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Family Focus 2/29/2020

02/29/2020

Ed Friesen

February 2020

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Note from Dr. Briscoe…

On being thermometers and thermostats:

Each morning I look out at a thermometer on my deck to see how cold it is, then turn on the radio for the forecast. As a native Minnesotan, I receive a certain satisfaction in being tough and able to endure what would seriously challenge the survival skills of people in warmer climates. Indoor temperature is another matter. I try to keep the thermostat in the house set a bit low for some people’s taste’s but will turn it up whenever we have visitors.

Thermometers and thermostats, although the words sound quite similar, there is a world of difference in what they do. A thermometer gives a reading of how hot or cold it is. That’s it. A thermostat on the other hand, senses when a room is getting uncomfortably cold or hot and kicks in the furnace or air conditioner to change the room temperature.

When we express feelings, fact and opinions on issues in our community, school, or neighborhood we are being thermometers. We might evaluate a person or situation in terms of good or bad, hot or cold according to some criteria, but if that is all we do, we are no more than thermometers, giving reading of the ambient temperature.

On the other hand, if we move from opinion and evaluations to actions, if we respond by finding ways to support and encourage the good as well as finding ways to bring about positive improvement in situations that need change, we are like thermostats, making a difference in our community and for those around us. Being only a thermometer, constantly complaining about the cold, is not going to make the situation any better. On the contrary, complaining will only make me be more focused on my discomfort and feel colder, well on second thought, it may have the additional effect of encouraging others to complain or avoid my company.

If you have been too much like a thermometer, why not go into action and be a thermostat. Remember the four principles from my favorite book, The Fred Factor:

1. Everyone makes a difference.
2. Success is built on relationships.
3. You must continually create value for others.
4. You can reinvent yourself regularly.

Dr. Chuck Briscoe

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BA Pancake Breakfast/Open House

Thank you to everyone who joined us last Sunday for our very successful pancake breakfast and open house! Your support is so appreciated!

SYNOD 2021

We need your help! All Catholics, former Catholics, those interested in the Catholic religion (regardless of your home parish) are asked to complete the Disciple Maker Index at www.disciplemakerindex.com, by Saturday, February 29^th. The information which you share in this document is confidential, but at the same time will help form the future for your parish and for the Archdiocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis. It is important that we have participation from a variety of age groups. If your child is a junior or senior at BA, he/she will have completed the survey in class. If your child is in the confirmation program, she/he has been invited to participate in the survey. For further information or clarification, contact Sister Kathleen at 507-334-2266, ext. 1018 or by email @ srkathleen@divinemercy.cc

Easter Flower Orders Due March 2

It is time for the annual BA Activities Association Easter flower fundraiser! These beautiful flowers are delivered fresh from Gerten’s Greenhouse and will arrive April 7 and 8 just in time for Easter. All orders are due to the BA office by Monday, March 2. Forms available in the office or click here to find one online. The proceeds from the flower sale supports co-curricular and extra-curricular activites at Bethlehem Academy. Thank you for supporting student activities!

Parent Teacher Conferences, March 5

Parent-Teacher Conferences are next Thursday, March 5 from 4:00 pm – 7:30 pm. Middle school teachers will be in the BA Cafeteria; high school teachers will be in the gym. The conferences are an opportunity for parents to meet to discuss student progress and are meant to be short 5-minute meetings with each teacher. If longer time is required, it is recommended that an individual appointment be arranged directly with that teacher. Faculty emails can be found on our website here.

Trap Team Registration Deadline March 6

BA Trap Team registration is now open and information packets are available in the main office.

Tuition Assistance Update

Thank you to all our families that completed their financial aid applications by the February 17 deadline! Please know that we remain committed to providing a Bethlehem Academy education to all families who desire it and it is not too late to apply for financial aid! Although no longer eligible for Archdiocesan scholarships, any family who is concerned about affording full tuition and fees may still apply for tuition assistance through TADS, with whom we partner to fairly assess need. Contact Kris at ksauer@bacards.org with questions on this process.

2020-2021 Enrollment Due March 17

Thank you to those families who have already re-enrolled their student(s)! If you have not yet done so, please re-enroll soon to facilitate class registration and our planning for next year. We ask that you complete re-enrollment for your student(s) by Tuesday, March 17 to best facilitate this. Click here for instructions and more information on re-enrolling.

Junior Class - Mock ACT Exam at BA, March 25

Juniors in the ACT Prep Class with Cathy Guth must sign up for the April 4^th ACT exam. To prepare, all students in the class will take a mock ACT exam at BA the morning of Wednesday, March 25. There is no fee for the mock exam and juniors not currently enrolled in the class may choose to participate. Please contact Cathy Guth at cathy_guth@yahoo.com with questions or to sign up.

Supplies Needed

Cold and flu season is upon us! We go through many boxes of tissues to stay well. If you can donate any boxes of tissue it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for helping us stay healthy!

UPCOMING EVENTS/VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Seeking New Members for BA Board of Directors

It is time to think about joining the Bethlehem Academy Board of Directors. If you are committed to the mission of BA and want to help shape the future, consider applying for an open position on the Board. It meets monthly, works in-between on committees and is a vital part of BA. Applications are available here or in the main office. Term begins August 2020 for 3 years. Questions? Contact Kathy Nass at 507-323-5365.

Cannon River Driving School, Mar 16-23

Cannon River Driving School is offering Drivers Education at Bethlehem Academy, March 16-27, from 3-6 pm Mon-Fri. Please see the attached registration form for details and to sign up.

Rise Up Twin Cities for MS Students, Mar 21

Divine Mercy Youth Ministry is bringing middle school students to a conference called “Rise Up Twin Cities” on March 2. The conference price is $60. See attached flyer for more information; Link to the middle school page can be found here. A direct link to the registration form can be found here. For more information, contact Ang Hoisington at ang323hoisington@yahoo.com.

Accreditation Visit, Mar 23-25

We continue to prepare to welcome several guests on March 23-25 as part of our MNSAA Accreditation. The faculty and staff have been working hard on the various aspects of our report in order to be fully prepared. We are reminding you that parents may be contacted by a team member and we count on your participation. Everyone will be asked to “Dress for Success” all three days which means student dress down passes WILL NOT be honored March 23-25. All BA students are expected to be in the best dress code they can muster! Thank you for your continued support of BA. Together We Fly!

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Faribault Elks Lodge

Faribault Elks Lodge is offering scholarships for post-secondary education to high school seniors graduating in the spring of 2020. Click here for application or visit www.Faribaultelks.org and click on scholarships, then start the application. Deadline is March 31, 2020.

P.E.O. Scholarship

The P.E.O. Chapter AR of Faribault will be awarding one $1,000 scholarship to a 2020 graduating female pursuing post-secondary education from either FHS or BA. The application requires three short questions and a completed application form. Deadline is April 3^rd. Applications are available in the counseling office.

Faribault Sertoma Club

The Faribault Sertoma Club will offer (2) $1500 scholarships for post-secondary education to High School Seniors graduating in the Spring of 2020. The recipients of these scholarships will be students who best personify Sertoma’s motto, “Service to Mankind”. Please see Mr. Schumann for an application. Deadline is April 30, 2020.

BA EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Student Summer Work Program: We are looking for student workers who will be in grades 9-12 next fall to help clean and prepare the schools for the upcoming 2020-21 school year. Tuition credit provided. Please click here for additional information.

Spring Coaches: Assistant & JV Baseball and Track & Field coaches needed for the 2020 spring season. Contact Ed Friesen for more information.

Morning BA Van Driver: Needed immediately for 6:15-8:00 am route. Tuition credit available. Contact Kris Sauer at ksauer@bacards.org if interested.

Substitute Teachers: Sought ASAP. Contact Sister Mary Margaret if interested.

DATES TO REMEMBER

(click on hyperlink for more information)

Online Activities Calendar: https://gopherconference.org/public/genie/7/school/7/

Family Focus 2/22/2020

02/22/2020

Ed Friesen

February 2020

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Note from Dr. Briscoe…

A couple of people asked me to explain the term “Nice Bike.” This column from over a year ago does a great job of doing that. Nice Bike to each of you!

Nice Bike:

One of my real passions in life is pedaling my very ordinary bike. I received a Trek 7200 bike for Father’s Day from my children in June 2009. My very first ride was on July 2, 2009 when I rode from Lanesboro to Whalan and back. It is five miles in each direction, but I cancelled the benefits of that ride when I ate a piece of strawberry-rhubarb pie at the Pie Shop in Whalan. I ride nearly every day from March through the first two-inch snow fall in December. It is my time for prayer, thought and reflection. No matter what challenges I am facing, the world always looks better after one or two hours on a bike.

The term “Nice Bike” was coined by one of my best friends, Mark Scharenbroich. We played college football together and Mark has gone on to be one of the best speakers in the nation. We were both educated by the Franciscan Sisters and owe many of the strengths that we have to the foundation that they helped us build in grades K-8.

“Nice Bike” really comes from what a person who rides a motorcycle might say to a fellow rider when they admire their bike. By saying “Nice Bike” you are telling the rider that you like their bike. When I use the word “Nice Bike” I am talking about three powerful actions: Acknowledge, Honor and Connect.

“Nice Bike” acknowledges an awareness of others. It is valuing everyone who works at a company or in a school. It is saying hello to strangers that you pass on the street. To acknowledge is to be aware of the needs of those around you and to help when and where you can without being asked.

“Nice Bike” honors other people by knowing what’s important to them, not to ourselves but to them. It is giving a sincere compliment; it is affirming others for a job well done and it is taking an interest in what others are contributing to the team. My mother told me time and time again that it is always more important to be interested in what the other person likes to do then to be interested in only yourself. It is doing service for others, not because of what it does for you, but because of what it does for the people being served. I continue to serve meals to the homeless two times per month. When you are feeling like you have challenges, spend time with the homeless and help them with your heart and energy. It continues to be very humbling each time that I serve them.

And finally, “Nice Bike” connects us with others. You create a bond both large and small that makes a difference in the life of someone else. You can do that in your neighborhood, at your work, in your school or through any of the wonderful service clubs in this community. “Nice Bike” helps you to make meaningful connections with others instead of always looking out for what is best for you. When you Acknowledge, Honor, and Connect each day, you will truly change the world one person at a time. So, the next time someone does something great around you please greet them for me and say, “Nice Bike.”

We now have nearly ten hours of wonderful daylight to enjoy. We have gained over seventy-five minutes of daylight since the winter solstice. Enjoy and enjoy the “warm” weather this weekend!

Dr. Chuck Briscoe

Note from Mr. Wollin…

It is my pleasure to work with your children. We have a great many wonderful young people here at BA. Every day I learn things from them. I hope that they all look to the future with hope and a positive attitude. I encourage you to help them with the registration process as we prepare for next year. Convincing them to challenge themselves is important. I ask that you encourage them to take a chance and sign up for classes that stretch them out a bit. Challenging yourself in high school will help them deal with the challenges of the future.

Mr. Dave Wollin

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BA Pancake Breakfast!

Join us this Sunday for the Industrial Arts/Hot Lunch Program annual all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast! Tickets available at the door, so invite your friends and neighbors to join you! Volunteers still needed for this great event – click here to sign up. Please join us for this fun family event - and thank you for supporting these great BA programs!

Open House This Sunday

Help us grow our Cardinal family! Invite interested families and friends to join us from 10 am - 12 noon this Sunday, February 23 for our open house. Info tables, student-led tours and complimentary pancake tickets for all who attend. Help spread the word about our great BA community! Share our open house Facebook and encourage your friends to attend. Thank you!

SYNOD 2021

We need your help! All Catholics, former Catholics, those interested in the Catholic religion (regardless of your home parish) are asked to complete the Disciple Maker Index at www.disciplemakerindex.com, by Saturday, February 29^th. The information which you share in this document is confidential, but at the same time will help form the future for your parish and for the Archdiocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis. It is important that we have participation from a variety of age groups. If your child is a junior or senior at BA, he/she will have completed the survey in class. If your child is in the confirmation program, she/he has been invited to participate in the survey. For further information or clarification, contact Sister Kathleen at 507-334-2266, ext. 1018 or by email @ srkathleen@divinemercy.cc

BA Activities Associatioin Easter Flower Fundraiser

Parents, families and friends of Bethlehem Academy – it is time to order spring flowers! As in the past, these beautiful flowers delivered fresh from Gerten’s Greenhouse will arrive April 7 and 8, just in time for Easter. We have found that so many times that, because these flowers are so beautiful that offices and businesses love purchasing them! If you can, please share with your office peers. No pressure to buy, just beautiful flowers to add a little color as spring approaches. All orders are due to the Bethlehem Academy office by Monday, March 2. Proceeds from the sales supports co-curricular activities at Bethlehem Academy.

Trap Team Registration

BA Trap Team registration is now open and information packets are available in the main office. Registration deadline is Friday, March 6^th.

2020-2021 Enrollment Due March 17

Just a reminder that enrollment is open for 2020-2021. Thank you to those families who have already re-enrolled their student(s)! If you have not yet done so, please re-enroll your student soon to facilitate class registration and our planning for next year. We ask that you complete re-enrollment for your student(s) by Tuesday, March 17 to best facilitate this.

Click here for instructions and more information on re-enrolling.

Junior Class - Mock ACT Exam at BA, March 25

Juniors in the ACT Prep Class with Cathy Guth must sign up for the April 4^th ACT exam. To prepare, all students in the class will take a mock ACT exam at BA the morning of Wednesday, March 25. There is no fee for the mock exam and juniors not currently enrolled in the class may choose to participate. Please contact Cathy Guth at cathy_guth@yahoo.com with questions or to sign up.

Supplies Needed

Cold and flu season is upon us! We go through many boxes of tissues to stay well. If you can donate any boxes of tissue it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for helping us stay healthy!

Hosting an International Student @ Bethlehem Academy: 2 Immediate Opportunities

Host families are needed IMMEDIATELY for two students. Please consider hosting:

• Fen: a 10^th grade Chinese boy here at BA until the end of this year. Current family love hosting him, but home was meant to be a transitional placement and logistics getting tricky for this multi-child family. No stipend as student is on a pure exchange program.
• Jisoo: an 8^th grade Korean girl here via the KoAm educational program. Student hopes to stay for high school at BA & will go home for summers. Stipend provided.

Benefits of hosting: Host families get an opportunity to learn firsthand about another country and culture; Hosting helps BA & gives our students a chance to expand their world view; Host families provide a bedroom, meals, a supportive home environment, and transportation to/from school; Exchange organization conducts a home visit and background check of the host, provide a monthly stipend (generally $600/month for a high school student, $400/month for a middle school student), reimburse for student expenses (lunch, activities fees, etc.), and provide support to the host family throughout the year; As a small token of our appreciation, BA provides host families with an athletics pass, providing the entire family with free admission to all home athletic events for the year. Contact: Kris at ksauer@bacards.org or 507-334-3948, x206 if interested.

UPCOMING EVENTS/VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Cannon River Driving School, Mar 16-23

Cannon River Driving School is offering Drivers Education at Bethlehem Academy, March 16-27, from 3-6 pm Mon-Fri. Please see the attached registration form for details and to sign up.

Rise Up Twin Cities for MS Students, Mar 21

Divine Mercy Youth Ministry is bringing middle school students to a conference called “Rise Up Twin Cities” on March 2. The conference price is $60. See attached flyer for more information; Link to the middle school page can be found here. A direct link to the registration form can be found here. For more information, contact Ang Hoisington at ang323hoisington@yahoo.com.

Accreditation Visit, Mar 23-25

We continue to prepare to welcome several guests on March 23-25 as part of our MNSAA Accreditation. The faculty and staff have been working hard on the various aspects of our report in order to be fully prepared. We are reminding you that parents may be contacted by a team member and we count on your participation. Everyone will be asked to “Dress for Success” all three days which means student dress down passes WILL NOT be honored March 23-25. All BA students are expected to be in the best dress code they can muster! Thank you for your continued support of BA. Together We Fly!

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Faribault Elks Lodge

Faribault Elks Lodge is offering scholarships for post-secondary education to High School Seniors graduating in the Spring of 2020. Click here for application or visit Faribaultelks.org and click on scholarships, then start the application. Deadline is March 31, 2020

Faribault Sertoma Club

The Faribault Sertoma Club will offer (2) $1500 scholarships for post-secondary education to High School Seniors graduating in the Spring of 2020. The recipients of these scholarships will be students who best personify Sertoma’s motto, “Service to Mankind”. Please see Mr. Schumann for an application. Deadline is April 30,2020

BA EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Spring Coaches: Assistant & JV Baseball and Track & Field coaches needed for the 2020 spring season. Contact Ed Friesen for more information.

Morning BA Van Driver: needed immediately for 6:15-8:00am route. Contact Kris Sauer if interested.

Substitute Teachers: sought ASAP. Contact Sister Mary Margaret if interested.

DATES TO REMEMBER

(click on hyperlink for more information)

Online Activities Calendar: https://gopherconference.org/public/genie/7/school/7/

Family Focus 2/14/2020

02/15/2020

Ed Friesen

February 2020

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February 14, 2020

Note from Dr. Briscoe…

The column below will be in the Faribault and Northfield Newspapers next week.  It is very hard to believe that this occurred one year ago.  I know there are brighter days ahead as we have gained over 75 minutes of daylight since the winter solstice on December 21, 2019.

February 2020 Daily News Column

“Heart, The Beat Goes On:

I have had the privilege to work in a school for the past 43 years.  As a dance chaperone for three decades I have noticed that most schools have some kind of dance theme around the idea of heart at a semi-formal dance in February, such as Snoball, Heart Throb, and a variety of other names around the same theme.  February is also the month that Valentine’s Day occurs on the 14^th of the month.  I was not surprised that Christmas cards rank number one for total number of cards purchased.  I was surprised that Valentine’s Day cards rank number two followed by Mother’s Day and Father’s Day cards.  So, between cards, flowers, chocolate and candy hearts a great deal of attention has been focused on both the heart and love in February.

Any time I have interviewed for a job the committee always asks me what my biggest weakness is.  For the past 34 years I have consistently given this answer “I care about people; I have a big heart and I can get ‘crushed’ once in a while because of it but I will never give this trait up.”  I learned a lot about my actual heart one year ago.  In early February 2019 I was at a presidents’ meeting in the cities.  I did not feel good, so I stopped at an urgent care in the cites.  After a few tests they said “you are going by ambulance to Abbott Northwestern.  Your heart rate has accelerated, and it would not be safe to drive there by yourself.”  So, at that moment, my car was in Woodbury and I was in the back of an ambulance headed to the hospital.  A lot goes through your mind at that point in time as you pray and wonder what that night and the next day will bring.  The next day I got my heart shocked back into rhythm and with that had the good fortune to cross paths with a great doctor.  The next day I met with one of the doctors on staff.  He said if you want this atrial fibulation fixed you need a heart ablation.  I always ask the doctor if their dad was sitting there who would they want to do this procedure?  Without hesitation he said “Dr Daniel Melby.”  My luck here was that his children had gone to Hill-Murray and he was happy to take me in.  On Valentine’s Day 2018 I drove through a blizzard to get to Abbot-Northwestern by 5:00 a.m.  Of all the days in a year, I was having my heart procedure done on Valentine’s Day.  There was no candy, flowers, or cards.  Just a smiling Dr. Melby who said I have looked at your chart for hours and I know exactly what to do!  It was a perfect Nice Bike moment and we were both ready to undertake about a three-hour procedure.

A lot of good things have happened since that date.  I had the good fortune to follow my heart and connect with a wonderful nurse named Donna.  Thanks to the heart ablation I have been able to use my new quote many times; “to fall in love once is a blessing, twice is a miracle.”  My free advice to you is to never take people you love or your heart for granted.

Dr. Chuck Briscoe

Note from Mr. Wollin…

The high school registration process has begun for next school year.  We will have an updated curriculum guide for students during the last week of February.  Our counselor, Mr. Jacob Schuman, will be going around to the different classes to help them enroll for their courses for the 2020-2021 school year.  Our hope is to have everything done by the end of March.  As part of this process, we ask that you enroll your children in school for next year.  The registration process cannot be fully completed unless your children are enrolled for the 2020-2021 school year.

Mr. Dave Wollin

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Financial Aid Deadline February 17

We are committed to providing a Bethlehem Academy education to all families who desire it.  Any family who is concerned about affording full tuition and fees is encouraged to apply for financial aid through TADS, with whom we partner to fairly assess need.  The deadline to apply for financial aid for the 2020-2021 school year is Monday, February 17, 2020, and must be met to be considered for Archdiocesan scholarships.  Please note that you MAY use your 2018 tax return to apply.

2020-2021 Enrollment Now Open

We have opened enrollment for 2020-2021 and ask that you re-enroll your student for next year.  You should have received an email from TADS with a link to get started.  Please click here for instructions and more information on re-enrolling.  We ask that you complete re-enrollment for your student(s) by Tuesday, March 17, in order for us to best plan for next year.  Email Kris Sauer or call her at 507-334-3948 x206 if you have any questions.

Bethlehem Academy Shadow Days, February 18 & 19

Invite an interested student to join us to experience all that a Catholic school has to offer!  Prospective students will be paired with a student host sharing similar interests (favorite classes, activities or sports) and incoming grade.  Attend classes, meet teachers and students, and enjoy a complimentary homemade lunch. Register online here or email admissions@bacards.org for more information.

Open House, Feb 23

Help us grow our Cardinal family!  Invite interested families and friends to join us from 10 am - 12 noon Sunday, February 23 for our next open house.  Info tables, tours and complimentary pancake tickets for all who attend.  The open house sign up can be found here.

BA Pancake Breakfast Tickets/Volunteers

It’s Pancake Breakfast time at BA!  This annual event raises money for BA’s Industrial Arts and Hot Lunch Programs. Tickets for the February 23^rd event are $6 each for all you can eat pancakes, sausages, applesauce, milk and coffee.  Every BA family was sent 10 tickets to buy/sell.  Extra tickets are available in the front office.  Our final Amazon gift card drawing ($100!) is next Friday, February 21. Turn in your ticket money to be eligible! Volunteers are needed for this great event - click here to sign up – hours count towards your family service hours.  

Easter Flower Fundraiser

Parents, families and friends of Bethlehem Academy – it is time to order spring flowers!  As in the past, these beautiful flowers delivered fresh from Gerten’s Greenhouse will arrive April 7 and 8, just in time for Easter!  We have found that so many times that, because these flowers are so beautiful that offices and businesses love purchasing them!  We need your help!  We ask that you please share with your office peers.  No pressure to buy, just beautiful flowers to add a little color as spring approaches.  All orders are due to the Bethlehem Academy office by Monday, March 2.  Flyer attached.

Mock ACT Exam at BA, March 25

Juniors in the ACT Prep Class with Cathy Guth must sign up for the April 4^th ACT exam.  To prepare, all students in the class will take a mock ACT exam at BA the morning of Wednesday, March 25.  There is no fee for the mock exam and juniors not currently enrolled in the class may choose to participate. Please contact Cathy Guth at cathy_guth@yahoo.com with questions or to sign up.

Spelling Bee Regional Competition

DMCS and BA sent 4th grader Leighton Richter and 6th grader Langston Richter to the Regional Spelling Bee in Rochester.  CONGRATULATIONS on a job well done! 

Note from the Nurse’s Office

As we begin registration for fall 2020, it is time to start planning for immunizations.  All students entering 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot.  The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age.  Students entering 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot.  This is a new requirement for admittance to school in the fall of 2020.  Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade.  Some students have already received these shots and letters will be going out within the next month for those who have not been vaccinated yet.

Hosting an International Student @ Bethlehem Academy: 2 Immediate Opportunities

Host families are needed IMMEDIATELY for two students. Please consider hosting:

• Fen: a 10^th grade Chinese boy here at BA until the end of this year. Current family love hosting him, but home was meant to be a transitional placement and logistics getting tricky for this multi-child family.  No stipend as student is on a pure exchange program.
• Jisoo: an 8^th grade Korean girl here via the KoAm educational program. Student hopes to stay for high school at BA & will go home for summers.  Stipend provided.

Benefits of hosting: Host families get an opportunity to learn firsthand about another country and culture;  Hosting helps BA & gives our students a chance to expand their world view;  Host families provide a bedroom, meals, a supportive home environment, and transportation to/from school;  Exchange organization conducts a home visit and background check of the host, provide a monthly stipend (generally $600/month for a high school student, $400/month for a middle school student), reimburse for student expenses (lunch, activities fees, etc.), and provide support to the host family throughout the year;  As a small token of our appreciation, BA provides host families with an athletics pass, providing the entire family with free admission to all home athletic events for the year.  Contact: Kris at ksauer@bacards.org or 507-334-3948, x206 if interested.

UPCOMING EVENTS/VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Cannon River Driving School, Mar 16-23

Cannon River Driving School is offering Drivers Education at Bethlehem Academy, March 16-27, from 3-6 pm Mon-Fri.Please see the attached registration form for details and to sign up.

Rise Up Twin Cities for MS Students, Mar 21

Divine Mercy Youth Ministry is bringing middle school students to a conference called “Rise Up Twin Cities” on March 2.  The conference price is $60.  See attached flyer for more information; Link to the middle school page can be found here. A direct link to the registration form can be found here.  For more information, contact Ang Hoisington at ang323hoisington@yahoo.com.

Accreditation Visit, Mar 23-25

We continue to prepare to welcome several guests on March 23-25 as part of our MNSAA Accreditation.  The faculty and staff have been working hard on the various aspects of our report in order to be fully prepared.  We are reminding you that parents may be contacted by a team member and we count on your participation.  Everyone will be asked to “Dress for Success” all three days which means student dress down passes WILL NOT be honored March 23-25.  All BA students are expected to be in the best dress code they can muster!  Thank you for your continued support of BA.  Together We Fly!

BA Employment Opportunities

Spring Coaches: Assistant & Jr. High Baseball and Track & Field coaches needed for the 2020 spring season. Contact Ed Friesen for more information.

Morning BA Van Driver: needed immediately for 6:15-8:00am route. Contact Kris Sauer if interested.

Substitute Teachers: sought ASAP. Contact Sister Mary Margaret if interested.

DATES TO REMEMBER

(click on hyperlink for more information)

Online School Activities Calendar:  https://gopherconference.org/public/genie/7/school/7/

Family Focus 2/7/2020

02/07/2020

Ed Friesen

February 2020

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In this Edition:

• Note from Dr. Briscoe
• Note from Mr. Wollin
• Announcements (SnoBall, Wizard of Oz production)
• 2020-21 Enrollment
• 2020-21 Financial Aid
• Prospective Student Shadow Days
• Open House
• Pancake Breakfast
• Note from Nurse's Office
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Host Families Needed
• Cannon River Driving School
• Accreditation Site Visit
• Employment Opportunities
• Important Dates/Calendar

Note from Dr. Briscoe…

There is still value in a handwritten note:

I am old enough to remember what it was like before the computer, the internet and e-mail. When we wanted to communicate, we had three options; talk face-to-face, call on your home phone, now referred to as your landline, or write a handwritten note and mail it or personally deliver it. According to the U.S. Postal Service’s annual survey, the average home received a personal letter once every eight weeks in 2015, down from one every two weeks in 1987 and one or more each week prior to 1970. Who has time for stamps, stationery and checking your own spelling?

I am willing to bet that many of you reading this still have a box of letters and cards that you received back in the day. You save them because you treasure the thought that went into the note and you value the person that sent them to you. Perhaps your grandparents, parents or other relatives took the time to actually write you a note. They took their time and shared their passion and feelings in that letter. I don’t think you get the same kind of feeling or passion in an e-mail, text, tweet or Facebook message. They are sent off instantly and many times you probably wish that there was a control/alt/delete to allow you to reel the message that may have been sent in haste or anger back in.

The wonder of a handwritten note is that they grow rarer by the day. I remind high school seniors of the value of a handwritten note. I tell them if they develop this habit after graduation, they may be the one person in several hundred who is sharing their gratitude and appreciation with a handwritten note. I know that it’s free to send something out electronically and you can do it very quickly 24-7. You read them but I doubt that you save the electronic message. I know if someone takes the time to write you a handwritten note you always save that. We have been downsizing and I came across old boxes of letters in dad’s Army trunk in the garage. He saved all the letters that he received from his mother and sisters during his six years in WWII. I can recapture that time when I read those letters.

I know it is critical to always say thank you. It is also essential to send a handwritten note every time you have a job interview or receive a gift and to thank all of the people around you in your life. It takes time, each is one of a kind, and they will be displayed on refrigerators, desks, and bulletin boards and kept in shoeboxes for a lifetime. It is a lost art that can easily be recaptured by anyone in 2020. All you need is some stationery, note cards, a pen, and a book of stamps. My wish is that you choose to be the one person in a hundred who is writing and sending handwritten notes in this new year.

Dr. Chuck Briscoe

Note from Mr. Wollin…

Parents I ask that you continue to remind your sons and daughters to have their laptops charged and ready for class every day. Also, remind them that being on time, not tardy, is very important. It is one of those lifelong skills that are important. Employers want workers who are on time and have good attendance.

I enjoy working with your children every day. We have some wonderful young adults here at BA. Thank you for supporting your children and our efforts at BA to educate them and prepare them for their future. The search for new leadership for next year is underway. There is a committee working on this and they will be ready to interview prospective candidates this spring.

Mr. Dave Wollin

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SnoBall Grand March pictures/video

SnoBall Grand March pictures, compliments of Mr. Brent Zabel, can be accessed here. Snoball Video, filmed by Troy Temple can be found at this YouTube link. 

The Wizard of Oz Tryouts

Tryouts for singing and non-singing parts start Monday, February 10; all students in grades 7-12 are eligible. Sign up for tryouts in the Choir Room. Performance dates: April 24-26

Tryout dates:

2/10 – Auditions from 3:15-6:00pm

2/11 – Auditions from 6:00-8:00pm

2/12 – Auditions from 3:15-6:00pm

2/12 – Callbacks (time TBD; students check email)

2020-2021 Enrollment Now Open

We have opened enrollment for 2020-2021 and ask that you re-enroll your student for next year. You should have received an email from TADS with a link to get started. Please click here for instructions and more information on re-enrolling. We ask that you complete re-enrollment for your student(s) by Tuesday, March 17, in order for us to best plan for next year. Email Kris Sauer or call her at 507-334-3948 x206 if you have any questions.

Financial Aid Deadline February 17

We are committed to providing a Bethlehem Academy education to all families who desire it. Any family who is concerned about affording full tuition and fees is encouraged to apply for financial aid through TADS, with whom we partner to fairly assess need. The deadline to apply for financial aid for the 2020-2021 school year is Monday, February 17, 2020, and must be met to be considered for Archdiocesan scholarships. Please note that you MAY use your 2018 tax return to apply.

Bethlehem Academy February Shadow Days

We are offering several shadow days this month, including February 11, 12, 18 and 19. Invite an interested student to join us to experience all that a Catholic school has to offer! Prospective students will be paired with a student host sharing similar interests (favorite classes, activities or sports) and incoming grade. Attend classes, meet teachers and students, and enjoy a complimentary homemade lunch. Register online here or email admissions@bacards.org for more information.

Open House, Feb 23

Help us grow our Cardinal family! Invite interested families and friends to join us from 10 am - 12 noon Sunday, February 23 for our next open house. Info tables, tours and complimentary pancake tickets for all who attend. The open house sign up can be found here.

BA Pancake Breakfast Tickets/Volunteers

It’s Pancake Breakfast time at BA! This annual event raises money for BA’s Industrial Arts and Hot Lunch Programs. Tickets for the February 23^rd event are $6 each for all you can eat pancakes, sausages, applesauce, milk and coffee. Every BA family was sent 10 tickets to buy/sell. Extra tickets are available in the front office. Weekly Amazon gift card drawings start Friday, February 7 for anyone who has turned in ticket money, and a case of our Famous Lunch Lady Chocolate Chunk cookies will be awarded to the person who sells the most tickets! Volunteers are needed for this great event - click here to sign up – hours count towards your family service hours. Please join us for this fun family event - and thank you for supporting these great BA programs!

Note from the Nurse’s Office

As we begin registration for fall 2020, it is time to start planning for immunizations. All students entering 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot. The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age. Students entering 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot. This is a new requirement for admittance to school in the fall of 2020. Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade. Some students have already received these shots and letters will be going out within the next month for those who have not been vaccinated yet.

Hosting an International Student @ Bethlehem Academy: 2 Immediate Opportunities

Host families are needed IMMEDIATELY for two students. Please consider hosting:

• Fen: a 10^th grade Chinese boy here at BA until the end of this year. Current family love hosting him, but home was meant to be a transitional placement and logistics getting tricky for this multi-child family. No stipend as student is on a pure exchange program.
• Jisoo: an 8^th grade Korean girl here via the KoAm educational program. Student hopes to stay for high school at BA & will go home for summers. Stipend provided.

Benefits of hosting: Host families get an opportunity to learn firsthand about another country and culture; Hosting helps BA & gives our students a chance to expand their world view; Host families provide a bedroom, meals, a supportive home environment, and transportation to/from school; Exchange organization conducts a home visit and background check of the host, provide a monthly stipend (generally $600/month for a high school student, $400/month for a middle school student), reimburse for student expenses (lunch, activities fees, etc.), and provide support to the host family throughout the year; As a small token of our appreciation, BA provides host families with an athletics pass, providing the entire family with free admission to all home athletic events for the year. Contact: Kris at ksauer@bacards.org or 507-334-3948, x206 if interested.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES/UPCOMING EVENTS

BA Mailing Help Needed, Feb 10-13

Volunteers are needed to help with a mailing the week of 2/10 - 2/13 any time after 10:00 am. This opportunity will count towards required volunteer hours. Contact Sister Mary Margaret at mmurphy2@bacards.org.

Basketball Game Help

Volunteers are needed for our remainibng home basketball games on February 11, February 14 and February 17.  Please sign up at:https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0948a9ad2f4-basketball2

Cannon River Driving School, Mar 16-23

Cannon River Driving School is offering Drivers Education at Bethlehem Academy, March 16-27 from 3-6 pm Mon-Fri. Please see the attached registration form for details and to sign up.

Accreditation Visit, Mar 23-25

A reminder that Bethlehem Academy will be hosting their Accreditation visit March 23-25, 2020. This accreditation will affirm the excellence of the school and provide insights and suggestions as we continue to offer your children a value-centered education. Some of you may be contacted by the team at that time.

BA Employment Opportunities

Spring Coaches: Assistant & JV Baseball and Track & Field coaches needed for the 2020 spring season. Contact Ed Friesen for more information.

Morning BA Van Driver: needed immediately for 6:15-8:00am route. Contact Kris Sauer if interested.

Substitute Teachers: sought ASAP. Contact Sister Mary Margaret if interested.

DATES TO REMEMBER

(click on hyperlink for more information)

Online Activities Calendar:  https://gopherconference.org/public/genie/7/school/7/
 

Family Focus 2/1/2020

02/01/2020

Ed Friesen

February 2020

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February 1, 2020

In this Edition:

• Note from Dr. Briscoe
• SnoBall
• SnoBash
• School Musical Announcement
• NWEA Testing for Middle School
• BA Pancake Breakfast
• 2020-21 Enrollment
• 2020-21 Financial Aid Applications
• Upcoming Service/Volunteer Opportunities
• Accreditation Visit
• Employment Opportunities at BA
• Dates to Remember

Note from Dr. Briscoe…

We have just finished another successful Catholic Schools Week at BA. This week gave everyone a chance to celebrate the great opportunity that a Catholic Education provides. Students got the chance to serve others with the Jesus Food pack this week. We value the support that you provide us with your time, talent, dollars and trusting us with your child. Thank you!

A couple of people asked me about the process for “excusing” your child during the school day. We need a phone call or an e-mail to explain why they will be gone and the amount of time during the school day. This helps us to make sure that everyone is safe and we know where your son/daughter is during the day. I have noticed some recent phone calls/e-mails excusing a student for lunch. I am fine with lunch with family tied into a medical appointment or to celebrate passing your driver’s test or getting your braces off. We struggle with the idea of excusing a student for lunch. We don’t have open campus. The senior class has had open campus for the last part of each school year for several years. They ask permission from the school administration and it is granted following certain parameters. Please wait until the spring for open campus lunch to begin for seniors only. A lot of positive conversations happen at the lunch table and we need you here for all of the school day. Thanks for your help with this.

We have gained nearly one hour of precious daylight since the winter solstice on December 21. Piper enjoyed a plate of spaghetti with grandpa Tuesday night.

Chuck Briscoe

SnoBall Grand March, TONIGHT, Saturday, February 1 @ 8pm

Join us in Van Orsow Auditorium Saturday @ 8pm for SnoBall Grand March and the crowning of our 2020 SnoBall Queen. All are welcome! Doors open at 7:00pm; students should start lining up by 7:30pm. Dance ends at midnight. 

SnoBash, TONIGHT, February 1, 2020

Parents! After SnoBall’s Grand March, plan to hang out at Carbone’s from 9:30pm-12am. Get your tickets in the BA front office. Tickets will also be sold at Grand March and at the door Saturday night. Ticket includes beer, soda, and music provided by Noah Battles. Hosted by the Junior class parents, all proceeds benefit Post Prom 2020.

Just Announced: The Wizard of Oz is BA’s 2020 Spring Musical!

Mark your calendars for April 24-26! BA will be putting on The Wizard of Oz for this year’s spring show. Tryouts for singing and non-singing parts start Monday, February 10; all students in grades 7-12 are eligible. Sign up for tryouts in the Choir Room.

Tryout dates:

• 2/10 – Auditions from 3:15-6:00pm
• 2/11 – Auditions from 6:00-8:00pm
• 2/12 – Auditions from 3:15-6:00pm
• 2/12 – Callbacks (time TBD; students check email)

NWEA MAP Testing Feb 4-6 for Grades 6-8

Middle school students will be taking the winter NWEA tests Tuesday through Thursday next week. Please see the testing schedule below:

Tuesday, Feb 4

• 8:05am-9:55am: Grade 8 Math
• 11:11am-1:00pm: Grade 7 Reading
• 1:03pm-2:55pm: Grade 6 Language

Wednesday, Feb 5

• 8:05am-9:55am: Grade 6 Math
• 11:11am-1:00pm: Grade 8 Reading
• 1:03pm-2:55pm: Grade 7 Language

Thursday, Feb 6 (No WIN)

• 8:05am-9:55am: Grade 7 Math
• 11:11am-1:00pm: Grade 6 Reading
• 1:03pm-2:55pm: Grade 8 Language

BA Pancake Breakfast Tickets/Volunteers

It’s Pancake Breakfast time at BA! This annual event raises money for BA’s Industrial Arts and Hot Lunch Programs. Tickets for the February 23^rd event are $6 each for all you can eat pancakes, sausages, applesauce, milk and coffee. Every BA family was sent 10 tickets to buy/sell. Extra tickets are available in the front office. Weekly Amazon gift card drawings start Friday, February 7 for anyone who has turned in ticket money, and a case of our Famous Lunch Lady Chocolate Chunk cookies will be awarded to the person who sells the most tickets! Volunteers needed for this great event – click here to sign up – hours count towards your family service hours. Please join us for this fun family event - and thank you for supporting these great BA programs!

2020-2021 Enrollment Now Open

We have opened enrollment for 2020-2021 and ask that you re-enroll your student for next year. You should have received an email from TADS with a link to get started. Please click here for instructions and more information on re-enrolling. We ask that you complete re-enrollment for your student(s) by Tuesday, March 17, in order for us to best plan for next year. Email Kris Sauer or call her at 507-334-3948 x206 if you have any questions.

Financial Aid Deadline February 17

We are committed to providing a Bethlehem Academy education to all families who desire it. Any family who is concerned about affording full tuition and fees is encouraged to apply for financial aid through TADS, with whom we partner to fairly assess need. The deadline to apply for financial aid for the 2020-2021 school year is Monday, February 17, 2020, and must be met to be considered for Archdiocesan scholarships. Please note that you MAY use your 2018 tax return to apply.

Upcoming Events/Service Opportunities

BA Mailing Volunteers Needed Feb 6-7

Please contact Sr Mary Margaret if you are available to help with a mailing next Thursday/Friday. This is one way to complete volunteer hours. Thank you.

Feb 9 IRIS Pancake Breakfast/Bingo Volunteers

IRIS is looking for volunteers to help with various areas at their upcoming pancake breakfast & bingo event on Sunday, February 9 at the American Legion. Opportunities begin at 7:00 am and run in 3 hours shifts until 4:30pm or so until cleanup is done. Responsibilities include set up, bussing tables, kitchen clean up, selling bingo cards, bake sale table, clean up after event and so on. Please contact Lori if your student would like to help for a shift and earn service hours. Lori can be reached at: 507-334-4748 or lori@irisremembers.com.

Open House, Feb 23

Help us grow our Cardinal family! Invite interested families and friends to join us from 10 am - 12 noon Sunday, February 23 for our next open house. Info tables, tours and complimentary pancake tickets for all who attend. The open house sign up can be found here.
 

Basketball Game Day Volunteers
Parent and adult volunteers are needed to assist at our home basketball games this winter.  Volunteers are needed to sell tickets at the admissions table or to assist with concession stand operations.  Please see the table below for game dates.  Click on a date to sign up.  To sign-up to work a home basketball event, please follow this link:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0948a9ad2f4-basketball2

Accreditation Visit March 23-25

Preparations are continuing for our on-site accreditation visit by the Minnesota Non-public School Accrediting Association (MNSAA) on March 23-25. You will be hearing more about their visit and some of you may be contacted during their visit. Thank you for your support of BA.

BA Employment Opportunities

• Spring Coaches: Assistant and JV Baseball and Track and Field coaches sought for the 2020 spring season. Contact Ed Friesen for more information.
• Morning BA Van Driver: needed immediately for 6:15-8:00am route. Contact Kris Sauer if interested.
• Substitute Teachers sought ASAP. Contact Sister Mary Margaret if interested.

DATES TO REMEMBER