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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!

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)

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

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

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 2/9/24

02/12/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

February 2024, 2023-24

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As the season of Lent commences, twelve high school students will be leaving next week for a 10-day mission trip to Jamaica in conjunction with Divine Mercy Catholic Church. Our 8th graders likewise leave Monday for several days at the Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center in Finland, MN, where they will focus their time on outdoor science-based activities and class bonding. Please pray for both groups to have a successful trip!

A few reminders: Presidents' Day Weekend starts Friday, with NO SCHOOL February 16 and Monday, February 19. Head of School Search: the position has been posted; please pray for committed, dedicated, experienced applicants! A reminder that Parent/Teacher Conferences will NOT be held in February. They have been rescheduled to March 6th. Just TWO WEEKS to submit by Feb 23 an application for tuition assistance and be eligible for the most scholarships! Info on this and how to get your 2023 tax information below.

BABS/Financial Update: Homeroom teachers have begun speaking to your students about the BABS Silent Auction Homeroom Baskets. More information to follow. 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; $187,905 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. 16: NO SCHOOL
Feb. 19: NO SCHOOL, Presidents' Day
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 3: Winter Band/Choir Concert, 7pm

Kudos: To seniors Hudson Dillon and Elliott Viland who signed Letters of Intent to play DII football next year at Minnesota State University Mankato and Southwest Minnesota State University, respectively. Kudos as well to co-op hockey (Oliver Linnemann), wrestling (Lucas Nelson and Elliott Viland) and swimming (Elliot Daschner) seniors who were honored during recent Senior Night events; and to our math, science and agriculture students of the month honored on Thursday. God is good!

THANK YOU to school counselors Mr. Stephen Uphus and Mrs. Katie Smith for their hard work and support of our students! Prayers for our students, our families and those that are sick and/or struggling as we approach the 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
TWO WEEKS 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. Reach out to 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.

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.

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

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 2/2/24

02/07/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

February 2024, 2023-24

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What a fantastic Catholic Schools Week! We started the week crowning Bennett Wray-Raabolle our 2024 SnoBall Queen on Saturday; celebrated Mass Sunday at Divine Mercy Catholic Church; held a school-wide field trip day on Tuesday where our high school students helped pack 57,672 meals at Feed My Starving Children - enough to provide 158 children with a daily meal for a year; and Wednesday celebrated Mass with Archbishop Hebda where sophomore Andrew Volkmuth presented the Archbishop with an Intarsia cross (did you know we are the only high school in the state to offer this program?!?!). The Archbishop also spent time following Mass visiting classrooms and speaking with our students - all of whom spoke so eloquently and with gratitude for the opportunity to attend BA where they can live out and practice their faith. Thank you for your commitment to their Catholic, faith-centered education here at BA!

Congratulations to our band, choir, and fine arts student participating in this weekend's Gopher Conference Honors Fine Arts Program. Check out the band and choir concert and see our students' artwork at Kenyon-Wanamingo High School at 1pm tomorrow, Saturday, February 1. Best of luck and congratulations to all!

We look forward to opening our doors this weekend to prospective new students during our Winter Open House. Please let anyone you know who is thinking about Bethlehem Academy know that we will be here on Sunday from 11am-1pm to welcome them, answer questions, and give tours.

A few reminders: Counselor Day Monday! Please share your thanks with Mr. Uphus and Ms. Smith for all the work they do for our students; encourage your scholars to reach out as well! Parent/teacher conferences have been rescheduled to March 6th. Deacon Hjalmar will not be joining us at BA as previously reported, he has moved on to another opportunity in the Twin Cities. Find tuition assistance (applications received by Feb 23 are eligible for the most scholarships!) and 2023 tax information below. Appointment pickup - please go to Door C to pick up your student for appointments during the school day.

Financial Update: Save the date and plan to join us April 13th for BABS 2024, the 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala! Contact Teresa Lebens if interested in donating, sponsoring, or volunteering for our biggest fundraising event of the year! Our Annual Fund goal is to raise $255,000 for operating expenses not covered by tuition; $187, 905 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. 12-15: Wolf Ridge 8th Grade Trip
Feb. 12-21: Jamaica Mission Trip
Feb. 14: Ash Wednesday Mass, 10:30am
Feb. 15: Prom Car Wash Promo begins
Feb. 16: NO SCHOOL
Feb. 19: NO SCHOOL, Presidents' Day
Feb. 23: Early TADS deadline: apply by today for the most scholarship

Kudos: To our students participating in this weekend's Gopher Conference Honors Fine Arts program; to FFA students Kendra Hanson '24 and Luke McCrea '26, competing today for state-level achievement and a regional officer position; to our entire staff for another successful field trip experience for our students; to Mrs. Celeste Donlon for her work planning two Catholic Schools' Week Masses; and to our students for their excellent representation of Bethlehem Academy this week. God is good!

Prayers for our students, our families and those that are sick and/or struggling.
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
Tuition Assistance Applications Open: 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. Reach out to Kris Sauer with questions or if you need assistance 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.

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

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, 2024. 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.

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

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 1/22/24

02/01/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

January 2024, 2023-24

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It was an exciting week at BA! Please join us tomorrow at 8pm for Grand March followed by the SnoBall Queen coronation. Following coronation, all BA parents and adult guests are invited to join the Post-Prom for SnoBash, a fun social event with live music featuring BA grad Noah Battles from 9-11pm at the Faribault Golf Club.

Catholic Schools' Week begins Sunday! Join us at the 10am Mass at Divine Mercy Catholic Church as we celebrate Catholic education. Students will be on a service-based field trips Tuesday, Jan 30. Field trip permission slips and the $25 fee MUST be turned in no later than Monday, Jan 29. High school students must arrive and report to homeroom at 7:40am to board the buses on time. Middle school students may arrive at the usual time. We are asking students to wear Cardinal gear and dress code bottoms. Wednesday, January 31, we begin with an 8:30am joint BA/DMCS Mass in the BA gym officiated by Archbishop Hebda. We are honored to have him with us for this celebration! Please join us if you are able. Finally, we finish the week sharing the good news of BA with prospective students and families at our Winter Admissions Open House Sun, Feb 4 from 11am to 1pm. Invite a prospective student to join us!

Financial Update: Save the date and plan to join us April 13th for BABS 2024, the 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala! Contact Teresa Lebens if interested in donating, sponsoring, or volunteering for our #1 fundraising event of the year! Our Annual Fund goal is to raise $255,000 for operating expenses not covered by tuition; $182,525 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. 4: 11am-1pm Admissions Open House & Tours. Invite a prospective student/family to pre-register HERE.
Feb. 5: Counselor's Day - Send a message of thanks and appreciation to Mr. Uphus and Ms. Smith!
Feb. 7: Prom $ Dress Down Day
- Post Prom mtg, 5:30pm, BA cafeteria
Feb. 8: Student of the Month, 7:30am
Feb. 12-15: Wolf Ridge 8th Grade Trip
Feb. 12-21: Jamaica Mission Trip
Feb. 14: Ash Wednesday Mass, 10:30am
Feb. 16: NO SCHOOL
Feb. 19: NO SCHOOL, Presidents' Day

Kudos: To the Senior Class for planning a fun SnoBall Week!

Prayers for our students, our families and those that are sick and/or struggling.
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

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK FIELD TRIP FORMS MUST BE TURNED IN MONDAY: Click here to find the forms and more information on Catholic Schools Week.

Tuition Assistance Applications Open: 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. Reach out to Kris Sauer with questions or if you need assistance with this process.

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

Drivers Training @ BA: Cannon River Driving School is hosting driver's training for interested students the weeks of March 11 and March 18, 2024. Classes will run Monday-Friday from 3:15-6:30pm at BA. Cost $125/student. Registration closes March 8; at least 10 student must enroll to run the course at BA. 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 information was sent to seniors this week. Find forms and information 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

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 1/19/23

01/23/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

January 2024, 2023-24

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A Message from the BA Board of Directors
Dear BA Families:
The Board would like to thank you for your continued prayers and support for the students and staff this school year. As you know, a Task Force made up of Board members and BA staff and faculty members has worked for the past few weeks to evaluate the President/Principal position and the needs of Bethlehem Academy moving forward. The Task Force recommended, and the Board approved, a new Head of School position for BA. This position retains much of the President duties and creates a Principal position out of the Assistant Principal role currently held by Mr. John Wollersheim. We will post BA’s new Head of School position by the end of January and will be starting the interview process at the end of February.

Update from BA Leadership
These next two weeks will be busy but exciting! SnoBall Week starts Monday with daily dress down themes. A reminder that if students are not dressed in the theme for the day they are expected to be in dress code. There is no Mass Friday, Jan 26; instead we will have a 1pm SnoBall prayer service and student assembly. Our high school SnoBall dance begins with the Grand March at 8pm followed by the SnoBall Queen coronation. CONGRATULATIONS to our 2024 SnoBall Queen candidates as chosen by their peers: Chloe Crow, Ava Hacker, Mallorie Pavek, Lindsay Rauenhorst, and Bennett Wray-Raabolle. All are welcome to attend the Grand March/Coronation. All parents and adult guests are invited to join the Post-Prom-sponsored SnoBash event at the Faribault Golf Club after Grand March until the dance ends at 11pm. See below for more details.

Catholic Schools' Week begins January 28 as BA hosts the 10am Mass at Divine Mercy Catholic Church at 10am. Please join us! Students will be on a service-based field trip Tuesday, Jan 30. Please turn in permission slips and the $25 fee by next Tuesday, January 23. We are looking forward to being the hands and feet of Christ as we pack food at Feed My Starving Children! Donations for their programs gratefully accepted HERE. Wednesday, January 31, we begin with an 8:30am joint BA/DMCS Mass in the BA gym officiated by Archbishop Hebda. We are honored to have him with us for this celebration! Please join us if you are able. Although we won't have a talent show this (not enough acts signed up), we are hosting a Winter Admissions Open House Sun, Feb 4 from 11am to 1pm. Help us spread the good news of Bethlehem Academy - invite a prospective student to join us!

We are excited to welcome Deacon Hjalmar to BA! We anticipate he will assist us primarily in our Theology Department, with more details to be shared soon.

If you are seeking tuition assistance, a reminder to be working on your TADS aid applications; apply by Feb 23 to be eligible for the most scholarships. Find the TADS application at www.mytads.com; click HERE for more information on all our scholarship and assistance programs. Reach out to Kris Sauer with questions or if you need assistance with this process.

Financial Update: Save the date and plan to join us April 13th for BABS 2024, the 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala! Contact Teresa Lebens if interested in donating, sponsoring, or volunteering for our #1 fundraising event of the year! Our Annual Fund goal is to raise $255,000 for operating expenses not covered by tuition; $175,649 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:

Jan. 28-Feb 3: Catholic Schools Week, see flyer below
Jan. 30: CSW Service and Field Trip Day
Jan. 31: 8:30am Joint BA/DMCS Mass in BA gym w/Archbishop Hebda
Feb. 3: Gopher Conference Honors Band, Choir and Art at Kenyon-Wanamingo High School
Feb. 4: 11am-1pm Admissions Open House & Tours. Invite a prospective student/family to pre-register HERE.

Kudos: To the 2024 BA/DMCS Spelling Bee winner, 8th grader Leighton Richter! He and 2nd place winner Aram Lebgue (5th gr/DMCS) will compete in the regional spelling bee in Rochester Feb 6. Congratulations to Leighton and Aram and to the 18 students who participated in this 10th annual event!

Prayers for our students, our families and those that are sick and/or struggling.

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

Catholic Schools Week Field Trips Forms and Fee Due Tues Jan 23: Catholic Schools Week service and field trip forms were distributed to students during homeroom today. Forms and payment are due by Jan 23. Click here to find the forms and more information on Catholic Schools Week.

Yearbook Orders: Multimedia student have been working hard on the 2023-2024 yearbook. If you order by Jan. 26, the price is $69 + tax. Click HERE to order online. Please contact Mrs. Kallie Battles at with questions.

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

SnoBall Dance Jan 27: Ticket Sales end Wed Jan 24: The January 27 SnoBall is a girl-ask-boy (Sadie Hawkins) semi-formal dance for students in grades 9-12. Typically, the girls purchase a tie for their date that matches their dress. The girls arrange for a bouquet and boutonniere with a local florist that the boy picks up and pays for the day of the dance. Boys wear a dress shirt (most choose black), tie and nice pants; girls wear a modest semi-formal dress. Couples usually go out to dinner with a group of friends before the dance. Parents and guests gather in the gym at 8:00pm for the Grand March, where participating couples are introduced and the SnoBall Queen is crowned. The dance ends at 11pm. Tickets are $40/couple or $20/person; sales end Wed, Jan 24. Non-BA student guests are required to turn in a permission slip to attend; find the form HERE or in the BA front office.

Senior Parents: FAFSA Now Open! The 2024-2025 FAFSA, the form required for receiving college financial aid, is now available. Find information on our website HERE. Colleges need this form to put together a needs-based financial aid package, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible. Click HERE to go directly to the FAFSA information and application page.

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

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

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, 1/12/24

01/18/2024 author

Kris Sauer category

January 2024, 2023-24

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Dear BA Families:

It was bittersweet to celebrate our final school Mass at Immaculate Conception Church this morning, but the reason is a blessing: a new PreK-5 campus for DMCS for next school year. A reminder that all future BA school Masses will be held in our gym, following our regular Friday 10:30am Mass schedule.

Please enjoy your long weekend - there is NO SCHOOL on Monday, Jan 15 as the nation celebrates Martin Luther King Day. A reminder as well that if there is severe weather, we follow Faribault Public Schools for late starts and school cancelations. We do confirm this via email, text, on our website and on our Facebook page.

So many great things happening are in the next few weeks: SnoBall week begins Jan 22 with a week of dress down days, a 1pm prayer service and SnoBall Court assembly Friday, Jan 26 (No 10:30am Mass this day), and the SnoBall Dance Saturday Jan 27 from 8pm (Grand March) to 11pm. Catholic Schools Week quickly follows, including a service/field trip day January 30 and a BA/DMCS Mass celebrated by Archbishop Hebda January 31. Find full details below.

Preparations for the 2024-2025 school year are in full swing! We have been working diligently over the past few months to transition to PowerSchool for our enrollment and tuition management. We will be going away from FACTS for the 2024-2025 school year. In a few weeks you will receive links to register your student(s) for the 2024-2025 school year. We look forward to inviting new students and families to check out our school on February 4^th from 11am-1pm. If you know someone interested in attending, please help spread the word.

A reminder that the TADS tuition assistance applications are open; early submissions (by Feb 23) are eligible for the most scholarships. Find the TADS application at www.mytads.com; click HERE for more information on all our scholarship and assistance programs. Reach out to Kris Sauer with questions or if you need assistance with this process.

Financial Update: Save the date and plan to join us April 13th for BABS 2024, the 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala! Contact Teresa Lebens if interested in donating, sponsoring, or volunteering for our #1 fundraising event of the year! Our Annual Fund goal is to raise $255,000 for operating expenses not covered by tuition; $175,649 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.

Jan. 19: Family Youth Night @ girls basketball game, invite prospective students and families to sign up HERE
Jan. 22-26: SnoBall Week: see dress down day flyer below
Jan. 24: Post-Prom Dining Night Out at Godfather's
Jan 26: Family Youth Night @ boys basketball game; family and youth sign up HERE.
Jan. 27: SnoBall Dance, grades 9-12, 8-11pm, Van Orsow Auditorium, more information in high school section below
Jan 27: SnoBash parent event, 9-11pm, $20, Faribault Golf Club, all parents are welcome! See flyer below
Jan. 28-Feb 3: Catholic Schools Week, see flyer below
Feb. 4: 11am-1pm Admissions Open House & Tours. Invite a prospective student/family to pre-register HERE.

Welcome! We are excited to welcome April Schuman to the kitchen staff. She has background and experience in both food and customer service. We are excited to have her join the Cardinal family starting Tuesday, January 16! A welcome as well to Mike Reuvers, who has joined the staff as on of our BA van drivers.

Kudos: to BA's Knowledge Bowl Teams, finishing 8th and 14th among 41 teams, most of whom were bigger, Class AA schools.

Prayers for our students, our families and those that are sick and/or struggling.

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

Catholic Schools Week Field Trips Jan 30: Catholic Schools Week service and field trip forms were distributed to students during homeroom today. Forms and payment are due by Jan 23. Click here to find the forms and more information on Catholic Schools Week.

Rome Pilgrimage June 7-18, 2024: 10 participants needed or trip will cancel! More high school students or adults are needed for our 2024 Pilgrimage to Rome! Highlights of the trip will include St. Peter’s Basilica mass and tour, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Church of St. Francis, and Michelangelo’s David. Cost for trip is $3,995 which includes airfare, accommodations, transportation in Rome and to Assisi and Florence, as well as most meals. Please contact Ms. Caryn Coller (ccoller@bacards.org) for more details or student permission slip. Find the link to our travel company with more info here: Ciaoromatravel.com.

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

SnoBall Dance: The January 27 SnoBall is a girl-ask-boy (Sadie Hawkins) semi-formal dance for students in grades 9-12. Typically, the girls purchase a tie for their date that matches their dress. The girls arrange for a bouquet and boutonniere with a local florist that the boy picks up and pays for the day of the dance. Boys wear a dress shirt (most choose black), tie and nice pants; girls wear a modest semi-formal dress. Couples usually go out to dinner with a group of friends before the dance. Parents and guests gather in the gym at 8:00pm for the Grand March, where participating couples are introduced and the SnoBall Queen is crowned. Usually, the Mother-Son/Father-Daughter dance follows coronation, then parents and guests depart and the dance begins. The dance ends at 11pm. Tickets are $20/person or $40/couple and are being sold during high school lunches through Jan 24. Non-BA student guests are required to turn in a permission slip to attend; find the form HERE or in the BA front office.

Senior Parents: FAFSA Now Open! The 2024-2025 FAFSA, the form required for receiving college financial aid, finally opened January 1^st with several changes. Mr. Uphus sent your senior a detailed email with information on this process Friday, January 5. You can find this same information on our website HERE. Colleges need this form to put together a needs-based financial aid package, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible. Click HERE to go directly to the FAFSA information and application page. Mr. Uphus is available to help and can be reached at suphus@bacards.org.

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

DIVINE MERCY CHURCH & SCHOOL UPDATES

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/

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