Zabel, or Mr. Hillesheim.
Schedule for the upcoming three weeks:
- Mon, Jan 18: No School - Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday
- Tues, Jan 19-Fri, Jan 22: All students in person learning. Friday High School Mass
- Tues, Jan 19: Right to Life Dress Down Day (see details below)
- Fri, Jan 22: HS Right to Life March in St. Paul and Pregnancy Options of Faribault local event at 6:30 p.m. by their offices with guest speakers (see more info on this local event below).
- Mon, Jan 25: No School - Teacher Workday
- Tues, Jan 26-Fri, Jan 29: All students in person learning. Friday Middle School Mass
- Sat, Jan 30-4pm: BA Catholic Schools Week Mass at DMCC - if your family would like to assist at Mass, please reach out to Mrs. Kratt or Ms. Shimota.
- Catholic Schools Week & Snowball Activities. Theme: Faith. Excellence. Service.
- Mon, Feb 1- Country vs. Country Club (Hats allowed)
- Tues, Feb 2- Jersey Day - Day of Giving: students will be creating valentine cards for area seniors
- Wed, Feb 3 - WIN DAY-come in for support and projects
- Thurs, Feb 4- Pajama/Relaxed Clothes Day; Buddy Day with DMCS (virtual activities) and BA Talent Show presentation.
- Fri, Feb 5- Dress to Impress, HS Mass; Snoball Activities & Crowning
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- FREE LUNCH: Will continue through April 30 for all BA students.
- 2021-22 FINANCIAL AID APPLICATIONS OPEN! Apply early for scholarships at this link: financial aid app. Please be sure to take advantage of our scholarship program. The initial application deadline is February 20, 2021.
- MARCH FOR LIFE: This January 22 is the March for Life with the Diocese and/or a local gathering in Faribault with Pregnancy Options at 6:30 p.m (see more info in the community section below).
COVID Update: As of January 8, 2021, we have one new COVID case with possible exposure at school in high school. We do have 11 students choosing distance learning fulltime and 20 students quarantining.
- Updated Student Symptom Screening form and Decision Tree - click on the links for updated information.
- All Illnesses: Please note, if your child is sick at any time, we do not expect them to join online learning. We want to give them time to recover. Just notify the attendance line as you normally would.
FUNDRAISER UPDATES:
- BA Annual Fund: Our goal is to raise $250,000 by June 30, 2021. As of January 15 we are at $130,428 -Thank you! We have another $50,000 pledged bringing us to 72% of our goal. Remember, by making a larger donation in 2021, you may actually decrease your taxable income!
- BABS:We are looking for committee members to join our team of volunteers. If you like to decorate, call for donations, have a talent for arranging silent auction baskets, or just have great ideas, please contact me at my email below. WE NEED YOU!
KUDOS: To our Student Service Club for creating blankets this week in support of Pregnancy Options!
Have a blessed long weekend as we celebrate Martin Luther King Day on Monday!
Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org
ALL-BA UPDATES
Right to Life Dress Down Day, Tuesday, Jan 19
Student Service Club is having a dress down day this Tuesday, Jan 19, in honor of Right to Life month. All funds collected will go to buy diapers and other baby items for Pregnancy Options. To dress down (sweatpants ok): pay $1 and/or donate the following items: post-it notes, paper products; K cups for Keurig, tea bags, cleaning supplies (wipes, bathroom cleaner), diapers (sz 4, 5, 6), baby wipes & hygiene items; To wear a hat: add $2; To wear leggings: add $2 (Make sure the sweater or shirt covers up the backside!) Please help this organization out. THANK YOU!
Basketball Games: Spectator Update
The number of spectators that can attend basketball games this season is limited due to State of Minnesota orders. The Gopher Conference is limiting the number to 2 spectators per participant. This restriction allows each school to better meet both social distancing guidelines and any contact tracking requirements should the need arise. (The Big 9 Conference is also limiting spectators to 2 per participant.) Varsity/JV parents have been contacted about the opportunity to purchase passes for the season. Contact Athletic Director Ed Friesen with any questions.
See our online calendar for streaming links to games. Subscribe to our NFHS Network Channel to watch most of our games, both home and away, online.
Home and School: Volunteers Needed!
Home and School - your parent organization! - is looking for new parent volunteers to lead this parent group so vital to our BA community. Jane and Michelle are “retiring” and without new leader volunteers, this group will have to disband. Contact Jane at jandjhillesheim@charter.net or Barb or Tammy in the office (507-334-3948) if you have any questions.
Shadow Days & Tours
Does your student have a friend interested in BA? Invite them to join them for a shadow day (classmates are encouraged to come together) or for a personal family tour. Sign up to shadow here; sign up for a family tour (offered Mon-Fri from 3-6pm) here. Applications are now open for 2021-2022! Find more information on our admission page.
BA Angel Hot Lunch Fund
The lunch program still has over $1500 in negative hot lunch accounts. If you are able during this time of free hot lunches, please consider donating to help clear these accounts. If 30 BA families donated $50 each, we could bring current all accounts and help our families who are struggling during this pandemic. Drop a donation in an envelope marked “BA Angel Lunch Account Fund” in the front office; contact Tracy Meschke at tmeschke@bacards.org with any questions. Thank you!
Facemasks and BA Car Clings Available for Sale
We are now selling BA facemasks and car clings in the BA Front Office! Click here for more information. Send in payment (cash or check made out to BA) with your order to Tammy in the front office or email Tammy with any questions.
Wanted: Spring Sports Coaches
We have the following spring sports coaching positions open: Head Baseball, Assistant Baseball, Middle School Baseball, Head Track & Field, Assistant Track & Field (# of assistants to be determined). If you or someone you know is interested please contact Athletic Director Ed Friesen at efriesen@bacards.org. At this time, we believe the spring season will start late March or early April – a couple of weeks later than normal.
HIGH SCHOOL UPDATE
Interested in College Band?
Members of the Notre Dame Band are hosting a series of virtual open house events for high school students interested in college band. The open house for the Minnesota, the Dakotas and Montana region is THIS SUNDAY, January 17th, at 6pm EST / 5pm CST.RSVP HERE. Notre Dame band members will be talking about aspects of college band in general, as well as information about the Notre Dame Band. This event is intended for high school juniors and seniors, but freshmen and sophomores are invited to attend as well.
Current 10th & 11th Grade Students: PSEO for Fall 2021
PSEO offers high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to take courses at eligible post-secondary institutions. Students must meet the admissions requirements of the post-secondary institution, but do not pay for tuition, fees, or books. They earn high school credit and, if students continue their education beyond high school, colleges or universities may choose to transfer their completed coursework through PSEO as college credits. Students interested in taking PSEO courses at South Central or other colleges and universities must discuss this option with the counselor prior to clss registration, which will open to returning students the week of February 22. Please note that many schools have deadlines as early as the beginning of April. FAQs about PSEO can be found here on Counselor's Corner on the BA website. If you have any questions concerning PSEO, please reach out to Ms. Rogers at trogers@bacards.org.
ACT Test Prep Class through Faribault Community Education
As they have done in the past, Faribault Community Education is offering an ACT Test prep class through Advantage Test Prep (other classes and locations found at www.advantageprep.net). The 3-hour classes are held on 4 Saturdays starting January 30 at the Faribault Education Center. There is also an online class option. Click here for more information.
Juniors (and Seniors): ACT Test Sites Re-opening
Students whose ACT test was cancelled last December should check their registration status through their ACT.org account. Testing sites have begun to re-open in Minnesota, and students may be able to register for upcoming tests. The deadline for February 6 test registration is Friday, January 15. Please contact Ms. Rogers at trogers@bacards.org with any questions.
SENIORS:
FAFSA Updates 2021
The covid relief bill passed at the end of 2020 included some significant changes to the FAFSA. Here is an article that explains what changes were made. FAFSA is also providing a free educational webinar to the public on all recent changes to the college process on Wednesday, January 27 at 7pm. You can join through this Zoom Link. For other information about financing your student's education, please check out this page on the BA website, or reach out to Ms. Rogers at trogers@bacards.org with any additional questions.
College Deadline Update Emailed to Seniors: It is getting to that point where college deadlines have either recently passed or are coming up very soon! Contact Ms Rogers If you need: mid-year transcripts, information about schools/programs or pathways to your chosen trade, or help with scholarship applications. If you have received a decision about your application: update your application status in Naviance. If you have decided where you are going next year: update your decision status in Naviance. If you are still considering your plans for next year, email Ms. Rogers at: trogers@bacards.org to discuss your options.
Tri-Lakes Sportsman’s Club Scholarship
Graduating seniors interested in the outdoors and/or pursuing a degree in the outdoors or the environment are invited to apply for a $500 scholarship sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Sportsman’s Club. An application and personal essay, due March 10, is required. See Naviance or Ms. Rogers for more information.
Faribo 4 Kids Thomas Laughlin Scholarship
Faribo 4 Kids is sponsoring the Thomas Laughlin scholarship opportunity. There are 2 scholarships, each worth $1500. Applications must be postmarked by March 19, 2021. Seniors were sent this email Jan 6; more information can also be found through "Scholarships" on Naviance.
Allina Health Orthopedics Sports Medicine Scholarship
Allina Health Orthopedics will be offering two $2,500 scholarships, which will be awarded annually to one female and one male student athlete who intends to attend college to pursue a career in sports medicine. Deadline to apply is March 1, 2021. Contact Ms. Rogers for more information.
Steele-Waseca Electric Coop College Scholarship
Are you a Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric customer who has a Class of 2021 scholar planning to continue his/her education full-time at a two- or four-year technical school or college? If so, please have your senior email Ms. Rogers to find out more about applying for a $500 scholarship. Eligible students will be asked to fill out a form detailing academics, school and community involvement, and submit a short essay on their future goals.
MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
MS Positivity Project
In our religion classes MS scholars will be looking for the characteristic of perseverance within themselves and in their classmates. Perseverance is a quality we want all of our students to strive toward. Attached please find the perseverance card for your information and for extended conversations at home.
AIM Higher K-8 Scholarship
The Aim Higher Scholarship is a $1,000, student-based scholarship awarded to K-8 students from families with demonstrated need. This year's application deadline is February 20, 2021. Application is via the online TADS financial aid form found here. Click here to find more information via the English flyer and the Spanish flyer.
DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES
Middle School Edge/High School Youth Group
Middle School EDGE & High School Youth Group is open to all BA families. This is another great opportunity for your students to gather with others that want to grow in their faith and to enhance what they are learning in the classroom. Registration is required for both. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/faith-formation for more information.
COMMUNITY UPDATES
Pregnancy Options March for Life Event, Jan 22 6:30pm in Faribault
Pregnancy Options invites you to gather with them at 6:30pm January 22 in the street in front of Pregnancy Options (18 2nd St NW, Faribault). There will be hot apple cider and hot chocolate along with candles. We will be praying for the end of abortion, the overturning of Roe v Wade, and the strength of Pregnancy Options. Mayor Kevin Voracek will be present and will sign a proclamation on the Sanctity of Life in Faribault. Rep. Brian Daniels, Sen. John Jaskinski, and a representative from MCCL have been invited to come to share a few words. They are offering this as an alternative to and/or in addition to going to the Capitol. This will not be a long event and the center will be open if you would like to visit. If you are interested in volunteering for this event, please contact the director, Gina Little. There are many ways to participate depending on what you are interested in! Gina’s email is gina@pregnancyoptionsfbo.org.
Faribault Soccer Association Summer Registration
Registration for the Faribault Soccer Association summer program is now open. The deadline to register for Traveling Soccer is February 6th. The players age is their age on December 31, 2021. Register online here; more information on the website here.
Attached Files |
Family Focus 1/8/2021
01/08/2021
Ed Friesen
January 2021
Leave a comment
January 8, 2021
Dear BA Families:
Happy New Year! Our first semester ended with much success. So many of our students worked incredibly hard to end the semester positively. THEY ARE DEDICATED SCHOLARS! I pray for our students each week and am so grateful to partner with you and our staff as we celebrate their success.
We will be in our Hybrid Phase One learning model next week, and in person every day the last two weeks of January due to previously scheduled days off:
- Week Jan 11-15: Students in building Mon-Tues, Thurs-Fri. No class Wednesday-faculty available for student support. Friday, Jan 15 - Middle School Mass day.
- Monday, Jan 18: No School. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday
- Tue, Jan 19-Fri, Jan 22: All students in person learning. Friday High School Mass
- Mon, Jan 25: No School - Teacher Workday
- Tues Jan 26-Fri, Jan 29: All students in person learning. Friday Middle School Mass
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- FREE LUNCH: All BA students will receive Free Hot Lunch through April 30 due to our acceptance into a COVID relief program. An email (copy attached) regarding this was sent out earlier this week. Special thanks to our lunch program team who took the additional steps and to qualify BA for this program.
- FINANCIAL AID APPLICATIONS OPEN: An email (copy attached) was sent to families inviting you to apply for financial aid for 2021-2022. Please be sure to take advantage of our scholarship program. Early applications encouraged; the initial application deadline is February 20, 2021.
- MARCH FOR LIFE: This January 22 is the March for Life with the Diocese. Please see the information to sign up your scholar. Space is limited this year due to COVID protocols, please sign up by Tuesday, January 13 as this is a wonderful opportunity for our students to actively participate with others of their faith.
COVID Update: As of January 8, 2021, we have not had any additional Covid-19 cases where students have been in school. We do have 25 students distance learning due to personal requests, confirmed cases at home or exposure.
- Updated Student Symptom Screening form and Decision Tree - click on the links for updated information.
- All Illnesses: Please note, if your child is sick at any time, we do not plan to have them join online learning. We want to give them time to recover. Just notify the attendance line as you normally would. They will have time to make up assignments.
FUNDRAISER UPDATES:
- BA Annual Fund: Our goal is to raise $250,000 by June 30, 2021. As of January 8 we are at $125,200 -Thank you! We have another $50,000 pledged bringing us to 70% of our goal. Remember, by making a larger donation in 2021, you may actually decrease your taxable income!
- BA Bash Raffle: Thank you for participating in our new, BA Bash Raffle. BA profited $12,400 from the raffle. Our budgeted goal was $10,000. Congratulations to our winners: 1stPrize: Joanne DeGrood; 2ndPrize: Jolene Mostrom; 3rdPrize: Pam Sartor
Thank you for your feedback on our winter survey. These results and your input is helping us reaffirm areas of strength and plan for areas for growth, not only for this year, but next year as well. We look forward to revised and additional classes, expanded spiritual activities and experiences, accelerated programming, community building events and additional student support. God is great! Keep praying for all that God has planned for your scholar and BA!
Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org
ALL-BA UPDATES
Robotics Returns Monday, January 11
After a required pause, the Vex Robotics Club is ready to get back to action! Any grade 6-12 BA student interested in joining should plan to meet Mondays starting Jan 11 from 3-5pm in the BA library. No fees this year. If interested and not yet signed up, please bring a copy of the attached form to the Monday’s meeting. Contact Coach Robinson at mrobinson@dmcs.cc with any questions.
Home and School: Volunteers Needed!
Home and School - your parent organization! - is looking for new parent volunteers to lead this parent group so vital to our BA community. See attached letter for more information; contact Jane Hillesheim or Barb or Tammy in the office (507-334-3948) if you have any questions.
Shadow Days & Tours
Does your student have a friend interested in BA? Invite them to join them for a shadow day (classmates are encouraged to come together) or for a personal family tour. Sign up to shadow here; sign up for a family tour (offered Mon-Fri from 3-6pm) here. Mid-year transfers are welcome, and applications are now open for 2021-2022. Find more information on our admission page.
BA Angel Hot Lunch Fund
The lunch program still has over $1500 in negative hot lunch accounts. If you are able during this time of free hot lunches, please consider donating to help clear these accounts. If 30 BA families donated $50 each, we could bring current all accounts and help our families who are struggling during this pandemic. Drop a donation in an envelope marked “BA Angel Lunch Account Fund” in the front office; contact Tracy Meschke at tmeschke@bacards.org with any questions. Thank you!
Facemasks and BA Car Clings Available for Sale
We are now selling BA facemasks and car clings in the BA Front Office! Click here to see the facemask and here for the car clings. They are “sold out” in the school store because they are now available here at BA! Send in payment (cash or check to BA) with your order to Tammy in the front office or Email Tammy with any questions.
Semester 1 Report Cards
Semester 1 report cards were sent in a password-protected email earlier this week. Please contact us if you did not receive the report card or had difficulty with opening the report card.
Winter Sports has Begun!
The winter sports teams began practicing this week. The first games will take place at the end of next week. Seating capacity will be limited to 2 spectators per participant; some junior high venues may be more limited. Most games will be live-streamed. Visit our online school calendar or our sports website for schedules, including streaming links. Or, download the rST Activity Scheduler app to your smart phone to access schedules and streaming links. For coop sports schedules and streaming links, visit their online calendar or sports website.
Wanted: Spring Sports Coaches
We have the following spring sports coaching positions open: Head Baseball, Assistant Baseball, Middle School Baseball, Head Track & Field, Assistant Track & Field (# of assistants to be determined). If you or someone you know is interested please contact Athletic Director Ed Friesen at efriesen@bacards.org. At this time, we believe the spring season will start late March or early April – a couple of weeks later than normal.
HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
Faribo 4 Kids Thomas Laughlin Scholarship
Faribo 4 Kids is sponsoring the Thomas Laughlin scholarship opportunity. There are 2 scholarships, each worth $1500. A copy of the application form is attached. Applications must be postmarked by March 19, 2021. Seniors were sent this email Jan 6; more information can also be found through "Scholarships" on Naviance.
Allina Health Orthopedics Sports Medicine Scholarship
Allina Health Orthopedics will be offering two $2,500 scholarships, which will be awarded annually to one female and one male student athlete who intends to attend college to pursue a career in sports medicine. Deadline to apply is March 1, 2021. Contact Ms. Rogers for more information.
Steele-Waseca Electric Coop College Scholarship
Are you a Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric customer who has a Class of 2021 scholar planning to continue his/her education full-time at a two- or four-year technical school or college? If so, please have your senior email Ms. Rogers to find out more about applying for a $500 scholarship. Eligible students will be asked to fill out a form detailing academics, school and community involvement, and submit a short essay on their future goals.
MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
AIM Higher K-8 Scholarship
The Aim Higher Scholarship is a $1,000, student-based scholarship awarded to K-8 students from families with demonstrated need. This year's application deadline is February 20, 2021. Application is via the online TADS financial aid form found here. Find more information via the English flyer and the Spanish flyer.
DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES
March for Life Friday, January 22
As promoted to our high school students in religion class: high school and college students are invited to this day of prayer, inspiration, pro-life education and advocacy for the pre-born. Families are welcome and may register as a group. Cost is $25 per person; lunch and transportation provided by Divine Mercy Youth Ministry. Online registration by January 13 required. Click here to learn more. There will some phenomenal speakers, and the group will be marching from St. Agnes to the Capitol for the MCCL rally at the Capitol. Space is limited due to COVID transportation restrictions.
Middle School Edge/High School Youth Group
Middle School EDGE & High School Youth Group is open to all BA families. This is another great opportunity for your students to gather with others that want to grow in their faith and to enhance what they are learning in the classroom. Registration is required for both. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/faith-formation for more information.
Attached Files |