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Family Focus 1-21-22

01/24/2022

Kris Sauer

January 2022, 2021-22

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

January 21, 2022

Dear BA Families:

Our BA scholars are back on track during this short but cold week! We gathered for Mass and Adoration as part of the national "9 Days for Life" which continues through to next Thursday. Our Peer & Campus Ministry students are collecting baby items or donations for Pregnancy Options. Please support us in prayers or a donation as we support life. You are also encouraged to join Minnesotan's on Saturday with the Parish at the Minnesota March for Life. (Email to confirm attendence)

CONGRATULATIONS TO SNOBALL CANDIDATES: This next week we kick of our Snoball Week activities! A fun winter tradition at BA, congratulations to our Court: Madelyn Bauer, Ellie Cohen, Mercedes Huerta, Molly Lund, and Jennifer Robert.  Here's a look at the schedule:

• Monday-Jan. 24: White Day (Full in-person learning) - PJ day
• Tuesday-Jan. 25: Red Day (Full in-person learning) - Beach day
• Wednesday-Jan. 26: WIN Learning Day- No regular classes but all students needing to make up assignments or tests or receive additional support should schedule time to come in and meet with teachers. Teachers will also be scheduling time with students
• Thursday-Jan. 27: White Day (Full in-person learning) - Jersey Day
• Friday-Jan. 28: Red Day (Full in-person learning) - Class Color Day: 6^th grade-red; 7^th grade-yellow; 8^th grade-green; 9^th grade-purple; 10^th grade-orange; 11^th grade-pink; 12^th grade-blue (1 p.m. Prayer Service & Snoball Court Activities)

BA REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2022-23: Announcing new CIS classes with Marquette University and extended courses through Catholic Virtual. More details to follow. Sign up early and apply for financial aid to ensure the most financial aid opportunities for your scholar. Our school is growing; early registration is encouraged!

COVID Updates: MASKS REQUIRED through Jan. 29. This week BA had five scholars with positive COVID cases and 10 students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 55 COVID positive student cases and 9 staff test positive. Visit our COVID webpage for all the updated information. Find COVID testing sites HERE; one free at-home testing box available for each BA student. Stop in the front office.

• BABS-April 9: Our BIGGEST event of the year,  Bethlehem Academy Backers and Supporters (BABS). This is great night out in support of BA! Food featuring local restaurants, games, entertainment and a live and silent auction are part of the evening. Our Fund-A-Need goal this year is to raise $75,000 for an additional BA student vehicle. Please plan to attend! Volunteers and auction items also needed! See ideas on our webpage from group events, to auction items (BABS link). Contact Teresa, our new Development & Marketing Assistant at tlebens@bacards.org to help. 
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $242,800. We are over 98% of the way to our goal of $255,000! If you haven't given, yet, please consider a gift through June 2022: Donate Online (click)  
• Hyvee Easy Fundraising Idea: Need a reusable bag? When you purchase one at Hyvee they donate back to BA! Be sure to indicate us on your purchase! 

KUDOS: To our scholars, families and staff during this recent increase in COVID cases. Thank you for your flexibility, your support, and your care.

• Jan 24-28, SnoBall Week: See above for dress down theme days.
• Jan 28: Campus Ministry Pregnancy Options drive deadline
• Jan 28: Youth Basketball/Future Cardinal Night @ boys basketball game; sign up HERE. 
• Jan 29: SnoBall (Gr 9-12 semi-formal girl-ask-boy dance) + Post-Prom SnoBash event; see more info in high school section below.
• Jan 30: Catholic Schools Week, BA Mass @ DMCC, 10am
• Jan 31: Enrollment & Financial Aid Registration Assistance Night @ BA, 4:30-6:30pm
• Jan 30-Feb 6: Catholic Schools Week, week-long food drive + other activities-see below for details
• Feb 3: Student of the Month, 7:30am, Cafeteria
• Feb 7: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Taco John's
• Feb 13: Winter Open House; pre-register HERE
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

SPRING TRAP TEAM Registration deadline Jan 24: We have room for more people on the Spring Trap Team! Interested students need to contact Coach Rost by email and let him know so he can invite you through the league. Start dates and spring team fees still to be determined. Students need to be signed up by Monday, January 24. You MUST contact Coach Rost so he can give you the code to sign up. Email: todd@adventurespecialties.com

Catch the Bus to the MCCL March for Life this Saturday, Jan 22! On Jan. 22, 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court's disastrous Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton decisions eliminated laws protecting unborn children nationwide. Each year, pro-life Minnesotans mark the anniversary of Roe and Doe with the MCCL March for Life. There will be a free coach bus to take for the March for Life tomorrow, Jan 22. It will arrive in Faribault around 8:45am at the Speedway gas station, 2519 Lyndale Ave. The bus will leave the parking lot at 9am sharp. You will be dropped off at the Cathedral for the prayer service and then you can either walk or ride down to the Capitol. The bus will arrive back in Faribault around 2:45pm. If you are interested in going or have questions, please contact Kay Keller at 507-330-4559 theporklady@hotmail.com

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

January 28 Youth Basketball Night: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

Jan 29 SnoBall Dance Info: The January 29 SnoBall is a girl-ask-boy (Sadie Hawkins) semi-formal dance for students in grades 9-12. Tickets are on sale during high school lunches ($30/couple, $15/single) Friday, Monday and Tuesday (Jan 21, 24, and 25) and in the front office on Wednesday, January 26 during our no-class WIN day. 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 semi-formal dresses. Couples usually go out to dinner with a group of friends prior to the Grand March. 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. As per current activities/athletics policy, spectators/visitors will be asked to wear a mask, but student participants will not. Usually, the Mother-Son/Father-Daughter dance follows coronation, then parents and guests depart and the dance begins. The dance ends at midnight.

SnoBash, Jan 29: Junior parents are hosting SnoBash at the Elks Lodge in Faribault Saturday, Jan 29, from 9-11:30pm. To purchase advance tickets, please place payment in an envelope ($20/ticket) and drop in the designated basket in the BA office.  On the envelope, please identify the number of tickets, names and an email address for confirmation.  The post prom committee will collect from the office, send confirmations, and have a list of pre-paid individuals at the door the night of SnoBash.

Info for Seniors
College Scholarships:

• Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) Students of Integrity Scholarship. BBB will award scholarships to high school seniors graduating in 2021-2022 school year, who personify all the best aspects of high character in their personal choices and actions. Recipients are selected primarily based on a written essay. The call for entries are open now and until the deadline of February 16, 2022, at 4pm. 

• Faribo 4 Kids is again offering the Thomas Laughlin Scholarship. THREE $1,500 scholarships will be given again this year for students attending any form of higher education.  Find the 2022 scholarship application HERE. Applications must be postmarked by March 18, 2022.

College/FAFSA Resources: The Minnesota Office of Higher Education is offering a series of webinars from Feb 5-March 1 to help you learn more about the FAFSA (financial aid), how to compare offers from schools (once your child has applied), scholarships and how to navigate the system of paying for any level of education after high school. To register any of the webinars using Zoom, visit https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJItdu6hrjIqG4mCsdrn5Tv. Visit https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/ for information about each of Minnesota’s financial aid programs. Questions can be directed to the state’s financial aid hotline: (651) 642-0567.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.

Family Focus 1-14-22

01/20/2022

Kris Sauer

January 2022, 2021-22

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

January 14, 2022

Dear BA Families:

Special Prayers for the long weekend (No school Monday and Tuesday)! Please join me in prayers for students, staff, families and our community as we continue to battle illness and absences in school and work due to COVID. Thank you for your partnership throughout this time period. At this point, we do not anticipate moving to online learning next week as most of our scholars who are out on quarantine will return on January 19. See the COVID update below and on our website, updated weekly.

9 Days for Life: This next week we are praying with thousands of Catholics across the country as part of the bishops' pro-life novena, 9 Days for Life: Wednesday, January 19 - Thursday, January 27, 2022. After Mass on Wednesday, January 19 we will have special prayers and exposition. All students will have time in Adoration and families are encouraged to join us in the Adoration Chapel.

CONGRATULATIONS! Our BA & DMCS Robotics team and Spelling Bee participants shined this past week. What a joy to see their excitement and efforts as they pursue excellence in their academics - the pillar of study. Special congratulations to our Robotics Teams that will be going on to compete at State. Two of our Spelling Bee participants will compete at Regionals in Rochester as well, congratulations to Owen Dotterweich '27 and Megan Cina '27.

Tuition approved and registration out for 2022-23: Please review the separate letter and email sent regarding tuition, registration and financial aid and scholarships. Reach out with any question! Our school is growing; early registration and scholarship applications encouraged.

COVID Updates: MASKS REQUIRED due to the high rates in our County and State and increased numbers in the BA community. We will re-evaluate this next week, but know that numbers are not decreasing in our community or at BA at this time. This week BA had nine scholars with positive COVID cases and 16 students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 50 COVID positive student cases and 9 staff test positive. Visit our COVID webpage for all the updated information. Find COVID testing sites HERE; one free at-home testing box available for each BA student. Stop in the front office to pick one up. 

Quarantine update with approval from MDE & the Archdiocese:

• COVID Positive - Isolate for 5 days, return with a negative test on the 6th day. Must wear a mask for 5 additional days (school may be requiring masks regardless.) Without test may return after 7 days on the 8th day.
• COVID in household - Quarantine for 5 days, return with a negative test on the 6th day. Must wear a mask for 5 additional days (school may be requiring masks regardless.) *Typically in the same household we have found most of the family does get COVID so it is best to quarantine the family.
• The Minnesota State High School League still requires 10 days before participating in athletics.

• BABS: Our BIGGEST event of the year,  Bethlehem Academy Backers and Supporters (BABS) event is Saturday, April 9. This is great night out in support of BA! Food, games, and a live and silent auction are part of the fun. Our Fund-A-Need goal this year is to raise $75,000 for an additional BA student van. Please plan to attend! Volunteers and auction items also needed. Contact Teresa, our new Development & Marketing Assistant at tlebens@bacards.org
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $242,800. We are over 98% of the way to our goal of $255,000! If you haven't given, yet, please consider a gift through June 2022: Donate Online (click)  

KUDOS: To our basketball coaches and athletes, as well as our coop athletes. Your dedication to your sport and hard work is admirable and I love watching your energy on the court and as you compete. KEEP IT UP!

• Jan. 16: Morristown Prom Pancake Breakfast @ American Legion, 8:30am-12:30pm
• Jan 17-18: NO SCHOOL, MLK & Teacher Workshop Day 
• Jan 19: Campus Ministry Dress Down Day, proceeds to Pregnancy Options
• Jan 24-28, SnoBall Week: See below for dress down theme days
• Jan 28: Youth Basketball/Future Cardinal Night @ boys basketball game; sign up HERE. 
• Jan 29: SnoBall (Gr 9-12 semi-formal girl-ask-boy dance) + Post-Prom SnoBash event; see more info in high school section below.
• Jan 30: Catholic Schools Week, BA Mass @ DMCC, 10am
• Jan 31: Enrollment & Financial Aid Registration Assistance Night @ BA, 4:30-6:30pm
• Jan 30-Feb 6: Catholic Schools Week, week-long food drive + other activities to be announced
• Feb 3: Student of the Month, 7:30am, Cafeteria
• Feb 7: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Taco John's
• Feb 13: Winter Open House; pre-register HERE
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

Campus Ministry Pregnancy Options Drive Jan 19-21: Students in Campus Ministry are collecting diapers, wipes, bottles and blankets for Pregnancy Options next week. Find donation boxes by the front office and in Ms. Shimota's room. They are also hosting a Pregnancy Options Dress Down Day ($1 dress down, $2 hats or leggings) on Friday, Jan 21.

SnoBall Week Dress Down Days, Jan 24-28: The Senior Class has chosen the following dress down themes for SnoBall Week: Mon, Jan 24-Pajama Day; Tues, Jan 25-Beach Day; Wed, Jan 26-Dress Your Best (Mass) Day; Thurs, Jan 27-Jersey Day; Fri, Jan 28, Color Day: Gr 6-red; Gr 7-yellow; Gr 8-green; Gr 9-purple; Gr 10-orange; Gr 11-pink; Gr 12-blue. We will have SnoBall Court assembly Fri, Jan 28 starting at 1pm. See HS section below for SnoBall Dance information.

2022-2023 Re-enrollment & Financial Aid: Re-enrollment emails for returning 2022-23 scholars have been sent via FACTS. Find full instruction for setting up your Family Portal HERE.  Financial aid applications are now available for 2022-2023. Apply via TADS at this link & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. Application deadline is February 22 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Enrollment and Financial Aid Registration Assistance Night Jan 31: Having trouble logging in to FACTS? Need help filling out your enrollment or TADS financial aid form? We are here to help! Bring your passwords and financial documents to BA Monday, January 30 from 4:30-6:30pm. We will have staff on hand in the front lobby to work with you. 

Host Family Needed! We are seeking a host family for Yerim, 7th gr Catholic girl from South Korea, who wishes to join us at BA this school year. Stipends provided, tuition/fees/expenses paid by the family. Contact Kris Sauer or Haewon at KoAm (720-339-7710 and/or by email at administrator@koameduall.org) if interested.

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!
\

January 28 Youth Basketball Night: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

SnoBall Dance Info: The Jan 29 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 semi-formal dresses. Couples usually go out to dinner with a group of friends prior to the Grand March. Parents and guests gather in the gym at 8pm 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.

SnoBash, Jan 29: Junior parents are hosting SnoBash at the Elks Lodge in Faribault Saturday, Jan 29, from 9-11:30pm. To purchase advance tickets, please place payment in an envelope ($20/ticket) and drop in the designated basket in the BA office.  On the envelope, please identify the number of tickets, names and an email address for confirmation.  The post prom committee will collect from the office, send confirmations, and have a list of pre-paid individuals at the door the night of SnoBash.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.

Family Focus 1-7-2022

01/11/2022

Kris Sauer

2021-22, January 2022

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

January 7, 2022

Dear BA Families:

Happy New Year! January is always a busy month for Catholic schools. Many events and activities are already on our schedule. We look forward to our student artwork on display starting today at the Paradise Center for the Arts, the DMCS/BA Spelling Bee next Thursday, a Knowledge Bowl meet, sporting events, author visit, SnoBall and Catholic Schools' Week. Check the calendar below for upcoming events.

Tuition Approved for 2022-23: The Bethlehem Academy Board members aspire to keep tuition low and increase scholarships while ensuring that staff salaries and benefits are improved. Thanks to fundraising efforts and increased enrollment in partnership with all of our school families, alumni, and donors, this next year tuition will only increase by 1%. A detailed letter will be sent out separately next week with specific information and updates.

Parent Programs: Please find links and information for two special parent resources to support you especially during some of the challenges our families have been experiencing. Father Louie will be leading a parent session to help guide you this winter. See below for all the details and to sign up. Through our counseling partnership with Phoenix Counseling, parents also have access to additional resources with a Catholic focus. Please visit their website for videos and resources as part of the "Peace of Mind" for families supported by Catholic Schools' Center of Excellence. (Link to website). 

COVID Updates: MASKS REQUIRED for the next two weeks due to the high rates in our County and State and increased numbers in the BA community. Masks will be required while at school and at Mass through Jan. 21st. We will re-evaluate at the end of these two weeks. This week BA had seven scholars with positive COVID cases and nine students in quarantine. Since the start of the school year we have had 41 COVID positive student cases and 7 staff test positive. Find COVID testing sites HERE; one free at-home testing box available for all BA students. Stop in the front office to pick one up. 

ADDITIONAL MASK DONATIONS NEEDED! Please bring to the front office if you are able to help.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: 

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: Congratulations to our winners! 1st prize - Jon & Selena Hager; 2nd prize - Conrad & Ardyce Bahe; 3rd prize - Mark Duchene. Thank you to all participants - we raised $12,000!
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $216,300. We are over 87% of the way to our goal of $255,000. THANK YOU FOR TRIPLING YOUR DONATION! If you haven't given, yet, please consider a gift through June 2022: Donate Online (click)  

KUDOS: To student artists Grace Kelzer, Karlie DeGrood, Reagan Kangas, Gabriella Banks, Kacie Hofius, Summer Heselton, Vincent Vollbrecht, Zachary Velishek, Mallorie Pavek, Jonathon Vold, Camryn Belmont, Fernando Reyes, Brooklyn Becker, and Lucy Cunningham, whose artworks go on display today at the Corey Lyn Creger art gallery at the Paradise Center for the Arts.

• Jan 7: Paradise Center for the Arts student gallery opening reception, 5-7pm
• Jan 7: Youth Basketball/Future Cardinal night @ girls game
• Jan 11: Dining Night Out @ Godfather's for Prom
• Jan. 13 - 8:30 a.m.: Spelling Bee in BA Gym
• Jan 14: Knowledge Bowl Contest
• Jan. 16: Morristown Prom Pancake Breakfast
• Jan 17-18: NO SCHOOL, MLK & Teacher Workshop Day 
• Jan 28: Youth Basketball/Future Cardinal Night @ boys basketball game; sign up HERE. 
• Jan 29: SnoBall (Gr 9-12 semi-formal girl-ask-boy dance, see more info in high school section below)
• Jan 30-Feb 6: Catholic Schools Week
• Feb 13: Winter Open House; pre-register HERE
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

FACTS Parent Portal Set Up:  If you haven't logged in to FACTS recently, a reminder that you will have to "set up" your FACTS Family Portal to access your accounts. Username is your full email address; previously set up password should work. Find full instructions HERE.

2022-2023 Re-enrollment & Financial Aid: 2022-2023 re-enrollment for returning students will open next week via FACTS. Watch your email for further information. Financial aid applications are now available for 2022-2023. Apply via TADS at this link & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. Application deadline is February 22 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Host Family Needed! We are seeking a host family for Yerim, 7th gr Catholic girl from South Korea, who wishes to join us at BA this school year. Stipends provided, tuition/fees/expenses paid by the family. Contact Kris Sauer or Haewon at KoAm (720-339-7710 and/or by email at administrator@koameduall.org) if interested.

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Online School Store @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

January Youth Basketball Nights: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  





Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

SnoBall Dance Info: The Jan 29 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 (many choose black), tie and nice pants; girls wear semi-formal dresses. Couples usually go out to dinner with a group of friends prior to the Grand March. Parents and guests gather in the gym at 8pm 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.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. Apply via the TADS financial aid application HERE and click on Financial Aid Assessment.

Family Focus 12/17/21

01/05/2022

Kris Sauer

December 2021, 2021-22

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)








December 17, 2021

Dear BA Families:

Blessed third week of Advent. This week at Mass not only did we celebrate Advent, but we honored Mary through the remembrance of her appearance to Juan Diego, as "Our Lady of Guadalupe." God ensures that His message is brought to people all over the world - "Go and make disciples of all nations!" What a wonderful time of year to celebrate His message.

2021 Christmas Video Greeting: Together with Divine Mercy Catholic School Principal Gina Ashley, MERRY CHRISTMAS from all of us at our Catholic Schools of Faribault. Watch the Christmas greeting video HERE. 

Parent Programs: Please find links and information for two special parent resources to support you especially during some of the challenges our families have been experiencing. Father Louie will be leading a parent session to help guide you this winter. See below for all the details and to sign up. Through our counseling partnership with Phoenix Counseling, parents have access to additional resources with a Catholic focus. Please visit their website for videos and resources as part of the "Peace of Mind" for families supported by Catholic Schools' Center of Excellence. (Link to website). PLEASE NOTE - BA has not received any Tik Tok threats but takes all posted concerns seriously working with families, counselors and the County when needed. If you see or hear of any concerns or threats to BA, or regarding students individually, please alert school staff. THANK YOU.

COVID Updates: Masks will be recommended but not required when we return from break. This week BA had no additional positive COVID cases and all students will be off of quarantine. Please remember this may need to be changed again if we see an increase in cases. We did, however, have several fluenza and bronchitis cases, so please monitor your child for symptoms. Since the start of the year we have had 35 Covid positive student cases and 6 staff test positive. ADDITIONAL MASK DONATIONS NEEDED! Please bring to the front office if you are able to help.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: 

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: It's not too late! Raffle tickets make great stocking stuffers! Prizes are $2021, $1021 and $521. You can drop off your order form in the entry way next week and still get in the drawing. Please find an order form HERE. Drawing will be held December 31-only 400 tickets remain!
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $140,400. We are over 50% of the way to our goal of $255,000. THANK YOU! Please consider a donation through June 2022: Donate Online (click)  END OF YEAR GIFTS WILL HELP US TRIPLE OUR DONATION AND REACH $200,000 by January 31, 2022.

KUDOS: Congratulations to our bands and choirs for their beautiful Christmas concerts and special thanks to Mr. Wendt and Mr. Battles. Kudos to the following students who were nominated to play in the Gopher Conference Honor Band in February, chosen for their leadership and musicianship: Anne Azelton '25, Alaisha Garcia-Lopez '23, Penelope Parrish '24, Matthew Croke '22, and Madelyn Bauer '22. We're also celebrating our Robotics Middle School Team who will be going to State and our Knowledge Bowl placed 8th out of 19 teams at their first competition!

• Dec 20-Jan 2: Christmas Break - No School
• Jan 3: School resumes, RED day
• Jan 7: Youth Basketball Night @ Girls home game - see below
• Jan 11: Dining Night Out @ Godfather's for Prom
• Jan. 13 - 8:30 a.m.: Spelling Bee in BA Gym
• Jan 14: Knowledge Bowl Contest
• Jan 17-18: NO SCHOOL, MLK & Teacher Workshop Day 
• Jan 29: SnoBall (Gr 9-12 semi-formal girl-ask-boy dance)
• Jan 30-Feb 6: Catholic Schools Week
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 
• The Salvation Army needs bell ringers: Sign up here  www.registertoring.com

ALL BA UPDATES

Rome Trip Bake Sale Dec 19: BA students going on a pilgrimage to Rome this June, are hosting a bake sale at Divine Mercy Catholic Church to fundraise their trip. Please stop by after the 8am and 10am Masses on December 19 to support these students and get delicious treats! 

FACTS Parent Portal Set Up:  If you haven't logged in to FACTS recently, a reminder that you will have to "set up" your FACTS Family Portal to access your accounts. Username is your full email address; previously set up password should work. Find full instructions HERE.

2022-2023 Re-enrollment & Financial Aid: 2022-2023 re-enrollment for returning students will open January 10 via FACTS. Watch for further information. Financial aid applications are now available for 2022-2023. Apply via TADS at this link & click on Financial Aid Assessment to get started. Application deadline is February 22 to be considered for all available scholarships. 

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Online School Store Launched @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

January Youth Basketball Nights: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  





Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. 

Family Focus 12/10/21

12/14/2021

Kris Sauer

2021-22, December 2021

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

December 10, 2021

Dear BA Families:

Blessed second week of Advent. Campus ministry gathered us for our weekly Advent prayer prior to Mass. As you celebrate at home, here are some additional family Advent resources, click "Advent." In addition, we invite you to join us for our Christmas concerts. Our Choirs will perform this Sunday, Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. in IC Church and our Band concert will be Monday at 7 p.m. in the BA Gymnasium.

Snow Days: Today is our first snow day. For our first 2 snow days we will have "no school days" - no online learning. Any additional snow days will be online learning days. Like today, we follow Faribault Public Schools in calling a snow day. If you did not receive a notice via text or email please let the office know. We also post on our website and on Facebook when this occurs. In addition, all of today's evening activities are canceled. Today is a school scheduled "red day" - therefore, Monday will be our "red day." Students are also reminded to bring their $1 as we moved "Ugly Sweater Day" to Monday. Bring $2 if your scholar wants to wear a hat or leggings.

COVID Updates: Masks remain required in classes as an additional mitigation strategy for our final week prior to break. This week BA had no additional positive COVID cases; we have two active COVID cases and four additional students required to quarantine. Since the start of the year we have had 35 total positive student cases and 6 staff test positive. Please help us stay in-person by following these mitigation strategies. Bishop Hebda recently urged additional mitigation strategies for large indoor gatherings. See his Dec 1 letter HERE and his Dec 9 Video HERE. ADDITIONAL MASK DONATIONS NEEDED! Please bring to the front office if you are able to help.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: 

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: Great stocking stuffers! Prizes are $2021, $1021 and $521. One more week to get your ticket! Please order HERE or call and email the office. Drawing held December 31.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift. The stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more. To date they are over $6 million!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $89,400 with a match of $50,000! Our goal is $255,000 for critical needs of our school. Please consider a donation through June 2022: Donate Online (click) 

KUDOS: To all of our basketball teams and coaches as they begin the season! Also, we wish to congratulate our coop sports members in wrestling, hockey, dance line and swimming for their hard work in getting off to a great start! Special congratulations to our Students of the Month in specialist classes: Cecilia Azelton, Carter Pavek, Claire Wisdo, Aiden Tobin, Aubrey Howard, Kacie Hofius, Caiden Lamphere, and Michael Crone.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Additional activities and sporting events online.

• Dec. 12: BA Choir Christmas Concert, 2pm, IC Church
• Dec. 13: BA Band Christmas Concert, 7pm, Van Orsow Auditorium
• Dec. 13: SADD Ugly Sweater Dress Down Day (rescheduled)
• Dec 13: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Basilleo's - see below 
• Dec. 15: Knowledge Bowl meet @ Rochester
• Dec. 16: Prom Dining Night Out @ A&W - see below
• Dec. 17: Rome Trip Dress Down Day; FFA Competition Day
• Dec 20-Jan 2: Christmas Break - No School
• Jan 7: Youth Basketball Night @ Girls home game - see below
• Jan. 13 - 8:30 a.m.: Spelling Bee
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 
• The Salvation Army needs bell ringers: Sign up here  www.registertoring.com

ALL BA UPDATES

Staff Xmas Lunch Help: Home and School needs your help! We are hosting our annual Christmas Luncheon for the BA Faculty and Staff Thursday, Dec 16 and are looking for donations of your time and treats! If you can help, please sign up HERE. 

Rome Trip Bake Sale Dec 19: BA students going on a pilgrimage to Rome this June, are hosting a bake sale at Divine Mercy Catholic Church to fundraise their trip. Please stop by after the 8am and 10am Masses on December 19 to support these students and get delicious treats! 

Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Prom/Post-Prom Fundraisers
The Junior Class is hosting several fundraisers to raise money for Prom; Junior and senior parents are likewise hosting several fundraisers for the Post-Prom event. See below for dates and information:

• CANCELED Dec 10-& 11 Post-Prom Apple Pies @ Hy-Vee: Hy-Vee had a supply chain issue; we have had to cancel this fundraiser.
• Dec 13 Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Basilleo's; 10% of all purchases Monday, Dec 13 from 4-10pm - including gift cards! - will go back to the BA After Prom Party. Take-out and delivery will be available in addition to dining in the restaurant. 
• Dec. 16: Prom Dining Night Out @ A&W - a portion of all sales from 4pm to close - both in the restaurant and via the drive through - will go towards BA's 2022 Prom hosted by the Junior Class.

Online School Store Launched @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!













Holiday Scrip Now Available! Click HERE for a flyer with more information.

January Youth Basketball Nights: Youth basketball teams, prospective Cardinals, DMCS families all invited to join us! Sign up HERE.  





Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Aim Higher Foundation K-8 Scholarships: Every year, students at Bethlehem Academy (Faribault, MN) receive tuition assistance scholarships from the Aim Higher Foundation. We would like to thank the many donors and friends who help make our great school accessible to all families! Learn more HERE. 

Family Focus 12/3/21

12/09/2021

Kris Sauer

December 2021, 2021-22

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

December 3, 2021

Dear BA Families:

Welcome Advent! As we begin Advent our hearts seek the renewal of Christ in this Season of Hope. Our students attended Reconciliation this week as we began Advent. Join us each week at our Mass for additional Advent prayers and reflections led by Campus Ministry. Family Advent resources are available, click "Advent." Faribault is also hosting a special Winterfest this Saturday, join the fun at: Winterfest in Faribault! 

Benefactor's Brunch: This Saturday we will honor four BA supporters inducting them to the Court of Honor. This year we recognize Sister Mary Margaret Murphy, Russ Kennedy, Dr. Walter Neihaus '55 and Mary Heideman. All four benefactors exemplify the spirit of our four Dominican Pillars: Prayer, Study, Community and Service, by supporting BA with gifts of time and treasure for many years. We are blessed!

Snow Days: Should we have a snow day in December, please know that our first 2 snow days are no school days - no online learning. Any additional snow days will be online learning days. We follow Faribault Public Schools in calling a snow day, and notify our families via text, email and Facebook when this occurs. 

COVID Updates: Currently masks are required in classes as an additional mitigation strategy. This week BA had 3 positive COVID cases in quarantine with no exposure at school. There are no additional students required to quarantine at this time. Since the start of the year we have had 35 total positive cases. Please help us stay in-person by following these mitigation strategies. ADDITIONAL MASK DONATIONS NEEDED! Please bring to the front office if you are able to help.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: 

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: Great stocking stuffers! Prizes are $2021, $1021 and $521. Please get your ticket order form HERE. Drawing held December 31, 2021.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift, the stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more.
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $78,900 with a match of $50,000! Our goal is $255,000 for critical needs of our school. Please consider a donation through June 2022: Donate Online (click) 

KUDOS: Congratulations to Justin Delesha who completed his Eagle Scout project out at Calvary Cemetery.  He constructed a compost and dirt depository at the south end of the cemetery. Special congratulations extended to all BA students featured in this month's Art Exhibit at the Paradise Center for the Arts and thanks to Mr. Hillesheim for all of his preparations for the beautiful exhibit.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Additional activities and sporting events online.

• Dec 4: Benefactor's Brunch
• Dec 7: WIN Day
• Dec 10: SADD Ugly Sweater Dress Down Day-proceeds to St. Vincent de Paul for toys and food items
• Dec 10-11: Apple Pie Prom fundraiser at Hy-Vee - see below
• Dec. 12: BA Choir Christmas Concert, 2pm, IC Church
• Dec. 13: BA Band Christmas Concert, 7pm, Van Orsow Auditorium
• Dec 13: Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Basilleo's - see below 
• Dec. 15: Knowledge Bowl meet @ Rochester
• Dec. 16: Prom Dining Night Out @ A&W - see below
• Dec. 17: Rome Trip Dress Down Day; FFA Competition Day
• Dec 20-Jan 2: Christmas Break - No School
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 
• The Salvation Army needs bell ringers: Sign up here  www.registertoring.com

ALL BA UPDATES
Mental Health Resources: We know that at this time we are seeing an increase in the mental health needs of our scholars. Here is a link to Rice County resources. 

Prom/Post-Prom Fundraisers
The Junior Class is hosting several fundraisers to raise money for Prom; Junior and senior parents are likewise hosting several fundraisers for the Post-Prom event. See below for dates and information:

• Dec 10-& 11 Post-Prom Apple Pies @ Hy-Vee: BA's Post-Prom committee is making and selling apple pies on Friday December 10 from 4pm to 8pm and Saturday December 11 from 11am-3pm. Pies are $12.99. Volunteers needed! Sign up to help HERE. 

• Dec 13 Post-Prom Dining Night Out @ Basilleo's; 10% of all purchases Monday, Dec 13 from 4-10pm - including gift cards! - 

  will go back to the BA After Prom Party. Take-out and delivery will be available in addition to dining in the restaurant. 

• Dec. 16: Prom Dining Night Out @ A&W - a portion of all sales from 4pm to close - both in the restaurant and via the drive through - will go towards BA's 2022 Prom hosted by the Junior Class.

Candy Grams! Help support the BA Rome pilgrimage trip! Candy canes with a message can be ordered for $1 each. Candy canes will be delivered Dec 17. Return the order form attached with payment (write "Candy Gram" on the envelope) to the front office by Dec 10. 

Online School Store Launched @ Star Sports & Apparel! BA has opened at school store at Star Sports and Apparel. Orders are filled as they are placed, so purchase your BA gear any time! Click HERE to for all the great options!

Counselor's Resources: Twice a month in homeroom prior to Mass, our school counselor is providing homeroom teachers with a Mass-linked reflection to share with students. Find today’s reflection HERE.

Holiday Scrip Now Available! Click HERE for a flyer with more information.

Home Basketball Game Help Needed:  Many volunteers are needed to help at home basketball games this winter.  Please consider sharing your time and talent in support of our student activities!

• Girls' Games Signup
• Boys Games Signup

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Family Focus 11/19/21

12/01/2021

Kris Sauer

November 2021, 2021-22

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

November 19, 2021

Dear BA Families:

It’s almost Thanksgiving! I know your scholar has been working hard on both their academics and activities. Keep encouraging them as they strive for excellence in following the Dominican pillars of prayer, study, community and service. At this time of year their motivation can wane and be distracted by the excitement of the holidays. I will have our mother's group pray for them both in their studies and their health!

Just a reminder that we are postponing Grandparents Day. November 23rd will be a normal, regular school day from 8:05 a.m. to 2:55 p.m. We look forward to rescheduling this special event in the spring!

The Bethlehem Academy Annual Report and Traditions magazine are out. Our Annual Report is on our website at this link: Annual Report. Pick up a Traditions magazine in the school office or on the table by the hallway to learn more about BA alumni and a recap of last year.

Our Counselor is creating special videos to share with all BA students during homeroom time. She will release these typically weekly. To follow, we will share the videos with you for discussion at home: Wednesday Wisdom

COVID Updates: Currently masks are being required in classes as an additional mitigation strategy. See the email from this past week regarding this. We will re-evaluate this after Thanksgiving break. Presently, BA has 3 active COVID cases (after today) and 16 additional students in quarantine. Since the start of the year we have had 32 total positive cases. Please help us stay in-person by following these mitigation strategies.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: Review our 2020-21 Annual Report on our BA website at: Annual Report 2020-21

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: Get your raffle tickets - great stocking stuffers! Prizes are $2021, $1021 and $521. Please get your ticket order form HERE. Drawing held December 31, 2021.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift, the stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more.
• Student Sales: Prom students are selling Randy's Meats' Products through today, November 19. Get your orders in, information below!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $74,900 with a match of $50,000! Thank you! Our goal this year is $255,000 for critical needs of our school. Please consider a donation through June 2022: Donate Online (click) 

KUDOS: Congratulations to all of our students who submitted poems for the Veteran's Day program: Penelope Parrish, Preston Hubers, Harrison Gibbs, Matthew Volkmuth, Emily Rauenhorst, Eva Ardolf, Riley Bauer, Annabelle Francis, Jesus Palma, Anna DeMars, Aaron Huerta, Zachary Velishek, Thelma Santarrosa, Elliot Daschner and Kendra Hanson. Thelma was selected by SADD to present her poem during the programs. Each poem was so well written - Congratulations!

UPCOMING EVENTS: Additional activities and sporting events online.

• Nov 20: HS Robotics Meet
• Nov 22: Dress Down Day-Rome Trip Fundraiser
• Nov 22: CSCOE online Parent Session on technology, see below
• Nov 23: Regular School Day (Grandparents Day postponed to the spring)
• Nov 24-29: Thanksgiving Break (Updated from earlier calendars)
• Nov. 29: NO SCHOOL / Teacher Workday/Student Catch Up Day
• Dec 4: Benefactor's Brunch
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 
• The Salvation Army needs bell ringers: Sign up here  www.registertoring.com

ALL BA UPDATES

Family Focus 11/12/21

11/18/2021

Kris Sauer

2021-22, November 2021

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

November 12, 2021

Dear BA Families:
"Here we go Cardinals!" It's exciting to have our volleyball team back at State this year. I look forward to cheering them on as they compete. Thank you for once again adjusting with us this past week in regards to having your scholar wear masks and then moving to online learning. We return to in-person learning on Monday, Nov. 15 as most quarantines end on Monday. 

Join us for a short Veteran's Day Celebration on Monday at 8:30 a.m. Our band and choir will salute area veterans, student written poems will be read, and we will hear from Major Dan Rasmussen, U.S. Marine Corps, National Guard and Army Reserves (Retired). A small reception will be hosted for veterans after the program.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS: Review our 2020-21 Annual Report on our BA website at: Annual Report 2020-21

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: Get your raffle tickets - great stocking stuffers! Prizes are $2021, $1021 and $521. Please get your ticket order form HERE. Drawing held December 31, 2021.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift, the stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more.
• Student Sales: Prom students are selling Randy's Meats' Products today through November 19. Get your orders in, information below!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $64,800 with a match of $50,000! Thank you! Our goal this year is $255,000 for critical needs of our school. Please consider a donation on "Give to the Max Day - Nov. 18" or anytime through June 2022: Donate Online (click) 

COVID SAFETY PROTOCOLS: As of 11/15/2021 we will have six active positive cases with an additional 13 students quarantining due to exposure. Masks continue to be recommended to help mitigate additional spread. Visit our COVID web page for mitigation strategies, additional information and clinic listings. https://www.bacards.org/page/3426

KUDOS: Thank you to our fall volleyball and football coaches for great seasons! Special thanks to Faribault Public School for the cooperative sports program, we have several students competing in soccer, swimming, tennis, wrestling, hockey, dance line and cross country and are thankful for this partnership.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Additional activities and sporting events online.

• Nov. 15: Veteran's Day program! Calling all Veterans, please arrive by 8:15 for a short program at 8:30 a.m.
• Nov. 16: Letter jacket orders 7:30-8:30am-see below for more info
• Nov 17: Student of the Month Ceremony, 7:30am, BA Cafeteria
• Nov 18: Paradise Student Gallery opening reception, 5-7pm
• Nov. 18: BA Open House Info HERE; Registration HERE
• Nov. 19: Band Trip to U of MN Indoor Concert; Drama Club after school until 4pm.
• Nov 20: HS Robotics Meet
• Nov 22: Dress Down Day-Rome Trip Fundraiser
• Nov 23: Grandparents Day, 1pm (Updated from earlier calendars)
• Nov 24-26: Thanksgiving Break (Updated from earlier calendars)
• Dec 4: Benefactor's Brunch
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

Family Focus 11-05-2021

11/11/2021

Kris Sauer

November 2021, 2021-22

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

November 5, 2021

Dear BA Families:
All Saints Mass began our week. During this first week of November we gathered on Monday for "All Saints Mass" hosted by Divine Mercy Catholic School's 4th grade class. What a beautiful way to begin our week and reflect on the lives of the Saints! Our Spanish classes also created a Dia de Los Muertos Altar in memory of those we love. 

Although our football team is not continuing in sections, they have much to be proud of in their accomplishments this year. I am very proud of these young men for their commitment and their prowess. Please congratulate them when you see them cheering on the girls in volleyball! Our volleyball team continues on to fight for a chance to represent BA at State. Please plan to join us in cheering them on as they compete tomorrow (Saturday, Nov 6) at 10am in Rochester!

Our "Traditions" publication is out! Watch for yours in the mail if you are alumni or stop in to pick one up. Special thanks to Kari Tobin for her layout styling and Brent Zabel and Jason Hillesheim for their photography skills. Thanks to Mellanie Smith and Kris Sauer for assisting in writing the articles. 

Facemasks Required Next Week, Nov 8-12

I’m sorry to report that we have had 5 positive COVID cases, as of now, just this week alone. We suspect this is a result of all of the gatherings and events over Halloween weekend. Thankfully so far no one is hospitalized, but with volleyball playoffs and potential greater spread at school, we are asking all students/staff to wear masks next week to see if we can stop the spread.This will also help ensure that our volleyball team members can play in competitions potentially this next week. Thank you for your cooperation.

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS:

• BA BASH Raffle 2021: Get your raffle tickets - great stocking stuffers! Prizes are $2021, $1021 and $521. Please get your ticket order form HERE. Drawing held December 31, 2021.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift, the stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more.
• Student Sales: Prom students are selling Randy's Meats' Products today through November 19. Get your orders in, information below!
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $64,800 with a match of $50,000! Thank you! Our goal this year is $255,000, which is critical to supporting teacher/staff salaries, supplies, books, student programs, and building and maintenance needs. Please consider a donation: Donate Online (click) 

COVID SAFETY PROTOCOLS: As of 10/29/21 we have had 14 total COVID positive cases for the year. At this time we have five active cases/three families.

KUDOS: Thank you to Emily Shimota, Noah Battles, sacristans, eucharistic ministers and our altar servers for assisting with the joint All Saints Mass.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Additional activities and sporting events online.

• Nov. 5: Veteran's Day student poem deadline (see below)
• Nov. 9: HS Synod small group at DMCC - see info below
• Nov 10: Student of the Month Ceremony, 7:30am, BA Cafeteria
• Nov. 11: Veteran's Day program! Calling all Veterans, please arrive by 8:15 for a short program at 8:30 a.m.
• Nov. 16: Letter jacket orders 7:30-8:30am-see below for more info
• Nov. 18: BA Open House Info HERE; Registration HERE
• Nov 18: Paradise Student Gallery opening reception, 5-7pm
• Nov. 19: Band Trip to U of MN Indoor Concert
• Nov 22: Dress Down Day-Rome Trip Fundraiser
• Nov 23: Grandparents Day, 1pm (Updated from earlier calendars)
• Nov 24-26: Thanksgiving Break (Updated from earlier calendars)
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

Socktober - Thank you!
Thanks to the BA community, the Student Service Club collected 636 pairs of new socks! Club officers will be taking them to St. Vincent de Paul next week. 

8th Grade Wolf Ridge Trip Fundraiser-Deadline Nov 5
We are having our annual Tastefully Simple fundraiser sale with 100% of the profits helping to defray the bus cost for the February eighth grade Wolf Ridge trip. The deadline to order is TODAY, November 5th. Product information can be found at www.tastefullysimple.com and orders can be made through Kris Shuda, a BA past parent who is generously donating the profits of her sales. Orders will be delivered directly to each customer’s door via UPS. Please direct any questions to Julie Smisek, 8th grade advisor, at jsmisek@bacards.org or Kris Shuda at the link above. Eighth graders and their families thank you for your support!

Veteran's Day Student Poetry Contest: Deadline Nov 5

SADD is sponsoring a poetry contest for Veteran's Day. Find a flier with more information HERE. The topic for the poem or tribute speech is Veteran’s Day or Patriotism.  All students in grades 6-12 are eligible, the minimum is 10 lines. Email entries TODAY to Mrs. Donlon. 

Letter Jackets-Nov 16
Meca Sportswear will be at Bethlehem Academy on Tuesday, November 16 from 7:30am to 8:30am for letter jacket orders.  Students that have lettered in a varsity activity or expect to letter this year are invited to order a letter jacket. More information attached.

Junior Class Randy's Meats Fundraiser

11th graders are taking Randy’s Meats orders for pizza, soups, meats, cookies, desserts and an assortment of Christmas decorations and gifts. All proceeds go to Prom 2022; order deadline is Friday, November 19. If the class raises $6000, junior Riley Langenfeld will shave his head!

CSCOE PARENT SESSION: "Technology, Social Media, Screen Time and Parenting" November 22 at 7 p.m. with Dr. Jules Nolan
The use of social media and technology is one of the most popular areas of concern for parents of children and adolescents. How much is too much? How do we keep our kids safe online? What about the constant social comparisons? This session will focus on the latest research on use of social media and technology. It will also help us understand the relationship between brain development and what drives the need to feel connected online, as well as those areas of big concern like pornography and algorithms that target adolescent vulnerabilities. Parenting tips will be offered. Click HERE to register.

Grandparents' Day-Nov 23, 1pm
We will be holding our annual Grandparents' Day on Tuesday, November 23 at 1:00pm in Van Orsow Auditorium. We hope many of our students' grandparents can join us. Proxy grandparents are also welcome. More information to follow.

Holiday Scrip Now Available! Click HERE for a flyer with more information.

Open House/Shadow Days/New Student Application Information
Invite an interested family to learn more about BA! Our fall open house is Thurs, Nov 18 starting at 6pm. Pre-registration encouraged (sign up HERE); walk-ins welcome. Invite a student interested in BA to join your scholar for the day! Student shadow days now available weekly. Invite a friend to register for a shadow day HERE. Family tours are offered M-F from 9am-4:30pm. Click HERE to sign up. New student online applications for the 2022-2023 school year are now open! You are our greatest resource in bringing great new students to BA! Please contact Kris Sauer If you are interested in hosting a informational meeting in your home for prospective students and their families. Watch Facebook and our website (News and Enrollment tabs) for more information.

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

Attention Senior Parents!
Mark your calendars for the following important dates:

• Monday, November 15 - 4:00 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the FHS Library
  Don't know where to start with the FAFSA? Come and complete the FAFSA with help from financial aid officers from surrounding colleges. The experts will be on hand to help navigate the form and answer all questions that you may have.

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH

High Schoolers: The Synod Process Needs Your Voice!
It’s not too late to join a Synod small group, and share your perspectives with our parish and the Archdiocese! Parents, we need your voice as well! Sign up on the DMCC website HERE. Upcoming meetings are as follows, more information in the attached flyer:

• November 9: Youth Ministry and Young Adult Ministry

BA EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Bethlehem Academy is Hiring!
We are looking for a Development and Marketing Assistant and a Maintenance Team Member. Click HERE for more information and how to apply. We also have coaching openings in track and field and fast pitch softball and are looking for people to officiate junior high basketball games. Please email athletics@bacards.org if interested.

COMMUNITY/VOLUNTEERING INFORMATION
Free Meals for Students
Community dinners are offered Monday-Thursday, 4:30-5:30pm at Jefferson Elementary School (922 Home Place). Kids eat free; adult meals are $3.50. More information in English and Spanish HERE. 

Area Seniors Need Yard Help!
The following senior citizens in Faribault need help with yard work this fall. Find the list below, and contact Jessica Thornton (Program Coordinator, Senior Independence at Family Service Rochester) at jthornton@familyservicerochester.org or 507-287-2010 ext 1033 if you can help.

• Tom B - 526 Little Ford Lane, Faribault: Clean gutters
• Donna D - 620 8th St SW, Faribault: raking and window washing. Windows are older, need to be taken apart. Client will instruct and provide supplies.
• John H - 111 2nd St SW, Faribault: needs someone to move items in garage and help arrange things, has supplies
• Gloria O - 830 Rogers Row, Faribault: fall clean up. Raking, cleaning up year, hauling bags of leaves, etc to the landfill, has supplies
• Donna S - 422 Shumway Ave, Faribault: general yard clean up, raking

CALENDAR LINKS
Click the link below for the calendar.

• BA School Calendar - Week of Nov. 8

ATTACHMENTS
 

DMCC Synod Meetings: Young Adult & Parent Info
Meca Sportswear Letter Jacket Information
Josten's Traditional BA Class Ring Order Form

 

Family Focus 10/29/21

11/01/2021

Kris Sauer

October 2021, 2021-22

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"But Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him,"
Jeremiah 17:7 (Bible verse of the year chosen by Peer Ministry)

October 29, 2021

Dear BA Families:
This week begins our second quarter of the school year. It's an exciting week as our fall sports continue with play-off games. Congratulations to our football team with a win this past Tuesday! Kudos is also extended to our volleyball team who won their match last night over Houston! Both continue section play tomorrow (Saturday): volleyball at 10am vs Rushford-Peterson in Rochester; football at Fillmore Central at 7pm. Our Robotics and Knowledge Bowl teams will begin with winter training and competitions. Our Theater Club meets this Friday after school with assistance from director Patrick Braucher of the Paradise Center for the Arts. He will be supporting BA this year in our theatrical programming. Join us this quarter in celebrating our students, supporting their needs, and cheering them on as our new quarter begins.

ALL SAINTS DAY: On Monday, Nov 1, at 8:30 a.m. we will gather for an all school Mass with DMCS in our gymnasium. Everyone is invited! The 4th grade class will be sharing the stories of the "lives of the Saints" as we celebrate this Holy Day. 

NO BUSING MONDAY: There will be no busing Monday, November 1, as the public school system does not have school for its students that day. Bethlehem Academy and Divine Mercy Catholic School do have school on Monday, November 1.  Please make alternate transportation arrangements for your scholar to attend school on Monday.

DOES YOUR SCHOLAR NEED ACADEMIC SUPPORT? Take advantage of our school day support with Mrs. Kohl and Mr. Wollin, and our after school homework club with Mrs. Kohl and Mr. Ponciano. 

UPDATES ON FUNDRAISERS:

• Spooktacular: Thank you for supporting our fundraising by participating or volunteering at Spooktacular. It was a great day, but we did not reach our goal and will be in school for a full day as scheduled on December 17, 2021.
• BA BASH Raffle 2021: BA is kicking off BA BASH Raffle 2021! With only 1000 tickets available, and prizes of $2021, $1021 and $521, this is a great way to get involved and support BA. We hope to raise $10,000 from this raffle and invite you to participate. Please get your ticket order form HERE and, with new beginnings ahead, pray for a healthy and positive 2022! Drawing held December 31, 2021.
• Divine Mercy Build Project - United for Our Future: Please prayerfully consider a gift, the stronger DMCS is, the stronger BA will be! Click HERE to learn more.
• Annual Fund: To date we have raised: $64,300 with a match of $50,000! Thank you! Our goal this year is $255,000, which is critical to supporting teacher/staff salaries, supplies, books, student programs, and building and maintenance needs. Please consider a donation: Donate Online (click) 

COVID SAFETY PROTOCOLS: As of 10/29/21 we have had 11 total COVID positive cases for the year. We do not have any active cases at this time but do have some students quarantining due to exposure or positive family members. 

KUDOS: Congratulations to our NHS members and their advisor, Ms. Piehl for the beautiful induction ceremony after Mass this week. Special congratulations to senior Sophia Smith who was named a finalist in the National College Match scholarship program.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Additional activities and sporting events online.

• Oct 29: MS Halloween Dance, 7-10pm, see info below in MS 
• Oct 29: Theater Club meeting, 3pm
• Oct 31: Trunk or Treat, 4-6pm, BA parking lot. Register your trunk HERE (Note: this event is NOT Oct 30 as on some early calendars)
• Nov. 1: All Saints Day, BA/DMCS MASS in the BA Gym 
• Nov 1: After Prom Parent Meeting, 6pm-see HS Section for more info
• Nov. 11: Veteran's Day program! Calling all Veterans, please arrive by 8:15 for a short program at 8:30 a.m.
• Nov. 18: BA Open House Info HERE; Registration HERE
• Nov 18: Paradise Student Gallery opening reception, 5-7pm
• Nov. 19: Band Trip to U of MN Indoor Concert
• Nov 23: Grandparents Day, 1pm (Updated from earlier calendars)
• Nov 24-26: Thanksgiving Break (Updated from earlier calendars)
• Find our event school calendar on our website HERE 

ALL BA UPDATES

Section Volleyball Tournament
The volleyball team has advanced in the section playoffs and will be playing at the Rochester Mayo Civic Center.  The Rochester Mayo Civic Center requires all spectators to wear masks.  Spectators also walk through metal detectors when entering the facility.


8th Grade Wolf Ridge Trip Fundraiser to Nov 5
We are having our annual Tastefully Simple fundraiser sale with 100% of the profits helping to defray the bus cost for the February eighth grade Wolf Ridge trip. The fundraiser begins this week and runs through November 5th. Product information can be found at www.tastefullysimple.com and orders can be made through Kris Shuda, a BA past parent who is generously donating the profits of her sales. Orders will be delivered directly to each customer’s door via UPS. Please direct any questions to Julie Smisek, 8th grade advisor, at jsmisek@bacards.org or Kris Shuda at the link above. Eighth graders and their families thank you for your support!

Veteran's Day Student Poetry Contest: Deadline Nov 5

SADD is sponsoring a poetry contest. Find a flier with more information HERE. The topic for the poem or tribute speech is Veteran’s Day or Patriotism.  All students in grades 6-12 are eligible, the minimum is 10 lines. Email entries by Nov 5 to Mrs. Donlon. 

Holiday Scrip Now Available! Click HERE for a flyer with more information.

New Student Application/Shadow/Open House Information
We are excited to open applications to new students for the 2022-2023 school year starting November 1st! Student shadow days begin November 2nd. Invite a student interested in BA to join your scholar for the day! Register for a shadow day HERE. Our fall open house is scheduled for Thursday, Nov 18 starting at 6pm. Pre-registration encouraged (sign up HERE); walk-ins welcome. Family tours are offered M-F from 9am-4:30pm. Click HERE to sign up. You are our greatest resource in bringing great new students to BA! Please contact Kris Sauer If you are interested in hosting a informational meeting in your home for prospective students and their families. Watch Facebook and our website (News and Enrollment tabs) for more information.

Online BA School Store!
We have select items available for purchase, either online or in the school office, including Yeti tumblers, Puravida bracelets in BA colors, and polo shirts. See the available items HERE.

Grandparents' Day
We will be holding our annual Grandparents' Day on Tuesday, November 23 at 1:00pm.  We hope many of our students' grandparents can join us.  Proxy grandparents are also welcome.  More details will be coming.

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION

After Prom Meeting Nov 1
There will be an After Prom brainstorming meeting for any junior or senior parent wishing to help coordinate and plan the After Prom Party on Monday, November 1 @ 6:00pm in the BA Cafeteria. Items to be discussed include: fundraising, venue, activities, prizes, schedule, food. Bring your ideas and join us!

Attention Senior Parents!
Mark your calendars for the following important dates:

• Monday, November 1 - 6:30 p.m. at the FHS Performing Arts Center. Join all senior parents in Faribault to cover all things FAFSA. If you are new to Financial Aid, plan on attending to hear direct from the financial aid officers at South Central. Meeting at Faribault High School (FHS).
• Wednesday, November 3 - during lunch - Josten's orders for caps & gowns, announcements and other graduation memorabilia items are due.
• Monday, November 15 - 4:00 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the FHS Library
  Don't know where to start with the FAFSA? Come and complete the FAFSA with help from financial aid officers from surrounding colleges. The experts will be on hand to help navigate the form and answer all questions that you may have.

Letter Jackets
Meca Sportswear will be at Bethlehem Academy on Thursday, November 4 from 7:30am to 8:30am for letter jacket orders.  Students that have lettered in a varsity activity or expect to letter this year are invited to order a letter jacket.  

Class Rings
Josten's will be at Bethlehem Academy on Wednesday, November 3 during lunch to collect class ring orders from students in grades 10-12.  Also, students that already have a class ring and need it re-sized, repaired or cleaned are invited to bring their rings to the Josten's rep during Wednesday's lunch.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION
Middle School Halloween Dance Oct 29
The Junior Class is hosting a middle school Halloween dance Friday, October 29 from 7pm-10pm in the BA gym. All BA grade 6-8 students are invited to attend this prom fundraiser. Cost is $10; pizza and beverages will be provided. 

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH

High Schoolers: The Synod Process Needs Your Voice!
It’s not too late to join a Synod small group, and share your perspectives with our parish and the Archdiocese! Parents, we need your voice as well! Sign up on the DMCC website HERE. Upcoming meetings are as follows, more information in the attached flyer:

• November 2: Parents as Primary educators and Helping the young encounter Jesus
• November 9: Youth Ministry and Young Adult Ministry

BA EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Bethlehem Academy is Hiring!
We are looking for a Development and Marketing Assistant and a Maintenance Team Member. Click HERE for more information and how to apply. We also have coaching openings in track and field and fastpitch softball and are looking for people to officiate junior high basketball games. Please email athletics@bacards.org if interested.

COMMUNITY/VOLUNTEERING INFORMATION
Free Meals for Students
Community dinners are offered Monday-Thursday, 4:30-5:30pm at Jefferson Elementary School (922 Home Place). Kids eat free; adult meals are $3.50. More information in English and Spanish HERE. 

Area Seniors Need Yard Help!
The following senior citizens in Faribault need help with yard work this fall. Find the list below, and contact Jessica Thornton (Program Coordinator, Senior Independence at Family Service Rochester) at jthornton@familyservicerochester.org or 507-287-2010 ext 1033 if you can help.

• Tom B - 526 Little Ford Lane, Faribault: Clean gutters
• Donna D - 620 8th St SW, Faribault: raking and window washing. Windows are older, need to be taken apart. Client will instruct and provide supplies.
• John H - 111 2nd St SW, Faribault: needs someone to move items in garage and help arrange things, has supplies
• Gloria O - 830 Rogers Row, Faribault: fall clean up. Raking, cleaning up year, hauling bags of leaves, etc to the landfill, has supplies
• Donna S - 422 Shumway Ave, Faribault: general yard clean up, raking

CALENDAR LINKS
Click the link below for the calendar.

• BA School Calendar - Week of Nov. 1

ATTACHMENTS
 

DMCC Synod Meetings: Young Adult & Parent Info
Meca Sportswear Letter Jacket Information
Josten's Traditional BA Class Ring Order Form