Family Focus 2/12/2021
03/26/2021
Ed Friesen
February 2021, 2020-21
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Dear BA Families:
I hope you are staying toasty warm! The temps outside have certainly dropped, but inside BA students are snug thanks to our new windows and the various activities from this week. Student Council sold "Valentine Grams" and lunch was a buzz with note writing and delivering of treats. This morning we honored "BA Students of the Month." What a joy to recognize students not only for their academics but for all four Dominican Pillars: Prayer, Study, Community and Service! Our students dove into Black History Month this week by researching Saints and exploring in history. During morning announcements Saints of color were highlighted. On a final note we celebrated our lunch ladies with gifts from our new Home & School officers and BA parents, along with special notes, flowers and a round of applause! BA was a great place for students to thrive this week!
DO YOU WANT FLOWERS? Check out the annual BA Activities Association flower sale to brighten up your home! Orders are due to the BA front office Feb 24. An order form is attached or can be found online here.
BABS - DENIM & DIAMONDS, April 10, 2021: SAVE THE DATE! We are presently looking for amazing donations to our Silent and Live Auction - please fill out the online form here to donate. Event tickets will be limited this year and Silent & Live Auction bidding will be both in person and online! THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS & STAFF - WE NEED EVERYONE TO MAKE THIS A HUGE SUCCESS!
Schedule for the upcoming three weeks:
- Feb. 12 & 15: No School-School in session the remaining 4 days of each week
- Feb. 17: Ash Wednesday-Mass in the gymnasium for all 6-12 students at 8:30 a.m.
- Feb 19: Deadline for 11th graders to sign up for FREE Act Science Prep Class
- Feb 20: FINANCIAL AID APPLICATION DEADLINE
- Feb 21: Pancake Breakfast / postponed to 2022
- Feb 24: WIN DAY - No regular classes. Students should come in for support or time to work on projects.
- Easter flower order deadline
- ACT Science Test Prep Class, 8am-12pm (Gr 11)
- BA Day @ Taco Johns, 4-8pm
- Feb. 22-26: FFA Week
- Feb. 26: Winter concert re-scheduled. Limited attendance, parents only. Choir & Band teachers shared details.
- Feb 28, 11am-2pm: BA Open House
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- 2021-2022 Enrollment Update: Enrollment is open! You should have received an email from FACTS (NEW!) this past week with instructions on how to set up your account and re-enroll your students for next year.
- 2021-22 TADS Financial Aid Applications Due Feb 20! Be sure to take advantage of our needs-based scholarship program and apply via TADS using this link: financial aid app. The initial application deadline is February 20, 2021.
COVID Update: As of February 11, 2021, we remain at two additional positive cases and no exposure at school. We do have 15 students and 2 staff online learning or needing to quarantine.
- 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.
FUNDRAISER UPDATES:
- BA Annual Fund: Our goal is to raise $250,000 by June 30, 2021. As of February 5 we are at $223,478 - THIS IS INCREDIBLE and we are 89% of our goal. WE CHALLENGE ALL DONORS TO SHARE THEIR ANNUAL FUND GIFT BY FEB. 28 - WE LOVE BA! We need only an additional $26,522 to reach our goal.
Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org
ALL-BA UPDATES
The BA Activities Association is looking for parents to join our committee! The BAAA works together to raise funds in support of our extra-curricular programs. Support from this group includes: new varsity athletics uniforms on a rotating basis; Wolf Ridge busing; After Prom donation; and 2 Scholarships annually for rising seniors. Funds raised by this committee have also supported: a batting cage & pitching machine, choir sound shells, band instruments, re-finishing the gym floor & installing a new sound system in the gym, and football goalposts at Teepee Tonka. The group also provides 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!
BA Day @ Taco Johns 4-8pm Feb 24
Taco John's is hosting a BA Day on Wednesday, Feb 24, from 4-8pm. 25% of all orders placed at this time will go back to BA to support our athletics and co-curricular programs. Take a break from dinner and support BA!
Art Exhibit at Paradise Center for the Arts: BA Art Students will be featuring in the Spring Show running from February 19-April 2021. Watch for student art work to be displayed and support the arts! Thanks to Mr. Hillesheim for helping students showcase their talents.
Limited Attendance Open House Feb 28, 11am-2pm
Does your student have a friend interested in BA? Invite them to join us for an Open House Sunday, February 28! Pre-registration required as attendance is limited. Invite families to sign up here to find out what a difference a Cardinal education can make!
Parent/Teacher Conferences March 4
Conferences for middle and high school students will be held Thursday, March 4th from via individual Zoom meetings. Most faculty will be available from 4-8pm; some are available from 4-6pm. Sign up to discuss your student's progress with teachers at this link.
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 invited! 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.
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 UPDATES
Juniors Register by Feb 19 for FREE ACT Science Prep Class Feb 24
Mrs. Cathy Guth is offering a FREE ACT science seminar Wed, Feb 24, from 8am-12pm. The session will be held at BA (it's a non-class WIN day). The ACT prep book will be provided. Mrs. Guth will focus on science concepts and skills and test taking and pacing strategies for the ACT test. Students will also take a practice science test. Interested juniors should email Mrs. Rogers by Feb 19 at 3pm if they wish to attend this FREE course.
Virtual Drivers Training Sessions this Spring
Cannon River Driving School is offering 3 virtual classroom drivers training sessions this spring. Sessions start Feb 22, March 15, and April 5. See attached flyer for more information and to sign up.
Current 10th & 11th Grade Students: PSEO for Fall 2021
Students interested in taking PSEO courses at South Central or other colleges and universities must discuss this option with the counselor before February 22. Please note that many schools have deadlines as early as the beginning of April. FAQs about PSEO can be found here on the Counselor's Corner page on the BA website. If you have any questions concerning PSEO, please email Ms. Rogers.
SENIORS:
Please update all of your application decisions and information on Naviance as you hear results so that we know your options, plans, and how Ms. Rogers can help assist you with next steps!
College Scholarship Opportunities
There are several national and local scholarships available with deadlines in March, including the Schulze Family Foundation Scholarship, 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
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
Tuition Reduction Incentive Program (TRIP)
Earn credit by using Scrip. It's easy! Just use Scrip gift cards for your everyday purchases instead of paying with cash, check or credit card! TRIP Statements will be sent to BA families next week. If you have any questions please contact Peggy Johnson at pjohnson@dmc.cc or (507) 334-7706 ext: 2204.
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!
Synod at Home: 2021 Series for Lent Feb 18-March 18
The Synod at Home series takes helpful videos, tip and tools for growing in faith and pairs them with family- friendly activities. Register online. See attached flyer for more information.
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.
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
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
*Easter Plant Fundraiser Order Form
*Cannon River Driving School Registration Form
*Synod 2021: At Home Series for Lent
Family Focus 2/5/2021
03/05/2021
Kris Sauer
2020-21, February 2021
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Dear BA Families:
Happy Catholic Schools' Week (CSW) 2021! This week began with Mass and continued as our scholars celebrated, supported causes, and shared talents as well as time with DMCS buddies during our CSW activities. During the dark winter months and accumulating snow, this week always lifts spirits! Congratulations to our 2021 SnoBall Queen, Abby Larson, who we crowned in a special ceremony Friday afternoon. A special thank you to our parents, our staff, and our students for their help in creating such a special week! Watch videos of our Talent Show and Coronation events on BA’s YouTube channel.
THANK YOU! The BA Home & School Association says farewell to two amazing parents who gave countless hours to the school over the last few years as Home & School officers. A HUGE THANK YOU to Jane Hillesheim and Michelle Jasinski for supporting students and staff 
with gifts, meals, and special recognition. We are forever grateful! A special welcome to new parent team, Chandra Wray-Raabolle and Susan McCabe as they step into their new role as officers. They will be reaching out with an email to gain more parent support in the months ahead!
DO YOU WANT FLOWERS? Check out the annual BA Activities Association flower sale to brighten up your home! Please help reach out to your extended families, co-workers, friends and neighbors to see if they are interested purchasing a little spring “pick me up” to help brighten their day this upcoming Easter. Orders are due to the BA front office Feb 24. An order form is attached or can be found online here.
BABS - Our pace for BABS is beginning to pick up and we are looking for amazing donations for our Silent and Live Auction. If you are willing to make a donation or have insight into a fantastic connection, please email us at or . THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS!
Schedule for the upcoming three weeks:
- Feb. 8-11: NWEA Map Testing for Middle School & Black History Month focus
- Feb. 11: Kitchen Staff appreciation day! Send a note of appreciate to our team! Student of the Month ceremony-7:30am
- Feb. 12 & 15: No School; school in session the remaining 4 days of each week
- Feb. 17: Ash Wednesday
- Feb 20: FINANCIAL AID APPLICATION DEADLINE
- Feb 21: Pancake Breakfast / postponed to 2022
- Feb 24: Easter flower order deadline
- Feb. 22-26: FFA Week
- Feb. 25: Winter concert re-scheduled. Limited attendance, watch for information and an online publication.
- Feb 28, 11am-2pm: BA Open House
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- 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: Enrollment is open! Most of you should have receive an email from FACTS this past week with instructions on how to set up your account and re-enroll your students for next year.
- 2021-22 FINANCIAL AID APPLICATIONS OPEN! Be sure to take advantage of our needs-based scholarship program; apply at this link: financial aid app. The initial application deadline is February 20, 2021.
COVID Update: As of February 5, 2021, we remain at two additional positive cases and no exposure at school. We do have 10 students choosing distance learning full time and one student 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.
FUNDRAISER UPDATES:
- BA Annual Fund: Our goal is to raise $250,000 by June 30, 2021. As of February 5 we are at $222,628 - THIS IS INCREDIBLE and we are 89% of our goal. WE CHALLENGE ALL DONORS TO SHARE THEIR ANNUAL FUND GIFT BY FEB. 28 - WE LOVE BA! We need only an additional $27,372 to reach our goal.
- CHRISTMAS LUNCH ANGEL FUND: To date we have raised $1940 to support families in need at BA. THANK YOU!
KUDOS: To all BA students for their special time and joy shared with their DMCS buddies!
GO CARDINALS! Our basketball games are hot as well as our students in coop sports - way to go BA athletes!
Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org
ALL-BA UPDATES
Student Service Club Pregnancy Options Collection to Feb 11
BA's Student Service Club is collecting items to to be donated to Pregnancy Options. Items needed include: diapers (size 4, 5, 6), baby wipes & hygiene items, post-it notes, paper products (facial tissues, toilet paper), and cleaning supplies (wipes, bathroom cleaner). Please place donated items in the crib outside Mrs. Kriechbaum's room by Thurs, Feb 11.
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.
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 invited! 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.
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 UPDATES
Juniors: FREE ACT Science Prep Class Feb 24
Mrs. Cathy Guth is offering a FREE ACT science seminar Wed, Feb 24, from 8am-12pm. The session will be held at BA (it's a non-class WIN day). The ACT prep book will be provided. Mrs. Guth will focus on science concepts and skills and test taking and pacing strategies for the ACT test. Students will also take a practice science test. Interested juniors should email Mrs. Rogers by Feb 19 at 3pm if they wish to attend this FREE course.
Virtual Drivers Training Sessions this Spring
Cannon River Driving School is offering 3 virtual classroom drivers training sessions this spring. Sessions start Feb 22, March 15, and April 5. See attached flyer for more information and to sign up.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of So MN Seeking 10th Grade Volunteer
The Big Brothers Big Sisters program is seeking a 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 or want to learn more about the program.
Current 10th & 11th Grade Students: PSEO for Fall 2021
Students interested in taking PSEO courses at South Central or other colleges and universities must discuss this option with the counselor before February 22. Please note that many schools have deadlines as early as the beginning of April. FAQs about PSEO can be found here on the Counselor's Corner page on the BA website. If you have any questions concerning PSEO, please email Ms. Rogers.
SENIORS:
Senior Girls: Local P.E.O. Scholarship
Faribault's P.E.O. chapter offers an up to $1000 scholarship to local senior girls planning to pursue a college education. The scholarship form and essay prompts are due April 2.
College Scholarship Opportunities
There are several national and local scholarships available with deadlines in March, including the Schulze Family Foundation Scholarship, 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
Aim Higher Scholarship Giveaway
In honor of Catholic Schools Week, the Aim Higher Foundation is giving away two $1000 scholarships to K-8 students attending Archdiocesan Catholic schools in 2021-2022. Register here by midnight Saturday, Feb 6 to enter your name in the drawing!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
*Easter Plant Fundraiser Order Form
*Cannon River Driving School Registration Form
Family Focus 1/30/2021
02/03/2021
Kris Sauer
2020-21, January 2021
Leave a comment
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