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Family Focus 4/26/24

05/01/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

April 2024, 2023-24

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"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6 (Campus Ministry-selected Bible verse for 2023-2024)

April 26, 2024

Head of School Search Update from BA Board Chair Cory Caron:
We are making good progress in our search for a new BA Head of School! Candidates are being considered through a comprehensive review process. We will continue to provide updates as they are available. Please continue to pray for our Search Committee, Interim Leadership, and Head of School candidates. Thank you!

Dear Parent/Guardians:

So many great things are happening at BA! The spring play, Godspell, Jr., opens tonight with a 7pm performance in Van Orsow Auditorium. Other performances are Saturday at 7pm and Sunday at 2pm. Please make time to see this wonderful production! This past week saw BA students excelling at History Day State, FFA State, and in softball and co-op sports. Sixth graders spent yesterday in retreat with Youth Frontiers focused on character and courage. God is good!

End of year activities are fast approaching. Prom is next weekend, the spring band/choir concert is May 8, and graduation and other year-end activities will quickly follow. Please encourage your student(s) to continue to work hard, focus on academics, and seek help where needed. We are here to help.

If you haven't already, please complete the 2024-2025 enrollment forms sent via PowerSchool Enrollment. Thank you to those that have completed this for next year. We have begun work on tuition assistance awards and tuition agreements. Look for more information in early May. Do contact Kris Sauer with questions.

The week ahead:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2024-2025 BA School Calendar

May 4: Prom: click HERE and/or see the high school section below for more information
May 7: AP Statistics exam
May 8: AP English Literature Exam
- Spring Band & Choir Concert
May 9: 1pm WIN Schedule
- Student of the Month, 7:30am
- FFA Ag Day
- Avant Spanish test
May 10: AP European History exam
May 14: AP English Language exam
May 15: AP Music Theory exam
May 16: 6th grade field trip to River Bend Nature Center

Prayers for those who have recently lost loved ones, and for all those in our BA community who are suffering either physically or mentally at this time.

Blessings, The BA Leadership Team
Ed Friesen, Brent Zabel, Kris Sauer, Stephen Uphus, Katie Smith
Click on individual names to contact a member of the Leadership Team or email the entire team at leadership@bacards.org

ALL BA UPDATES

HS Theology Blanket Drive: BA high school theology classes are collecting gently used blankets for immigrant families. Please donate by Tuesday, April 30 if you are able!

BA Summer Camps: Cardinals Girls basketball camps for students in grades 2-7 this spring will be held June 17-21. Click HERE to sign up. Cardinal boys basketball camps are July 8-12 for students entering grades 3-6 this fall. Click HERE for the form. Robotics camp dates for students grades 3-12 are set for the weeks of August 5 and August 12. Click HERE for the registration flier.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
May 4 Prom/Post-Prom: Click HERE for Under the Sea Prom information. Click HERE for Post-Prom information. Parents! Reserve your Grand March seats by May 3; $15 each, all proceeds to Post-Prom. Click HERE for the form. Volunteers are needed to help at Post-Prom. This is a parent service hour event. Click HERE to help at Post-Prom.

Senior Week Event Dates/Times:

Wed, May 22, 1pm: Mary Ceremony, BA gym: parents and special guests invited to attend. The Mary Ceremony is a beautiful all-school ceremony held in Van Orsow Auditorium. Seniors pay tribute to Mary with speeches and a prayer service/crowning ceremony, then honor all those who are important in their lives by distributing flowers of varying significance to fellow students, faculty, parents, guardians, grandparents, and other special friends in attendance. Seniors wear their caps and gowns.
Wed, May 22, 7:30pm – Baccalaureate Mass at Divine Mercy Catholic Church (seniors report by 7:15pm and wear their caps and gowns) All families and guests invited to join us for a special Mass celebrating the Class of 2024. Bishop Williams will preside; Christian Man/Woman Award announced at Mass.
Friday, May 24, 9:30am – Awards Day program: All school and senior academic, athletic, and activities-related awards are announced at this event. Senior scholarships are announced and awarded. Seniors wear their caps and gowns. Parents are invited to attend.
Fri, May 24, 11:15am – Faculty/Staff/Senior Brunch – Seniors only with faculty and staff; traditionally Senior moms have separately set up a lunch at this time.
Fri, May 24, 7:30pm – Commencement (seniors report by 7:15; band/choir report earlier). Held in Van Orsow Auditorium. All are welcome to attend.

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATE

Register for the Eucharistic Congress here: https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/4cb0329e-b079-490f-a808-16c9d3c1d5b6

COMMUNITY UPDATE

Fall sport option for BA students! Mountain biking with the local team: Cannon Valley Composite. All ability levels are welcome. For more information, reach out to Coach Todd Trembley at ttrembley@charter.net

Talk to your teens before they get behind the wheel.

Make sure they understand the risks of drunk and drugged driving.

Let your teens know that it’s never okay to get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, or to get in a car with a driver who has been drinking or using drugs. Remind youth that the best strategy for staying safe is to stay sober.

For tips on how and when to begin the conversation, visit underagedrinking.samhsa.gov/.

Hable con sus hijos adolescentes antes de que se pongan al volante.

Asegúrese de que entiendan los riesgos de conducir ebrio y endrogado.

Hágales saber a sus hijos adolescentes que nunca está bien ponerse al volante de un vehículo motorizado bajo la influencia del alcohol u otras drogas, o subirse a un automóvil con un conductor que ha estado bebiendo o usando drogas. Recuerde a los jóvenes que la mejor estrategia para mantenerse a salvo es mantenerse sobrio.

Para obtener consejos sobre cómo y cuándo comenzar la conversación, visite samhsa.gov/hable-ellos-escuchan

Stanford Summer Mentors program: Click HERE for the flyer with more information on this program.

Home for Sale Across the Street from BA: Click HERE for more information.

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

Online Faribault Falcons Calendar:
https://big9conference.org/public/genie/4/school/7/

Family Focus 4/19/24

04/24/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

April 2024, 2023-24

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"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6 (Campus Ministry-selected Bible verse for 2023-2024)

April 19, 2024

Dear Parent/Guardians:

BABS 24: The 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala was a big success! Thank you to our parent volunteers both on the planning committee and the night of the event. Appreciation to all of you able to attended, who purchased raffle tickets, and/or who bid on our silent auction. Together we raised critical dollars to support our mission to provide personal, spiritual and academic excellence in a values, faith-based environment for our scholars. God is good!

2024-2025 enrollment/tuition agreements: Thank you to those that have completed enrollment for next year. Please look for an email from PowerSchool Enrollment for each student at BA. Check your spam/trash folder if you don't see it in your inbox. The enrollment deposit will be implemented when tuition agreements are sent early May as EduTrak (our new payment system) is working on a few adjustments. Do try to complete enrollment by next Friday, April 26 as we will begin working on financial aid awards next week for enrolled students. As we refine our processes, we will be working to remind parents that financial assistance is an investment in our scholars and their families. Many generous donors have worked hard to provide funds for this purpose. There is an expectation that students will give their best scholarly effort and have minimal absences from school from these benefactors. Please carefully read your financial aid letter when you receive it. Do contact Kris Sauer with questions.

Fundraising Update: While we reached our BABS appeal goal for scholarship and mission, we are about $5000 short of our $50,000 goal to upgrade the concessions and gym areas with new carpet, paint, and storage areas as well as refinishing the stage floor and purchasing a new screen/sound system in the gym. No donation is too small! Click HERE to donate online to the gym/concessions special appeal. The Annual Fund, which covers faculty and educational expenses not covered by tuition, is currently at $205,818 of the $255,000 budgeted for this year.

Here is a look at our upcoming schedule:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2024-2025 BA School Calendar

April 26-28: Godspell, Jr performances
April 29: Daily open campus begins for eligible seniors, except period 3 today for seatbelt safety/drunk driving panel high school presentation
May 4: Prom: click HERE and/or see the high school section below for more information
May 7: AP Statistics exam
May 8: AP English Literature Exam
- Spring Band & Choir Concert
May 9: 1pm WIN Schedule
- Student of the Month, 7:30am
- FFA Ag Day
- Avant Spanish test
May 10: AP European History exam
May 14: AP English Language exam
May 15: AP Music Theory exam

Prayers for those who have recently lost loved ones, and for all those in our BA community who are suffering either physically or mentally at this time.

Blessings, The BA Leadership Team
Ed Friesen, Brent Zabel, Kris Sauer, Stephen Uphus, Katie Smith
Click on individual names to contact a member of the Leadership Team or email the entire team at leadership@bacards.org

ALL BA UPDATES

BA Summer Camps: Robotics camp dates are set for the weeks of August 5 and August 12. Click HERE for the registration flyer. Dates are being confirmed for our athletic camps. Stay tuned for more details.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
May 4 Prom/Post-Prom: Click HERE for Under the Sea Prom information. Click HERE for Post-Prom information. Parents! Reserve your Grand March seats by May 3; $15 each, all proceeds to Post-Prom. Click HERE for the form. Volunteers are needed to help at Post-Prom. This is a parent service hour event. Click HERE to help at Post-Prom.

Senior Week Event Dates/Times:

Wed, May 22, 1pm: Mary Ceremony, BA gym
Wed, May 22, 7:30pm: Baccalaureate, DMCC
Fri, May 24, 9-11am: Awards Day program, including all senior awards/scholarships, BA gym
Fri, May 24, 11:15am: Senior/Staff Brunch
Fri, May 24, 7:30pm: Commencement, BA gym

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATE

Register for the Eucharistic Congress here: https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/4cb0329e-b079-490f-a808-16c9d3c1d5b6

Talk to your teens before they get behind the wheel.

Make sure they understand the risks of drunk and drugged driving.

For tips on how and when to begin the conversation, visit underagedrinking.samhsa.gov/.

Hable con sus hijos adolescentes antes de que se pongan al volante.

Asegúrese de que entiendan los riesgos de conducir ebrio y endrogado.

Para obtener consejos sobre cómo y cuándo comenzar la conversación, visite samhsa.gov/hable-ellos-escuchan

Stanford Summer Mentors program: Click HERE for the flyer with more information on this program.

Home for Sale Across the Street from BA: Click HERE for more information.

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

Online Faribault Falcons Calendar:
https://big9conference.org/public/genie/4/school/7/

Friday Focus April 12, 2024

04/16/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

April 2024, 2023-24

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Here is a look at our upcoming schedule:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2024-2025 BA School Calendar

April 21-23: FFA at State
April 22-25: Middle School MAP testing
April 24: Administrative Professionals Day - thank our front office staff for their hard work!
April 25: 6th Grade Youth Frontiers Retreat @ BA; 11th grade college fair/Twins game event
April 26-28: Godspell, Jr performances
April 29: Daily open campus begins for eligible seniors
May 4: Prom - tickets go on sale April 8; see the high school section below for more information

Prayers for a successful BABS event, for our Head of School search, for those who have recently lost loved ones, and for all those in our BA community who are suffering either physically or mentally at this time.

Blessings, The BA Leadership Team
Ed Friesen, Brent Zabel, Kris Sauer, Stephen Uphus, Katie Smith
Click on individual names to contact a member of the Leadership Team or email the entire team at leadership@bacards.org

ALL BA UPDATES
Tuition Assistance: families concerned about affording a BA education are encouraged to complete a TADS financial aid application by Monday, April 15 to be considered for BA needs-based scholarships and grants. Apply at www.mytads.com.

HOBAN Scholarships for 2024-2025 BA 9-12 Scholars Due Tuesday, April 16: Applications for this merit scholarship are now open. 2024-25 students in good standing with a current GPA of 3.0 or higher are invited to apply by submitting the required essay to Mrs. Sauer by April 16. Click HERE for more information.

Tax Information in FACTS: Looking for tuition information for your 2023 tax return? Click HERE for a step-by-step guide to finding that information in FACTS. Contact Kris or Lisa if you need further assistance.

BA Summer Camps: Robotics camp dates are set for the weeks of August 5 and August 12. Click HERE for the registration flyer. Dates are being confirmed for our athletic camps. Stay tuned for more details.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
May 4 Prom/Post-Prom Information: Prom tickets go on sale Monday, April 8 through Friday, April 19. Tickets are $30/person. Click HERE for Under the Sea Prom information and HERE for the non-BA student guest permission form. Click HERE for Post-Prom information and HERE for the permissions slip. All permission slips are due April 19. Parents! Volunteers are needed to help at Post-Prom. This is a parent service hour event. Click HERE to help at Post-Prom.

Seniors!

Grad pictures, yearbook survey due April 12: Upload graduation photos HERE; click HERE to fill out the senior yearbook survey to submit your post-graduation plans.
College Scholarship Info: Many local scholarships have April deadlines! Go to our scholarship page HERE for continuously updated local and national college scholarship offerings.
Josten's Orders Still Open: Josten's has confirmed that senior parents can still order graduation items. Click HERE to place your order.
Senior Week Event Dates/Times:
- Wed, May 22, 1pm: Mary Ceremony, BA gym
- Wed, May 22, 7:30pm: Baccalaureate, DMCC
- Fri, May 24, 9-11am: Awards Day program, including all senior awards/scholarships, BA gym
- Fri, May 24, 11:15am: Senior/Staff Brunch
- Fri, May 24, 7:30pm: Commencement, BA gym

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATE

Register for the Eucharistic Congress here: https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/4cb0329e-b079-490f-a808-16c9d3c1d5b6

COMMUNITY UPDATE

Talk to your teens before they get behind the wheel.

Make sure they understand the risks of drunk and drugged driving.

For tips on how and when to begin the conversation, visit underagedrinking.samhsa.gov/.

Hable con sus hijos adolescentes antes de que se pongan al volante.

Asegúrese de que entiendan los riesgos de conducir ebrio y endrogado.

Para obtener consejos sobre cómo y cuándo comenzar la conversación, visite samhsa.gov/hable-ellos-escuchan

Stanford Summer Mentors program: Click HERE for the flyer with more information on this program.

Home for Sale Across the Street from BA: Click HERE for more information.

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

Online Faribault Falcons Calendar:
https://big9conference.org/public/genie/4/school/7/

Family Focus 4/5/24

04/11/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

April 2024, 2023-24

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***Head of School Update from BA Board Chair Cory Caron***

Dear BA Parents and Guardians:

Thank you for your patience as we search for a new Head of School at Bethlehem Academy. We were grateful to have the opportunity today to host a potential candidate for a visit/interview at Bethlehem Academy. The candidate toured the school, visited classrooms, and met with faculty, staff, and student leaders before sitting down for a formal interview with search committee members. Your continued prayers are appreciated as the search process continues.

Sincerely, Cory Caron, BA Board Chair

---------
Dear Parent/Guardians:
Welcome back! We hope your spring break was restful and included time spent with family and friends.

Emails from PowerSchool Enrollment were sent yesterday to register your student(s) for 2024-2025. Please be aware that we are experiencing setup issues with our EduTrak payment provider, so the enrollment fee is not processing as it should. We will be in touch when that has been resolved. A reminder that financial aid application forms are due by Monday, April 15. Apply at www.mytads.com. High school students wishing to be considered for the merit-based Hoban Scholarship must submit their essays to Kris Sauer by Tuesday, April 16.

**Volunteers needed for BABS 2024-our biggest fundraiser of the year** Click here to volunteer to sell raffle tickets after the DMCC Masses this weekend. Help is also needed for the April 13 event, including set up Friday night (April 12), for a variety of tasks at BABS April 13, and for clean up Sunday morning. This is a great parent service hour opportunity, and a wonderful way to connect with and give back to our BA community. Click HERE to volunteer for BABS.

BABS Silent Auction Goes Live Tomorrow at 10am! There are over 90 FABULOUS items to bid on, including all of the wonderful parent-supported homeroom baskets. Click HERE to preview the items now; bidding opens at 10am Saturday, April 6!

Here is a look at our upcoming schedule:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2024-2025 BA School Calendar

April 13: BABS - the 40th Anniversary Gala
April 15: Deadline to apply for tuition assistance via TADS
April 16: Hoban Merit Scholarship applications for high school students due
April 19: Campus Ministry pilgrimage field trip
April 21-23: FFA at State
April 22-25: Middle School MAP testing
April 24: Administrative Professionals Day - thank our front office staff for their hard work!
April 25: 6th Grade Youth Frontiers Retreat @ BA; 11th grade college fair/Twins game event
April 26-28: Godspell, Jr performances
May 4: Prom - tickets go on sale April 8; see the high school section below for more information

Kudos to Student Council members for a very successful Red Cross Blood Drive this past Tuesday.

Prayers for a our Head of School search, for those who have recently lost loved ones, and for all those in our BA community who are suffering either physically or mentally at this time.

Blessings, The BA Leadership Team
Ed Friesen, Brent Zabel, Kris Sauer, Stephen Uphus, Katie Smith
Click on individual names to contact a member of the Leadership Team or email the entire team at leadership@bacards.org

ALL BA UPDATES
Tuition Assistance: families concerned about affording a BA education are encouraged to complete a TADS financial aid application by April 15 to be considered for BA needs-based scholarships and grants. Apply at www.mytads.com.

HOBAN Scholarships for 2024-2025 BA 9-12 Scholars: Applications for this merit scholarship are now open. 2024-25 students in good standing with a current GPA of 3.0 or higher are invited to apply by submitting the required essay by April 16. Click HERE for more information.

Tax Information in FACTS: Looking for tuition information for your 2023 tax return? Click HERE for a step-by-step guide to finding that information in FACTS. Contact Kris or Lisa if you need further assistance.

Spring Sports Registration Now Open!

Registration for the 2024 Spring Sports Season is now open. Bethlehem Academy sponsors its own girls fastpitch softball program. Girls in grades 6-12 may participate. High school practices for girls softball may start March 11. Middle school practices will begin during the week of March 18. Participants must complete the online registration form, have a valid sports physical clearance on file at the school and pay the $140 participation fee. Bethlehem Academy has cooperative programs with Faribault Public Schools for Baseball, Boys Track & Field, Girls Track & Field, Boys Golf, Girls Golf and Boys Tennis. Please visit faribaultathletics.com for more information and to go to the Faribault Falcons registration page. Payment of activity fees is done online through the Faribault Public Schools InfiniteCampus portal. Please click here for an Infinite Campus account request form. High school programs will begin practices the week of March 11; middle school programs will begin the week of April 8. (Note boys tennis is only available to grades 7-12.) Please contact Shawn Behrens in the Faribault Activities Office (sbehrens@faribault.k12.mn.us or 507-333-6210) with questions. For middle school sports questions, contact Brent Hawkins (bhawkins@faribault.k12.mn.us or 507-333-6351). Note: Select the activity fee for your child's age (not team level)

BA Summer Camps: Robotics camp dates are set for the weeks of August 5 and August 12. Click HERE for the registration flyer. Dates are being confirmed for our athletic camps. Stay tuned for more details.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
May 4 Prom/Post-Prom Information: Prom tickets go on sale Monday, April 8 through Friday, April 19. Tickets are $30/person. Click HERE for Under the Sea Prom information and HERE for the non-BA student guest permission form. Click HERE for Post-Prom information and HERE for the permissions slip. All permission slips are due April 19. Parents! Volunteers are needed to help at Post-Prom. This is a parent service hour event. Click HERE to help at Post-Prom.

Seniors!

Grad pictures, yearbook survey due April 12: Upload graduation photos HERE; click HERE to fill out the senior yearbook survey to submit your post-graduation plans.
College Scholarship Info: Many local scholarships have April deadlines! Go to our scholarship page HERE for continuously updated local and national college scholarship offerings.
Josten's Orders Still Open: Josten's has confirmed that senior parents can still order graduation items. Click HERE to place your order.
Senior Week Event Dates/Times:
- Wed, May 22, 1pm: Mary Ceremony, BA gym
- Wed, May 22, 7:30pm: Baccalaureate, DMCC
- Fri, May 24, 9-11am: Awards Day program, including all senior awards/scholarships, BA gym
- Fri, May 24, 11:15am: Senior/Staff Brunch
- Fri, May 24, 7:30pm: Commencement, BA gym

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATE



	Register for the Eucharistic Congress here: https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/4cb0329e-b079-490f-a808-16c9d3c1d5b6

COMMUNITY UPDATE

Talk to your teens before they get behind the wheel.

Make sure they understand the risks of drunk and drugged driving.

For tips on how and when to begin the conversation, visit underagedrinking.samhsa.gov/.

Hable con sus hijos adolescentes antes de que se pongan al volante.

Asegúrese de que entiendan los riesgos de conducir ebrio y endrogado.

Para obtener consejos sobre cómo y cuándo comenzar la conversación, visite samhsa.gov/hable-ellos-escuchan

Stanford Summer Mentors program: Click HERE for the flyer with more information on this program.

Home for Sale Across the Street from BA: Click HERE for more information.

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

Online Faribault Falcons Calendar:
https://big9conference.org/public/genie/4/school/7/

Family Focus 3/22/24

04/04/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

March 2024, 2023-24

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Dear Parent/Guardians:
Happy Spring Break! May you have reflective and prayerful Triduum and a blessed Easter in celebration with family and friends. School resumes Tuesday, April 2.

After break, expect to see enrollment links for the 2024-2025 school year. We have been working to get our new system up and running through PowerSchool and hope that the integration will save some confusion and prove more streamlined for our families in the long run. This has been a bit more challenging than we had hoped. We appreciate your patience with this process.

The 2024-25 school calendar has been finalized! Please pay close attention as there are some dates that do not correspond to the public school calendar. Click HERE for a copy. Please note that our spring break falls a week earlier than the scheduled break for Faribault Public Schools.

**Get your BABS Tickets by March 30**: Get your friends together and join us for the BABS 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala April 13! Tickets are going fast as we plan to raise critical dollars to upgrade our concessions and gym area and celebrate our 2024 Court of Honor nominees Dave & Jeanne Campbell and Carol Hafemeyer '77 for their long dedication and contributions to Bethlehem Academy. Click HERE to reserve your tickets by March 30. Be sure to get in on the raffles for cash, gift cards, and a $500 BA tuition voucher; find the form to purchase raffle tickets HERE.

***Help needed this weekend to sell BABS raffle tickets after all DMCC Masses*** Click here to volunteer. This both a parent and student service hour opportunity. Thank you!

Here is a look at our upcoming schedule:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2023-2024 BA School Calendar

April 10: No Faribault busing today - FPS is out of school; BA is in session
- Campus Ministry $ Dress Down Day
April 11: 1pm WIN Schedule, Student of the Month @ 7:30am
April 12: Grad pics, senior yearbook survey due
April 13: BABS - the 40th Anniversary Gala
April 15: Deadline to apply for tuition assistance via TADS
April 16: Hoban Merit Scholarship applications for high school students due

Kudos to the high school History Day Project students on their success at the regional competition Tuesday. All six of BA’s group and individual projects that participated are advancing to the state competition on April 20.

Prayers for a blessed Easter!

Blessings, The BA Leadership Team
Ed Friesen, Brent Zabel, Kris Sauer, Stephen Uphus
Click on individual names to contact a member of the Leadership Team or email the entire team at leadership@bacards.org

ALL BA UPDATES
**Kleenex needed** Donations of kleenex gratefully accepted in the front office. Thank you!

American Red Cross Blood Drive
The Bethlehem Academy is hosting an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Tuesday, April 2 from 8am to 2pm. There is always a need for blood. Donating blood is one way we can serve our community and make a difference! Sign up to donate HERE.

Students aged 16 and older may donate blood.
Click HERE to learn more about Student Donations

HS Summer Work Program: High school students entering grades 9-12 next fall are eligible to apply for our summer work program. Participants work 2 weeks and earn tuition credit for 2024-2025. Email lmoon@bacards.org by Tuesday, April 2 if interested. Click HERE for more information.

Tuition Assistance: families concerned about affording a BA education are encouraged to complete a TADS financial aid application by April 15 to be considered for BA needs-based scholarships and grants. Apply at www.mytads.com.

HOBAN Scholarships for 2024-2025 BA 9-12 Scholars: Applications for this merit scholarship are now open. 2024-25 students in good standing with a current GPA of 3.0 or higher are invited to apply by submitting the required essay by April 16. Click HERE for more information.

Tax Information in FACTS: Looking for tuition information for your 2023 tax return? Click HERE for a step-by-step guide to finding that information in FACTS. Contact Kris or Lisa if you need further assistance.

Spring Sports Registration Now Open!

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
High School Class Registration Forms Due: A reminder to have your scholars turn in their class registration forms to Mr. Uphus ASAP. Click HERE for the forms and our 2024-2025 course guide.

Pre-ACT testing, Gr 9-10: A reminder that all 9^th graders and 10^th graders will take the Pre-ACT on Tuesday, April 2^nd(9^th Graders) and Thursday, April 4th (10th graders). Students taking the exam will report right away in the morning to Room 204 and will take the exam from Period 1 through Cardinal A. Please bring pencils and a calculator to the exam.

Seniors!

Service Cord Applications Due April 4: Service cord forms and information can be found HERE; contact Mr. Uphus with questions.
Grad pictures, yearbook survey due April 12: Upload graduation photos HERE; click HERE to fill out the senior yearbook survey to submit your post-graduation plans.
College Scholarship Info: Many local scholarships have April deadlines! Go to our scholarship page HERE for continuously updated local and national college scholarship offerings.
Josten's Orders Still Open: Josten's has confirmed that senior parents can still order graduation items. Click HERE to place your order.

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
Middle School Lock In April 5, 7-11pm: Games, food, fun! Donated snacks, parent chaperones needed. Click here for more information. Contact Ms.Coller with questions.

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATE

Register for the Eucharistic Congress here: https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/4cb0329e-b079-490f-a808-16c9d3c1d5b6

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

Online Faribault Falcons Calendar:
https://big9conference.org/public/genie/4/school/7/

Family Focus 3/15/2024

03/17/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

March 2024, 2023-24

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Dear BA Students and Families,

As you most likely know by now, I have needed to take a medical leave from my position as Acting Principal of our school. You might remember that I started the year consulting for the school, after retiring last spring. When the Principal position came open, early in the school year, and it became apparent a quick replacement might not be found, I stepped into the interim role, believing I could finish the school year. Unfortunately, my health has deteriorated, and I have been advised to step away. My symptoms are not life threatening, but could be if left unattended. I apologize to each of you, that I was not able to finish the year.

While I already said good-bye to the BA community last spring, when I announced my retirement, I wanted to thank all of you, one more time.

When I came to BA, just under six years ago, my goal was to serve this Catholic community. It has been an honor to serve this school that was founded by the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa so many years ago. I have nothing but respect for the parents and community members who are committed to the school and its students. Above the entrance to the school is the phrase, “The miracle is here.” It is you, the parents and supporters of the school that make that miracle happen every day. Thank you! Finally, I will so very much miss my interaction with the students of our school. They have truly been a blessing in my life the past several years. You will all remain in my prayers.

I want to thank you for your kindness and support over the years. I will be watching BA and the places it goes moving forward. I wish all of you my very best always.

May the peace of the Lord be with each of you.

John Wollersheim

Students & staff wore purple today in a show of support for and to thank Mr. Wollersheim, a proud and die-hard St. Thomas grad!

From BA Leadership:
Happy St. Patrick's Day weekend! As we approach the final week before spring break (March 25-April 1; school resumes Tuesday, April 2), we encourage you to keep Mr. Wollersheim in your prayers. Please reach out to Mr. Friesen for high school issues, to Mr. Zabel for middle school issues, to Mrs. Sauer for administrative issues, and to Mr. Uphus for counseling, class registration or career/college issues. Not sure who to send something to? Email all of us at leadership@bacards.org and we will respond. We are committed to the mission of this school, and to partnering with you in providing a faith-based education for your scholar. Thank you for your grace and patience as we finish out the year and please continue to pray for a successful Head of School search!

Earlier today, we sent update on high school class registration and our college course policies. Click here for a copy of that email. A reminder that high school registration forms are due to Mr. Uphus by Friday, March 22.

Unfortunately, we haven't been able to go live yet with the PowerSchool Enrollment yet. We have one piece to the system that we’re still testing. We hope to go be able to send re-enrollment links very soon.

Did you send in an item for your student's homeroom silent auction basket? It's not too late to contribute! Send your item or $10 donation in to the BA front office. Click HERE to see the theme for each homeroom; please send this in by Friday, March 15.

We hope you'll get a chance to attend the DMCS Scholarship Gala tomorrow (Saturday, March 16); if not, please consider bidding on their silent auction items (click HERE) - all proceeds support students in need of scholarship support at DMCS.

BABS Raffle and Event Tickets: Our Ruby Anniversary Gala is going to be a GREAT event in support of BA! Get in on the raffles for cash, gift cards, and a tuition voucher; find the form to purchase raffle tickets HERE. Get your friends together and join us for the Gala April 13! Tickets are going fast as we plan to celebrate our 2024 Court of Honor nominees Dave & Jeanne Campbell and Carol Hafemeyer '77 for their long dedication and contributions to Bethlehem Academy. Click HERE to reserve your tickets by March 30; HERE for more event information.

Here is a look at our schedule for next week:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2023-2024 BA School Calendar

March 25-April 1: HAPPY SPRING BREAK/HAPPY EASTER!
April 2: School resumes
- Red Cross Blood Drive at BA;
- Deadline to apply for the BA summer work program (see below)
April 3: 8:30am BA & DMCS Mass, BA gym
April 4: Senior service cord applications due to Mr. Uphus
April 5: Intercultural Club $ Dress Down Day
April 10: Campus Ministry $ Dress Down Day
April 11: 1pm WIN Schedule, Student of the Month @ 7:30am
April 12: Grad pics, senior yearbook survey due
April 13: BABS - the 40th Anniversary Gala
Apri 15: Deadline to apply for tuition assistance via TADS

Prayers for John, for our Head of School search, and for our students, our families, and those that are sick and/or struggling during this Lenten season.

Blessings, The BA Leadership Team
Ed Friesen, Brent Zabel, Kris Sauer, Stephen Uphus
Click on individual names to contact a member of the Leadership Team or email the entire team at leadership@bacards.org

ALL BA UPDATES

Tuition Assistance: families concerned about affording a BA education are encouraged to complete a TADS financial aid application by April 15 to be considered for BA scholarships and grants. Apply at www.mytads.com. High school students entering grades 9-12 next fall are eligible to apply for our Summer work program. Participants earn tuition credit for 2024-2025. Email lmoon@bacards.org by Tuesday, April 2 if interested. Click HERE for more information.

Tax Information in FACTS: Looking for tuition information for your 2023 tax return? Click HERE for a step-by-step guide to finding that information in FACTS. Contact Kris or Lisa if you need further assistance.

Spring Sports Registration Now Open!

American Red Cross Blood Drive
The Bethlehem Academy is hosting an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Tuesday, April 2. The blood drive will run from 8am to 2pm. There is always a need for blood. Donating blood is one way we can serve our community and make a difference! Sign up to donate at https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=Bethlehem Academy

Students aged 16 and older may donate blood.
Learn more about Student Donation here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/info-for-student-donors.html

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
Seniors!

Service Cord Applications Due April 4: Service cord forms and information can be found HERE; contact Mr. Uphus with questions.
Grad pictures, yearbook survey due April 12: Upload graduation photos HERE; click HERE to fill out the senior yearbook survey to submit your post-graduation plans.
College Scholarship Info: Many local scholarships have April deadlines! Go to our scholarship page HERE for continuously updated local and national college scholarship offerings.
Josten's Orders Still Open: Josten's has confirmed that senior parents can still order graduation items. Click HERE to place your order.

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

Purchase tickets, make a donation, and bid on silent auction items at
www.dmcsgala.com.

Register for the Eucharistic Congress here: https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/4cb0329e-b079-490f-a808-16c9d3c1d5b6

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

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

Online Faribault Falcons Calendar:
https://big9conference.org/public/genie/4/school/7/

Family Focus 3/8/24

03/14/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

March 2024, 2023-24

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We have news to share. Late this week, Acting Principal John Wollersheim informed BA Board Chair Cory Caron that he unfortunately needs to take a medical leave of absence, effective immediately. A plan for school leadership through the end of the year will be shared early next week. Please keep John in your prayers.

Thank you to the many parents who attended the BA college level opportunities presentation on Wednesday evening. Our courses and our staff follow our mission “to empower our students to achieve personal, spiritual, and academic excellence.” We remain committed to providing academic opportunities for our students that follow this mission. A more detailed follow up to parent input will be provided next week.

BABS Homeroom basket items due Friday, March 15: The homeroom baskets were a big hit at last year's BABS fundraising event! Thank you for supporting these projects again this year. Homeroom basket donations - either an item or a $10 contribution - may be dropped off in the BA front office. Click HERE to see the theme for each homeroom; please send this in by Friday, March 15.

BABS Tickets: Our Ruby Anniversary Gala is going to be a GREAT event in support of BA and its longstanding mission of providing academic excellence in a Catholic community. Tickets are going fast as we plan to celebrate our 2024 Court of Honor nominees Dave & Jeanne Campbell and Carol Hafemeyer '77 for their long dedication and contributions to Bethlehem Academy. Click HERE to reserve your tickets by March 30; HERE for more event information.

Students entering grades 9-12 next fall are eligible to apply for our Summer work program. A separate parent email was sent with more information today and can also be found on our website. Applications for the merit-based Hoban Scholarship for high school students will be released next week.

Here is a look at our schedule for next week:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2023-2024 BA School Calendar

March 11: Senior open campus forms due to the front office
March 19: 7th Grade Retreat, BA gym
March 22: Regular 2:55pm release day; high school class registrations due
March 25-April 1: HAPPY SPRING BREAK/HAPPY EASTER!
April 2: Red Cross Blood Drive at BA
April 4: Intercultural Club $ Dress Down Day
April 10: Campus Ministry $ Dress Down Day
April 11: 1pm WIN Schedule, Student of the Month @ 7:30am
April 13: BABS - the 40th Anniversary Gala

Football Meeting March 12: There will be an informational meeting for all grade 8-11 students interested in playing football next fall on Tuesday, March 12^th in the BA cafeteria at 3 PM. The meeting will be about 15 minutes. This meeting is for all students who are interested in playing football next fall. Everyone is encouraged to attend, whether you are a seasoned player, it has been a few years since you played, or if you have never played, everyone is invited to attend, get more information, and join the team.

Spring Sports Registration Now Open!

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
Drivers Training @ BA: Classes start Monday, March 11, with sessions held in G9 from 3:15-6:30pm. Contact Denise at deniseruegercmt@yahoo.com with questions.

Open Campus for Seniors-Forms Due Monday, March 11: Senior open campus permission slips are due Monday, March 11. Eligible seniors will have open campus privileges on Fridays beginning March 15 through the end of April, at which point daily open campus begins. Find the open campus policy and required form HERE.

Seniors: Josten's Orders Still Open: Josten's has confirmed that senior parents can still order graduation items. Click HERE to place your order.

Seniors: Service Cord Info: Service cord forms and information can be found HERE; contact Mr. Uphus with questions.

Seniors: College Scholarship Info: Go to our scholarship page HERE for continuously updated local and national college scholarship offerings. Several local scholarships have early April deadlines!

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

Order order tickets and make donations this year at www.dmcsgala.com.

Register for the Eucharistic Congress here: https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/4cb0329e-b079-490f-a808-16c9d3c1d5b6

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

Health Community Initiative Topic for March: Talk to your teens about the risks associated with vaping.

Discuss how vaping can serve as an entry point to nicotine use, not an exit strategy. Although e-cigarettes* were created to help people with a nicotine addiction quit regular cigarettes, the FDA has NOT approved them as a quit smoking aid. In fact, among current e-cigarette users ages 18-24, 40% had never been cigarette smokers. E-cigarettes can lead to nicotine addiction just as regular cigarettes can. Vape fluid contains heavy metals like lead, tin, and nickel, and other substances that can harm the body and lungs.

*Vapes and e-cigarettes are the same thing, essentially. A vape is a type of e-cigarette in which the fluid containing nicotine is vaporized while being inhaled.

For more ways to talk with youth about how vaping nicotine compares to smoking cigarettes, visit bhthechange.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Electronic-Cigarettes-Infographic.pdf For resources on supporting your child in quitting vaping, visit mn.mylifemyquit.org/index

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

Online Faribault Falcons Calendar:
https://big9conference.org/public/genie/4/school/7/

Family Focus 3/1/24

03/07/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

March 2024, 2023-24

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"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6 (Campus Ministry-selected Bible verse for 2023-2024)

March 1, 2024

Dear BA Parents/Guardians:

Good luck to our student-athletes in state tournament competition this weekend: Elliot Daschner & Declan Chappuis in the 200M freestyle swim relay and Elliott Viland wrestling at 189lbs! Fourteen high school students have their artwork on display at the Cory Lyn Creger Art Gallery at the Paradise Center for the Arts - the opening reception is tonight from 5-7pm. Be sure to stop by and check it out! Our "Winter" Band/Choir Concert is this Sunday, March 3rd at 7pm in the gym - please join us for a wonderful night of music.

Our third academic quarter of the year ends next Friday, March 8. We are looking forward to Parent/Teacher Conferences Wednesday, March 6 from 4-7pm to share your students' successes and partner with you on any challenges. To sign up for a time to meet with a teacher, click HERE; middle school parents - see the email sent today for an alternate conference date to meet with core subject teachers.

Head of School Update: Led by the BA Board of Directors, the search for a visionary and dynamic Head of School at Bethlehem Academy is under way. Find the full job prospectus HERE and help us spread the word.

Divine Mercy Property/Mother Samuel Building: With the sale of the Immaculate Conception Church block earlier this month, many have wondered about the future of the Mother Samuel Building, connected to our campus but owned by Divine Mercy Catholic Church. We are pleased to share that we are actively discussing terms to purchase the building from the DMCC for a fall 2024 transition.

BABS 2024 - the Ruby Anniversary Gala: It's time to reserve your tickets for our 40th Anniversary Gala BABS event! Tickets are going fast as we plan to celebrate our 2024 Court of Honor nominees Dave & Jeanne Campbell and Carol Hafemeyer '77 for their long dedication and contributions to Bethlehem Academy. See below for more information and to reserve your tickets by March 30. A reminder: homeroom basket donations are due March 15. Click HERE to see the theme for each homeroom.

Our Annual Fund - with a goal of $255,000 - has brought in $191,215 for faculty salaries and operating expenses not covered by student tuition. Please consider helping us reach our goal with a gift to the Annual Fund this year.

Enrollment/Tuition Assistance: We are close to completing the transition from FACTS to PowerSchool enrollment. Watch for an email with a link to the new enrollment packet in the next week or so. A reminder as well that any family concerned about tuition next year is encouraged to fill out a tuition assistance application at www.mytads.com. The deadline for this process is April 15. Contact Kris to set up an appointment if you need help with the form or scanning/uploading the required documents. Summer work program information will be out in the next week or so; the merit-based Hoban Scholarship application will also be released in the next few weeks. Watch for details.

Here is a look at our schedule for next week:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2023-2024 BA School Calendar

March 11: BA/DMCS hosts DMCC soup supper, 6pm
- Senior open campus forms due
March 12: Reconciliation
March 14: SADD $ Dress Down Day
March 15: Senior Open Campus begins
March 16: DMCS Scholarship Gala, get tickets HERE
March 19: 7th Grade Retreat, BA gym
March 22: Regular 2:55pm release day; high school class registrations due

Congratulations: to the students whose History Day projects were selected to move on to the regional competition and to the students selected to participate in next Wednesday's Large Group Band/Choir Contest.

Prayers for our students, our families, and those that are sick and/or struggling during this Lenten season.

Blessings, The BA Leadership Team
John Wollersheim, Ed Friesen, Brent Zabel, Kris Sauer, Stephen Uphus
Click on individual names to contact a member of the Leadership Team or email the entire team at leadership@bacards.org

ALL BA UPDATES

Kleenex Needed! Our classroom supplies of tissues are getting low. Any contributions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
Drivers Training @ BA: This class is confirmed! If you haven't registered, there is still time. Cannon River Driving School will host driver's training at BA the weeks of March 11 and March 18. On-campus classes are Monday-Friday from 3:15-6:30pm. Cost $125/student. Registration closes March 8. Register for class and behind the wheel at this link; register for class only here. Contact Denise at deniseruegercmt@yahoo.com with questions.

Open Campus for Seniors: Too many seniors were absent from homeroom today so seniors will be briefed Monday regarding our open campus policy. Eligible seniors will have open campus privileges on Fridays beginning March 15 through the end of April, at which point daily open campus begins. Parents and students must both sign the form and turn it into the front office no later than Monday, March 11. Find the open campus policy and required form HERE.

Seniors: Service Cord Info: Service cord forms and information can be found HERE; contact Mr. Uphus with questions.

Seniors: College Scholarship Info: Go to our scholarship page HERE for updated local and national college scholarship offerings.

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

Order order tickets and make donations this year at www.dmcsgala.com.

Register for the Eucharistic Congress here: https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/4cb0329e-b079-490f-a808-16c9d3c1d5b6

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

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

Online Faribault Falcons Calendar:
https://big9conference.org/public/genie/4/school/7/

Family Focus 2/23/24

02/25/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

February 2024, 2023-24

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BABS/Financial Update: BABS Class basket donations! Homeroom teachers have spoken with your students about the BABS Silent Auction Homeroom Baskets. Please send your item or $10 donation in to the front office by March 15. Thank you! Save the date and plan to join us April 13th for BABS 2024, the 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala. This is our biggest night of celebration and fundraising in support of BA! Find ticket and other information HERE. Contact Teresa Lebens if interested in donating, sponsoring, or volunteering for this fabulous celebration! Our Annual Fund goal is to raise $255,000 for operating expenses not covered by tuition; $189,355 has been donated so far. Consider a gift and help us fund operating and faculty salary expenses not covered by tuition HERE.

Here is a look at our schedule for next week:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2023-2024 BA School Calendar:

March 3: Winter Band/Choir Concert, 7pm
March 4: Maintenance Team Appreciation Day
March 6: Parent/Teacher Conferences, 4-7pm
March 7: Student of the Month, 7:30am
- Prom Dining Night Out @ Crooked Pint, 5-9pm
March 8: End of the 3rd Quarter
- Middle School PCA Art Exhibit opening
March 11: BA/DMCS hosts DMCC soup supper, 6pm
March 12: Reconciliation
March 14: SADD $ Dress Down Day
March 15: Senior Open Campus begins
March 16: DMCS Scholarship Gala, get tickets HERE

Congratulations: to the Emerald on their run at State; and to BA's girls basketball team and the Faribault boys co-op hockey team on their seasons. Good Luck to BA's Faribault boy's co-op swimmers today and wrestlers this weekend, BA boys basketball as they start section play next week.

Prayers for Evie and other students injured in the recent car accident, our students, our families, and those that are sick and/or struggling during this Lenten season.

Blessings, The BA Leadership Team
John Wollersheim, Ed Friesen, Brent Zabel, Kris Sauer, Stephen Uphus
Click on individual names to contact a member of the Leadership Team or email the entire team at leadership@bacards.org

ALL BA UPDATES

Extended Absences/Family Trips

Parents/Guardians are required to communicate any planned student absence, with dates, to BA’s main office at least one week prior to a planned absence. This is especially true for family trips. Students taking trips outside BA’s scheduled days off must complete a class planned absence form prior to missing school. If a request is not made at least one week before the absence, teachers may not be able to provide make-up work in advance, and, sometimes, even with notice, advance work may not be available. Students are responsible for completing all work missed during their time out of school. Students are encouraged to check Schoology each day while out of school for additional information. Students should plan to talk directly with their teachers once they return to school, and plan to spend extra time to catch up after trips/vacations. Teachers will allow additional time for makeup work, within a reasonable time period.

Rome Trip: Last Call! Last opportunity to join the Rome Pilgrimage – June 7-18, 2024. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Rome, Assisi, and Florence. Cost for the trip is $3,995 . Deadline for registration is February 29. Please contact Caryn Coller at ccoller@bacards.org if you are interested in joining the trip.Link to travel page - https://www.ciaoromatravel.com/june2024

Tuition Assistance Early Application Deadline-Tonight @ 11:59pm: Apply today to be eligible for the most scholarships. Find the TADS financial aid application at www.mytads.com; click HERE for more information on all our scholarship and assistance programs. All application must be in no later than April 15 for BA tuition assistance consideration. Email Kris Sauer with questions or if you need help with this process.

Tax Information in FACTS: Looking for tuition information for your 2023 tax return? Click HERE for a step-by-step guide to finding that information in FACTS. Contact Kris or Lisa if you need further assistance.

Prom Car Wash Cards: Who needs a car wash? The Junior class is hosting a Kwik Trip car wash card fundraiser today through March 1 to raise money for Prom. Each card sells for $35 for 5 Ultimate car washes to be used at any Kwik Trip car wash. Click HERE for the order form or talk to any Junior class student. Payment by cash or check is required at the time of the order and all orders are due to the school office no later than 3 p.m. Fri March 1^st. Orders will be available through the school office approximately 2 weeks after the sale ends March 1, and Junior class students will deliver all orders placed with them. Please help us crush our 300 card sales goal!

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

BA HS PT Summer Nanny Sought: A DMCS family with two energetic boys is looking for a responsible, kid-centric BA student for a part-time summer nanny position. Ideally, the student would have a drivers license/vehicle for transportation, CPR certified, and available 2-3 days a week during the entire summer, flexible days. Email Kris Sauer for contact information if interested.

Drivers Training @ BA: This class is confirmed! If you haven't registered, there is still time. Cannon River Driving School will host driver's training at BA the weeks of March 11 and March 18. On-campus classes are Monday-Friday from 3:15-6:30pm. Cost $125/student. Registration closes March 8. Register for class and behind the wheel at this link; register for class only here. Contact Denise at deniseruegercmt@yahoo.com with questions.

Seniors: Service Cord Info: Service cord forms and information can be found HERE; contact Mr. Uphus with questions.

Seniors: College Scholarship Info: Go to our scholarship page HERE for updated local and national college scholarship offerings.

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES

Wolf Ridge Trip Follow-Up

From Julie Smisek, MS Science Teacher: I wanted to send a note of thanks to the following people: Thank you to Kris Shuda who continues to generously host and donate all her Tastefully Simple profits for our fundraiser and to the local Knights of Columbus for their generous donation, both of which help defray the cost of the bus; to Mrs. Piehl and the BA NHS members for packing treat bags for our 8^th graders; and to our wonderful seven parent chaperones and middle school counselor who took the week from their jobs and other responsibilities to keep our 8^th graders safe and on task the week in Finland,MN. We couldn’t have had such a successful trip without chaperones like you! Thank you for a great trip!

AFTER SCHOOL REMINDER: A reminder that students are not supervised when they are waiting in the building for a ride at the end of the school day. If you are not able to pick your student up at 3pm, please ask them to wait in the front lobby and not run through the halls or congregate by the vending machines after they have purchased their after-school snack. Your help with this is greatly appreciated!

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

Order order tickets and make donations this year at www.dmcsgala.com.

Register for the Eucharistic Congress here: https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/4cb0329e-b079-490f-a808-16c9d3c1d5b6

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

Talk to your teens about mental health and how they are feeling. Normalize these conversations, and reach out for help if there are concerns about mental, physical, or chemical health issues. Having frequent talks with teens in a safe environment will show that you care about their physical and mental health. It can also foster a more open and honest dialogue about the risks of underage drinking, drug use, and other topics. For more information about local chemical and mental health resources, visit the RCCMHC Resource Directory at healthycommunityinitiative.org/resources/.

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

Online Faribault Falcons Calendar:
https://big9conference.org/public/genie/4/school/7/

Family Focus, 2/15/24

02/23/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

February 2024, 2023-24

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"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6 (Campus Ministry-selected Bible verse for 2023-2024)

February 15, 2024

Dear BA Parents/Guardians:

The long Presidents' Day Weekend is upon us. A reminder there is NO SCHOOL tomorrow (Feb 16) or Monday (Feb 19). A reminder as well that Parent/Teacher Conferences have moved to March 6. Enjoy the long weekend!

This week has provided another reminder of the blessings of faith and the strength of our BA community. As you know, BA junior Evie Donahue was in a serious car accident this past weekend and this week, the Cardinal community rallied in support of Evie and her family. Intercultural Club donated the proceeds from their planned Tuesday bake sale, Student Council led a prayer service prior to the start of Ash Wednesday Mass for all involved, and today was a sea of blue as we held a dress down day. Through prayers, cards, meals, flowers, and $500 in proceeds, Cardinals have shared their love and support. We are pleased to share that Evie is now home from the hospital and is focused on getting back to full strength. Want to show your support in a more tangible way? The girls basketball team is selling a version of their "God gives his toughest battles to the strongest soldiers" team t-shirt, with all proceeds going to help all injured students. Click HERE to order the $20 t-shirt by Monday, February 19.

Spring play auditions next week! BA almnus Will McIntrye (and current Paradise Center for the Arts Performing Arts & Education Director) is hosting auditions for all BA middle and high school students interested in BA's annual spring play......drum roll....Godspell, Jr! Auditions will be held next Wed (Feb 21) and Thursday (Feb 22) from 3:10-4:30pm. Click HERE to sign up to audition; click here for the audition packet.

Early tuition assistance application deadline is next Friday, February 23. If you are a current Flaherty Scholar, Aim Higher or CASF Scholarship recipient (or want to be considered for these scholarships), you MUST complete the application in TADS by February 23rd. Contact Kris to set up an appointment if you need assistance with the form or scanning/uploading the required documents. .

BABS/Financial Update: BABS Class basket donations! Homeroom teachers have spoken with your students about the BABS Silent Auction Homeroom Baskets. Please send your item or $10 donation in to the front office. Thank you! Save the date and plan to join us April 13th for BABS 2024, the 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala. This is our biggest night of celebration and fundraising in support of BA! Find ticket and other information HERE. Contact Teresa Lebens if interested in donating, sponsoring, or volunteering for this fabulous celebration! Our Annual Fund goal is to raise $255,000 for operating expenses not covered by tuition; $189,355 has been donated so far. Consider a gift and help us fund operating and faculty salary expenses not covered by tuition HERE.

Here is a look at our schedule for next week:

UPCOMING EVENTS: Click HERE for a copy of the 2023-2024 BA School Calendar:

Feb. 23: Early TADS deadline: apply by today at mytads.com for the most scholarship options!
Feb. 20-23: FFA Week - celebrating this great program and the opportunities it gives our scholars!
Feb. 28: Bus Driver Appreciation Day
Feb 29: 1pm WIN schedule/High School History Day presentations
- Rome $ Dress Down Day
March 1: BA Student Art Reception, 5-7pm, Paradise Center for the Arts; Prom car wash sales deadline
March 3: Winter Band/Choir Concert, 7pm
March 4: Maintenance Team Appreciation Day
March 6: Parent/Teacher Conferences, 4-7pm
March 7: Prom Dining Night Out @ Crooked Pint, 5-9pm

GOOD LUCK to members of the Faribault Emeralds Dance Team at STATE this Saturday in high kick at 3:00pm. Good luck as well to all our student-athletes in both BA and co-op sports as the regular season winds down and section competition heats up!

Prayers for Evie and other students injured in last weekend's care accident, our students, our families, and those that are sick and/or struggling during this Lenten season.

Blessings, The BA Leadership Team
John Wollersheim, Ed Friesen, Brent Zabel, Kris Sauer, Stephen Uphus
Click on individual names to contact a member of the Leadership Team or email the entire team at leadership@bacards.org

ALL BA UPDATES
ONE WEEK to the Tuition Assistance Early Application Deadline: Apply by Feb 23 to be eligible for the most scholarships. Find the TADS financial aid application at www.mytads.com; click HERE for more information on all our scholarship and assistance programs. All application must be in no later than April 15 for BA tuition assistance consideration. Email Kris Sauer with questions or if you need help with this process.

Tax Information in FACTS: Looking for tuition information for your 2023 tax return? Click HERE for a step-by-step guide to finding that information in FACTS. Contact Kris or Lisa if you need further assistance.

Prom Car Wash Cards: Who needs a car wash? The Junior class is hosting a Kwik Trip car wash card fundraiser today through March 1 to raise money for Prom. Each card sells for $35 for 5 Ultimate car washes to be used at any Kwik Trip car wash. Click HERE for the order form or talk to any Junior class student. Payment by cash or check is required at the time of the order and all orders are due to the school office no later than 3 p.m. Fri March 1^st. Orders will be available through the school office approximately 2 weeks after the sale ends March 1, and Junior class students will deliver all orders placed with them. Please help us crush our 300 card sales goal!

ATHLETICS UPDATES
Parent Volunteers needed for home basketball games:

Click HERE for the girls basketball game sign up
Click HERE for the boys basketball game sign up

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Seniors: Service Cord Info: Service cord forms and information can be found HERE; contact Mr. Uphus with questions.

Seniors: College Scholarship Info: Go to our scholarship page HERE for updated local and national college scholarship offerings.

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
AFTER SCHOOL REMINDER: A reminder that students are not supervised when they are waiting in the building for a ride at the end of the school day. If you are not able to pick your student up at 3pm, please ask them to wait in the front lobby and not run through the halls or congregate by the vending machines after they have purchased their after-school snack. Your help with this is greatly appreciated!

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES