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BA UPDATES

Welcome New Staff!

We are so excited to have the following new staff join us at BA this year: Ms. Casi Story, Ag/Industrial Arts Teacher; Ms. Emily Shimota, High School Theology Teacher; and Ms. Tori Rogers, Guidance Counselor. See the attache for more information and a welcome message from each.

9th Grade Families: High School Orientation September 2!*

Incoming freshmen and parents - we are hosting a mandatory High School Orientation for all incoming 9th graders and their parents next Wednesday, September 2 from 6-7pm. We ask that you wear a mask, pre-screen for symptoms, and use Entrance C (by the visitor parking spots) to enter. Parents will meet in the gym; students will gather in the BA cafeteria. New to BA or a returning family, please join us as we discuss ways to partner and support each other as your student starts their high school journey. **The parent portion of this event will be live streamed and recorded. Watch for a link next week.

6th Grader & New Middle School Families: Orientation September 9

All 6th graders and families new to BA’s Middle School are asked to join us for an orientation meeting on Wednesday, September 9. The meeting will be held via Zoom starting at 6pm and will focus on welcoming you to BA and providing tips and information to set your student up for success in middle school.

Robotics Program Update

Due to COVID-19, we are putting Robotics for both middle and high school teams on hold until the end of September, at which point a decision will be made to either extend or relax that hold. Because competitions are not likely to happen this year, we will be doing Robotics only as an internal activity without offsite competition. Also, because we are not competing, Robotics won't be charging a fee for the 2020-2021 season. Mr. Robinson is very excited to start up the Robotics program once it is safe and responsible to meet. All students, grades 6-12 can join. If you are interested in participating, please contact mrobinson@dmcs.cc.

HS Math Students: TI Calculators

The high school math department has a limited number of TI calculators available for students to rent for the year. Please contact Mrs. Jandro if you are interested in this program.

Wanted: Face Masks & Sanitizer!

We are developing a parent wish list for COVID-19 related items. At this time, we are asking anyone who has the time/interest/supplies to please make and donate cloth face masks. While we have a supply of disposable facemasks on hand, and will provide a Cardinal facemask for every student and staff, we know we will need extra masks as the year progresses. Completed masks can be dropped off at the BA Office during regular business hours. In addition, we anticipate going through a lot of hand sanitizer, donations being accepted. Thank you!

From the Nurse’s Office

Health Conditions: Due to screening for COVID, please be sure the school nurse, Mary Herzog, is aware of any existing health conditions for your child, including allergies, asthma, diabetes or other diagnosed conditions.
Students entering 7th grade this fall: Please make sure that you have had your tetanus booster and 1st meningitis shot before the start of school in the fall. Reminder letters will be sent out.
Students entering12th grade this fall:The meningitis booster requirements for this fall has been postponed because of Covid 19. Many have already had their booster shot. If you are seeing your doctor for any reason, you can still have this immunization but it is not necessary before the start of school in fall.

Amazon Smiles

If you shop at Amazon, consider ordering through Amazon Smiles and raise money for Bethlehem Academy! Go to smile.amazon.com, choose Faribault B A Inc. as your non-profit organization (include a space between the B and the A), and start shopping. BA automatically gets a donation for every purchase you make. It works with Amazon Prime and you can use Scrip to pay for your purchases.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES/JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Hometown Credit Union: Part-Time Teller Wanted

Hometown Credit Union is looking to hire a high-school student for a part-time teller opening in our Faribault office. The ideal candidate would be a sophomore or junior that is not involved in after-school extracurriculars. They would work most days after school until 6 and some Saturday mornings. Please contact Kurt Halverson at 507-455-6726 or KHalverson@hometowncu.coop if interested.

DMCS After Program Care Assistant

Divine Mercy Catholic School is looking for a 10th-12th grade student who is willing to work in our After Care program Monday-Friday 3:00-5:30 pm. Must enjoy younger children and be reliable. This is a paid position. Please send a letter of interest to Gina Ashley at Divine Mercy Catholic School (gashley@dmcs.cc).

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH UPDATES

Fall Faith Formation Registration is OPEN!

BA students that would like to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation need to sign up for Divine Mercy’s Confirmation program in order to meet the requirements. Divine Mercy’s confirmation program consists of a combination of large group presentations, small group discussion, service in our parish, and hands-on experiences with our Catholic faith. Confirmation is about taking the knowledge the students have learned, moving that information to the heart, and learning how to nurture a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Community is an essential part of our faith and we grow in relationship through each other. This is why we bring all the students together, regardless of where they are enrolled in school, to meet the requirements of confirmation. Confirmation is for students in 8th grade and older. Students who have already been confirmed are always welcome to join us as student leaders. Registration is required but there is no cost.

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, class schedules and registration link.

SpiritFest September 19!

Attached Files

New BA Staff 2020.pdf

Family Focus 8/21/2020

09/11/2020 author

Ed Friesen category

August 2020, 2020-21

Leave a comment

August 21, 2020

Dear BA Families:

Thank you for sending us your questions and joining us for the live session this week. I do wish I we could gather in our beautiful gymnasium to connect more personally, but I am so thankful for your partnership, your support, and your prayers as we begin our year focused on our mission: “To love as Jesus Christ loved, to lead, to serve, to inspire, and to seek the truth: Veritas.” If you weren’t able to attend, you can view the 50-minute view on our website here.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PACKET: You should have received your “Back-to-School” packet in the mail. In the packet you will find traditional student information as well as a COVID Addendum to the Student Policy Handbook for students and families to review along with an updated school calendar and supply list. Every student and parent/guardian MUST submit the Student Handbook and Technology e-form found at this link: https://forms.gle/ERSwhn9ynekfCTQC7.

Additional communication and upcoming events:

WELCOME WEEK! Special events planned for each day honoring social distancing.

August 31: StudentOrientation Day - 6-12th Grade (9-11:30 a.m.) - Students will meet only in homerooms / online students will connect virtually. HEALTH CHECK AT HOME! Please take your student(s) temperature and check for symptoms found here: Health Screening/Symptoms List
September 1: First day of school, doors unlocked at 7:30 a.m. HEALTH CHECK AT HOME! Please take your student(s) temperature and check for symptoms found here: Health Screening/Symptoms List
September 2: High School Orientation for 9th Grade Students and Parents - 6:00-7:30 p.m.
September 4: School IS in session this Friday before Labor Day
September 4: Mass Day, High School
September 7:No School, Labor Day

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING NEW? Join the BA Team as a substitute teacher. We love our subs and will be looking to add to our team. Please email Lisa Moonto get your substitute packet completed. Requirements: Must have a college degree, pass our background check, and attend Virtus training.

We ask for your continued prayer for our school, DMCS, and our parish, as we finalize and implement plans for this fall to bring our students and staff back together in prayer, study, community and service.

Blessings,

Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

BA UPDATES

Workshop Week Office Hours

The BA Front Office will have the following hours next week for Workshop Week. Email Barb Johnson with questions.

Monday, August 24: 8:00am-3:00pm
Tuesday, August 25: 1:00pm-3:00pm
Wednesday: CLOSED so staff can attend workshop sessions
Thursday, August 26: 1:00-3:00pm
Friday, August 27: 8:00am-1:00pm

9th Grade Families: Save the Date: September 2!

Incoming freshmen and parents - we are hosting a mandatory High School Orientation for all incoming 9th graders and their parents. Mark Wednesday, September 2 from 6-7:30pm on your calendars and plan to join us. More details coming soon!

Summer Reading Assignments, Grades 6-12

Students in grades 6-12 have an assigned book to read over the summer. Find your student(s) summer reading assignment on our website under Academics here.

Robotics Program Update

HS Math Students: TI Calculators

The high school math department has a limited number of TI calculators available for students to rent for the year. Please contactMrs. Jandro if you are interested in this program.

Wanted: Face Masks & Sanitizer!

From the Nurse’s Office

Health Conditions: Due to screening for COVID, please be sure the school nurse, Mary Herzog, is aware of any existing health conditions for your child, including allergies, asthma, diabetes or other diagnosed conditions.
Students entering 7th grade this fall: Please make sure that you have had your tetanus booster and 1st meningitis shot before the start of school in the fall. Reminder letters will be sent out.
Students entering12th grade this fall:The meningitis booster requirements for this fall has been postponed because of Covid 19. Many have already had their booster shot. If you are seeing your doctor for any reason, you can still have this immunization but it is not necessary before the start of school in fall.

Red Cross Blood Drive August 27

Bethlehem Academy is hosting a Red Cross blood drive 8am-2pm at Divine Mercy Catholic Church Thursday, August 27. Please call 1-800-733-2767 or visit www.RedCrossBlood.org and enter Bethlehem Academy to schedule an appointment. Amazon is donating a $5 gift card via email to all participants!

Amazon Smiles

If you shop at Amazon, consider ordering through Amazon Smiles and raise money for Bethlehem Academy! Go tosmile.amazon.com, choose Faribault B A Inc. as your non-profit organization (include a space between the B and the A), and start shopping. BA automatically gets a donation for every purchase you make. It works with Amazon Prime and you can use Scrip to pay for your purchases.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES/JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Hometown Credit Union: Part-Time Teller Wanted

DMCS After Program Care Assistant

Class of 2021 & 2022: 1st United Bank Board of Directors

1st United Bank has an exciting opportunity for high school students in Faribault. They are accepting applications for their 2020-2021 Junior Board of Directors. Eligible applicants include Juniors and Seniors in high school for the 2020-2021 school year. Individuals should possess an enthusiastic approach to community involvement, and an interest in business, banking or finance. Application deadline: August 28.

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH UPDATES

Fall Faith Formation Registration is OPEN!

Middle School Edge/High School Youth Group

Visit www.divinemercy.cc/faith-formation for more information, class schedules and registration link.

SpiritFest September 19!

Family Friday Focus 08/14/2020

08/14/2020 author

Ed Friesen category

August 2020, 2020-21

Leave a comment

Dear BA Families:

Our school building is buzzing with final preparations for our return to campus. Along with the traditional preparations, our staff is also redesigning the classroom environment to include the new health and safety protocols for this fall. From spaced desks to plexi partitions and hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the building, these safety measures will allow us to engage with our student body through in-person learning. Please take time to review our “Return to Campus Guide” and our “BA Pandemic Preparedness Plan” on our school COVID Response webpage found by clicking here. In addition to these documents, you will find links to other important resources. We will continue to update this webpage throughout the year and keep you informed.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PACKET: Please look for your “Back-to-School” packet to arrive early next week. In the packet you will find traditional student information as well as a COVID Addendum to the Student Policy Handbook for students and families to review along with an updated school calendar and supply list. Every student and parent/guardian MUST submit the Student Handbook and Technology e-form found at this link: https://forms.gle/ERSwhn9ynekfCTQC7.

First Q&A VIDEO / PARENT LIVE Q&A SESSION AUGUST 18: Thank you for sending us your questions! Check out our first Q&A video discussing face coverings, orientation and classroom setup here. Next week we are inviting you to join us for a live, online parent Q&A session. See info below to join us Tuesday, August 18 beginning at 6:15 p.m.

Additional communication and upcoming events:

August 14: Back-To-School mailing sent.

August 18: Parent Live Question & Answer Session, login at: meet.google.com/ukt-rpdi-ivo or by Phone Number (â

Family Focus 08/01/2020

08/01/2020 author

Ed Friesen category

August 2020, 2020-21

Leave a comment

Dear BA Families:

Governor Tim Walz shared a new algorithm with our State Thursday for considerations in reopening schools this fall. In addition, Catholic schools met with the Diocese Friday to review this information and how it impacts the variables within each school and for Bethlehem Academy. On Monday and Tuesday, BA leadership will meet with the BA Board and our Staff to finalize plans. We look forward to sharing our plan with families in next “Friday Focus for Families” newsletter.

Where are we at in our time frame to share final plans with students and families?

August 3 & 4: District Meeting, BA Board, Leadership and Staff meetings to review final fall plans
August 7: Parent and student communication regarding fall plans through “Friday Focus for Families” newsletter and links on our website and social media accounts
August 10-14: Bring in student leadership to review plans and assist with orientation

WHAT’S NEW?

Greenhouse - We’re building! Drive by to see the progress and development of our new greenhouse. What a joy to expand our educational excellence in our agricultural program.
High School STEM Solar Grant Pilot Program - BA is one of a few select MN high schools chosen to be a part of Minnesota Independent Schools Forum STEM Community Partnership with We Share Solar. Our high school will be receiving materials and curriculum to implement a new STEM project utilizing solar power. Not only will this be built into our curriculum across high school subjects, but students will build a solar powered item to support communities in need in Africa. Our staff will receive training this fall for implementation later this year.
Positivity Project Pilot Program for Middle School - BA was also awarded a middle school grant to pilot a new Positivity Project curriculum. This program will be implemented into our religion classes and focuses on developing young minds and hearts. Our staff attended an initial meeting to review this week.
Senior Student Webpage & Links: Seniors, be sure to check out our college planning webpage for information, links and scholarships to assist you as you continue your personal journey following graduation!
Donation Updates: Did you want to support BA during the summer with a gift or a memorial? Online gifts accepted at this link.
Summer Fundraisers: What amazing, generous group of SMART Challenge Riders we have! They are off biking on their second day of the challenge and we are so thankful to them. It’s not too late to sponsor them!. In addition, you can still join us for golf! Register for our August 7 Cardinal Golf Classic, at the link below.

Continue to pray for our school, DMCS, and our parish as we plan for this fall to bring our students and staff back together in prayer, study, community and service.

Blessings, Mindy Reeder

President/Principal

mreeder@bacards.org

BA UPDATES

Summer Office Hours

The front office is open Monday-Thursday from 9am to 1pm through August 20. The office is closed on Fridays. Regular office hours resume Monday, August 24.

SUPPORT OUR SUMMER EVENTS!

SMART Ride through August 1

Our 12 riders took off on Day 1 of the ride Thursday and have been blessed with good roads and great weather. Follow updates on Facebook and find rider profiles and sponsor your favorite rider(s) here.

Friday, August 7 @ The Legacy: Register TODAY!

Today, July 31, is the last day to register for this fun golf tournament! Just $100/golfer includes 18 holes, awards dinner, gift and on-course games. Sign up online here.

Wanted: Facemasks & Sanitizer!

We are developing a parent wish list for COVID-19 related items. At this time, we are asking anyone who has the time/interest/supplies to please make and donate cloth facemasks. While we have a supply of disposable facemasks on hand, and will provide a Cardinal facemask for every student and staff, we know we will need extra masks as the year progresses. Completed masks can be dropped off at the BA Office during regular business hours. In addition, we anticipate going through a lot of hand sanitizer, donations being accepted. Thank you!

From the Nurse’s Office

Students entering 7th grade this fall: Please make sure that you have had your tetanus booster and 1st meningitis shot before the start of school in the fall. Reminder letters will be sent out.

Students entering 12th grade this fall: The meningitis booster requirements for this fall has been postponed because of Covid 19. Many have already had their booster shot. If you are seeing your doctor for any reason, you can still have this immunization but it is not necessary before the start of school in fall.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Class of 2021: Faribault Rotary Strive Program

Faribault Rotary’s introductory Strive session was held June 10, but they would like more students involved! Meetings will be held on the second Wednesday of the month through January. Because of the unique circumstances, students may watch a recorded version of this session and it will count as them attending it live. A link to the video that discusses Strive and how to register for the program is at: https://youtu.be/fT6jH6etMYU See June 18 email for more information; contact Kurt Halvorsen at Faribaultrotarystrive@gmail.com with questions.

Class of 2021: Army ROTC Scholarship Program

The Army ROTC scholarship application is currently open. Students who complete the application can earn a full tuition and fee scholarship to more than 1,700 colleges nationwide. Some colleges are unique in that they will give free room and board to Army ROTC scholarship awardees. The first scholarship review board meets in October, so it is vital that those who desire to apply start now so they have enough time to complete the online application and ensure all other requirements; physical fitness test, transcript requested / submitted, and Officer interview. Interested seniors should contact Mr. Todd Frerichs

Class of 2021 & 2022: 1st United Bank Board of Directors

1st United Bank has an exciting opportunity for students in Faribault and surrounding communities. They are accepting applications for our 2020-2021 Junior Board of Directors. Eligible applicants include Juniors and Seniors in High School for the 2020-2021 school year. Individuals should possess an enthusiastic approach to community involvement, and an interest in business, banking or finance. Please see the attached flyer for more information.

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES

Aim Higher Scholarships

The Aim Higher Foundation has announced expanded scholarship opportunities for K-8 students this summer. New applicants are encouraged to apply via the TADS financial aid application, and students whose family situation due to COVID-19 are encouraged to update their spring application. See the attached flyer for more information on how to apply, or go to https://aimhigherfoundation.org/ to find out more. Application deadline is August 7.

DATES TO REMEMBER

(click on hyperlink for more information)

7/30-8/1	SMART Ride
8/7	Cardinal Golf Classic
8/7	BA Reopen Plans announced
8/13	BA Fall Sports Meeting
8/17	HS Fall Sports Open
8/24	MS Fall Sports Open
8/27	BA & DMCC Blood Drive, 8am-2pm
8/31	Orientation
9/1	First Day of School!

Attached Files

2020-Summer-Application-Aim-Higher-Foundation.pdf

2020-2021_Junior_Board.pdf

Family Focus 7/25/2020

07/25/2020 author

Ed Friesen category

July 2020, 2020-21

Leave a comment

July 24, 2020

Dear BA Families:

Each week brings us new changes, challenges and opportunities. Know that our staff is praying for each other and our students and families during this time. Our COVID Team met for nearly three hours this week to share their subcommittee recommendations based on the recommendations of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. This impressive group focused on continuing our mission to seek excellence in all that we do for our students at Bethlehem Academy. The COVID Team is developing action steps to implement three scenarios, Scenario 1 - Everyone is back with safety measures; Scenario 2 - A hybrid of this model; and Scenario 3 - Online learning.

As we plan for these three scenarios, we’d like your feedback on several issues related to our back to school plans. Please complete the short (5 minute) survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HHBS2H3. This information will help inform the work of our task forces and assist us in making plans suited to the families we serve. Thank you in advance for your input on this.

We thank you for your honest and open feedback from students, parents and staff in regards to distance learning experiences last spring. We understand that new strategies to engage students and ensure excellence will need to be implemented for any online learning environment, even our snow days. Although many experienced a positive learning environment, others shared ideas for improvement and better communication. Our staff is excited to review best practices from schools nationwide as we plan for any possible online learning in the future.

Where are we at in our time frame to share final plans with students and families?

July 27-29: Staff and Board meetings to review health and safety plans
July 30: Governor Walz announcement and recommendations for schools and BA Teacher Leader meeting to review and revise the COVID Team plans
August 3: District Meeting to review their plans and how this impacts BA
August 1-7: Bring in student leadership to improve on ideas and create videos
August 7: Parent and student communication regarding fall plans through “Friday Focus for Families” newsletter and links on our website and social media accounts

WHAT’S NEW?

Greenhouse - We’re building! Drive by to see the progress and development of our new greenhouse. What a joy to expand our educational excellence in our agricultural program.
High School STEM Solar Grant Pilot Program - BA is one of a few select MN high schools chosen to be a part of Minnesota Independent Schools Forum STEM Community Partnership with We Share Solar. Our high school will be receiving materials and curriculum to implement a new STEM project utilizing solar power. Not only will this be built into our curriculum across high school subjects, but students will build a solar powered item to support communities in need in Africa. Our staff will receive training this fall for implementation later this year.
Positivity Project Pilot Program for Middle School - BA was also awarded a middle school grant to pilot a new Positivity Project curriculum. This program will be implemented into our religion classes and focuses on developing young minds and hearts. Our staff will receive professional development this August.
Senior Student Webpage & Links: Seniors, be sure to check out our college planning webpage for information, links and scholarships to assist you as you continue your personal journey following graduation! Bethlehem Academy, a Catholic school in the Sinsinawa Dominican tradition, strives to empower its students and staff to achieve personal, spiritual and academic excellence. We challenge ourselves to love as Jesus Christ loved, to lead, to serve, to inspire and to seek the truth: Veritas.
Donation Updates: Did you want to support BA during the summer with a gift or a memorial? Online gifts accepted at this link.
Summer Fundraisers: What amazing, generous group of SMART Challenge Riders we have! See below to sponsor one of these amazing people. In addition, it’s not too late to join us for golf! Register or sponsor our Cardinal Golf Classic, at the link below.

Please join me in praying for Julie Trnka and her family at the loss of her father-in-law. Continue to pray for our school, DMCS, and our parish as we plan for this fall to bring our students and staff back together in prayer, study, community and service.

Blessings,

Mindy Reeder,
President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

BA UPDATES

Summer Office Hours

The front office is open Monday-Thursday from 9am to 1pm through August 20. The office is closed on Fridays. Regular office hours resume Monday, August 24.

SUPPORT OUR SUMMER EVENTS!

The SMART Ride is this upcoming week: Thursday, July 30-Saturday, August 1

12 riders are ready for this year’s SMART Ride next week! Each bike in support of Catholic education; all proceeds go to BA student scholarships. Find rider profiles and sponsor your favorite rider(s) here.

Friday, August 7 @ The Legacy

Join us for this fun tournament & great social event in support of Bethlehem Academy! Just $100/golfer includes 18 holes, awards dinner, gift and on-course games. Register by July 31. Form attached or sign up online here.

Wanted: Facemasks

We are developing a parent wish list for COVID-19 related items. At this time, we are asking anyone who has the time/interest/supplies to please make and donate cloth facemasks. While we have a supply of disposable facemasks on hand, and will provide a Cardinal facemask for every student and staff, we know we will need extra masks as the year progresses. Completed masks can be dropped off at the BA Office during regular business hours. Thank you!

From the Nurse’s Office

Students entering 7th grade this fall: Please make sure that you have had your tetanus booster and 1st meningitis shot before the start of school in the fall. Reminder letters will be sent out.

Coop Sports Update

Attached is text from a Faribault Daily News article regarding Faribault Public Schools District 656 school board’s most recent meetings regarding the cooperative sports programs. The public school board is turning their focus towards examining the loss of students through open-enrollment to neighboring school districts. We encourage you to continue to express gratitude for the cooperative program opportunities and share the positive benefits to the Faribault community. We know this can be an emotional issue, but it is important to be positive, appreciative, and supportive of Faribault Public Schools. Every community needs a good public school system. And, every public school system needs the support of its community. Finding solutions to these and other underlying issues facing Faribault will involve much dialogue and people working together.

MSHSL Sports Update

The MN State High School League (MSHSL) is holding weekly online meetings with activities directors. We continue to plan for fall sports but know there will be changes in how we operate. The MSHSL Board of Directors meets on August 4. Summer activities are operating on protocols based on the Minnesota Department of Health’s guidance for youth and adult sports released June 19 as well as the new face mask/face covering order. Please note that it is important for students to practice social distancing and hygiene habits all the time, not just while participating in activities.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Class of 2021: Faribault Rotary Strive Program

Class of 2021: Army ROTC Scholarship Program

Class of 2021 & 2022: 1st United Bank Board of Directors

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES

Aim Higher Scholarships

DATES TO REMEMBER

(click on hyperlink for more information)

7/30-8/1	SMART Ride
8/7	Cardinal Golf Classic
8/7	BA Reopen Plans announced
8/13	BA Fall Sports Meeting
8/17	HS Fall Sports Open
8/24	MS Fall Sports Open
8/31	Orientation
9/1	First Day of School!

Attached Files

2020-2021_Junior_Board.pdf

2020-Summer-Application-Aim-Higher-Foundation.pdf

FDN Coop Stay Article 7-20-20.pdf

Cardinal Classic Golf flyer 2020.pdf

Family Focus 07/17/20

07/25/2020 author

Ed Friesen category

2020-21, July 2020

Leave a comment

July 17, 2020

Dear BA Families:

This Friday Focus for Families is my first official communication with all of you, our school parents, directly. I look forward to connecting with you weekly to share pertinent information and to build a strong partnership. Today, communication takes multiple forms, from weekly school newsletters, to social media school accounts, video news, blogs, updates on our website and communication through PowerSchool, as well as interviews on the radio and with our local newspaper. What sometimes seems clear from our office, may not be clear to you, so please reach out with questions as we begin our partnership. I thank you for taking time to complete our Distance Learning surveys. All of your input is valued as our staff moves forward to planning for all scenarios this fall. Prayers are also critical for all staff, students and families so please join me in praying as we plan.

2020 FALL PLANS: A COVID Team was created with representatives of staff and faculty upon my arrival in July. This team met to review Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) protocols and are presently meeting in subgroups to plan for the fall. Please know that at this time, all of these ideas are tentative plans based on recommendations from MDH and CDC following the guidance from the Diocese protocols. What are some of the considerations that we are reviewing?

Groups of students staying together to mitigate exposure
Creative ideas for band and choir to minimize groups
Additional lunch periods
Masks worn upon entering the school and in hallways
Spacing desks and minimizing class sizes
Cancellations of field trips and rethinking service projects
Rethinking large group events and pepfests
Considerations for size of group at weekly Mass

What is our time frame to share final plans with students and families?

July 21: BA COVID Team meets to review recommendations from subgroups
July 23: District meeting to review transportation plans
July 27: Governor Walz announcement and recommendations for schools
July 28: BA Leadership Team and Teacher Leader meeting to review and revise BA COVID Team Plans considering local and state recommendation impacts
July 29: BA All Staff Meeting to finalize plans
August 1-7: Bring in student leadership to improve on ideas and create videos.
August 7: Parent communication regarding fall plans through Family Focus newsletter and links on our website and social media accounts

I know that there is a lot of information and planning to take place in the next few weeks. I’m proud of our dedicated teachers and staff who are preparing for multiple scenarios and am blessed to be at BA to begin my partnership with this amazing community. I look forward to connecting with students during sports practices and in early August to put into action the best plans for this fall. Here is the latest video communicating some of this information with Mr. Wollesheim, Assistant Principal: https://youtu.be/5ldJNEM1mg4 . Thank you for your prayers!

Blessings, Mindy Reeder, President/Principal mreeder@bacards.org

Summer Office Hours

The front office is open Monday-Thursday from 9am to 1pm through August 20. The office is closed on Fridays. Regular office hours resume Monday, August 24.

BA Scholarship Challenge Update

We are so excited to announce that we surpassed our Scholarship Challenge Grant goal of $15,000! Thanks to our many supporters, we’ll now receive an additional $15,000 match to fund student scholarships. To all those able to help use meet this goal - THANK YOU!!

SUPPORT THESE FUN SUMMER 2020 EVENTS!

Thursday, July 30-Saturday, August 1 (1-day ride options available!)

We’ve got 12 riders signed up for this year’s SMART Challenge Bike Ride. Each person rides in support of Catholic education; all proceeds go to BA student scholarships. Find rider profiles and sponsor your favorite rider(s) here.

Friday, August 7 @ The Legacy

Join us for this fun golf tournament & great social event in support of Bethlehem Academy! Just $100/golfer includes 18 holes, awards dinner, gift and on-course games. Register by July 31. Form attached or sign up online here.

UPDATES

Welcome to our New Staff

We are excited to welcome the following new members to the BA Team: Cassie Vogt, Guidance Counselor, Emily Shimota, HS Religion, Casi Story, Ag and Industrial Tech. Watch this space and our social media accounts for a more extensive introduction.

From the Nurse’s Office

Students entering 7^th grade this fall: Please make sure that you have had your tetanus booster and 1^st meningitis shot before the start of school in the fall. Reminder letters will be sent out.

Students entering 12^th grade this fall: The meningitis booster requirements for this fall has been postponed because of Covid 19. Many have already had their booster shot. If you are seeing your doctor for any reason, you can still have this immunization but it is not necessary before the start of school in fall.

Sports Update

The MN State High School League (MSHSL) is holding weekly online meetings with activities directors. We continue to plan for fall sports but know there will be changes in how we operate. The MSHSL has task forces working on scenarios. Governor Walz and the Minnesota Department of Education will announce how public schools will reopen the week of July 27. That decision will impact the direction the MSHSL will take. The MSHSL Board of Directors meets on August 4. Summer activities are operating on protocols based on the Minnesota Department of Health’s guidance for youth and adult sports released June 19. Please note that it is important for students to practice social distancing and hygiene habits all the time, not just while participating in activities.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Class of 2021: Faribault Rotary Strive Program

Class of 2021 & 2022: 1st United Bank Junior Board of Directors

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES

Aim Higher Scholarships

CSCOE Virtual Summer Programs

The Catholic School Center of Excellence has put together a series of online educational videos aimed at K-8 students on topics ranging including STEM, the performing arts, and the 4 His Glory sports program with former Viking Matt Birk. Find more information on the attached flyer.

DATES TO REMEMBER
(click on hyperlink for more information)

7/30-8/1	SMART Ride
8/7	Cardinal Golf Classic
8/7	BA Reopen Plans announced
8/13	BA Fall Sports Meeting
8/17	HS Fall Sports Open
8/24	MS Fall Sports Open
8/31	Orientation
9/1	First Day of School

Attached Files

Cardinal Classic Golf flyer 2020.pdf

CSCOE Virtual Summer Programs.pdf

AIM Higher 2020-Summer-Application.pdf

2020-2021_Junior_Board.pdf

2020-21 Calendar Draft v5b-BA.pdf

Family Focus 07/03/2020

07/25/2020 author

Ed Friesen category

2020-21, July 2020

Leave a comment

July 3, 2020

Happy 4th of July Weekend!!

Welcome to new President/Principal Mindy Reeder!
This July begins my partnership with you as your President/Principal for Bethlehem Academy. What a joy to join you in my 11th year as a principal serving Catholic schools. I consider this my vocation and look forward to serving the students, staff, and families of Bethlehem Academy as well as the greater community of Faribault. To come back in my new capacity truly feels like coming home!

My connection with Bethlehem Academy is both personal and professional. My husband and I are proud Bethlehem Academy (BA) parents with the graduation of our son in 2012. Through the dedicated staff and personal relationships developed at BA, our son thrived and discovered his true gifts while embraced by the BA and Faribault community. Bethlehem Academy holds a rich history in the community and I am honored to represent BA’s fortitude and follow the Sinsinawa Dominican sisters in devotion of prayer, ministry, study, and community that inspired generations, including multiple extended family members. As I join the BA school community, I look forward to continuing to expand all areas of excellence with the BA dedicated staff while honoring the rich traditions established in our community.

This fall I want to reassure all families, students and staff, that we will be open. It may look different, it may feel different, but our doors will welcome students. Over the summer I will be meeting with our Bethlehem Academy Board of Directors, the Sinsinawa Dominicans Sponsors Council, BA leadership teams, and teachers and staff to ensure excellence, build relationships, and secure support while we walk through these changes together. We will put effective measures in place to ensure the health and safety of all of our students and staff while meeting our mission to provide excellence in education and spiritual growth. Please do understand that this could change if there is national or state-wide mandates for schools.

“We Are BA” truly exemplifies our unity at this time and I invite you to reach out with questions and ideas as we move forward. I am devoted to you and know that God has great plans for us as this new school year begins where “We challenge ourselves to love as Jesus Christ loved, to lead, to serve, to inspire and to seek the truth-VERITAS!”

Blessings, Mindy Reeder,
Bethlehem Academy President/Principal 2020
Ed. S; Ed. M.

Summer Office Hours

The front office is closed July 3^rd for the 4^th of July holiday and will resume summer hours (Monday-Thursday from 9am to 1pm) July 6. Please note the office is closed on Fridays during the summer.

BA Scholarship Challenge Extended to July 4

Help us double our money! The MN Foundation offering to match our $15,000 in donations for the Scholarship Challenge has extended the deadline to July 4^th. Donate here to help if you can. If you prefer to send a check, email us at advancement@bacards.org so we can include it in the count. Thank you!

JOIN US FOR THESE FUN SUMMER 2020 EVENTS!

SMART Bike Ride: ***New Dates!***Thursday, July 30-Saturday, August 1 (1-day ride options available!)

Join the SMART Ride & help raise money for BA scholarships! Single day options available; each day’s rides will start/end at BA. Just $30/day or $75 for all 3 days. Registration, rider sponsor pages & other info at: smartchallenge.myevent.com

Cardinal Golf Classic: Friday, August 7 @ The Legacy

Join us for this fantastic golf scramble tournament & great social event in support of Bethlehem Academy! Just $100/golfer includes 18 holes, awards dinner, gift and on-course games. Registration form attached or sign up online at https://golfclassic.bacards.org/

UPDATES

Planning for the Fall

We are diligently planning for a safe return to school at the end of August. We are reviewing the MN Department of Education guidelines, along with guidance from the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and to open school in the fall.

From the Nurse’s Office

Class of 2021: Faribault Rotary Strive Program

Attached Files

Cardinal Classic Golf 2020 Flyer.pdf

DMCS Summer e Newsletter JULY 2, 2020.pdf

Family Focus 6/1/2020

07/25/2020 author

Ed Friesen category

2019-20, June 2020

Leave a comment

UPDATES

Pass/No Credit Option for Semester 2

Recognizing the challenges placed on students and families, Bethlehem Academy has adopted a Semester 2 Pass/No Credit grading option for students who may have struggled academically during the 4th quarter due to distance learning. AP and CIS classes do not qualify, and there are a number of restrictions and caveats. Please review the attached grading policy. If interested in pursuing this grading option, please log into PowerSchool to review current grades. Note the attached form must be returned to BA by June 4, 2020.

SENIOR WEEK/COMMENCEMENT UPDATES

THANK YOU to everyone involved in the production of our Senior Week/Commencement programs. Best wishes and Congratulations to the Class of 2020! In case you missed any of the virtual programs, they remain viewable on Bethlehem Academy’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/FaribaultBA) and YouTube channel (https://tinyurl.com/bethlehemacademy).

ANNOUNCEMENTS

2020-2021 Financial Aid & Tuition Agreements

Most tuition agreements have been sent via TADS to families of enrolled students. Please contact Sister Mary Margaret (mmurphy2@bacards.org) or Kris Sauer (ksauer@bacards.org) with questions or if your financial situation has changed since the February financial aid deadline. We will work with you to keep your students at Bethlehem Academy.

From the Nurse’s Office

Students entering 7^th grade this fall: Please make sure that you have had your tetanus booster and 1^st meningitis shot before the start of school in the fall. Reminder letters will be sent out.

Students entering 12^th grade this fall: The meningitis booster requirements for this fall has been postponed because of Covid 19. Many have already had their booster shot. If you are seeing your doctor for any reason, you can still have this immunization but it is not necessary before the start of school in fall.

2020-2021 Faribault Rotary Strive Program

Faribault Rotary is going to hold Strive meetings online via Zoom until further notice; the first meeting will be on Wednesday, June 10^th at 9:00 am. They will hold meetings on the second Wednesday of the month through January. Interested students will need to e-mail Faribaultrotarystrive@gmail.com to receive the link to the first Strive meeting.

Get Involved in BA! Join the Board of Directors

The BA Board of Directors is looking for 5-6 people to join the Board! It's a great way to meet new people, make new friends, and move BA forward. You will only have two meetings a month, so it isn’t a huge time commitment. And you can even join with a friend! We need you! If you want to help, have questions, or are on the fence about joining, please reach out to any of our current members, who would be happy to talk: Kathy Nass (Board Chair, 507-323-5365), Mike Donkers, Debbie Korman, Mellanie Smith, Kathy Halvorson, Mary Campbell, Pat DeGrood, Melissa Casper, Cory Caron, and Crystal Bauer. Bethlehem Academy needs our parents, alumni, friends to serve and help guide BA. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Board. Thank you! #WEAREBA #TogetherWeFly

Needed: Used Summer Reading/IRP Novels

A note from our English Departments: If you have any old summer reading novels, or IRP (Independent Reading Novels), sitting around at home that you would not mind donating we would love them!!! We will have a table available in the gym on the day students return laptops and textbooks for these book donations. Thank you for your consideration.

Box Tops

Great news! If you shop for groceries online, you can now submit your email receipts from select retailers to earn Box Tops for your school. Click here for details. You can also turn in your receipts to school right after you shop and Mrs. Smisek will scan them digitally if you don’t have the app. And, through May 10, earn double Box Tops when you buy any Box Tops participating products. This program helps support our middle school science program.

Grade 9-10 Students: Be a Big!

Big Brothers Big Sister of Southern Minnesota is recruiting interested 9^th and 10^th grade students for next school year. Check out this message from BA junior Kennedy Tutak: https://youtu.be/U50V_lOq_ZM. Interested students need to have a valid driver’s license by December 2020; commit to at least 2 years; want to be a kid’s new friend! Click here to take the first step in becoming a Big. Contact Megan Horton, Community Outreach Director at megan@bbbsofsouthernmn.org for more information.

Yearbook Orders

Still want to buy a 2019-2020 yearbook? It’s not too late! The BA Multimedia class has worked hard to create a memorable yearbook highlighting this historic year. Purchase yours for just $60 + tax online at http://jostensyearbooks.com/?REF=A04015000.

SAVE THE DATE FOR SUMMER 2020 EVENTS!

Summer event dates below – please add these to your calendar! More information coming soon.

~~Cardinal Café @ the Rice County Fair~~~~: Cancelled for July 2020~~
Cardinal Golf Classic: Friday, August 7
S.M.A.R.T. Challenge Ride: Thursday, August 6-Saturday, August 8 (1-day ride options available!)
Heritage Days Parade: Saturday, August 8, 2pm.

Attached Files

PassNo_Credit.pdf

2020-21 Calendar Draft 5-BA.pdf

Family Focus 5/22/2020

06/02/2020 author

Ed Friesen category

May 2020

Leave a comment

Note from Dr. Briscoe…

I am sending out my final newspaper column in my final Friday Focus. It has been a joyful four years at BA and I wish the school community much success in the future. Students: thanks for your outstanding efforts during the stay at home pandemic. We are all stronger individuals for the sacrifices we have made. Thanks and please leave the light on for me.

May 2020 Daily News Column

New Beginnings:

I struggled with the title of this column, the final column that I will write as a school principal. The past 35 years as a principal have been joyful 99% of the time. I have had the ultimate privilege to create hope for hundreds of staff members and thousands of students. All have had a huge impact on my life. They were certainly challenges, struggling with the death of students and staff members, and having to make very difficult decisions that all leaders have to make. As I prepare to go out the door, I will keep all of the great memories and leave the difficulty of the 1% in a small shoebox on a shelf.

My heart grieves for the Class of 2020. We left for spring break on March 6 and never came back. I was looking forward to going off the stage with them on graduation night. I scheduled my rotator cuff surgery for the first day of spring break, March 9, with hopes that I could minimize my time away. While I have adapted to the life of a left-hander in the past two months, I never thought that when we left on March 6 we would end up canceling all of the school events that create the memories the seniors will talk about at their class reunions forever. It was painful to cancel the play, concerts, prom, and then all of the graduation events. High school graduation is one of the major transitions of everyone’s life. There will never be a way to create the graduation that was to occur on May 22, 2020. I wrote my final speech before my surgery and was looking forward to that one final speech. I started the speech with my usual line that “I will spend the next five minutes or so trying to tell eighteen-year olds something that they don’t already know.” This always brought laughter from the audience which relaxed me to deliver a great speech. I wanted them to get five minutes of free advice from me that they would remember. We will follow the new state guidelines and have a virtual ceremony with students and their family in cars in the Bethlehem Academy parking lot on May 29, 2020. We will have cars come up and we will present diplomas with our masks and gloves on. My hope is that the Class of 2020 will talk about the last quarter of their senior year at every class reunion in the future.

Seniors, remember to always be kind and humble. Continue to practice service to others and go out of your way to volunteer to help neighbors and community members who need your help. When we recover from this scary virus, there will be numerous people needing your help. The Jesus that I know spent his life with the homeless, the sick and the people who struggled with the challenges that life brings each of us. Follow his pathway!

the isolation that we have all felt these past few months may we all remember to visit our parents, grandparents and relatives who reside in nursing homes. The loneliness that we feel after these few months will be felt by many of our elderly for much longer. hope that you will stay connected to the Church throughout your life.

I can promise you that you will make mistakes, get off track and some of you will need redirection. Like the MapQuest in your cell phone and car that says “recalculating” some of you will have to rely on us to go down a new pathway. Remember that life is a journey. Take the time to smell the flowers, drink good coffee, and treasure your family and friends. I love you; I will miss you and I wish you success. The BA Light will always be on for you! Nice Bike, Class of 2020! Thanks for the memories!

Dr. Chuck Briscoe

UPDATES

Staff Departures

We wish Sara Heselton, Mary Duecker, and Jake Schuman good luck in their future endeavors. We also wish Chuck Briscoe and Terry Condit a long and happy retirement.

Laptop & Textbook Drop Off, May 26-27

Families are asked to pick a time slot on Tuesday, May 26 or Wednesday, May 27 to return BA laptops, textbooks, calculators, sports uniforms, instruments or any other school property checked out to your students. In order to maintain the health and safety of our students and staff, please sign up for a specific family drop off time via this link. We ask everyone to wear masks and honor 6-feet social distancing requirements while in the building. Thank you!

Pass/No Credit Option for Semester 2

Recognizing the challenges placed on students and families, Bethlehem Academy has adopted a Semester 2 Pass/No Credit grading option for students who may have struggled academically during the 4th quarter due distance learning. AP and CIS classes do not qualify, and there are number of restrictions and caveats. Please review the attached grading policy. If interested in pursuing this grading option. please log into PowerSchool on or after May 29 to review current grades. Note the attached form must be returned to BA by June 4, 2020.

SENIOR WEEK/COMMENCEMENT UPDATES

THANK YOU to everyone involved in the production of the wonderful 2020 virtual Mary Ceremony!

We look forward to continuing our celebration of the Class of 2020 next week. All virtual programs are viewable on Bethlehem Academy’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/FaribaultBA) and YouTube channel (https://tinyurl.com/bethlehemacademy)

Baccalaureate, Wednesday, May 27, 7:00 pm: YouTube premier.

Awards Program, Thursday, May 28: The virtual grade 6-12 awards program will debut at 7:00pm on Facebook and YouTube.

Commencement, May 29

7:00pm: Virtual Commencement ceremony will be presented at 7:00pm on Facebook and YouTube as well as on Power96 Radio (https://power96radio.com/listen-live/)
8:00-8:15pm: In-person diploma presentation in BA’s parking lot followed by a and short recessional south on Third Avenue.

Calendar Updates

May 26-27: Laptop and Textbook turn in; sign up here
May 27: Baccalaureate program, 7:00pm virtual presentation on BA’s YouTube Channel
May 28: Awards Ceremony, 7pm virtual presentation on BA’s Facebook page, YouTube Channel
May 29: Commencement: 7pm virtual ceremony broadcast live on Facebook/YouTube followed by a brief diploma presentation in the BA parking lot and recessional south on 3^rd Avenue

ANNOUNCEMENTS

2020-2021 Financial Aid & Tuition Agreements

We will begin releasing tuition agreements via TADS today, May 22. See separate parent email for more information. Please contact Sister Mary Margaret (mmurphy2@bacards.org) or Kris Sauer (ksauer@bacards.org) with questions.

PSAT Exam Signup for Class of 2022

Current sophomores: the PSAT exam is scheduled for October 28, 2020. Students interested in taking the exam need to email Mr. Schuman at jschuman@bacards.org by Friday, May 29 to meet the registration deadline.

Get Involved in BA! Join the Board of Directors

Needed: Used Summer Reading/IRP Novels

Box Tops

Keep turning in your Box Tops or to scan them digitally for credit! You can also turn in your receipts to school right after you shop and Mrs. Smisek will do scan them digitally if you don’t have the app. And, through May 10, earn double Box Tops when you buy any Box Tops participating products. This program helps support our middle school science program.

Grade 9-10 Students: Be a Big!

Yearbook Orders

SAVE THE DATE FOR SUMMER 2020 EVENTS!

Summer event dates below – please add these to your calendar! More information coming soon.

Cardinal Café @ the Rice County Fair: July 22-26
Cardinal Golf Classic: Friday, August 7
S.M.A.R.T. Challenge Ride: Thursday, August 6-Saturday, August 8 (1-day ride options available!)
Heritage Days Parade: Saturday, August 8, 2pm.

Attached Files

PassNo Credit.pdf

Family Focus 5/15/2020

05/16/2020 author

Ed Friesen category

May 2020

Leave a comment

May 15, 2020

Note from Dr. Briscoe…

We all received clear directions from the Governor last Friday regarding graduation. None of us like losing most spring activities because of Covid-19, but we know that in life we have to endure things for the common good and we just can’t risk coming together and getting anyone sick or worse. I would like to take this moment to recognize our co-valedictorians, Nathan Smisek and Mikayla Bohner. Both will graduate from BA with a perfect 4.0 grade point average taking our most challenging courses. Nathan also earned the rank of Eagle Scout, an honor that only 6% of all Boy Scouts earn. Mikayla will continue her education at Gustavous majoring in music education and Nathan will attend St. John’s University majoring in biochemistry. We also have co-salutatorians, Greta Hillesheim and Emily Wilder.

We will finish the 2019-20 school year on May 22 for all students. Our virtual Awards Ceremony, Baccalaureate, and Commencement celebrations will be held May 27-29. We will provide an update on turning in laptops and school materials during the last part of May. We continue to hope and pray for additional students for the 2020-21 school year. I encourage you to recommend BA to your friends and neighbors and reach out to Kris Sauer at BA for more information. We will do our best to make BA affordable for every student.

Dr. Chuck Briscoe

UPDATES

Staff Update: John Wollersheim

We are excited to announce that John Wollersheim has been hired as a part-time Assistant Principal for the 2020-21 school year. Welcome back, John!

Finals Week, May 18-22

Finals week, by necessity, will follow a slightly different format as we conclude the year in distance learning.

High school students will follow the attached finals schedule for taking tests. Classes with papers/projects may follow a different due date schedule. Middle school students have final projects and/or tests scheduled throughout the week (see attached) Middle school teachers will communicate additional informatioin directly with their classes. To support your student, attached please find a finals week tip sheet prepared by SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions.) As always, please reach out to any faculty or staff member if you need assistance helping your student navigate learning as we complete this quarter.

SENIOR WEEK/COMMENCEMENT UPDATES

Mary Ceremony May 20

BA's annual Mary Ceremony will be a virtual presentation this year. The video will air on Wednesday, May 20 at 7pm on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/FaribaultBA/) and on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZqaxs-NZshM_rB0SMQ9X_A and will remain available on both platforms after it runs live.

Seniors: Mary Ceremony Cards & Graduation Stole Pick Up

Seniors who have not yet done so are invited to please stop by school Monday between 9am and 3pm to pick up:

Cards & postage stamps for Mary Ceremony
Stoles

If you cannot pick up during these days/times, let us know and we can try to to continue proper social distancing and stay 6 ft apart; facemasks encouraged.

Seniors: Diploma Walk Schedule

Seniors and their parents are invited to come to BA so that graduates may walk the stage in their cap and gown to receive their diploma as part of the virtual commencement program (see below for more information on commencement). A sign up email will be sent separately to seniors and senior parents with 30 minute time slots available the afternoon of Wednesday, May 20; late afternoon Thursday, May 21; Friday, May 22, and possibly Tuesday, May 26. In addition to filming for the commencement program, BA photographers will be on hand to take photographs. Please be prepared with face masks as appropriate and respect social distancing guidelines at all times. Signup for diploma walk here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0948A9AD2F4-graduation

Virtual Baccalaureate Ceremony May 27, Xpm

We hope to have a virtual, livestream Baccalaureate during the evening of May 27.

Virtual Awards Ceremony May 28, 7pm

Our 2020 Awards Ceremony will premier live on our Facebook page and YouTube channel at 7pm Thursday, May 28 and will remain available on both platforms after it runs live.

Commencement May 29

Bethlehem Academy’s 2020 Commencement will be a virtual program combined with a brief diploma presentation ceremony held in the Bethlehem Academy parking lot. Please be prepared with face masks as appropriate and respect social distancing guidelines at all times.

Virtual Commencement Program airs live on Facebook and YouTube at 7pm, and will remain available on both platforms after it runs live.
8:00/8:15 pm – Brief BA parking lot program for the Class of 2020 and immediate family members. Each graduate will have one assigned parking spot in the BA parking lot. The program will include:

An brief final message of congratulations by Dr. Briscoe
Diploma drive by: Each senior will be called individually up to the diploma pick up table. Their car will move to the drop off area by the front lobby doors, the diploma envelope will be presented, the then car moves north on 3^rdAve and turns on 1^st to return to BA parking lot
Final congratulations & horn honking
Cars recess out of parking lot onto 3^rdAve for a SHORT recessional, final route to be determined.

MORE UPDATES

Summer Work Program

Given the current COVID-19 restrictions, we regret that we will have to cancel the student summer work program.

Calendar Updates

May 18-22: Finals/make up week
May 20: AP English Language (online) Exam, 1pm
May 20: Mary Ceremony, 7pm live video presentation on BA’s Facebook page, YouTube Channel
May 22: AP Statistics (online) Exam, 1pm
May 22: Last Day of School
May 26-28: Laptop and Textbook turn in; times tba
May 27: Baccalauereate program, TBA
May 28: Awards Ceremony, 7pm virtual presentation on BA’s Facebook page, YouTube Channel
May 29: Commencement: 7pm virtual ceremony broadcast live on Facebook/YouTube followed by a brief diploma presentation and recessional in the BA parking lot

2020-2021 Financial Aid & Tuition Agreements

We are working on setting up tuition agreements for 2020-2021. Please watch for an email in the next week or so with more information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

2020-2021 Student Council Officers

High school students voted this week to elect Student Council officers for next year. Congratulations to the following students: President - JJ Malecha; Vice-President - Verity Wray-Raabolle; Treasurer - Elliot Smith; Secretary - Malia Hunt.

BAAA Merit Scholarship for Class of 2021

The BA Activities Association, the school’s booster club, awards two $250 merit scholarships to juniors to be applied towards your senior year tuition and fees. You can find the scholarship application here: https://forms.gle/duxWQcdGYbQ7Xtxo7 Application deadline is 5pm, Friday, May 22.

PSAT Exam Signup for Class of 2022

Needed: Used Summer Reading/IRP Novels

Box Tops

Grade 9-10 Students: Be a Big!

Yearbook Orders

Senior Scholarships/Transcripts

Seniors please email Mr. Schuman at jschuman@bacards.org with any questions on scholarships or if a transcript is needed for a particular scholarship. Students still applying to colleges should use Naviance to submit their transcript requests. Parents and students are encouraged to email at any time with questions/concerns.

BA VOLUNTEER/EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Summer Lawn Mowing Jobs

The Olmsted County-based Neighbors Helping Neighbors program, a chore-based service to help seniors and those with disabilities with lawn mowing, is expanding in the Faribault area. They currently have two elderly women in our area looking for lawn mowing assistance. This summer the volunteers will not have contact with the homeowner, but will work in the yard on their own, or with their family. Contact Jackie at jglynn@familyservicerochester.org or 507-287-2010 if interested.

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. Term begins August 2020 for three years. Questions? Contact Kathy Nass at 507-323-5365.

SAVE THE DATE FOR SUMMER 2020 EVENTS!

Summer event dates below – please add these to your calendar! More information coming soon.

Cardinal Café @ the Rice County Fair: July 22-26
Cardinal Golf Classic: Friday, August 7
S.M.A.R.T. Challenge Ride: Thursday, August 6-Saturday, August 8 (1-day ride options available!)
Heritage Days Parade: Saturday, August 8, 2pm.

Attached Files

HS Finals Schedule.pdf

MS Finals and Projects.pdf

Finals Study Guide.pdf

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Note from Dr. Briscoe…

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