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Family Focus 11/22/2020

11/24/2020

Ed Friesen

November 2020, 2020-21

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November 22, 2020

Dear BA Families:

Happy Sunday as we celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus, King of the Universe! What an exciting week as we wrapped up our fall sports. Every day seems to bring new information as we adapt to our environment and changing needs. We hold you and your family in our prayers each week as we meet these challenges together. Our Accreditation review is complete. This review ensures that we follow excellence in all that we do, a process that happens every seven years. Our strategic plan is online for your review. Next week is our short Thanksgiving week. Please watch for grandparent letters to be shared with you so that you can give these to your loved ones. We’ll also be creating a virtual grandparent presentation - watch for this next week! Here is a look at our week: 

• Monday – Nov. 23 – RED DAY

• • 8:05 Morning Announcements: https://meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa(Also bookmarked in the Cardinal App Store)
  • Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule online
  • High School Online Schedule: RED DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule
  • No MS or HS Band Lessons

• Tuesday – Nov. 24 – WHITE DAY - Grandparents Day!

• • 8:05 Morning Announcements: https://meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa(Also bookmarked in the Cardinal App Store)
  • Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule online
  • High School Online Schedule: WHITE DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule 
  • No MS or HS Band Lessons
  • Watch for our special Grandparents Day video. 

• Wednesday, Nov 25-Friday, Nov. 27: NO SCHOOL
  • Have a blessed Thanksgiving Break 

GIVING WEEK AT BA - It’s not too late to donate to our Annual Fund! THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HAS ALREADY SUPPORTED BA! We have reached our $25,000 match challenge (Oct-Dec) thanks to the donations this week. To date our Annual Fund is at: $70,239 (+$25,000 match) = $95,239 - 38% of our goal of $250,000. You can make a gift to our Annual Fund until June 30, 2021, at https://www.bacards.org/page/3044

COVID UPDATE: Although we’ve had seven positive cases among our students and staff to date, all are now healthy and all but one are off of their quarantine restrictions. We ask that during the Thanksgiving break you continue following COVID safety protocols with your family in order to limit your exposure so that we can return to school.

• Wear a mask
• Keep 6 feet away from others when in public
• Wash your hands often!

KUDOS: Congratulations to Kennedy Tutak ‘21, our State Farm Athlete of the Week, to our Student Service Club for collecting and donating over 650 pairs of socks for St. Vincent de Paul - and to all who supported their sock drive with donations, and special congratulations to both of our volleyball and football teams and their coaches on an amazing year despite all the challenges thrown their way this season! 

SCHEDULE CHANGE: Christmas Break will be a full two week break to clean our building and allow additional professional development time for our staff. We will be out of school Dec. 21-Jan. 1, 2021.

Blessings,

Mindy Reeder,
President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES

Online Letter Jacket Ordering

Originally, MECA Sportswear was planning on being here Monday, Nov. 16 for letter jacket ordering. With BA currently in online learning mode, the letter jackets may be ordered online at this link. A new date for the representative to come to BA will be set in the near future. Attached is the original letter jacket ordering announcement and a letter jacket sizing guide. We encourage students, especially the boys, to consider the Traditional BA Cardinal letter jacket.

November SADD Posters

Attached please find two posters on Thankfulness prepared by SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) students. Meant to be hung in high-traffic areas in our building, we ask that you share them with your students. Thank you!

Volunteer Opportunities

• BABS Committee-We are looking forward to another fantastic BABS event April 10, 2021! BABS (BA Boosters & Supporters) is our biggest fundraising and social event of the year and key to successfully moving BA forward. Mrs. Reeder at mreeder@bacards.org. Our first virtual meeting is Dec 2 at 6pm. Thank you!

Holiday Shopping: Amazon Smiles

If you are holiday shopping at Amazon, please go to http:/smile.amazon.com and choose Faribault B A Inc. as your organization (include a space between the B and the A). Amazon will send BA a donation for every purchase you make. It works with Amazon Prime and you can use Scrip to pay for your purchases. Thank you!

Prospective Student Visit Options

We’d love to grow our student enrollment! If you know of a family interested in our authentically Catholic, Domincan prep school, please invite them to sign up here for a family tour offered Monday to Friday from 3-6pm. We are also working on limited shadow opportunities; stay tuned for more information. 

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Potential KoAm Host Family Opportunity

The KoAm Educational Foundation has reached out about a possible international transfer student. Jisoo (9th-grade female) has been studying in Minnesota this fall, but her school is extremely small (7 girls in the entire high school), and she is looking for a school with more opportunities to make friends and get involved. Jisoo is outgoing, practical, and laid-back. She loves to dance, compose, and sing and is hoping to pursue a career in the arts. She is an only child but would love a host family with siblings she can interact with and spend time with. She came to the US spring 2020 right before COVID, and despite the difficulty of distance learning, she came back this fall in the hopes of attending school in person and learning more about US culture and language. Please contact Kris at ksauer@bacards.org or KoAm at administrator@koameduall.org or call KoAm at 1-800-521-6640 for more information. 

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

• Middle School Edge/High School Youth Group

Middle School EDGE & High School Youth Group is open to all BA families. This is another great opportunity for your students to gather with others that want to grow in their faith and to enhance what they are learning in the classroom. Registration is required for both. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/faith-formation for more information. 

• DMCS Butter Braid Sales: DMCS students are selling butter braids! Order by November 30 for December 15 delivery. Contact DMCS at 507-334-7706 for more information.
• DMCS Holiday Scrip: Holiday SCRIP is a great option for gift giving! You purchase these small denomination gift cards after all Sunday Masses at Divine Mercy Catholic Church and from the Divine Mercy Catholic School Business Office at 15 SW Third Avenue. 

Family Focus 11/13/2020

11/13/2020

Ed Friesen

November 2020, 2020-21

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Dear BA Families:

Our online learning reset was very positive this first week. Thank you for supporting your student and partnering with our teachers to shift to online learning during this reset period. Mr. Wollersheim has reached out to students who missed a class and assisted them. Please remember, our campus is open and we can support your student as needed during this online learning period. Let us know if you plan to come into school. In addition, some teachers will be calling small groups of students to work on art, shop, or other projects at school. In addition, students who missed class or are behind in their work as asked to come in, if possible, on Wednesday, November 18, to receive support. Here is our schedule for next week:

GIVING WEEK AT BA!

• Monday – Nov. 16 – RED DAY

• • 8:05 Morning Announcements: https://meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa (Also bookmarked in the Cardinal App Store)
  • Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule online
  • High School Online Schedule: RED DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

• Tuesday – Nov. 17 – WHITE DAY 

• • 8:05 Morning Announcements: https://meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa (Also bookmarked in the Cardinal App Store)
  • Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule online
  • High School Online Schedule: WHITE DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule 

• Wednesday – Nov. 18: MASS DAY & WIN-STUDENT SUPPORT DAY (No live classes) THIS IS ALSO OUR NATIONAL ACCREDITATION DAY AT BA! We will have a team at BA reviewing all of our areas for excellence.
  • 8:30 a.m. MASS with DMCS online at https://www.facebook.com/divinemercy.cc or if you can come to IC, please do!
  • After Mass: If you need support, please email teachers. If you missed class or are behind in assignments, you will be asked to come into school. If you cannot come into school, you will be connected with online. Teachers may also be reaching out to students. 

• Thursday – Nov. 19: RED DAY ***GIVE TO THE MAX DAY – Support BA at: https://www.bacards.org/page/3044

• • 8:05 Morning Announcements: https://meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa (Also bookmarked in the Cardinal App Store)
  • Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule online
  • High School Online Schedule: RED DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule Friday

• Friday - Nov. 20: WHITE DAY *Normal schedule (NOT a Mass day)

• • 8:05 Morning Announcements: https://meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa (Also bookmarked in the Cardinal App Store)
  • Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule online
  • High School Online Schedule: WHITE DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

GIVING WEEK AT BA-Nov. 16-20! Please consider a gift to the BA Annual Fund this week, or share the link with friends and family on your social media platforms starting next Monday. We would love to see every parent make a gift of support of any size to our fund and show our parent strength! Our goal this year is to raise $250,000. To date we have raised: $63,831.85 - 25.5% of our goal.

• HELP US REACH OUR MATCH! A donor has stepped up with a $25,000 match by December 31, 2020. Click here to read a copy of our letter and share this link with others at: https://www.bacards.org/page/3044

COVID UPDATE: At this time we have six positive reported COVID 19 cases at BA. Please join me in praying or a quick recovery for our students and staff. With all of this news, I wanted to share The Catholic Spirit published this wonderful article for prayer at home: https://thecatholicspirit.com/commentary/faith-at-home/teach-us-to-pray-as-stressed-out-parents/

• Online Learning Picture Challenge - WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR? Send us your photos by Friday, Nov. 20 to create a Thanksgiving Wall of Blessings! Don’t forget, we will be writing letters to our grandparents this week as we cannot celebrate Grandparents Day together. 

KUDOS: Special congratulations this week to our senior football player John Rose, State Farm’s Athlete of the Week and senior swimmer Abby Larson, who on Nov. 11, signed a National Letter of Intent to participate in Division I swimming at the University of St. Thomas next fall.

SCHEDULE CHANGE: Christmas Break will be a full two week break to clean our building and allow additional professional development time for our staff. We will be out of school Dec. 21-Jan. 1, 2021.

Upcoming Events:

• • Nov. 16-20-Giving Week and Give to the Max Day, Nov. 19 - Support BA during national Giving Week with a donation online or by sharing this link-https://www.bacards.org/page/3044
  • Nov. 24: Grandparents Day will not be held in person this year. Students will be writing letters to their grandparents, or grandfriends. Please watch for these letters to come home and mail or share them with grandparents and special friends!
  • Nov. 25-27: NO SCHOOL - Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

• Nov. 30: Return to in-person learning, schedule to be determined.

Please join me in praying for students and families as they recover from COVID. I invite you to also join me during weekly Adoration at any time.

Blessings,

Mindy Reeder
President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES

Student Directory

We are close to finalizing this year’s student directory. If you DO NOT want your address and phone numbers included in the directory, please email Barb Johnson (bjohnson@bacards.org) by Wednesday, November 18. 

Volunteer Opportunities

• BABS Committee-We are looking forward to another fantastic BABS event April 10, 2021! BABS (BA Boosters & Supporters) is our biggest fundraising and social event of the year and key to successfully moving BA forward. Mrs. Reeder at mreeder@bacards.org. Our first virtual meeting is Dec 2 at 6pm. Thank you!

1. Plug in laptop
2. Quit all applications.  (Closing a window does not quit the program on a Mac.  Choose quit from the application menu or click & hold mouse over app in the doc and choose quit)
3. Re-start laptop and leave lid display open

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Class of 2021: College Early Action Deadline 11/15

Reminder: the next round of early action admissions are due November 15. Please remind your seniors to check their college application deadlines, follow up with teachers for letters of recommendation, and with Ms Rogers for your transcript requests!

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

• Middle School Edge/High School Youth Group

Middle School EDGE & High School Youth Group is open to all BA families. This is another great opportunity for your students to gather with others that want to grow in their faith and to enhance what they are learning in the classroom. Registration is required for both. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/faith-formation for more information. 

• DMCS Butter Braid Sales: DMCS students are selling butter braids! Order by November 30 for December 15 delivery. If interested, send the attached form and payment in with your student and have them drop it off in the BA Front Office. We will be sure it gets to DMCS by the order deadline.
• DMCS Holiday Scrip: Holiday SCRIP is now available. See attached flyer for more information. Holiday SCRIP is also available after all Sunday Masses at Divine Mercy Catholic Church and from the Divine Mercy Catholic School Business Office at 15 SW Third Avenue. 

COMMUNITY

IRIS Turkey Trot: This year’s IRIS Turkey Trot will be held Thursday, November 26th both in person and virtually. See attached flyer for more information and note the November 12 (today) registration deadline for a free t-shirt!

Attachments:

• IRIS Turkey Trot
• Scrip for the Holidays
• Activities Calendar for Week of November 16

Online Learning "Reset" - 11/8/2020

11/08/2020

Ed Friesen

Uncategorized

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Dear BA Parents & Students:

We hope this beautiful warm Sunday has you outside enjoying time with your family. This weekend BA learned of two more positive COVID-19 cases, one student and one staff, as well as other students needing to quarantine due to positive cases in their family or in their sport. With the students and staff currently out and those that we would need to add to our quarantine list, or who have notified us, we would have well over 60 students and 8 staff out. Due to these numbers, we will be doing a reset. A reset is a short learning period where we voluntarily move to online learning to meet all quarantine requirements and hopefully stop the spread. Therefore, we will begin online learning this week, starting on Wednesday, November 11. (There will be no classes on Tuesday, November 10 to provide teachers an added preparation day.). As a reminder, here is the link to our online learning expectations and guide to online learning; please scroll down to Scenario 3 starting on page 9: (https://www.bacards.org/sites/bacards.org/files/files/Private_User/ksauer/BAschoolhandbookcovidaddendum%2010-14-20%20update.pdf)

Below is the schedule and details. Please note, because our school is voluntarily moving to online learning for a short period to reset, activities, meetings and sports will continue, except for those students who are required to quarantine.  In addition, if your student needs extra support or internet access, please let us know as the building will be open for students; just call us to confirm this at 507-334-3948. We will also be calling students directly if they are not attending their zoom classes or turning in assignments. Find our schedule for through Thanksgiving below:

**Band students, please note, if your instrument is at school you are required to pick it up as your grade will be directly affected.**

Monday – Nov. 9 (NO SCHOOL – planned professional development day)

• Noon to 6 p.m. – Pick up any books, band instruments, supplies that are needed.
• VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE

Tuesday – Nov. 10 (NO SCHOOL – professional development added preparation day)

• 7:30am-3:00pm Pick up any books, band instruments, supplies that are needed.

Wednesday – Nov. 11 (FIRST ONLINE LEARNING DAY GRADES 6-12)

• 8:05 Morning Announcements-Special Veteran’s Day presentation: meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa.  (Bookmarked in Cardinal App Store)
• Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule below for times and classes
• High School Online Schedule: WHITE DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

Thursday – Nov. 12 – RED DAY

• 8:05 Morning Announcements:meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa.  (Bookmarked in Cardinal App Store)
• Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule below for times and classes
• High School Online Schedule: RED DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

Friday – Nov. 13 – WHITE DAY

• 8:05 Morning Announcements:meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa.  (Bookmarked in Cardinal App Store)
• 8:30 a.m. MASS – If you are not in quarantine you may attend in person at IC; otherwise join us online at: https://www.facebook.com/divinemercy.cc
• Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule below for times and classes
• High School Online Schedule: WHITE DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

Monday – Nov. 16 – RED DAY

• 8:05 Morning Announcements:meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa.  (Bookmarked in Cardinal App Store)
• Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule below for times and classes
• High School Online Schedule: RED DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

Tuesday – Nov. 17 – WHITE DAY

• 8:05 Morning Announcements:meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa.  (Bookmarked in Cardinal App Store)
• Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule below for times and classes
• High School Online Schedule: WHITE DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

Wednesday – Nov. 18: STUDENT SUPPORT DAY (No live classes) If you need support, please email teachers. Teachers may also be reaching out to students.

Thursday – Nov. 19: RED DAY. ***GIVE TO THE MAX DAY – Online giving to support BA at: https://www.bacards.org/page/3044

• 8:05 Morning Announcements:meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa.  (Bookmarked in Cardinal App Store)
• Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule below for times and classes
• High School Online Schedule: RED DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

Friday – Nov. 20: WHITE DAY

• 8:05 Morning Announcements:meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa.  (Bookmarked in Cardinal App Store)
• 8:30 a.m. MASS – If you are not in quarantine you may attend in person; otherwise join us online at: https://www.facebook.com/divinemercy.cc
• Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule below for times and classes
• High School Online Schedule: WHITE DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

Monday – Nov. 23 – RED DAY

• 8:05 Morning Announcements:meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa.  (Bookmarked in Cardinal App Store)
• Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule below for times and classes
• High School Online Schedule: RED DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

Tuesday – Nov. 24 – WHITE DAY

• 8:05 Morning Announcements:meet.google.com/uod-epie-zxa.  (Bookmarked in Cardinal App Store)
• Middle School Online Schedule: *See your schedule below for times and classes
• High School Online Schedule: RED DAY – follow your personal school bell schedule

Wednesday, Nov 25-Friday, November 26 - Thanksgiving Break

We will gather back as a school family on Monday, November 30. Any adjustments to the schedule when we return will be shared with families. Thank you for your partnership and support. Please let us know how best we can support you. If you need access to the school internet and do not have to quarantine, staff will be in the building, please let us know. In addition, if your scholar is sick please call the attendance line or email attendance at: attendance@bacards.org. Do not hesitate to reach out with questions during this short reset period.

Blessings,

Mindy Reeder

President/Principal

mreeder@bacards.org

MIDDLE SCHOOL SCHEDULE FOR ONLINE LEARNING:

Family Focus 11/6/2020

11/08/2020

Ed Friesen

November 2020, 2020-21

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November 6, 2020

Dear BA Families:

What lovely weather this first week of November! Each day our Peer Ministry class has joined us on morning announcements to lead the prayer for vocations as part of the National Vocations Week. BA is blessed to have 97 graduates follow the call to vocations. We invite you to continue praying for vocations at home, here is a link to the vocations’ prayer: https://www.usccb.org/committees/clergy-consecrated-life-vocations/prayers-vocations

Growing spiritually in our faith is a central to our mission. Each BA staff person and teacher set a spiritual goal this fall. To enrich this goal, professional development and growth opportunities are offered throughout the year. Our staff will be hearing personally from David Rinaldi, a Catholic presenter and NET Ministries program director on Monday during their workshop. I also recently attended the online presentation by Father Spitzer on our Catholic Faith and Science through the Diocese. He is not only motivational, but inspirational in how he shares the beautiful links between science and our faith. I invite you to listen and connect to his teachings online through many videos and resources through the Magi Center and Credible Catholics found here. We would love to also have parents joining in prayer through Adoration in a parents’ prayer group. Please email me if you are interested in helping us start this group! mreeder@bacards.org.

ELECTION AT BA: BA students voted this week to participate in a mock election. The process, support and promotion of candidates and results were shared with our student body and online. We pray for final election results as we wait.

ANNUAL REPORT: Bethlehem Academy celebrates and shares our progress toward our strategic plan each year through our BA Annual Report. This past year, though challenging, resulted in positive growth in academics and financial stability. Read the report here for the full details about our 2019-20 academic year.

ANNUAL FUND: The Annual Fund helps to bring in over $200,000 each year to support our schools mission. Our goal this year is to raise $250,000. Each gift to our annual fund supports the foundation of our school, providing academic support, expanding new programs and meeting budgetary needs. To date we have raised: $49,092 - 19.6% of goal.

• HELP US REACH OUR MATCH! A donor has stepped up with a $25,000 match by December 31, 2020. Click here to read a copy of our letter and share this link with others at: https://www.bacards.org/page/3044

COVID UPDATE: At this time we have three reported COVID 19 cases at BA. Next week is a four day week, so we will continue with in-person learning on those days. On October 27, the Deputy Commissioner of Education issued a letter emphasizing school level approaches. Deputy Commissioner Mueller references Step 5 on page 8 of the Safe Learning Plan which Governor Walz released in late July. This step states, "After the initial selection of a learning model for school opening, the decision to shift to an alternative learning model should center on the impact of COVID-19 at the school level, while maintaining awareness of changes in viral activity in the community through continued review of the biweekly county-level case data." In addition we did update our addendum here. We will meet with all staff on Monday and share any teaching model changes with our families next week. With all of this news, I wanted to share The Catholic Spirit published this wonderful article for prayer at home: https://thecatholicspirit.com/commentary/faith-at-home/teach-us-to-pray-as-stressed-out-parents/

SCHEDULE CHANGE: Christmas Break will be a full two week break to clean our building and allow additional professional development time for our staff. We will be out of school Dec. 21-Jan. 1, 2021.

Upcoming Events:

• Nov 9:No School / Teacher Workday
• Nov 9: Virtual Open House for Prospective Gr 6-12 Students - 6 pm on our Facebook page
• Nov 10: BA School Store Closes for Christmas Orders; reopens in January. Click here to order.
• Nov. 11: Happy Veteran’s Day! A limited program at BA for students will be held.
• Nov. 19: Give to the Max Day - Donate online and share the link-https://www.bacards.org/page/3044
• Nov. 24: Grandparents Day will not be held in person this year. Students will be writing letters to their grandparents, or grandfriends. Please watch for these letters to come home to mail!
• NOv. 25-27: NO SCHOOL - Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Blessings, 

Mindy Reeder, President/Principal mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES

Online School Store Order Deadline Nov 10!

***New Items Added*** Be sure to check out the BA school store! New items, including window clings and Under Armour hoodies and fleece pants just added. The store closes November 10 for early December (Christmas!) delivery. Get your order in today. Find the link here. 

Virtual Open House November 9, 6pm

We will be hosting an virtual open house Monday, November 9, at 6pm for prospective students in grades 6-12. Please encourage friends and neighbors who might be interested in our authentically Catholic, Dominican prep school to watch live or at their convenience. On campus family tours offered Monday through Friday from 3-6pm. Register for a tour here. 

Volunteer Opportunities

• BABS Committee-We are looking forward to another fantastic BABS event April 10, 2021! BABS (BA Boosters & Supporters) is our biggest fundraising and social event of the year and key to successfully moving BA forward. To make this event a success, we need your help. If you are interested in serving on the BABS Planning Committee, please contact Mrs. Reeder at mreeder@bacards.org. Thank you!
• Family Service, a non-profit agency that helps seniors with different needs, is seeking volunteers to help senior homeowners in Faribault with fall clean-up. This would include raking, picking up sticks, cleaning out garden beds, etc. Please contact Jennell Loeffler at 507-287-2010 ext. 1082 or jloeffler@familyservicerochester.org if interested.
• Tutors-Do you have time during the school day? Do you have a math or language arts degree and could support high school students? We are looking for volunteer tutors in several subjects to support our high school students during study hall. You can meet with them virtually during their study hall. Call to learn more: 507.334.3948.

REMINDERS:

• Masks-Please remind your student(s) of the importance of bringing a mask with them to school every day. They should have extras in their backpack, their locker, and their car. While we have extras available, we have been going through them faster than anticipated. Thank you!

• Donations of masks and hand sanitizer welcome!

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

St. Catherine’s University: Weekly Virtual Info Sessions

Junior/Senior girls: The Counseling Center at St. Catherine's University in St Paul is offering weekly virtual group information sessions on Mondays from 3:30-4:00pm. If you are interested in joining, email Anne Moe at admoe674@stkate.edu for a zoom link or with more specific questions as you explore your college options.

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

• Middle School Edge/High School Youth Group

Middle School EDGE & High School Youth Group is open to all BA families. This is another great opportunity for your students to gather with others that want to grow in their faith and to enhance what they are learning in the classroom. Registration is required for both. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/faith-formation for more information. 

• DMCS Butter Braid Sales: DMCS students are selling butter braids! Order by November 30 for December 15 delivery. If interested, send the attached form and payment in with your student and have them drop it off in the BA Front Office. We will be sure it gets to DMCS by the order deadline.
• DMCS Holiday Scrip: Holiday SCRIP will be sold after all Sunday Masses beginning this weekend. Thank you for your support of the SCRIP program! We will also be selling it out of the DMCS Business Office beginning Tuesday, November 10th! 

Family Focus 10/30/2020

11/08/2020

Ed Friesen

October 2020, 2020-21

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October 30, 2020

Dear BA Families:

Thank you for your partnership! Watch today’s Q1 video update from Mr. Wollersheim and I at this link. 

November begins with All Saints Day, a special day to gather at Mass in praise of all who inspire us. As I look back on the many All Saints’ Day celebrations of my past, my favorite is when students dress as their favorite Saint and share the story of the Saint with others at weekend Masses. Although All Saints' Day is a solemn holy day of the Catholic Church it is also a day of joy, dedicated to the Saints of the Church. As you walk the halls of Bethlehem Academy, Saint pictures and their stories, created by students, invite us to learn more. In addition, images of the Saints that guide BA, St. Dominic and St. Catherine of Siena, welcome you at our entrance, continually guiding the direction of our school. This Sunday I hope to see you at Mass and invite you to join in conversation with your family in the history of the Saints. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BApiwgFPs10&autoplay=1&list=PL58g24NgWPIzvBk2IQVES_xC4WTm6-CDI

This next week our students in the US Government class will wrap up their Mock Electionand study of the election process and our current candidates. All social studies classes participated in civil discourse and learned about the United States Bishops direction in civic debate. Here is the information shared with students: (Pledge and USCB Debate Guide)

ANNUAL FUND: Did you know that each year Bethlehem Academy invites donors to support us with a gift? The Annual Fund helps to bring in over $200,000 each year. Our goal this year is to raise $250,000. Our Annual Fund provides the foundation necessary to run the school and gives us an opportunity to continue the mission established by our Sinsinawa Dominican founders in 1865. Each gift to our annual fund supports the foundation of our school, providing academic support, expanding new programs and meeting budgetary needs. To date we have raised: $42,737- 17% of goal.

• HELP US REACH OUR MATCH! A donor has stepped up with a $25,000 match by December 31, 2020. If we raise $25,000 between October 1 – December 31st, the donor will double your gift to the Annual Fund! Please help us double the gifts to our school. Click here to read a copy of our recent Annual Fund letter with more information. You can share the link to support us with others at: https://www.bacards.org/page/3044

COVID UPDATE: At this time we have no COVID 19 cases to report at BA. We will continue with in-person learning but are evaluating calendar dates and working with the County and State to ensure that we follow guidelines if cases continue to rise in our area. Please review the updated addendum here. 

KUDOS: Congratulations to our Section 1A Swim Champions, senior swimmers, Abby Larson (200 free & 500 free) and Verity Wray-Raabolle (200 backstroke). What a great way to wrap up their year!

Upcoming Events:

• Oct. 31: Trunk & Treat event at the Rice County Fairgrounds (4-6 p.m.)
• Nov. 1: All Saints Day 
• Nov 9:No School / Teacher Workday
• Nov 9: Open House for Prospective Gr 6-12 Students - 6-7 p.m. Click here for info; flyer attached
• Nov 10: BA School Store Closes for Christmas Orders; reopens in January. Click here to order.
• Nov. 19: Give to the Max Day - Donate online and share the link-https://www.bacards.org/page/3044

Thank you for your continued partnership! Report cards will be available today for your review online. Thank you to our high school families for joining us for conferences online this Thursday. Have a blessed All Saints Day this Sunday.

Blessings, 

Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES

10/30 Football/Volleyball Game Access

Girls varsity volleyball take on Waseca tonight @ home; watch the game live on our NFHS network here. 

BA vs Medford 7pm tonight @ Bruce Smith Field for the Battle of the Paddle! Watch live right here on our Facebook page; follow Gordy's play-by-play on KDHL AM 920 at https://kdhlradio.com/listen-live/

BA Online School Store Now Available!

***New Items Added*** Be sure to check out the BA school store! New items, including window clings and Under Armour hoodies and fleece pants just added. The store closes November 10 for early December (Christmas!) delivery. Get your order in today. Find the link here. 

Open House November 9

We will be hosting an in-person open house Monday, November 9, from 6-8pm for prospective students in grades 6-12. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Please encourage friends and neighbors who might be interested in our authentically Catholic, Dominican prep school to sign up on our webpage here. An open house flyer is also attached.

Volunteer Opportunities

• BABS Committee-We are looking forward to another fantastic BABS event April 10, 2021! BABS (BA Boosters & Supporters) is our biggest fundraising and social event of the year and key to successfully moving BA forward. To make this event a success, we need your help. If you are interested in serving on the BABS Planning Committee, please contact Mrs. Reeder at mreeder@bacards.org. Thank you!
• Family Service Rochester, a non-profit agency that helps seniors with different needs, is seeking volunteers to help senior homeowners in Faribault with fall clean-up. This would include raking, picking up sticks, cleaning out garden beds, etc. Please contact Jennell Loeffler at 507-287-2010 ext. 1082 or jloeffler@familyservicerochester.org if interested.
• Tutors-Do you have time during the school day? Do you have a math or language arts degree and could support high school students? We are looking for volunteer tutors in several subjects to support our high school students during study hall. You can meet with them virtually during their study hall. Call to learn more: 507.334.3948.

REMINDERS:

• Masks-Please remind your student(s) of the importance of bringing a mask with them to school every day. They should have extras in their backpack, their locker, and their car. While we have extras available, we have been going through them faster than anticipated. Thank you!

• Donations of masks and hand sanitizer welcome!

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

St. Catherine’s University: Weekly Virtual Info Sessions

Junior/Senior girls: the Counseling Center at St. Catherine's University in St Paul is offering weekly virtual group information sessions on Mondays from 3:30-4:00pm. If you are interested in joining, email Anne Moe at admoe674@stkate.edu for a zoom link or with more specific questions as you explore your college options.

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH UPDATES

• Middle School Edge/High School Youth Group

Middle School EDGE & High School Youth Group is open to all BA families. This is another great opportunity for your students to gather with others that want to grow in their faith and to enhance what they are learning in the classroom. Registration is required for both. Visit www.divinemercy.cc/faith-formation for more information. 

Family Focus 10/23/2020

11/08/2020

Ed Friesen

October 2020, 2020-21

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October 23, 2020

Dear BA Families:

Celebrating our scholars is a part of our mission in the BA Family! God has a plan for each person and as we celebrate their strengths, they become more aware of who God is calling them to be. Homecoming celebrated our seniors, in fall sports, and on our Royal Court. Many of our senior athletes have been recognized in their sport and we’ve shared this online. Congratulations to all of our seniors and special congratulations to our Homecoming King, J. J. Malecha, escorted by Ashley Rost.

This week we also held our first “Student of the Month” recognition. Students gathered to hear what teachers see as their strengths, exhibiting through the Dominican pillars of: Prayer, Study, Community and Service. We are proud of each honoree and invite you to enjoy our video sharing this event with you. Congratulations: Austin Ahlman, Payton Bice, Maci Bongers, Declan Chappuis, Jared Davila, Destinee Fregoso, Malia Hunt, Brooke Johnson, Riley Kangas, Lucas Klokonos, Zachary McCabe, Isabella Pankonin, Jason Shuda and Monica Wilder.

National Honor Society Inductees: Congratulations to the following juniors and seniors, inducted into the National Honor Society following the conclusion of this morning’s high school Mass following the characteristics of Character, Leadership, Scholarship, Service and Citizenship: Isaac Caron, Avery Han, Madelyn Bauer, Camryn Belmont, Emily Casper, Ellie Cohen, Matthew Croke, Andrew Donahue, Madelyn Gersemehl, Mercedes Huerta, Abby Kugler, Molly Lund, Livia Schulz, Sophia Smith, Aiden Tobin.

US GOVERNMENT STUDIES: Mr. Tom Madden extends learning during election times for our scholars. Here is an update of what students in his classes will be experiencing this election year.

Mr. Madden: “With the election coming up on November 3rd we at Bethlehem Academy are educating our students about the electoral process. In the ‘Citizenship and Government’ course students will learn about political parties and the electoral process. As part of this unit, they will be researching candidates running for federal office and creating campaign posters. The posters will help educate their fellow students about the candidates and some of their major beliefs/plans. In conjunction with the Office of Minnesota Secretary of State, Steve Simon, the school will hold a Mock Election in which students will cast ballots for the President, Senate and the House of Representatives. 

We strongly believe that we need to prepare our students to be active citizens in our democracy. We want them to leave our doors knowing the importance of voting and how their voices matter. In the previous midterm elections of 2018, Minnesota led the nation with a youth (ages 18-29) turnout rate of 43.7%. While this number is low, it shows the impact young men and women can have in an election.”

COVID UPDATE: At this time we have no COVID 19 cases reported. We will continue with in-person learning but as our County rises in COVID 19 cases, we will also ensure that students are prepared should we need to move to Hybrid. We will keep families alerted to any changes in our learning format and adjustments that may be needed to any of our models as we move throughout the year. In addition, we’ve updated the “Parent & Student COVID Addendum” over our MEA workshop to clarify specific areas, add the new decision tree model, and update any changes from MDH that are pertinent to Catholic schools. Please review the updated addendum here. 

Upcoming Events:

• October 27: Picture Retake Day 
• October 29:  
  • DRESS DOWN DAY! Bring a $1 or Candy for our “Trunk or Treat” event and you can dress down! (See dress code info below)
  • PSAT test for Juniors @ BA 8am-12pm
  • HS Virtual Parent-Teacher Conferences (Sign up here)
• October 31: Trunk or Treat at the Fairgrounds, 4-6pm; register your trunk here. 

Thank you for your continued prayers and partnership! Please reach out if you have any concerns or questions. 

Blessings, 

Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES

MS & 9th Grade Speaker David Rinaldi: Living Your Faith!

David Rinaldi, NET Ministries Program Director, spoke to our middle school and 9th grade students today on Living Your Faith!: So many teens perceive faith formation as just another subject like math or history. They see it as just a bunch of stuff they're forced to learn but that has no relevance to their life. In this presentation, David shows that our faith isn't about a bunch of facts and figures--it's about a relationship with a Father who loves them more than they'll ever realize! David encourages and equips young people to place God at the center of their lives and challenges them to share His love with others. At NET Ministries, David trains and equips missionaries to bring the Gospel to nearly 100,000 people a year. He holds a Master's Degree in Theology from Ave Maria University and has 20 years of ministry experience with youth and young adults. He has given over 1000 presentations to a variety of audiences and has never been run out of town. David's presentations are grounded in the teachings of the Catholic Church and are based on the Bible, the Catechism, and the writings of the saints. Please ask your students about this amazing speaker!

BA Robotics Club Starts Oct 26

After a delayed start, the Vex Robotics Club is ready to get started! The first meeting for BA students will be held Monday, Oct 26, 3-5pm in the BA library. High School Robotics will only meet on Mondays this year; no school, no robotics and no fees this year. Interested students should bring a signed copy of the attached form to the first meeting.

FFA Oct 26 Meeting & Fruit/Butter Braid Sales

The next FFA meeting is Monday, October 26th at 3:00pm in the greenhouse. Officers will be nominated for elections. FFA members are selling Fruit/Butter Braid Sales through Nov 6. All profits will go into the FFA fund which covers the cost for contest fees, state, and hopefully next year’s national convention. Email Ms. Story for more information.

Picture Retake Day Oct 27

For those that were missing for school pictures, a photo order form is attached. For those requesting a retake, please bring in the original photos. We will replace their initial order. Please indicate on the returning order what they didn’t like about the initial photos so that can be corrected on the retakes.

Trunk or Treat Dollar/Candy Dress Down Day Oct 29

Student Service Club is hosting a Dress Down Day Thursday October 29. For a dollar or a bag of candy, students may dress down for the day. Hats, leggings (worn with a long top/skirt/dress), sweats or athletic pants are allowed. NO athletic shorts and NO COSTUMES, please. All attire must be neat, clean, modest and free of offensive logos. All proceeds go to our community drive through Trunk or Treat event from 4-6pm Saturday, October 31 at the Rice County Fairgrounds.

Socktober through Oct 31

Student Service Club is hosting Socktober through October 31. Please consider donating new socks for any age; there will be a box at the side door of BA, and a decorated box at DMCC. All socks will be donated to St. Vincent de Paul.

BA Online School Store Now Available!

We are pleased to announce that we have created an online school store selling BA spiritwear. Find the link here. Orders will be taken online through Tuesday, Nov 10, with delivery expected the first week in December. Choose door-to-door delivery (fees apply) or local delivery to BA (free). These items make great Christmas gifts. Check it out today!

Open House November 9

We will be hosting an in-person open house Monday, November 9, from 6-8pm for prospective students in grades 6-12. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Please encourage anyone interested in our authentically Catholic, Dominican prep school to sign up on our webpage here. 

Volunteer Opportunities

• BABS Committee-We are looking forward to another fantastic BABS event April 10, 2021! BABS (BA Boosters & Supporters) is our biggest fundraising and social event of the year and key to successfully moving BA forward. To make this event a success, we need your help. If you are interested in serving on the BABS Planning Committee, please contact Mrs. Reeder at mreeder@bacards.org. Thank you!
• Family Service Rochester, a non-profit agency that helps seniors with different needs, is seeking volunteers to help senior homeowners in Faribault with fall clean-up. This would include raking, picking up sticks, cleaning out garden beds, etc. Please contact Jennell Loeffler at 507-287-2010 ext. 1082 or jloeffler@familyservicerochester.org if interested.
• Tutors-Do you have time during the school day? Do you have a math or language arts degree and could support high school students? We are looking for volunteer tutors in several subjects to support our high school students during study hall. You can meet with them virtually during their study hall. Call to learn more: 507.334.3948.

REMINDERS:

• Masks-Please remind your student(s) of the importance of bringing a mask with them to school every day. They should have extras in their backpack, their locker, and their car. While we have extras available, we have been going through them faster than anticipated. Thank you!

• Donations of masks and hand sanitizer welcome!

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Juniors: PSAT Testing Oct 29

Reminder: Juniors who signed up last spring will be taking the PSAT exam Thursday, October 29 from 8am until noon at BA. Registered students received an email this week from their school counselor, Ms. Rogers, with test instructions. ***We have 3 extra tests for this October date. Contact Ms. Rogers ASAP if your student is interested.*** If your student did not sign up for the October PSAT, the CollegeBoard just added a new January testing date. We will begin taking registration for the January PSAT when we have more information in early November. Please reach out to Ms. Rogers (trogers@bacards.org) with any questions.

HS P/T Conferences

High School Parent/Teacher conferences will be held Thursday, October 29th via individual Zoom meetings. Core high school teachers have 5-minute blocks from 4-7:30pm; specialist teachers are available to meet with parents from 4-5:30pm. Please note that Ms. Ricker, our Choir Director, will not be available to meet October 29. If an individual conference is needed, she will be available after November 3rd. Please contact her at cricker@bacards.org if you wish to set up a time to meet. Please sign up for a time to meet with your child’s teachers and discuss their progress HERE.

Class of 2021: Coca-Cola Scholarship due October 31

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program, the largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship program in the country, is now accepting applications from current high school seniors to become Coca-Cola Scholars and receive one of 150 college scholarships worth $20,000. Click here for information on how to apply.

St. Catherine’s University: Weekly Virtual Info Sessions

Junior/Senior girls: the Counseling Center at St. Catherine's University in St Paul is offering weekly virtual group information sessions on Mondays from 3:30-4:00pm. If you are interested in joining, email Anne Moe at admoe674@stkate.edu for a zoom link or with more specific questions as you explore your college options.

Class of 2021 - Early Action Deadline Nov 1! 

Seniors! Early action deadlines for most colleges starts on November 1! Remember to request your transcripts and letters of recommendation through Naviance. Check out the Naviance how-to videos on matching the Common App, requesting letters of recommendation, adding colleges and requesting transcripts, and exploring colleges at this link. If you have any questions, please email and/or stop by Ms. Roger’s office. 

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH UPDATES

• David Rinaldi Parent Presentation - Friday Night - Don’t miss it!

We want to encourage you to make this a date night for you and your spouse! Hear from David Rinaldi as he talks about Christ-centered parenting in today's crazy world and how you remain united as husband and wife. Following Dave's talk there will be refreshments and time for you to talk as a couple. Our evening will end with Adoration and priests will be available for confession. Free to attend, RSVP required here.

• 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. 

Family Focus 10/14/2020

11/08/2020

Ed Friesen

October 2020, 2020-21

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October 14, 2020

Dear BA Families:

Happy MEA Break! As you gather for final fall activities during MEA our staff met to plan and review for the weeks ahead. We were blessed with warm weather for our games and Spooktacular events. Thank you for your support and participation as we continued these events and traditions.

Upcoming Events:

• October 22: Student of the Month celebration
• October 23: End of 1st Quarter, NHS Induction
• October 29: HS Virtual Conferences
• October 31: Trunk or Treat at the Fairgrounds, 4-6pm; register your trunk here. 

Thank you for your continued prayers and partnership! Please reach out if you have any concerns or questions. We will continue to follow up with several of the inappropriate homecoming behavior and thank you for sharing with us what you know.

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

QUICK BA UPDATES FOR THE WEEK OF OCT 19-23

MEA Break Dress Code Update

Please see below for a reminder of our Dress Code policy for pants/shorts and shoes- - no shorts or flip flops until after spring break. These changes will be effective Monday, October 19, following the MEA break. 

Pants/Shorts: All students will wear pant/trouser style bottoms (of any color) including jeans that meet the top of the ankles. Khaki and jean jogger pants may be worn. Prior to MEA and following spring break, students may wear dress shorts or bermuda shorts that are knee length with a sewn hem.  Short lengths may not be more than 2 inches above the knee cap.  Students are allowed to wear capri pants of any color. Jogger dress pants and jogger jeans are acceptable.

Shoes: All students will wear shoes. State law requires that for health reasons, no bare feet will be allowed in the school building. Backless shoes are acceptable. Flip flops may be worn before MEA and following Spring Break.

Yearbook Orders-Discount through Oct 16

Great news everyone! Josten's has extended its back to school yearbook promotion until October 16th. The starting price is $50 plus tax. After October 16th the price will go up to $55. The sooner you buy it the cheaper it is. You don't want to miss out on this historic year! Order form attached or go to this link to order your 2020-2021 yearbook today. Please contact Mr. Zabel if you have any questions.

AP Exam Order 

Students taking AP courses at BA are required to take the May AP exams. Students not in AP classes are allowed to take the exams if they choose. See attached form for more information and a test order form; contact Ms Rogers with questions. Students need to get these forms in to Ms. Rogers ASAP after the MEA break.

Jostens Reps @ BA Tuesday, October 20

Josten’s representatives will be meeting with the sophomores (class rings) and seniors (graduation) Tuesday, October 20 during period 3.

University of St. Thomas Virtual BA Visit Oct 21

The University of St. Thomas will have representatives available for virtual visits with BA students October 21 from  11:15-11:45am, with additional time added based on student interest. Students should contact Ms. Rogers if they are interested in meeting with admissions and learning about St Thomas.

Family Focus October 9, 2020

11/08/2020

Ed Friesen

October 2020, 2020-21

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Dear BA Families:

Happy Homecoming! This week brought BA students together to celebrate all that is BA. School pride included selecting homecoming royalty, dress up days, senior prizes, Mass, bingo and ultimate frisbee. Today we gathered for lunch on the Back 40 to celebrate homecoming, our history, and our future. 

HOMECOMING ISSUES: Unfortunately, some students this week have thought it is “funny” or acceptable to say or write negative racial or sexual comments. This is not something that we can laugh about and we have been addressing these issues. As we celebrate BA this weekend, please take this opportunity to also talk with your scholar about expectations. Our mission is, “To love as Jesus Christ loves, to lead, to serve, to inspire and to seek the truth: VERITAS.” 

SPOOKTACULAR!To date we are over $3,000 in donations and participation fees with presently about 90 registered for live or virtual racing-but it’s not too late to participate! You can sign up tomorrow morning or donate online. If we reach this goal, our students will earn an early release day. Check out the link here.

AIM HIGHER TONIGHT FUNDRAISER TONIGHT: Please join me later tonight to support Aim Higher and their scholarship program. They donate to Catholic schools across our Diocese and support us individually with scholarship gifts to our students. This is their only fundraising event of the year. Here is a link from Archbishop Hebda: Video Link of Archbishop Hebda. In addition, I will be hosting a watch party at 6 p.m. tonight online. Join me at this link and our school could win the drawing for our school! Join: https://zoom.us/j/94837041062?pwd=eHNsYWdOZk1QS0czdUVDWTV5b3plZz09 Meeting ID: 948 3704 1062 Passcode: ba2020 In addition, you should sign up to bid on some great items or donate at: https://nightoflight.info

Upcoming Events:

• • October 10:Spooktacular virtual or in-person 5k/1-mile run/walk for Catholic Education. More infohere
    • BA Football Game - 2 p.m. Homecoming Game / King Coronation at halftime 
      • Live feed on KDHL AM 920:https://kdhlradio.com/listen-live/
      • The game (and coronation) may be livestreamed on https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/schools/bethlehem-academy-faribault-mn if reliable network connection can be made from the field (subscription required)
      • If not streamed on our NFHS Network, we will try to stream at least the coronation on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/user/BethlehemAcademy)
    • BA Volleyball Game, 5:45pm JV, 7:15 pm Varsity @ Medford 
      • Livestreamed on Medford's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Medford-Public-School-820392311364122/
      • On the radiation on KDHL AM 920 at https://kdhlradio.com/listen-live/
  • October 13: AP Exam Test Order deadline

• October 14-16: MEA - No School

• October 23: End of 1st Quarter

• NHS Induction

• October 29: HS Virtual Conferences

• October 31: Trunk or Treat at the Fairgrounds

Greenhouse Update: We are excited to announce that we have our final approval for occupancy with our Greenhouse! Our students can now begin larger plant projects for additional learning opportunities. Thanks to everyone who helped to make this possible!

Reminders:

• Wanted: Face Masks, Sanitizer and Disinfectant Wipes!
• Feeling Ill? Please keep students and their siblings home. This is part of the safety protocols for COVID. Click here for info and call the attendance line (attendance@bacards.org or 507-334-3948) with the symptoms.

Thank you for your continued prayers and partnership! Please reach out if you have any concerns or questions. We will continue to follow up with several of the inappropriate homecoming behavior and thank you for sharing with us what you know.

Blessings, 

Mindy Reeder, President/Principal

mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES 

(See separate sections below for updates specific to high school or middle school)

FFA Meetings: Oct 13 and Oct 26

FFA breakfast meeting Tuesday, October 13th starting at 7:30am - we will launch our Fruit/Butter Braid Sales, which will start 10/13 and run through Nov 6. All profits will go into the FFA fund which covers the cost for contest fees, state, and hopefully next year’s national convention among many things. Our Next official FFA monthly meeting is Monday, October 26th at 3:00pm in the greenhouse. Officers will be nominated for elections.

Free COVID Testing Oct 13-15

Free COVID-19 testing is being offered from 12-6pm, October 13-15 at the Faribault Armory-MN National Guard facility. Open to everyone, with or without symptoms, no insurance needed. Appointments are required, click here to sign up. See attached flyers in English and in Spanish for more information.

Yearbook Orders-Discount through Oct 16

Great news everyone! Josten's has extended its back to school yearbook promotion until October 16th. The starting price is $50 plus tax. After October 16th the price will go up to $55. The sooner you buy it the cheaper it is. You don't want to miss out on this historic year! Order form attached or go to this link to order your 2020-2021 yearbook today. Please contact Mr. Zabel if you have any questions.

BA Robotics Club Starts Oct 26

After a delayed start, the Vex Robotics Club is ready to get started! The first meeting for BA students will be held Monday, Oct 26, 3-5pm in the BA library. No fees this year; interested students bring a signed copy of the attached form to the first meeting.

Socktober through Oct 31

BA’s Student Service Club is hosting Socktober through the end of the month. Please send in new socks with your students; all donations will be donated to St. Vincent de Paul.

BA Spiritwear / Online School Store

We are pleased to announce that we have created an online school store selling BA spiritwear. Find the link here. Orders will be taken online through Tuesday, Nov 10, with delivery expected the first week in December. Choose door-to-door delivery (fees apply) or local delivery to BA (free). These items make great Christmas gifts. Check it out today!

Rice Co Public Health Vaccine Program

Now more than ever, it is important to keep your child’s vaccines up to date. Rice County Public Health has a Child and Teens Checkups Program that can help. See attached flyer for more information.

TRUNK OR TREAT Oct 31: Trunks Needed!

The annual BA/DMCS Trunk or Treat will be a drive-by event held at the Rice County Fairgrounds Saturday, October 31, from 4-6pm. Free hot dog dinner included! Sign up to host a trunk here, and plan to have your student(s) participate in our dollar/bag of candy dress down day the last week in October. Watch this space for details.

BA School Directory: Home and School

We will be finalizing the Bethlehem Academy School Directory soon. If you do not want your phone number or address in the directory, please contact the main office ASAP at 507-334-3948. The directories will include all families in grades 6-12 and will be distributed to all families that have paid their $25 Home and School dues.

Updated Contact Information?

Please make sure to notify the BA office of any phone, email or address changes for school correspondence and in the event that we need to reach you during the school day.

Volunteer Opportunity

Family Service Rochester, a non-profit agency that helps seniors with different needs, is seeking volunteers to help senior homeowners in Faribault with fall clean-up. This would include raking, picking up sticks, cleaning out garden beds, etc. Please contact Jennell Loeffler at 507-287-2010 ext. 1082 or jloeffler@familyservicerochester.org if interested.

Bus Safety Video for Faribault Bus Riders

Parents of students riding the Faribault Public Schools bus are asked to view this video from the Minnesota State Patrol on bus safety. 

Masks

Please remind your student(s) of the importance of bringing a mask with them to school every day. They should have extras in their backpack, their locker, and their car. While we have extras available, we have been going through them faster than anticipated. Thank you!

BABS Committee

We are looking forward to another fantastic BABS event April 10, 2021! BABS (BA Backers & Supporters) is our biggest fundraising and social event of the year and key to successfully moving BA forward. To make this event a success, we need your help. If you are interested in serving on the BABS Planning Committee, please contact Mrs. Reeder at mreeder@bacards.org. Thank you!

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

AP Exam Order Deadline: October 13 

Students taking AP courses at BA are required to take the May AP exams. Students not in AP classes are allowed to take the exams if they choose. See attached form for more information and a test order form; contact Ms Rogers with questions.

Jostens Reps @ BA October 20

Josten’s representatives will be meeting with the sophomores (class rings) and seniors (graduation) on October 20 during period 3.

University of St. Thomas Virtual BA Visit Oct 21

The University of St. Thomas will have representatives available for virtual visits with BA students October 21 from 11:15-11:45am, with additional time added based on student interest. Students should contact Ms. Rogers if they are interested in meeting with admissions and learning about St Thomas.

Juniors: PSAT Testing Oct 29

PSAT-NMSQT is coming up on October 29th! Reminder: current 11th grade students who signed up for this test last year are the only ones eligible for the October date. The PSAT-NMSQT will now be also offered on an additional date: January 26, 2021. If you are a junior interested in taking the test on this date, please reach out to Ms. Rogers (trogers@bacards.org) ; the deadline to sign up is December 1. 

MACAC College Fair-Virtual Options

This year’s Minnesota Association for College Admissions Counseling (MACAC) college fair in Minneapolis will be held online from September 28-October 14. There are a multitude of opportunities for students to register for and attend Zoom presentations about colleges including Riverland, UW-River Falls, Saint Benedict's and more! Sign up for the sessions you are interested in attending, and even if the times don't line up, the sessions will be recorded and available online. MACAC also has day long virtual college fairs on October 12, 18, and November 8th at this link https://virtualcollegefairs.org. If you want more information or to set up a session during your study hall or a school day, please reach out to Ms. Rogers and she will help you learn more.

Class of 2021 - College Application/Naviance Navigation. 

Seniors! Remember to request your transcripts and letters of recommendation through Naviance. Check out the Naviance how-to videos on matching the Common App, requesting letters of recommendation, adding colleges and requesting transcripts, and exploring colleges at this link. If you have any questions, please email and/or stop by your counselor’s office. 

ACT October Test Deadline Extended

The deadline for all October dates of the ACT exam has been extended to Friday, October 5th! October test dates are: 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/25. You can also sign up for a later date through www.ACT.org.

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Thank you to all the parents who participated in yesterday’s Parent-Teacher Conferences via Zoom. We are dedicated to working in partnership with you; please reach out if you have any additional questions regarding your child’s progress. Find staff emails on our website at this link. 

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH UPDATES

Parents Night Out Oct 23!

Divine Mercy Catholic Church wants to encourage you to take a date night with your spouse! Join us Friday, October 23, 2020 at 7 PM – 9 PM at DMCC. Hear from David Rinaldi as he talks about Christ-centered parenting in today's crazy world and how you remain united as husband and wife. Following Dave's talk there will be refreshments and time for you to talk as a couple. Our evening will end with Adoration and priests will be available for confession. David Rinaldi’s powerful presentations have been life-changing moments for thousands of teens and adults across the country. With over 20 years of experience working with youth, David communicates the love of God and the truths of the Catholic faith with a boldness and humor that teens and adults alike can appreciate.This event is free to attend and registration is required. Register on Divine Mercy’s Facebook Page, or by emailing Andrea Gibbs at AGibbs@divinemercy.cc.

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.

Family Focus 10/3/2020

10/03/2020

Ed Friesen

October 2020, 2020-21

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Dear BA Families:

Our staff is honored to partner with all of our families. Over the past few weeks we have had an increase in allergies, colds, and strep. As we follow the COVID decision tree, we know that this is hard on our families and our teachers. Your feedback is important. Please know that this challenging time requires our school to follow the executive orders in order to remain with in-person learning. We will work to improve our communication with you as we evaluate how best to proceed with each symptom and the revision of any protocols. AT THIS TIME WE HAVE NO COVID 19 CASESthanks to your support, the work of our staff, and by following protocols. 

This week our Board reviewed our COVID 19 Pandemic Response Plan.We have consulted with the Diocese and our MDH Regional representative to confirm if there are areas within our plan that we can adjust as well as make more clear while ensuring that we are following the mandates required for nonpublic schools. It is our primary goal to keep our students and staff safe while offering in-person learning, and to follow our mission to offer academic excellence and spiritual growth. I understand this personally as my father has Stage IV cancer and I help to care for both of my parents. The Board made recommendations for updating and clarifying our plan. Staff will review as well and our revisions will be complete after MEA. Here are the areas that we are updating:

• Mask Breaks: Adding mask breaks as our weather cools, which limits opportunities for outdoor learning.
• Decision Tree: Including the new MDH decision tree that was revised on 8/31/20 (we previously shared this with families and have put on our website, but want to formally add to our plan).
• Medical Exemptions: Defining and clarifying that BA must follow the mask mandate which includes allowing for medical exemptions where some cannot wear masks. (We do have staff and students who have medical exemptions.) The Diocese did verify that we have to follow the allowance for medical exemptions.
• WIN for High School Students: During MS Mass Fridays, we do have room for about 30 of our HS students to join us in the balcony for Mass. Students can let their homeroom teacher know if they wish to attend in person. Unfortunately we do not have this space available for MS during HS masses.
• Overall: We will review our plan to ensure that it meets any further updates while honors both our staff and students. To review our current plan now linked to the mandated mask executive order, please click here.

HOMECOMING & SPOOKTACULAR!We look forward to celebrating Homecoming Week! Please plan to join us online for Homecoming events. Limited tickets for the Homecoming football game are available next Saturday as well. More information on both coming soon. We look forward to celebrating the rich history of BA during Homecoming! We also need every family to participate in Spooktacular and raise $50 a student. You can run in person or virtually on Saturday, Oct. 10. Our goal is to raise $3,000 and have 120 participants. If we reach this goal, our students will earn an early release day. There are additional prizes for individuals and classes, check out the link here.

Upcoming Events:

• • October 5: Senior Retreat
  • October 5-10: Homecoming Week! 
  • October 5, 6, 8: Middle School MAP testing

• October 8: Middle School Parent/Teacher conferences, 

CLICK HERETO SIGN UP. 

• • October 10:Spooktacular virtual or in-person 5k/1-mile run/walk for Catholic Education. More info here
  • October 13: AP Exam Test Order deadline

• October 14-16: MEA - No School

Reminders:

• Wanted: Face Masks, Sanitizer and Disinfectant Wipes!
• Feeling Ill? Please keep students and their siblings home. This is part of the safety protocols for COVID. Click here for info and call the attendance line (attendance@bacards.org or 507-334-3948) with the symptoms.

Thank you for your continued prayers and partnership!

Blessings, 

Mindy Reeder, President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES 

(See separate sections below for updates specific to high school or middle school)

Homecoming Week October 5-10

With the return of fall sports, Homecoming is back on the schedule for next week. Click here for more information on all the spirit-filled activities! And a dress code reminder: we expect students to remain in neat, clean, modest attire for dress down days. Hats are NOT allowed; leggings are IFthey are under a pair of shorts, dress, long tunic, etc. **Middle school students, please remember Friday is a Mass Day and students should come dressed for Mass. They may change into their “spiritwear” after Mass. 

Spooktacular Oct 10: Sign up today!

Support Catholic education - join us Oct 10 for the BA/DMCS Spooktacular Fun Run. Both virtual and in-person events offered this year. Students are asked to raise $50 through participation or sponsors. LOTS of great incentives, including top fundraiser, top class, and an all-school goal of 120 participants. Use the pledge sheet attached to help your student track their fundraising! In-person race sign up here; virtual race sign up here. First participant drawing held Oct 2.

Bus Safety Video for Faribault Bus Riders

Parents of students riding the Faribault Public Schools bus are asked to view this video from the Minnesota State Patrol on bus safety. Information on bus safety in both English and Spanish are also attached for your reference. 

COVID Testing Site Information

The Symptoms & School Attendance section on our COVID Response Plans page has been updated to include area testing sites, hours, and contact information. Find a copy attached or on the page here. 

Chess Club

Students interested in building community and learning to play chess should contact Mr. Madden, HS social studies teacher, about a new club forming. All grades and all skill levels welcome. Meetings to be held 3:05-3:55 on Tuesday or Wednesday afternoons.

BABS Committee

We are looking forward to another fantastic BABS event April 10, 2021! To make our biggest fundraising and social event of the year a success, we need your help. If you are interested in serving on the BABS Planning Committee, please contact Mrs. Reeder at mreeder@bacards.org. Thank you!

TRUNK OR TREAT Oct 31: Trunks Needed!

The annual BA/DMCS Trunk or Treat will be a drive-by event held at the Rice County Fairgrounds Saturday, October 31, from 4-6pm. Free hot dog dinner included! Sign up to host a trunk here.

Masks

Please remind your student(s) of the importance of bringing a mask with them to school every day. They should have extras in their backpack, their locker, and their car. While we have extras available, we have been going through them faster than anticipated. Thank you!

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Class of 2021 Senior Retreat Oct 5

A reminder that the Class of 2021 will have a day-long NET Ministry-led retreat Monday, October 5 at Derham Farm/The Barns at Crockers Creek. Please remind students to bring their facemask and to be at BA by 7:30am to get on the bus.

AP Exam Order Deadline: October 13 

Students taking AP courses at BA are required to take the May AP exams. Students not in AP classes are allowed to take the exams if they choose. See attached form for more information and a test order form; contact Ms Rogers with questions.

Jostens Reps @ BA October 20

Josten’s representatives will be meeting with the sophomores (class rings) and seniors (graduation) on October 20 during period 3.

MACAC College Fair-Virtual Options

This year’s Minnesota Association for College Admissions Counseling (MACAC) college fair in Minneapolis will be held online from September 28-October 14. There are a multitude of opportunities for students to register for and attend Zoom presentations about colleges including Riverland, UW-River Falls, Saint Benedict's and more! Sign up for the sessions you are interested in attending, and even if the times don't line up, the sessions will be recorded and available online. MACAC also has day long virtual college fairs on October 12, 18, and November 8th at this link https://virtualcollegefairs.org. If you want more information or to set up a session during your study hall or a school day, please reach out to Ms. Rogers and she will help you learn more.

Class of 2021 - College Applications

Seniors! Remember to request your transcripts and letters of recommendation through Naviance. If you have any questions, please email and/or stop by your counselor’s office. 

ACT October Test Deadline Extended

The deadline for all October dates of the ACT exam has been extended to Friday, October 5th! October test dates are: 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/25. You can also sign up for a later date through www.ACT.org.

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES

Middle School Conferences Online October 8

Middle School Parent/Teacher conferences will be held from 4-7:30pm Thursday, October 8. Please sign up for a time to meet with your child’s teachers and discuss their progress HERE.

MS October Newsletter

The October Middle School newsletter was emailed to MS parents and guardians mid-day Friday, October 2. Please reach out to your students advisory teacher if you did not receive one.

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH UPDATES

Synod 2020

The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis are continuing Synod 2020 with two virtual prayer and study series. Download the app or sign up for weekly emails to participate and learn more. Click here 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.

Family Focus 9/27/2020

09/27/2020

Ed Friesen

September 2020, 2020-21

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September 27, 2020

Dear BA Families:

This past week our entire staff gathered for an all-staff meeting to plan, prepare and share as our first month of school wraps up. The dedicated BA teachers are not simply teaching in school, they are teaching our distance learners, cleaning their classrooms multiple times a day, implementing, modeling and reminding students to practice safety. Our staff is tracking, cleaning, calling and responding as questions arise. BA is blessed by our teachers and staff. They are doing an incredible amount of work and I am impressed with all that they do. Please keep them in your prayers. Kind words and treats are always welcome!

Minnesota Fall Sports: Football and Volleyball are back in the fall schedule as voted and approved by the MSHSL after feedback from Minnesota schools. Our first volleyball game is Oct 8 and the first football game is October 10. Public viewing is limited, watch for details. Volleyball games will be broadcast as inside crowds are not allowed. Watch for an updated schedule soon. Coop sports continue this fall. With all sports now back in session, it is important that families continue to practice COVID protocols at home. In order for our school to stay open and games to continue, we need our students and staff to remain COVID free! Limit group gatherings of students outside of school, wear masks while in public, and keep your child home if they have symptoms. Thank you!

Social Media Checks: Please check in with your students’ social media accounts like Tik Tok or Snapchat. We have heard that some students may have shared inappropriate images. We hope this is not the case, but we encourage you to talk with your child and monitor their account. If you have concerns, you may reach out to me. It’s also a great opportunity to review the social media policy in our student handbook with your child. Click hereto access the student handbook.

Upcoming Events:

• • Sept 29: FFA meeting for students, 3pm
  • Sept 29: NHS application deadline, 3pm
  • Sept 30: Pre-ACT test for 11th grade
  • October 2: School pictures, grades 6-8
  • October 5: Senior Retreat
  • October 5, 6, 8: Middle School MAP testing

• October 8: Middle School Parent/Teacher conferences, 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP. 

• • October 10: Spooktacular 5k/1-mile run/walk for Catholic Education. More info here

• October 14-16: MEA - No School

• October 31: Trunk or Treat

Reminders:

• Wanted: Face Masks, Sanitizer and Disinfectant Wipes!
• Feeling Ill? Please keep students and their siblings home. This is part of the safety protocols for COVID. Click here for info and call the attendance line (attendance@bacards.org or 507-334-3948) with the symptoms.

Thank you for your continued prayers and partnership!

Blessings, 

Mindy Reeder, President/Principal 

mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES 

(See separate sections below for updates specific to high school or middle school)

Homecoming/Fall Spirit Events

The Senior Class is working on Fall Spirit/Homecoming events, including spirit week activities and the King crowning. More details will be announced soon as we plan activities in light of the new football schedule. 

Spooktacular Oct 10: Sign up today!

Support Catholic education - join us Oct 10 for the BA/DMCS Spooktacular Fun Run. Both virtual and in-person events offered this year. Students are asked to raise $50 through participation or sponsors. LOTS of great incentives, including top fundraiser, top class, and an all-school goal of 120 participants. Find a copy attached of the pledge sheet given to students today in homeroom. In-person race sign up here; virtual race sign up here. First participant drawing held Oct 2.

TRUNK OR TREAT Oct 30: Trunks Needed!

The annual BA/DMCS Trunk or Treat will be a drive-by event held at the Rice County Fairgrounds Saturday, October 31, from 4-6pm. Free hot dog dinner included! Sign up to host a trunk here.

Fall Testing: MS NWEA Map, Pre-ACT, PSAT, ACT Aspire

Attached is a complete list of 2020 fall testing; note that middle school testing begins Oct 5. Please review this and prepare your child by getting plenty of rest. Students should bring a water bottle they can fill at school for their tests. 

Morning Announcements/Mass Online

Students in full time distance learning were emailed the link to view morning announcements and Friday Mass. Please email Kris Sauer if you have any questions.

FFA Meeting Sept 29

BA’s first FFA meeting for the year will be held on Tuesday, September 29th at 3pm by the greenhouse. All 7th-12th graders are welcome to join and are encouraged to bring a friend. 

Student Pictures

Middle school students will have their pictures taken Friday, October 2nd. An order form was given to students today in homeroom. If your high schoolstudent forgot to turn in their form today, please bring to the office next week.

Masks

Please remind your student(s) of the importance of bringing a mask with them to school every day. They should have extras in their backpack, their locker, and their car. While we have extras available, we have been going through them faster than anticipated. Thank you!

Laptops

Students should re-start their laptops weekly.  We recommend Saturday nights.  Quit all applicaitions.  Plug the laptop in and re-start (leave display open!).  Software updates will get installed during these re-starts.  

Athletics

The Minnesota State High School League has approved playing football and volleyball yet this fall.  Practices for these sports begin tomorrow, Monday, September 28.  Game schedules can be found on our athletics website, sports.bacards.org, or by clicking on the calendar on the school website home page.

The activity fee for football participants in grades 9-12 is $135.  The activity fee for volleyball participants in grades 7-12 is $135.  Fees may be paid online at our athletics website:  https://sports.bacards.org.  Fees may also be added to your TADS account by emailing Activities Director Ed Friesen or by check delivered to the school office.  In addition to payment of the activity fee, each particpant must also complete the annual eligibility statement and health questionnaire found here.  Participants must also have a valid sports physical clearance on file with the school's activities office.

No spectators will be allowed at volleyball matches.  Volleyball matches will be streamed online.  Bethlehem Academy's home matches may be viewed on our NFHS Network Channel.  Information for away match streaming will be posted on the volleyball schedule (several other schools in the conference will also be using NFHS Network - subscribe to BA's channel and you will have access to streams produced by other schools using NFHS Network as well.  A monthly subscription costs $10.99 while a yearly pass costs $69.99

Football games can have 250 spectators.  BA fans will purchase varsity game tickets for both home games and away games through Bethlehem Academy.  The district has decided schools will sell 170 tickets to the home fans and 80 tickets to the away fans.  All tickets will be priced $5.  A season ticket package will be made available for the families of football players first.  Then, remaining tickets will be sold first-come, first-serve.  More information on ticket sales for each game will be announced soon.  Games will also be posted online as a "video on demand" and some may possibly be streamed live.

Due to the limited number of football participants in grades 7 & 8, we will continue the middle school football skills program that is already taking place but will not be scheduling games with other schools at this time.  

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Class of 2021 Senior Retreat Oct 5

As the annual trip to the Sinsinawa Mound is not an option, staff is planning a day-long NET Ministry-led retreat for the Class of 2021 Monday, October 5 at Derham Farm/The Barns at Crockers Creek. More details to follow. 

Gr 11-12: National Honor SocietyApplications

National Honor Society (NHS) applications are now available. To be eligible for NHS, a junior or senior must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5. In addition, students must have been enrolled at BA for at least a year, have a reputation of excellent character, demonstrate leadership qualities, and have a heart for serving others. If your student qualifies and is interested in membership in one of the nation’s oldest service organizations, please encourage them to pick up an application from Mrs. Piehl in Rm 112. Applications are due by 3pm Tuesday, September 29. Current members do not need to reapply.

Class of 2022: PRE-ACT Sept 30

All 11th grade students will take the Pre-ACT in the library on September 30 from 8AM-11:30AM. Please contact Counselor Tori Rogers if you have any questions.

AP Exam Order Deadline: October 13 

Students taking AP courses at BA are required to take the May AP exams. Students not in AP classes are allowed to take the exams if they choose. See attached form for more information and a test order form; contact Ms Rogers with questions.

Jostens Reps @ BA October 20

Josten’s representatives will be meeting with the sophomores (class rings) and seniors (graduation) on October 20 during period 3.

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES

School Pictures, Grades 6-8

Middle school students will have their pictures taken Friday, October 2nd. An order form was given to students today in homeroom.

Middle School Conferences Online October 8

Middle School Parent/Teacher conferences will be held from 4-7:30pm Thursday, October 8. Please sign up for a time to meet with your child’s teachers and discuss their progress HERE.

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH UPDATES

Synod 2020

The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis are continuing Synod 2020 with two virtual prayer and study series. Download the app or sign up for weekly emails to participate and learn more. Click here 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.