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Family Focus 8/13/21

08/20/2021

Kris Sauer

2021-22, August 2021

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August 13, 2021

Dear BA Families: 

What a blessing to have such beautiful weather this weekend! By now all families should have received their "Back-to-School" packet. In the packet is important information, forms, and our COVID-19 Addendum updates for 2021-22. Click HERE to access all the information included in that mailing. Many families have emailed with questions on our COVID response, so please take a few minutes to review the plans for this fall at BA. Also, keep in mind, all of our plans could be changed due to mandates or high numbers. Information on our COVID response plan is on the school website at: https://www.bacards.org/page/3426. If you have additional questions, we're also releasing a little Q & A video next week, or drop me an email. Our staff is so excited to welcome students back to campus this fall!

MENTOR FAMILIES: BA is looking for Mentor families to help support families new to our Cardinal community. If you would be willing to be a mentor family or want to learn more, email Kris Sauer at: ksauer@bacards.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• August 25: Back-to-School Picnic, 5-6:30pm, BA Back 40
  • 6:45 p.m. - ALL NEW STUDENTS & FAMILIES ORIENTATION at BA
• August 26: Student Orientation, 9-11:30am (No Faribault busing; BA Van routes will run; No lunch served; bring school supplies!)
• August 30: First Day of School! (Faribault busing & BA Van will run)
• September 6: Labor Day. No School.

REMINDERS:

• Tuition Agreements: Thank you to parents who have set up their agreements for this fall! A reminder that tuition agreements must be set up before school starts. Payments are due this month! See your email for a link to set this up in FACTS. Check your junk mail folder if you haven't seen anything on this as it is NOT TADS this year, but FACTS. Contact Kris Sauer @ with questions. 
• Tracking Volunteer Hours - Parents: Log your parent volunteer hours at: https://www.bacards.org/page/310 HS Students will log their hours in Naviance, MS students through their religion classes. 
• FREE LUNCH in 2021-22: As a carryover of COVID school grants and support, BA will once again be offering free lunches to students. You'll only need to put money into your child's account for those extra helpings and treats that they love!

THANK YOU SISTER MARY MARGARET! 
Yesterday we celebrated Sister Mary Margaret who, after 11 years of service here at Bethlehem Academy, will be moving to the Motherhouse at the Sinsinawa Mound where she will join their House of Welcome. She will be part of a community of Sisters who will journey with women who are discerning vowed membership with the Sinsinawa Dominicans. Send her a card of thanks/congratulations/best wishes to the front office by August 30!

ALL-BA UPDATES

Invitation to Join Moms in Prayer Group
"Mom, will you pray for me?" Our kids are facing a battlefield for their hearts and minds. Placing our children and their schools in the Lord’s capable hands is what Moms in Prayer is all about. Through prayer, battles are won.

My name is Lori Bittenbender, and I’m a new BA mom. My daughter will start the 7^th grade this upcoming school year.  I’m involved in the Moms in Prayer ministry and I'm looking to pray with other BA moms.  We will meet for only one hour a week and pray for our kids, their teachers and Bethlehem Academy in the Conference Room off of Room 102. If interested, please contact me at 972-955-4730 or lori@lbpublicrelations.com. Learn more about Moms in Prayer at https://momsinprayer.org/

Summer Band Program-Last Week:
Grade 7-12 band students - summer band wraps up this Tuesday and Wednesday! Final practices will be  at BA  Aug 17-18 from 7-8:30pm. Contact Mr. Wendt at ewendt@bacards.org with any questions.  

Bethlehem Academy Gopher Football High School Band Day
Attn: All 9-12 BA Band Students & Parents:
Gopher Football Band day is a tremendous opportunity for local High School bands to not only perform during halftime on the field of Huntington Bank Stadium, but also develop relationships and get to know current U of M students in the Pride of Minnesota Marching Band and Spirit Squad. Band day will be happening on Saturday, September 11, 2021. The Minnesota vs. Miama University (OH) Game starts at 11:00am. If interested in this event, please sign-up by Wednesday, August 25th.  Please email Mr. Wendt with any questions.

Got Yard Games?
Please contact Kris at 507-334-3948, x206 or ksauer@bacards.org if you have a yard game (corn hole, giant Jenga, etc.) you'd be willing to donate for use at the Back-to-School Picnic Aug 25. Thank you!

Back to School Information: Find back to school information, including school supply lists, summer reading assignments, and other important information on our Back to School page HERE. Our updated COVID-19 information is HERE.

Summer Read Program
Don't forget about your student's summer read! Find the list of books and the handouts on our website at this link.

REMINDER: Required Immunizations
All students who will be in 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot. The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age. Students who will be in 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot. Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade. Any students who have conscientious objector forms on file will need to fill out a new form for this fall. If you have any questions or need a conscientious objector form, please contact Mary Herzog in the nurse’s office, 507-334-3948.

Theater Director Position
Bethlehem Academy is seeking a Director to lead our theater and drama programs throughout the year. Do you have a heart for theater? Do you love working with middle and high school students? This position is paid a stipend per show or program (Drama Club; Musical Production) and typically arranges a schedule for practices after the school day. Qualifications: Experience in theater and musical productions. Directing experience preferred. Application: Please send your resume and three references to: Mindy Reeder – mreeder@bacards.org

SCRIP Note Update: BA students and families may participate in the DMCS Scrip program to earn tuition credit. See the attached August update for more information.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
Student Volunteers Needed Aug 24
Several high school students needed for a back to school project the morning of Tuesday, August 24. Service hours provided. Contact Mrs. Sauer at 507-334-3948, x206 or ksauer@bacards.org if able to help.

DMCC High School Youth Group
Click HERE for Divine Mercy Catholic Church high school youth group information and activities!

Faribault Community Boards-Youth Leadership Positions
Getting involved in the community looks great on your high school resume as you live out the Dominican Pillar of Service! Here are options for volunteer leadership positions – and this will also help you meet your volunteer hour requirements at BA. Click HERE to check out the many options, from the Library Board to the Paradise Center for the Arts. Any students interested in applying can do so at this link: https://forms.gle/LprHkygBabFL5Hnz9

1st United Bank Junior Board 
Rising 11th and 12th graders are invited to apply for the 1st United Bank Junior Board of Directors. Applications due September 10, 2021. More information attached. 

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
DMCC Middle School EDGE
Click HERE for information on Divine Mercy Catholic Church's middle school EDGE program. Open to all 5th-7th graders, this program is for those in middle school who want to come together with other teens to grow in their faith and to learn more about the Catholic Church. This provides a great opportunity to prepare for Confirmation. 

ATTACHMENTS
Scrip Note-August Update
1st United Bank Board of Directors Application

Family Focus 7/30/21

08/09/2021

Kris Sauer

July 2021, 2021-22

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July 30, 2021

Dear BA Families: A special thank you to our students, our families, our alumni and our supporters for all they do for BA! It's been a wonderful week of service and dedication. Thanks to everyone who volunteered in the BA Cardinal Cafe fair stand, who sponsored a rider - or is riding in - our Smart Challenge ride, and all of our sponsors and players for next week's BA Golf Classic. We are so appreciative of the immense support we receive and the partnerships with area businesses and Divine Mercy Catholic Church and School - THANK YOU! It's great to be a Cardinal.

Speaking of Cardinals, alumni arrived back in Minnesota this week from the Class of 1956! They will be hosting a reunion this Saturday. In addition to their reunion, other classes celebrating this year include: Class of 1966; Class of 1971 and the Class of 1981. I look forward to connecting with alumni as they return to "where it all started!"

MENTOR FAMILIES: BA is looking for Mentor families to help support families new to our Cardinal community. If you would be willing to be a mentor family or want to learn more, email Kris Sauer at: ksauer@bacards.org.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL: Keep the below dates in mind as you plan for our return to school! Our "Back-to-School" mailing will be sent out next week including the revised COVID addendum with minimum protocols that are required. 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• August 6: Cardinal Classic Golf Tournament, Faribault Golf Club
• August 12: Fall sports meeting, 6:30pm, BA gym
• August 25: Back-to-School Picnic, 5-6:30pm, BA Back 40
  • 6:45 p.m. - ALL NEW STUDENTS & FAMILIES ORIENTATION at BA
• August 26: Student Orientation, 9-11:30am (No Faribault busing; BA Van routes will run; No lunch served; bring school supplies!)
• August 30: First Day of School! (Faribault busing & BA Van will run)

REMINDERS:

• Tracking Volunteer Hours - Parents: Log your volunteer hours at: https://www.bacards.org/page/310 HS Students will log their hours in Naviance, MS students through their religion classes 
• FREE LUNCH in 2021-22: As a carryover of COVID school grants and support, BA will once again be offering free lunches to students. You'll only need to put money into your child's account for those extra helpings and treats that they love!

ALL-BA UPDATES

Summer Band Program Starts August 3
Grade 7-12 band students - Mr. Wendt is starting up summer band! Band will practice Tues-Wed from 7-8:30pm the first three weeks of August. Plan to be at BA 7-8:30pm Aug 3-4, Aug 10-11, and Aug 17-18. Watch your email for more information.

Back to School Information: Find back to school information, including school supply lists, summer reading assignments, and other important information on our Back to School page HERE. Our annual summer back to school mailing will be sent next week. 

Summer Read Program
Don't forget about your student's summer read! Find the list of books and the handouts on our website at this link.

REMINDER: Required Immunizations
All students who will be in 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot. The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age. Students who will be in 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot. Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade. Any students who have conscientious objector forms on file will need to fill out a new form for this fall. If you have any questions or need a conscientious objector form, please contact Mary Herzog in the nurse’s office, 507-334-3948.

Theater Director Position

Bethlehem Academy is seeking a Director to lead our theater and drama programs throughout the year. Do you have a heart for theater? Do you love working with middle and high school students? This position is paid a stipend per show or program (Drama Club; Musical Production) and typically arranges a schedule for practices after the school day. Qualifications: Experience in theater and musical productions. Directing experience preferred. Application: Please send your resume and three references to: Mindy Reeder – mreeder@bacards.org

SCRIP Note Update: BA students and families may participate in the DMCS Scrip program to earn tuition credit. See the attached summer program update for more information.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
1st United Bank Junior Board 
Rising 11th and 12th graders are invited to apply for the 1st United Bank Junior Board of Directors. Applications due September 10, 2021. More information attached. 

ATTACHMENTS
Scrip Note Update
1st United Bank Board of Directors Application

Family Focus 7/23/21

07/28/2021

Kris Sauer

July 2021, 2021-22

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July 23, 2021

Dear BA Families:

Student and family volunteer time is needed for the success of BA events - and a rich part of our history. Each year we ask families to give the gift of time, 25 hours of their time, to support the many events, fundraisers, and programs at BA. With the beginning of our fiscal year in July, the Rice County Fair is the first opportunity students and families have to volunteer. If all students and parents signed up for one shift, we would be overwhelmed, but the work load would be easy. Typically our teams or clubs sign up for a time to work together - as we get back into our more "normal" events now that COVID restrictions have lifted, we need everyone to step up. We could really use your support this Saturday or Sunday at the Rice County fair stand - sign up online at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0d4aa5a72ba7fd0-bafood Additional volunteer hours will be available throughout the year as well. 

Tracking Volunteer Hours

• Parents: In 2019 we kicked off an online tracking form for parents (which we did not use last year due to COVID limits on events). If you're volunteering at the fair, are part of our School Board or other committees, please track your time and let us know how you like to volunteer. Visit our volunteer page at: https://www.bacards.org/page/3105
• Students: Separately, our students track their volunteer and service hours through a school program called Naviance. This tracking helps them ensure that they've met their volunteer goals for the year, which vary by grade, and will also help remind them of their effort when they apply for scholarships and recognition.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• July 23-27: Cardinal Cafe at the Rice Count Fair! Sign up HERE to volunteer.
• July 29-31: SMART Ride - Sponsor one of our 10 riders, including Class of 2021 grads Luke Bauer and Isaac Caron!
• August 6: Cardinal Classic Golf Tournament, Faribault Golf Club. Spots are filling fast! Sign up to play, click here. 
• August 12: Fall sports meeting, 6:30pm, BA gym
• August 25: Back-to-School Picnic, 5-7pm, BA Back 40
• August 25: New Family Orientation, 6:30pm, BA Cafeteria
• August 26: Student Orientation, 9-11:30am (No Faribault busing; BA Van routes will run)
• August 30: First Day of School! (Faribault busing & BA Van will run)

ALL-BA UPDATES

Summer Band Program Starts August 3
Grade 7-12 band students - Mr. Wendt is starting up summer band! Band will practice Tues-Wed from 7-8:30pm the first three weeks of August. Plan to be at BA 7-8:30pm Aug 3-4, Aug 10-11, and Aug 17-18. Watch your email for more information.

Back to School Information: Find back to school information, including school supply lists, summer reading assignments, and other important information on our Back to School page HERE. Our annual summer back to school mailing will be sent early August. 

Summer Read Program
Don't forget about your student's summer read! Find the list of books and the handouts on our website at this link.

SMART Ride July 29-31, 2021
Support one of our 10 riders for this 10th anniversary of the SMART Ride! This great event raises money for student scholarships! Riders include current & past parents, alumni (including 2 from the Class of 2021), and friends of BA. Click here to support one of these great riders - every pledge counts!

Cardinal Golf Classic Aug 6
Sign up by Friday, July 30, to join the Aug 6 Cardinal Golf Classic at the Faribault Golf Club. Scramble format starts at 12 noon & spots are filling fast! Sign up your foursome here today! 

REMINDER: Required Immunizations
All students who will be in 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot. The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age. Students who will be in 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot. Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade. Any students who have conscientious objector forms on file will need to fill out a new form for this fall. If you have any questions or need a conscientious objector form, please contact Mary Herzog in the nurse’s office, 507-334-3948.

SCRIP Note Update: BA students and families may participate in the DMCS Scrip program to earn tuition credit. See the attached summer program update for more information.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
1st United Bank Junior Board 
Rising 11th and 12th graders are invited to apply for the 1st United Bank Junior Board of Directors. Applications due September 10, 2021. More information attached. 

ATTACHMENTS
Scrip Note Update
1st United Bank Board of Directors Application

Family Focus 7/16/21

07/21/2021

Kris Sauer

2021-22, July 2021

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July 16, 2021

Dear BA Families:

It's Rice County Fair time! If you haven't signed up for a shift, please review the openings for the BA Fair Stand. We need everyone to support the stand as we support the community at the Rice County Fair!

Our staff continues to prepare for the next school year through professional development, implementation of "Houses," the Positivity Project school wide, and new courses. We are excited to welcome 19 new students this fall, an increase in enrollment of 7%!  Our BA family also welcomes new teachers after the retirement of dedicated staff this year and changes in teachers. On a sad note, we say farewell to two additional staff, Matt Knutson and Sister Melissa Schreifels. They both touched students lives and we wish them the best in their new positions.

Please welcome: Edward Wendt, Band Director; Rachel Tondryk, Spanish Instructor; Father John Powers, 7th grade theology/Chaplain; Dave Wollin is expanding his role as an AP teacher and will also be our HS support instructor.

We also added two staff added this month:

We are also working with the Archdiocese, State, and County to review any needed COVID protocols for the fall of our school year. We will inform families of any updates, but do not anticipate many requirements.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• July 23-27: Cardinal Cafe at the Rice Count Fair! Sign up HERE to volunteer.
• July 29-31: SMART Ride - Join us to raise scholarship dollars or sponsor one of our 9 riders, including Class of 2021 grads Luke Bauer and Isaac Caron!
• August 6: Cardinal Classic Golf Tournament, Faribault Golf Club. Spots are filling fast! Sign up to play, click here. 

• BA Fair Stand: We need your support at the Rice County Fair. We want to thank the Simones family for agreeing to manage the stand and we need you to volunteer - July 21-25, 2021. We are asking EVERY STUDENT AND FAMILY TO TAKE A SHIFT IN ORDER TO MEET OUR BUDGETARY NEEDS. Click HERE to sign up today. Thank you!

ALL-BA UPDATES

SMART Ride July 29-31, 2021
Save the date for this summer's SMART ride! Single day biking options available or join all 3 days, with camping at Minneopa State Park near Mankato. This great event raises money for student scholarships! Click here for information on joining the ride or sponsoring a rider. 

Cardinal Golf Classic Aug 6
Registration is open for the annual Cardinal Golf Classic! This year's event will be held at the Faribault Golf Club Friday, August 6 with a scramble format starting at 12 noon. Registration just $100 includes golf, awards dinner, gift and hole contests. Spots filling fast. Sign up your foursome here today! 

Back to School Information: Find back to school information, including school supply lists, summer reading assignments, and other important information on our Back to School page HERE. Our annual summer back to school mailing will be sent early August. 

REMINDER: Required Immunizations
All students who will be in 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot. The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age. Students who will be in 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot. Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade. Any students who have conscientious objector forms on file will need to fill out a new form for this fall. If you have any questions or need a conscientious objector form, please contact Mary Herzog in the nurse’s office, 507-334-3948.

SCRIP Note Update: BA students and families may participate in the DMCS Scrip program to earn tuition credit. See the attached summer program update for more information.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES
1st United Bank Junior Board 
Rising 11th and 12th graders are invited to apply for the 1st United Bank Junior Board of Directors. Applications due September 10, 2021. More information attached. 

ATTACHMENTS
Scrip Note Update
1st United Bank Board of Directors Application

Family Focus 6/29/21

07/16/2021

Kris Sauer

2020-21, June 2021

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June 29, 2021

Dear BA Families:

Happy July 4th! I hope that the month of June has brought you relaxation and joy that only Minnesota summers can bring. This month BA scholars attended camps, church programs and summer support. Teachers continued in their educational journey through June professional development opportunities. Our maintenance team and student workers dig in every day to ensure that our buildings are prepared to shine this fall. We are so thankful for their hard work and impressed with our student workers!

Join us this summer! We need your support and involvement to ensure success at our summer events. Please be sure to sign up to take a shift at the Rice County Fair, join us on the trails or sponsor a rider on our BA SMART Ride, and gather your team for the BA Golf Classic! See all the details below.

As we prepare for the next school year, we look forward to beginning the year by implementing "Houses" and the Positivity Project school wide. These programs extend social and emotional learning programming by connecting more students and celebrating our unique, God given traits. Our enrollment is up for the first time in four years and we look forward to welcoming new students into the BA Family as well as new teachers. Please welcome:

	Father John Powers: Father John grew up in Northeast Minneapolis with his sister, and parents, Marge and Mike Powers. He attended St. John’s University, studying history, and graduated in 2009. He entered the St. Paul Seminary and was ordained in 2015. He has served at various locations and will now be assigned to Holy Trinity in Waterville, St. Andrew’s in Elysian and Bethlehem Academy where he will teach a middle school theology class. Father John looks forward to getting to know our students and families!
	Shane Roessler - Counselor: Mrs. Roessler is an experienced counselor with over 20 years of service. She lives in Waseca with her husband and two daughters. She will be supporting our students as our new guidance counselor beginning in the fall. "I would have to say that I am most excited to begin working with a great group of students who are striving to be the best they can be and helping out the world around them."
	Edward Wendt, Jr. – Band Teacher: Mr. Wendt, Jr. comes to BA band from Totino-Grace Fine Arts Academy. He has organized drum lines, directed jazz and pep bands and organized band trips to St. Louis, Memphis and New Orleans. "I want my students and future students to have experiences like these that they will remember for the rest of their lives. These experiences are what I hope to bring to the classroom when teaching band for Bethlehem Academy!"
	Rachel Tondryk – Spanish Teacher: Rachel graduated from the University of St. Thomas with a double major in Spanish and Education. Her last year of college was spent living in Costa Rica and attending La Universidad de Veritas in San José. She taught Spanish at her alma mater, Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School, coached, and served on various committees. After a short period at home with her children she returned to teaching at St. Dominic School in Northfield. Rachel is thrilled to continue at BA and feels blessed that she and her daughters will be a part of the BA community.

In addition, positions have been offered for our new math teacher and high school support staff person - introductions coming soon!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• June 28-July 13: School Store open - see below for details
• July 23-27: Cardinal Cafe at the Rice Count Fair! 
• July 29-31: SMART Ride - Join us to raise scholarship dollars!
• August 6: Cardinal Classic Golf Tournament, Faribault Golf Club. Sign up to play, click here. 

• Annual Fund: We are just shy, $1,100 from our $250,000 annual fund goal. Thank you to everyone who helped us surpass all previous annual fund drives in this critical year!
• Cardinal Club Raffle: One more day to get your raffle tickets in! Get your order in by noon Wed June 30 to be included in tomorrow's drawing at 1:56pm. To date we have raised more than $11,000 to support BA needs through this raffle.
• BA Fair Stand: We need your support at the Rice County Fair. We want to thank the Simones family for agreeing to manage the stand and we need you to volunteer - July 21-25, 2021. We are asking EVERY STUDENT AND FAMILY TO TAKE A SHIFT IN ORDER TO MEET OUR BUDGETARY NEEDS. Click HERE to sign up today. Thank you!

ANNOUNCEMENTS: 2021-22 Tuition Agreements Sent: Financial aid has been awarded and tuition agreements have been sent. Please complete your agreement ASAP so we may plan for the fall. Contact Kris Sauer or Sister Mary Margaret if you have questions or concerns regarding your agreement.

May your summer bring joy, may your family find peace and may God bless you during the summer months! Our office will be open from 9-1 p.m. M-Th. Stop in!

Blessings, Mindy Reeder

ALL-BA UPDATES

Cardinal Cafe at the Rice County Fair!: The Rice County Fair is back and so is the Cardinal Café! Join us for this longstanding BA tradition! Volunteers are needed for all shifts. Jobs include taking orders, taking and assembling food, drink and snack orders and manning the grill! Help promote BA and earn service hours. Sign up to volunteer HERE. Tell all your friends to stop by and get a burger, a famous Lunch Lady cookie, or just to say hello while at the Rice County Fair this year! 

SMART Ride July 29-31, 2021
Save the date for this summer's SMART ride! Single day biking options available or join all 3 days, with camping at Mankato. This great event raises money for student scholarships! Click here for information on this great event. 

Cardinal Golf Classic Aug 6
Registration is now open for the annual Cardinal Golf Classic! This year's event will be held at the Faribault Golf Club Friday, August 6 with a scramble format starting at 1pm. Registration just $100 includes golf, awards dinner, gift and hole contests. Sign up your foursome here today! 

Summer Sports Camps @ BA!
BA/DMCS football and basketball summer camps are still open! Click here for information and registration forms for these great programs!

2021-2022 Calendar, Supply List: See attached for next year's BA/DMCS school calendar and school supply list.

REMINDER: Required Immunizations
All students who will be in 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot. The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age. Students who will be in 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot. Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade. Any students who have conscientious objector forms on file will need to fill out a new form for this fall. If you have any questions or need a conscientious objector form, please contact Mary Herzog in the nurse’s office, 507-334-3948.
 

ATTACHMENTS
2021-2022 BA/DMCS School Calendar
2021-2022 School Supply List

Family Focus 5/28/21

06/28/2021

Kris Sauer

May 2021, 2020-21

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May 28, 2021

Dear BA Families:

This week we saluted our seniors, honored students with end of year recognition, crowned Mary and said farewell to three BA staff legends! It certainly is a week of celebration and tradition and I am blessed to share in all of these festivities for the first time this year as your President/Principal. A 156-year legacy of excellence in Catholic education, Bethlehem Academy gives students a foundation for life. Thank you to all of our parents, families, supporters and alumni who partnered with us this year to endure and succeed despite the many challenges. Thank you for giving your child the gift of Catholic education. WE ARE BLESSED!

As we prepare for the next school year, I am excited to introduce you to four new staff joining our team for the 2021-2022 academic year. Please welcome:

In addition, Rachel Tondryk has accepted the Spanish teaching position. She previous taught at both St. Dominic's and Benilde-St. Margaret's. She has a graduate degree in World Languages and Cultures. Watch for her bio and photo over the summer!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• May 31: Memorial Day - NO SCHOOL
• June 1-2: High School Final Exams, no early release for MS or HS
• June 2: Last Day of School, regular dismissal
• June 12: Scot Gardner retirement celebrated hosted by the Gardner Family and BA; 12-2pm, BA Back 40
• June 19: Heritage Days Parade - Families, join us to celebrate Faribault Catholic Schools!
• July 23-27: JOIN US AT THE FAIR! Watch for volunteer opportunities for all of our activities, athletes and grade levels!
• July 29-31: SMART Ride - Join us to raise scholarship dollars!
• August 6: Cardinal Classic Golf Tournament, Faribault Golf Club. Sign up to play, click here. 

• Annual Fund: HELP US REACH - $250,000 by June 30, 2021, less than $3,000 left to reach our goal!
• Cardinal Club Raffle: We will be mailing out invitations to purchase raffle tickets for our Cardinal Club Raffle. Join the fun and support BA as summer begins!
• BA Fair Stand: We need your support at the Rice County Fair. We want to thank the Simones family for agreeing to manage the stand, but mark your calendars to volunteer - July 21-25, 2021. Shifts and a sign up genius will be announced. We are asking EVERY STUDENT AND FAMILY TO TAKE A SHIFT IN ORDER TO MEET OUR BUDGETARY NEEDS. Thank you!

ANNOUNCEMENTS: 2021-22 Tuition Agreements Sent: Financial aid has been awarded and tuition agreements have been sent. Contact Kris Sauer or Sister Mary Margaret if you have questions or concerns regarding your agreement.

May your summer bring joy, may your family find peace and may God bless you during the summer months! Our office will be open from 9-1 p.m. M-Th. Stop in!

Blessings, Mindy Reeder

ALL-BA UPDATES

Order your 2020-2021 YEARBOOK
Have you ordered a yearbook for the 2020-2021 school year? Cost is $65. Order yours by the May 29 deadline - see the attached form or order online here. Contact Mr. Zabel if you have any questions. 

School Choice at the Capitol!
The Archdiocese has asked our Catholic school families to help express support for school choice bills presently going on at the MN State Capitol. Click here for more information on the bills and how to express your support. 

2021-2022 Calendar
See attached for next year's BA/DMCS school calendar.

Banon Family Meal Support
Some of tour DMCS/BA families have been offering support to Ella Banon and her family by providing occasional freezer meals. We would like to continue to offer this to the family over the summer as Ella begins chemotherapy in June. If you would like to provide an occasional meal please contact Ellie Wilder or 507-210-9060 as she is coordinating the effort. Thank you!

Host Family Needed for 2021-22
Host family needed for KoAm-sponsored Jiyun (8th grade female from South Korea), arriving next fall. Great cultural exchange, monthly stipend & support provided. Jiyun is sociable, empathetic, proactive, and responsible. She wants to become a good college student with good English skills. Jiyun has a younger brother and loves school, friends, and music. She is excited to come to America and study at BA! Contact Kris Sauer if interested in this great opportunity.

NOTE FROM THE NURSE’S OFFICE: Required Immunizations
All students who will be in 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot. The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age. Students who will be in 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot. Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade. Any students who have conscientious objector forms on file will need to fill out a new form for this fall. If you have any questions or need a conscientious objector form, please contact Mary Herzog in the nurse’s office, 507-334-3948.

BA Employment Opportunities
BA is hiring for a number of positions next year, including an Academic Support High School Position (Part-Time).  Send in your resume and two references to mreeder@bacards.org if interested! Other openings include Head Boys Basketball Coach.  Find more information on these positions on our website here. 

Summer Robotics & Sports Camps @ BA!
All BA/DMCS summer camps are still open - including ROBOTICS and SPORTS!! Options for both high school (robotics, football) and younger students (grades 1-8: robotics, football, basketball, volleyball) available. Click here for information and registration forms for all our summer options!

SMART Ride July 29-31, 2021
Save the date for this summer's SMART ride! Single day biking options available or join all 3 days, with camping at Mankato. This great event raises money for student scholarships! Click here for information on this great event. 

Cardinal Golf Classic Aug 6
Registration is now open for the annual Cardinal Golf Classic! This year's event will be held at the Faribault Golf Club Friday, August 6 with a scramble format starting at 1pm. Registration just $100 includes golf, awards dinner, gift and hole contests. Sign up your foursome here today! 

Online School Store Now Open! 
BA facemasks, car clings and polo shirts are now available for purchase on our online school store. Also available are BABS fixed priced items, including wrought iron planters and messenger bags. Click here to purchase these great items! 

Heritage Days Parade June 19
We are looking for student and parent volunteers to be a part of the BA/DMCS parade float in the Heritage Days parade Saturday, June 19 at 6:15pm! This is a fun way to get a jump start your student’s 2021-2-22 service hours. Email Kris if you can participate.

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
Robotics & Sports Camps @ BA!
Great summer camp options @ BA, including robotics for both middle and high school students (robotics camp flyer attached). Other options include football, girls volleyball and boys and girls basketball camps. Click here for information and registration forms for all our summer options!

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH (DMCC) & SCHOOL (DMCS) UPDATES

COMMUNITY
Frozen at the Paradise Center for the Arts
Please come and see Frozen! BA students Monica Wilder, Eva Tutak, Lily Ernste, Anne Azelton, and Avalon Roberts are  in it! Performances June 13, 19, and 20. Find the  link to get tickets here!

JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Faribault Golf Course: Kitchen Workers
Faribault Golf Course is seeking 3 part-time line cooks (1-2+ years’ experience) to start the golf season. Pay depends on experience and availability. Call or send resumes to Chef Patty LeBeau at chefpattylabeau@gmail.com or call 612-701-7190.

Vector Marketing Jobs for Class of 2021
Vector has Customer Sales and Service positions available this summer for seniors. Jobs are flexible full or part time positions. Work from home, $18/hour. For more information or to schedule an interview, please apply online at: www.burnsvillework.com.

ATTACHMENTS
Yearbook Order Form
2021-2022 BA/DMCS School Calendar
MS/HS Robotics Summer Camp Flyer

Family Focus, 5/21/21

05/27/2021

Kris Sauer

2020-21, May 2021

Leave a comment

May 21, 2021

Dear BA Families:
The final weeks of May are slipping past quickly. The rain showered our events this week, but Baby Animal Day endured thanks to the diligence of Ms. Story and her FFA members. Home & School celebrated our students with ice cream on the Back 40, a welcome treat. Our seniors began their finals and preparations for graduation next Friday, May 28, 2021 - join us in-person or online to salute our graduating class of 2021!!

SUPPORT STAFF NEEDED! We are hiring! Specifically, we are looking for a high school academic support staff to join our team. Are you good at helping scholars stay on task and giving them homework support? Are you looking for a part-time position? Do you have a heart for students who struggle? We also have coaching positions open, a summer student maintenance coordinator, and some teaching positions. Check out our posting and apply! All of our openings are on our website: https://www.bacards.org/page/3033/categories/13. 

CELEBRATE OUR RETIRING STAFF! This June we are honoring three departing staff members -Scot Gardner & Eileen Kriechbaum who are retiring - and Tracy Meschke who is departing for other opportunities. Please celebrate with us and send cards and notes. A special additional event is also planned for Scot Gardner with his family on June 12 at BA.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• May 24-25: Senior Exams, Periods 1-3
• May 26: Mary Ceremony, 1pm: All school, 4 guests/senior - This event will end between 2:30 - 3 p.m. and students can go home at this time. Regular bus and BA van schedule. Watch the Mary Ceremony on Facebook or YouTube.
• May 26: Baccalaureate, 7:30pm: All are welcome
• May 27: Awards Day, 9am: All school, 4 guests/senior.  Gr 6-11 dismissed approximately 11:15am, no lunch served. Regular Faribault bus schedule, BA Van departs at 11am. Watch on Facebook or YouTube.
• May 27: PSEO registration deadline-see below for more info
• May 28: Commencement, 7:30pm: All are welcome. Watch on Facebook or YouTube.
• May 29: Yearbook order deadline
• May 31: Memorial Day - NO SCHOOL
• June 1-2: High School Final Exams, no early release for MS or HS
• June 2: Last Day of School, regular dismissal
• June 12: Scot Gardner retirement celebrated hosted by the Gardner Family and BA; 12-2pm, BA Back 40
• June 19: Heritage Days Parade - Families, join us to celebrate Faribault Catholic Schools!

• Annual Fund: We remain at 99% of our goal of $250,000 with now less than $3,000 to raise before June 30, 2021, in order to reach this goal. Please share the news and support the mission of BA!
• BABS Fund-A-Need: Thank you for the amazing support, we are nearly to our goal of $84,000 to purchase security cameras and updated classroom SMART boards.
• Cardinal Club Raffle: We will be mailing out invitations to purchase raffle tickets for our Cardinal Club Raffle. Join the fun and support BA as summer begins!
• BA Fair Stand: We need your support at the Rice County Fair. We hope to have a coordinator to manage the stand, but mark your calendars to volunteer - July 22-25, 2021. Shifts and a sign up genius will be announced. We are asking EVERY STUDENT AND FAMILY TO TAKE A SHIFT IN ORDER TO MEET OUR BUDGETARY NEEDS. Thank you!
• Summer Events: Join us at our summer events - the BA Smart Ride and BA Golf Classic.  See details below.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• 2021-22 Tuition Agreements Sent: Financial aid has been awarded and tuition agreements have been sent. Contact Kris Sauer or Sister Mary Margaret if you have questions or concerns regarding your agreement.

FINISHING THE YEAR STRONG/COVID & MASK UPDATES: YES - Schools have to still require students and staff to wear masks when inside. The recent announcements by the CDC and Governor Walz regarding lifting the mask mandates specifically excludes schools.

“Minnesota’s Safe Learning Plan, along with the existing face covering guidance for schools and child care settings, remain in effect. Through the end of the 2020-21 school year (last teacher contact day), masks must continue to be worn by everyone inside school buildings or on a school bus.”

We understand that this is frustrating and thank you for understanding that in order to remain open, our school, and all schools, will need to continue with our existing mask wearing policy for all students and staff when inside the building. We will keep you updated should that policy change. The Archdiocese recommends that you contact your elected officials with your frustration regarding this mandate for schools.

At this time, we have no new positive cases among school students and/or staff and no one is quarantining. Please see links to additional COVID resources below:

• MDH Home Screening Tool for COVID Symptoms
• Rice County COVID-19 Testing Resources
• Rice County COVID-19 Vaccine Information
• Rice County Free Mental Health Resources

Please pray and join in on the 5K run Sat May 22 for Ella Banon, younger sister to BA 8th grader Barak Barner who is recovering with cancer. The link to participate or donate is here: https://g.co/kgs/eXTQqb

Mindy Reeder
President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES

Order your 2020-2021 YEARBOOK
Have you ordered a yearbook for the 2020-2021 school year? Cost is $65. Order yours by the May 29 deadline - see the attached form or order online here. Contact Mr. Zabel if you have any questions. 

2021-2022 Calendar
See attached for next year's BA/DMCS school calendar.

Host Family Needed for 2021-22
Host family needed for KoAm-sponsored Jiyun (8th grade female from South Korea), arriving next fall. Great cultural exchange, monthly stipend & support provided. Jiyun is sociable, empathetic, proactive, and responsible. She wants to become a good college student with good English skills. Jiyun has a younger brother and loves school, friends, and music. She is excited to come to America and study at BA! Contact Kris Sauer if interested in this great opportunity.

NOTE FROM THE NURSE’S OFFICE: Required Immunizations
All students who will be in 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot. The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age. Students who will be in 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot. Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade. Any students who have conscientious objector forms on file will need to fill out a new form for this fall. If you have any questions or need a conscientious objector form, please contact Mary Herzog in the nurse’s office, 507-334-3948.

Adult 2021 Summer Employment Opportunity
Bethlehem Academy is looking for an energetic adult to help supervise the summer student work program. This student supervisor will work with the students under the direction of the BA maintenance team. The position runs from June 7 to  August 13 from 8am-2:30pm with a half hour lunch break. Pay is $12/hour.  Contact Steve Zabel at 334-3948 ext. 220 or by email if you or anyone you know may be interested. Position is flexible and may be shared. Deadline to apply is May 24. 

BA Employment Opportunities
BA is hiring for a number of positions next year, including an Academic Support High School Position (Part-Time).  Send in your resume and two references to mreeder@bacards.org if interested! Other openings include High School Spanish teacher, and Head Boys Basketball Coach.  Find more information on these positions on our website here. 

Summer Robotics & Sports Camps @ BA!
All BA/DMCS summer camps are still open - including ROBOTICS and SPORTS!! Options for both high school (robotics, football) and younger students (grades 1-8: robotics, football, basketball, volleyball) available. Click here for information and registration forms for all our summer options!

SMART Ride July 29-31, 2021
Save the date for this summer's SMART ride! Single day biking options available or join all 3 days, with camping at Mankato. This great event raises money for student scholarships! Click here for information on this great event. 

Cardinal Golf Classic Aug 6
Registration is now open for the annual Cardinal Golf Classic! This year's event will be held at the Faribault Golf Club Friday, August 6 with a scramble format starting at 1pm. Registration just $100 includes golf, awards dinner, gift and hole contests. Sign up your foursome here today! 

Counseling Support: We have learned of a suicide challenges circling social media on TikTok, Twitter and other sites. It involves encouraging teens to engage in "blue whale" and chapstick suicide challenges. Please be sure to talk with your child and be aware of their social media use and accounts. Here are other resources:

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

REMINDER: PSEO 2021-22 Deadline May 27
All students interested in pursuing PSEO next year, 2021-22, MUST: (1) Notify the counselor of their intention/set a meeting with the counselor; and (2) Turn in their Notice of Student Registration 21-22 form to the counseling office BY Thursday, May 27. This deadline important as PSEO student classes may impact how next year's schedule looks for all students. If your student wants to do PSEO, please remind them to turn in this form on time.

JUNIORS: Upcoming ACT Test Dates
Register here! for the June 12 exam. Late signup deadline is TODAY: May 21. Reach out to Ms. Rogers (trogers@bacards.org) with questions.

SENIOR MOMS: RSVP for May 27 Lunch
All senior moms invited to the traditional seniors moms-organized lunch following the Awards Day ceremony Thursday, May 27! Lunch starts around 11am at Redemption. Please RSVP your attendance to Kris Shuda at akshuda@charter.net so she can forward a head count for this special event.  

SENIORS: Grad Party List
A reminder to please email Class of 2021 grad party details (date, time, location, menu) to Barb Johnson for the master class grad party list.  

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
Robotics & Sports Camps @ BA!
Great summer camp options @ BA, including robotics for both middle and high school students (robotics camp flyer attached). Other options include football, girls volleyball and boys and girls basketball camps. Click here for information and registration forms for all our summer options!

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH (DMCC) & SCHOOL (DMCS) UPDATES

JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Faribault Golf Course: Kitchen Workers
Faribault Golf Course is seeking 3 part-time line cooks (1-2+ years’ experience) to start the golf season. Pay depends on experience and availability. Call or send resumes to Chef Patty LeBeau at chefpattylabeau@gmail.com or call 612-701-7190.

Vector Marketing Jobs for Class of 2021
Vector has Customer Sales and Service positions available this summer for seniors. Jobs are flexible full or part time positions. Work from home, $18/hour. For more information or to schedule an interview, please apply online at: www.burnsvillework.com.

ATTACHMENTS
Yearbook Order Form
2021-2022 BA/DMCS School Calendar
MS/HS Robotics Summer Camp Flyer

Family Focus 5/14/21

05/19/2021

Kris Sauer

May 2021, 2020-21

Leave a comment

May 14, 2021

Dear BA Families:

We are down to our last three weeks of school. It's been an incredible year! I know that our scholars have sacrificed, our teachers have adapted, and together with the grace of God, we have endured a year of challenges while continuing to follow our mission to provide excellence in Catholic education - "to lead, to serve, to inspire, and to seek the truth - Veritas!" Thank you for your partnership, your feedback throughout the year, and your grace as we traveled the challenges together. As we prepare to celebrate our 2021 graduating class with many of the pandemic restrictions lifted, may prayers find our nation, and our world, healed as summer begins.

I will be back at BA this next Monday, healed from my surgery. My fight with cancer looks positive and many prayers have been answered. I still have a journey ahead of me, but feel ready to return. Thank you again for your support. Over the next few weeks the schedule is packed. Please review the events below. Except for Awards Day, we will not be having any early release dates for 6-11th grade students.

This June we are honoring three staff members who will be retiring-Scot Gardner, Eileen Kriechbaum and Tracy Meschke. Please celebrate with us and send cards and notes. A special additional event is also planned for Scot Gardner with his family on June 12 at BA. While we bless our retiring staff, we also need new team members to carry on the legacy of excellence at BA. Please visit our webpage to share these openings with others: https://www.bacards.org/page/3033/categories/13

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• May 17: AP Stats Exam
• May 19: Home and School Ice Cream treats @ lunches
• May 20: FFA - Baby Animal Day
• May 21: HS Mass, Extraordinary Ministers Commissioning
• May 20-21: Regular Class Schedule w/Senior Cardinal Hour Exams
• May 24-25: Senior Exams, Periods 1-3
• May 26: Mary Ceremony, 1pm: All school, 4 guests/senior
• May 26: Baccalaureate, 7:30pm: All welcome
• May 27: Awards Day, 9am: All school, 4 guests/senior, Gr 6-11 dismissed approximately 11:15am, no lunch served 
• May 27: PSEO registration deadline-see below for more info
• May 28: Commencement, 7:30pm: All welcome
• May 29: Yearbook order deadline
• May 31: Memorial Day - NO SCHOOL
• June 1-2: High School Final Exams, no early releases
• June 2: Last Day of School
• June 12: Scot Gardner retirement celebrated hosted by the Gardner Family and BA; 12-2pm, BA Back 40.

• Annual Fund: We remain at 99% of our goal of $250,000. We need just under $4,000 before June 30, 2021, to reach this goal. Please share the news and support the mission of BA!
• BABS Fund-A-Need: Thank you for the amazing support, we are nearly to our goal of $84,000 to purchase security cameras and updated classroom SMART boards.
• Cardinal Club Raffle: We will be mailing out invitations to purchase raffle tickets for our Cardinal Club Raffle. Join the fun and support BA as summer begins!
• BA Fair Stand: We are reviewing options for our Fair Stand, see open positions and let us know if interested in supporting us.
• Summer Events: Join us at our summer events - the BA Smart Ride and BA Golf Classic.  See the details below.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• 2021-22 Financial Aid Update: Financial aid has been awarded and tuition agreements will be sent soon. If you still need to complete your application, please do so as soon as possible. Contact Kris Sauer if you have questions .

FINISHING THE YEAR STRONG/COVID & MASK UPDATES: With the recent announcements by the CDC and Governor Walz regarding mask wearing for fully vaccinated individuals, we wanted to reach out with the guidance from the MN Department of Education that we are following until updated notice is received:

“The CDC has not yet provided clear guidance for school settings, but has stated that they expect to update guidance for children in school and summer camps soon. Additionally, our youngest Minnesotans remain ineligible for vaccines and eligibility for 12- to 15-year-olds was just announced this week. As a result, Minnesota’s Safe Learning Plan, along with the existing face covering guidance for schools and child care settings, remain in effect. Through the end of the 2020-21 school year (last teacher contact day), masks must continue to be worn by everyone inside school buildings or on a school bus.”

We understand that this is frustrating and thank you for understanding that in order to remain open, our school, and all schools, will need to continue with our existing mask wearing policy for all students and staff when inside the building. We will keep you updated should that policy change.

Continue to support protocols and remain vigilant. Please help us keep students healthy and in school the rest of the year. Remember-

• Stay home if sick; contact the attendance line with info & symptoms;
• We encourage testing OFTEN! See links below. It is encouraged that your student test every two weeks.
• If your student or member of your household is getting tested for COVID due to exposure or symptoms, stay home and isolate until you receive and provide a copy of test results to the office.
• Consistently wear a mask indoors and continue to social distance from others.

At this time, we have no new positive cases among school students and/or staff and no one is quarantining. Please see links to additional COVID resources below:

• MDH Home Screening Tool for COVID Symptoms
• Rice County COVID-19 Testing Resources
• Rice County COVID-19 Vaccine Information
• Rice County Free Mental Health Resources

Please pray: For Ella Banon, younger sister to BA 8th grader Barak Barner who is recovering with cancer and students separated from BA this year due to anxiety and illness.

Mindy Reeder
President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES

Order your 2020-2021 YEARBOOK
Have you ordered a yearbook for the 2020-2021 school year? Cost is $65. Order yours by the May 29 deadline - see the attached form or order online here. Contact Mr. Zabel if you have any questions. 

2021-2022 Calendar
See attached for next year's BA/DMCS school calendar.

NOTE FROM THE NURSE’S OFFICE: Required Immunizations
All students who will be in 7^th grade this fall are required by law to have a Tdap (tetanus booster) as well as a meningitis shot. The meningitis shot is the first in a two-shot series which should be completed at 16 years of age. Students who will be in 12^th grade are required by law to have a second meningitis shot. Students should have had their first shot in the series before the start of 7^th grade. Any students who have conscientious objector forms on file will need to fill out a new form for this fall. If you have any questions or need a conscientious objector form, please contact Mary Herzog in the nurse’s office, 5078-334-3948.

Fair Stand Manager Needed
BA parent or parent team sought to run the BA Cardinal Cafe fair stand July 21-25, 2021, at the Rice County Fair. Tuition reduction and training from the retiring managers provided. Contact Kris Sauer for more information.

Adult 2021 Summer Employment Opportunity
Bethlehem Academy is looking for an energetic adult to help supervise the summer student work program. This student supervisor will work with the students under the direction of the BA maintenance team. The position runs from June 7 to  August 13 from 8am-2:30pm with a half hour lunch break. Pay is $12/hour.  Contact Steve Zabel at 334-3948 ext. 220 or by email if you or anyone you know may be interested. Position is flexible and may be shared. Deadline to apply is May 21. 

BA Employment Opportunities
BA is hiring for a number of positions next year, including an Academic Support High School Position (Part-Time).  Send in your resume and two references to mreeder@bacards.org if interested! Other openings include High School Spanish teacher, and Head Boys Basketball Coach.  Find more information on these positions on our website here. 

Summer Camps @ BA!
Boys basketball camps just added to the BA summer offerings. Other options include robotics, football and girls volleyball and basketball camps. Click here for information and registration forms for all our summer options.

SMART Ride July 29-31, 2021
Save the date for this summer's SMART ride! Single day biking options available or join all 3 days, with camping at Mankato. This great event raises money for student scholarships! Registration opening soon.

Cardinal Golf Classic Aug 6
Registration is now open for the annual Cardinal Golf Classic! This year's event will be held at the Faribault Golf Club Friday, August 6 with a scramble format starting at 1pm. Registration just $100 includes golf, awards dinner, gift and hole contests. Sign up your foursome here today! 

Counseling Support: We have learned of a suicide challenges circling social media on TikTok, Twitter and other sites. It involves encouraging teens to engage in "blue whale" and chapstick suicide challenges. Please be sure to talk with your child and be aware of their social media use and accounts. Here are other resources:

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

REMINDER: PSEO 2021-22 Deadline May 27
All students interested in pursuing PSEO next year, 2021-22, MUST: (1) Notify the counselor of their intention/set a meeting with the counselor; and (2) Turn in their Notice of Student Registration 21-22 form to the counseling office BY Thursday, May 27. This deadline important as PSEO student classes may impact how next year's schedule looks for all students. If your student wants to do PSEO, please remind them to turn in this form on time.

JUNIORS: Upcoming ACT Test Dates
Register here! for the June 12 exam. Late signup deadline: May 21. Reach out to Ms. Rogers (trogers@bacards.org) with questions.

SENIORS: Grad Party List
A reminder to please email Class of 2021 grad party details (date, time, location, menu) to Barb Johnson for the master class grad party list.  

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH (DMCC) & SCHOOL (DMCS) UPDATES

COMMUNITY
Paradise Center for the Arts Summer Classes
The Paradise Center for the Arts offers a number of summer youth classes. See attached flyer for more information, or check out their website here. 

JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Faribault Golf Course: Kitchen Workers
Faribault Golf Course is seeking 3 part-time line cooks (1-2+ years’ experience) to start the golf season. Pay depends on experience and availability. Call or send resumes to Chef Patty LeBeau at chefpattylabeau@gmail.com or call 612-701-7190.

Vector Marketing Jobs for Class of 2021
Vector has Customer Sales and Service positions available this summer for seniors. Jobs are flexible full or part time positions. Work from home, $18/hour. For more information or to schedule an interview, please apply online at: www.burnsvillework.com.

ATTACHMENTS
Yearbook Order Form
2021-2022 BA/DMCS School Calendar
Paradise Center for the Arts Summer Youth Classes

Family Focus 5/7/21

05/12/2021

Kris Sauer

2020-21, May 2021

Leave a comment

May 7, 2021

Dear BA Families:
What a phenomenal concert we had this week! Even though I couldn't join in person, I loved sharing in the joy of the music, ABBA happens to be one of my favorites, thanks Mrs. Kratt! The band scholars also showed their accomplishments. The senior tributes and the greetings to Mr. Gardner touched my heart. Although in Mr. Gardner's retirement we are losing a BA icon, we know that the new teacher will be working with him to ensure that his legacy continues! Special congratulations to our band and choir directors for an event that showcased so many talents. 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• May 10: Hoban Merit Scholarship Deadline (see below)
• May 12: School Nurse Appreciation Day
• May 14: Middle School Mass
• May 20: FFA - Baby Animal Day
• Testing for AP classes as scheduled

• Annual Fund: We remain at 99% of our goal of $250,000. We need just under $4,000 before June 30, 2021 to reach this goal. Please share the news and support the mission of BA!
• BABS Fund-A-Need: Today we received a generous gift bringing our total to $80,120! Thank you for the amazing support! (Goal: $84,000)

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• 2021-22 Financial Aid Update: We are working on financial aid and hope to have tuition agreements out in the next week or so. Students must be enrolled for next year for aid to be allocated. Contact Kris Sauer if you have questions or need assistance completing enrollment and/or responding to information requests from TADS.

FINISHING THE YEAR STRONG/COVID UPDATES: Continue to support protocols a remain vigilant. Please help us keep students healthy and in school the rest of the year. Remember-

• Stay home if sick; contact the attendance line with info & symptoms;
• We encourage testing OFTEN! See links below. It is encouraged that your student test every two weeks.
• If your student or member of your household is getting tested for COVID due to exposure or symptoms, stay home and isolate until you receive and provide a copy of test results to the office.
• Consistently wear a mask, continue to social distance from others - and please ask your students to do so as well especially when not in our building and limit social gatherings.

At this time, we have no new positive cases among school students and/or staff and no one is quarantining. We will continue to follow safety protocols including spacing, mask wearing, ventilation and cleaning as well as the 10 day quarantine. Please see links to additional COVID resources below:

• MDH Home Screening Tool for COVID Symptoms
• Rice County COVID-19 Testing Resources
• Rice County COVID-19 Vaccine Information
• Rice County Free Mental Health Resources

Please pray: For Ella Banon, younger sister to BA 8th grader Barak Barner who is dealing with cancer; families suffering loss of a child in recent accidents; students who have been injured and are recovering; students separated from BA this year due to anxiety and illness, and I welcome continued prayers as well for my healing.

Mindy Reeder
President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES

Merit-Based Hoban Scholarship Applications Available
Students in grades 8 through 11 are invited to apply for the John E. and Lucille M. Hoban Merit Based Scholarship. Students are required to write a two-part essay and must be a student in good standing with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The 2021-2022 application is attached. The deadline for submission is Monday, May 10, 2021.

COVID Vaccine Clinic May 11 3:30-6pm
Rice County Public Health will be hosting Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic for anyone 16 years and older from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 11 at Faribault High School, 330 Ninth Ave. SW. Entrance for the clinic will be at Door 3 on the east side of the building. 16 and 17 year olds who attend must have parent/guardian consent via pre-registration or parents are welcome to attend with their student. The vaccine is free and pre-registration strongly encouraged, however walk-in appointments will be available. More information here or by calling Rice County Public Health at 507-332-5910, 507-332-5922, 507-332-5928, or 507-332-5966.

Order your 2020-2021 YEARBOOK
Have you ordered a yearbook for the 2020-2021 school year? May 29 is the deadline to purchase a school yearbook! Cost is $65. Order yours today - see the attached form or order online here. Contact Mr. Zabel if you have any questions. 

Fair Stand Co-Manager Needed
BA parent team sought to co-run the BA Cardinal Cafe fair stand July 21-25, 2021, at the Rice County Fair for this year. We have a parent interested, but who knows they have a weekend conflict. Tuition reduction and training from the retiring managers provided. Contact Kris Sauer for more information.

Adult 2021 Summer Employment Opportunity
Bethlehem Academy is looking for an energetic adult to help supervise the summer student work program. This student supervisor will work with the students under the direction of the BA maintenance team. The position runs from June 7 to  August 13 from 8am-2:30pm with a half hour lunch break. Pay is $12/hour.  Contact Steve Zabel at 334-3948 ext. 220 or by email if you or anyone you know may be interested. Position is flexible and may be shared. Deadline to apply is May 21. 

BA Employment Opportunities
BA is hiring for a number of positions next year, including an Academic Support High School Position (Part-Time).  Send in your resume and two references to mreeder@bacards.org if interested! Other openings include High School Spanish teacher, and Head Boys Basketball Coach.  Find more information on these positions on our website here. 

Cardinal Golf Classic Aug 6
Registration is now open for the annual Cardinal Golf Classic! This year's event will be held at the Faribault Golf Club Friday, August 6 with a scramble format starting at 1pm. Registration just $100 includes golf, awards dinner, gift and hole contests. Sign up your foursome here today! 

Counseling Support: We have learned of a suicide challenges circling social media on TikTok, Twitter and other sites. It involves encouraging teens to engage in "blue whale" and chapstick suicide challenges. Please be sure to talk with your child and be aware of their social media use and accounts. Here are other resources:

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

Prom 2021
Troy Temple at FCTV used Brent Zabel's Grand March photos to create a Grand March video. Watch it on our YouTube Channel HERE. 

GRADE 10/11: PSEO Update
PSEO Student Registration: Deadline May 31st, no exceptions. More information about what PSEO is can be found here on the BA website. If your student is interested in PSEO, they must set up an appointment with Ms. Rogers to discuss their options; apply to their selected college’s PSEO program; email Ms. Rogers a completed Notice of Student Registration form and a transcript request, OR meet with Ms. Rogers a second time. If emailed, must be sent before noon on 05/31.

JUNIORS: Upcoming ACT Test Dates
Register here! for the June 12 exam. Sign up deadline is May 7; late signup deadline: May 21. Reach out to Ms. Rogers (trogers@bacards.org) with questions.

SENIORS: Mary Ceremony Slide Show photos wanted by May 10:  Seniors in Multimedia are currently working on creating a senior slide show that will be presented during the Mary Ceremony. We invite you to drop some photos of memories throughout their years growing up at this link. Students are using photos from this folder for the senior slide show. Please keep in mind we have to limit the video and will not be able to use ALL of the pictures you may put in this folder. Thanks again for helping us capture these memories of your graduates!

SENIORS: Post-Graduate Info Needed by May 13
Seniors need to respond to the Naviance post-graduation survey by May 13 to guarantee that info will be included  in the graduation program.

SENIORS: Grad Party List
A reminder to please email Class of 2021 grad party details (date, time, location, menu) to Barb Johnson for the master class grad party list.  

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATES
Attached please  find the middle school quarterly newsletter, which was also emailed to middle school parents on May 5th. Despite the challenges around us, your children continue to learn and grow into fine, young adults.  Thank you for partnering with us during this unprecedented year! 

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH (DMCC) & SCHOOL (DMCS) UPDATES

Scrip Update!!
Bonuses, bonuses, and more bonuses!  Check out the attached Scrip Update Newsletter for more information. Place  your order by 8:30AM Tuesday and it will be available for pick-up after 10:00AM on Friday.

Sacred Relics of the Saints: Treasures of the Church, May 10 @ DMCC
Divine Mercy Catholic Church presents a teaching and exposition of Sacred Relics on Monday, May 10 at 6:30pm. See attached flyer. Fr. Carlos Martins of the Companions of the Cross will be here with an extraordinary Vatican collection of over 150 relics, some as old as 2000 years. The Church of St. Dominic in Northfield will present the same program on Saturday, May 15, at 6:00 pm.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Faribault Golf Course: Kitchen Workers
Faribault Golf Course is seeking 3 part-time line cooks (1-2+ years’ experience) to start the golf season. Pay depends on experience and availability. Call or send resumes to Chef Patty LeBeau at chefpattylabeau@gmail.com or call 612-701-7190.

Vector Marketing Jobs for Class of 2021
Vector has Customer Sales and Service positions available this summer for seniors. Jobs are flexible full or part time positions. Work from home, $18/hour. For more information or to schedule an interview, please apply online at: www.burnsvillework.com.

ATTACHMENTS
Middle School Newsletter, May 2021
Scrip Update
Hoban Scholarship 2021 Application
Yearbook Order Form
Sacred Relics DMCC May 10 

Family Focus 4/30/2021

05/05/2021

Kris Sauer

2020-21, April 2021

Leave a comment

April 30, 2021

Dear BA Families:
April is coming to a close and only four full weeks of school remain. The beautiful fresh air breathes spring into our school after the long, hard winter months. What an incredible year it's been! During the next four weeks work especially with your scholar to spend extra time on homework in order to finish the year strong. 

As we continue in the liturgical year of Easter celebration, what a blessing to share in the Sacrament of Confirmation with our 8th grade scholars and families, even if it was remotely. They have taken the next step with the Sacrament of Confirmation and are now "sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit and strengthened for service to Christ." (US Bishops) Congratulations!
 
SENIOR PARENTS: What precious weeks and events are yet to occur in May. These memories will be seared into your mind, capturing your heart. Take time off, plan quiet time together, and treasure this final time. Know that I am praying for you and honored to share this time with you. Reminders of events and times will be sent out.

SUMMER PROGRAMMING: This summer we will offer summer sports camps, Robotics and Arts programs, see below. In addition, for some upper classmen who have missed a credit in a class, we will be offering credit recovery this summer. Students will be contacted regarding this option. Take advantage of extending learning this summer to support your scholar!

UPCOMING EVENTS:
NATIONAL TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK - May 3-7th! Send cards, write a note, share your thankfulness for all of the efforts of our teaching staff this next week! It's been an incredible year and they deserve our greatest appreciation.

• May 1: Prom Grand March, 5pm, watch live here
• May 3-7th: National Teacher Appreciation Week
• May 4: AP Calculus BC Exam
• May 5: AP English Literature Exam
• May 5: Choir and Band Concert, 6 & 7 p.m. Limited attendance but join us online via our YouTube channel or FaceBook page!
• May 6: Avant Spanish Test
• May 7: HS Mass; AP European History exam
• May 12: School Nurse Appreication Day

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• 2021-22 Financial Aid Update: We are working on financial aid. Students must be enrolled for next year for aid to be allocated. Contact Kris Sauer if you have questions or need assistance completing enrollment and/or responding to information requests from TADS.

FUNDRAISER UPDATES
BA Annual Fund: THANK YOU! We continue to close the gap and are 99% toward our goal of $250,000. Keep sharing the good news!

BABS Fund-A-Need (FAN): Thank you! We have raised enough through the FAN to add needed security cameras and purchase 12 new interactive SMART Boards for our classrooms. Help us get to 18 SMART boards-donate to the FAN here.  

FINISHING THE YEAR STRONG/COVID UPDATES: As we approach the end of the school year, we ask your assistance in remaining vigilant in upholding COVID safety protocols. Please help us keep students healthy and in school the rest of the year. Remember-

• Stay home if sick; contact the attendance line with info & symptoms;
• We encourage testing OFTEN! See links below. It is encouraged that your student test every two weeks.
• If your student or member of your household is getting tested for COVID due to exposure or symptoms, stay home and isolate until you receive and provide a copy of test results to the office.
• Consistently wear a mask, continue to social distance from others - and please ask your students to do so as well especially when not in our building and limit social gatherings.

At this time, we have no new positive cases among school students and/or staff and no one is quarantining. We will continue to follow safety protocols including spacing, mask wearing, ventilation and cleaning as well as the 10 day quarantine. Please see links to additional COVID resources below:

• MDH Home Screening Tool for COVID Symptoms
• Rice County COVID-19 Testing Resources
• Rice County COVID-19 Vaccine Information
• Rice County Free Mental Health Resources

Please pray: For Ella Banon, younger sister to BA 8th grader Barak Barner who is dealing with cancer; families suffering loss of a child in recent accidents; students who have been injured and are recovering; and I welcome continued prayers as well for my healing.

Mindy Reeder
President/Principal
mreeder@bacards.org

ALL-BA UPDATES
Band/Choir Spring Concert May 5
The Spring Concert will be held in Van Orsow Auditorium. Choir begins at 6pm, Band at 7pm. Tickets will be distributed as they were for the winter concert and the event will be streamed live on our YouTube channel or FaceBook Page.

Merit-Based Hoban Scholarship Applications Available
Students in grades 8 through 11 are invited to apply for the John E. and Lucille M. Hoban Merit Based Scholarship. Students are required to write a two-part essay and must be a student in good standing with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The 2021-2022 application is attached. The deadline for submission is Monday, May 10, 2021.

Order your 2020-2021 YEARBOOK
Have you ordered a yearbook for the 2020-2021 school year? May 29 is the deadline to purchase a school yearbook! Cost is $65. Order yours today - see the attached form or order online here. Contact Mr. Zabel if you have any questions. 

Adult 2021 Summer Employment Opportunity
Bethlehem Academy is looking for an energetic adult to help supervise the summer student work program. This student supervisor will work with the students under the direction of the BA maintenance team. The position runs from June 7 to  August 13 from 8am-2:30pm with a half hour lunch break. Pay is $12/hour.  Contact Steve Zabel at 334-3948 ext. 220 or by email if you or anyone you know may be interested. Position is flexible and may be shared. Deadline to apply is May 21. 

Counseling Support: We have learned of a suicide challenges circling social media on TikTok, Twitter and other sites. It involves encouraging teens to engage in "blue whale" and chapstick suicide challenges. Please be sure to talk with your child and be aware of their social media use and accounts. Here are other resources:

Home Track Meet Help
Bethlehem Academy is hosting a home track meet on Tuesday, May 11.  We are in need of volunteers for these events. Please contact Ed Friesen or Brent Zabel if you are willing to help with either of these duties.

Fair Stand Manager Needed
BA parent team sought to run the BA Cardinal Cafe fair stand July 21-25, 2021, at the Rice County Fair. Tuition reduction and training from the retiring managers provided. Contact Kris Sauer for more information.

Summer Camps @ BA!
BA will be hosting a number of camps this summer, including robotics and sports camps. Click here for information and registration forms for all our summer camps.

HIGH SCHOOL UPDATES

SENIORS: Mary Ceremony Slide Show photos wanted

A note from Mr. Zabel: It is hard to believe that we are already preparing for our Mary Ceremony. We are so proud of the accomplishments our Seniors have achieved over the years. Seniors in Multimedia are currently working on creating a senior slide show that will be presented during the Mary Ceremony. We invite you to drop some photos of memories throughout their years growing up at this link. Students are using photos from this folder for the senior slide show. Please keep in mind we have to limit the video and will not be able to use ALL of the pictures you may put in this folder. Thanks again for helping us capture these memories of your graduates!

SENIORS: Faribault Daily News Graduation Section-May 6 Deadline
The Faribault Daily News will again publish its annual special section featuring area high school graduates. There is also a special online version where seniors can create and personalize a page of their own to share with friends and family. Graduates or their parents may submit a photo (at least 1MB, vertical and preferably pictured from the waist up) and information on the Daily News website at bit.ly/3t6yEL3. It is free; the deadline for graduate submissions is May 6. For more information, contact Regional Managing Editor Suzanne Rook at 507-333-3134 or editor@faribault.com.

SENIORS: Post-Graduate Info Needed
Ms. Rogers sent seniors a Naviance survey this week for information on their post-secondary plans. The survey is required regardless of whether they are undecided, attending 2 or 4 year school, going straight to a career, into the military, anything!! Survey deadline is May 13. Failure to fill out this survey by Thursday, May 13th, means your student is not guaranteed to be in the graduation program.

SENIORS: Grad Party List
A reminder to please email Class of 2021 grad party details (date, time, location, menu) to Barb Johnson for the master class grad party list.  

JUNIORS: Upcoming ACT Test Dates
Register here! for the June 12 exam (sign up deadline: May 7; late signup deadline: May 21). 

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH (DMCC) & SCHOOL (DMCS) UPDATES

Sacred Relics of the Saints: Treasures of the Church, May 10 @ DMCC
Divine Mercy Catholic Church presents a teaching and exposition of Sacred Relics on Monday, May 10 at 6:30pm. See attached flyer. Fr. Carlos Martins of the Companions of the Cross will be here with an extraordinary Vatican collection of over 150 relics, some as old as 2000 years. The Church of St. Dominic in Northfield will present the same program on Saturday, May 15, at 6:00 pm.

Spring Break 2022 Guatemala Trip
Applications are now being accepted for the 2022 Spring Break Mission Retreat to Guatemala. Deadline to apply is May 1st. Click here for more information. 

JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Faribault Golf Course: Kitchen Workers
Faribault Golf Course is seeking 3 part-time line cooks (1-2+ years’ experience) to start the golf season. Pay depends on experience and availability. Call or send resumes to Chef Patty LeBeau at chefpattylabeau@gmail.com or call 612-701-7190.
 

ATTACHMENTS
2021-2022 BA/DMCS School Calendar
Hoban Scholarship 2021 Application
Yearbook Order Form
Sacred Relics DMCC May 10