Parent Newsletter

VISITOR REMINDER
All visitors to campus, including parents, must sign in at either the main office in St. Joseph Hall or the lobby of Mother Alice Hall before access can be granted onto campus. This includes when you are joining us for mass or other school assemblies.  

MASS
Friday, September 29, Academy Student Center. We will follow Schedule 4. Dress uniforms are required. Parents are invited to join us for mass beginning at 9:45 a.m.

EARLY DISMISSAL
Tuesday, October 3, for Faculty Professional Development. Students are dismissed at 1:30 p.m. (Schedule 8). Please note that the library will remain open until 5:30 p.m. and that resource teachers (math, science and English) as well as the Writing Center will be available.

CANDLELIGHT CEREMONY
Wednesday, October 4, Orchard and Batchelor Plaza, 6 p.m. This traditional ceremony is part of the Big Sis/Little Sis program. Families of freshmen and seniors are invited to join us. More information has been shared with students in their classes. In the case of rain, the event will be moved to the Activity Center.

This is a mandatory event for all freshmen and seniors participating in the Big Sis/Little Sis program. Questions? Parents of seniors should contact senior class moderators Alexandra Arceneaux (arceneauxa@sjabr.org), Aimee Cronan (cronana@sjabr.org) or Emily Peavy (peavye@sjabr.org). Parents of freshmen should contact freshman class moderators Allie Carlock (carlocka@sjabr.org) or Brooke Haigler (haiglerb@sjabr.org). 

ADORATION
Thursday, October 5, during all three lunch periods in the Chapel at SJA.

PEP RALLY
Friday, October 6, 1:51 p.m., Academy Student Center. We will follow Schedule 3. Dress guidelines have been sent to students. Parents and guests are welcome.

SENIOR RETREAT
Monday and Tuesday, October 9 and 10, Tall Timbers Baptist Conference Center in Forest Hill, Louisiana. Faculty, staff and friends of SJA will help staff the retreat. Please keep the class of 2024 in your thoughts and prayers as they experience this sacred time.
 
Seniors will load the buses at St. Joseph’s Academy on Monday at 8 a.m. along Broussard Street and return to SJA at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Because Monday and Tuesday are regular school days for grades 9-11, seniors may not leave their cars on campus during the retreat. Seniors must be dropped off and picked up at SJA. If a senior has an extenuating circumstance in this regard, she must contact Dean of Women Christina Myles at mylesc@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2278.
  
Please note that all SJA retreats are mandatory. For more information, contact Campus Minister Jade Spears at spearsj@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2296.

GRANDPARENTS DAY FOR FRESHMEN 
Monday, October 9. Grandparents of freshmen should have received an invitation to join their granddaughter during her assigned lunch period in the Academy Student Center. Each lunch period is 50 minutes long. Because of limited parking, we ask grandparents to arrive no earlier than 20 minutes before their granddaughter’s lunch period. Parking will be available in the Academy Student Center parking lot on Parker Street as well as in legal spots on Broussard and Parker streets.

Grandparents are asked to RSVP by Monday, October 2, to Assistant Director of Advancement – Events Jennifer Knight at knightj@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2270.

SJA STICKER SCRAMBLE 
Time is running out! Sign up today for the SJA Sticker Scramble on Monday, October 9, hosted by the SJA Dads’ Club. The tournament, which will take place at TopGolf of Baton Rouge, is presented by Stine. The Sticker Scramble is now in its 11th year and has raised more than $100,000 for enhancements to SJA. Prizes are given for first-, second- and third-place finishers, and we award the Ladies Cup, as well. 

Grab your team of three and sign up now, as space is limited. Women and men of all skill levels are welcome. If you are interested in supporting this great event with a sponsorship or have questions, please contact Dads’ Club Moderator Meg Gerald at geraldm@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2254. You can also visit www.stickerscramble.org for more information.

Our goal is to raise $10,000 this year for school-wide enhancements. All sponsorship, gifts and services are tax deductible. Rain or shine, we hope to see you on October 9 at TopGolf!

PSAT TESTING
Sophomores, juniors and invited freshmen will take the PSAT/NMSQT on Wednesday, October 11. The PSAT/NMSQT serves as practice for the SAT and determines eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program for high school juniors.

No formal classes are held at SJA on this day. There will be no afterschool supervision available, so please make arrangements to have your daughter picked up at the dismissal times listed below. If there is a serious conflict which would prevent your daughter from testing on October 12, please contact Dean of Women Christina Myles at mylesc@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2278 for permission to be absent. If you have any questions, please contact Dean of Curriculum and Instruction Aimee Urdiales at urdialesa@sjabr.org. 

All students arrive at school at the regular time and go straight to their assigned classroom.
Breakfast in Dining Hall (optional) will be served from 6:50 to 7:20 a.m.

9th Grade: 7:25-10:30 a.m. Freshman Wellness Day
7:25-10:30 a.m. PSAT for invited freshmen (no lunch provided)
10th Grade: 7:25-10:30 a.m. PSAT Test; dismissal at 10:30 a.m. (no lunch provided)
11th Grade: 7:25-10:30 a.m. PSAT Test; dismissal at 10:30 a.m. (no lunch provided)
12th Grade: Senior Service Day

SENIOR SERVICE DAY
Wednesday, October 11. Please note that Senior Service Day is mandatory. Seniors received an email with their instructions for the day. For more information, please contact Assistant Campus Minister/Service Coordinator Chelsea Colomb at colombc@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2221. 

BALFOUR REPRESENTATIVE ON CAMPUS
Thursday, October 12, Fife Student Commons during all lunch hours and again at 5-7 p.m. Juniors are invited to order their school rings, and seniors are invited to order graduation announcements. Parents are encouraged to attend the evening session with their daughters. 

FLU VACCINE
Healthvacs will be on campus on Friday, October 13, to administer flu vaccines. Only the injection form of the vaccine will be available this year. The vaccine is for ages 4 and up. Cost for students and parents is $30. Vaccines will be given between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the concession area of the Activity Center. You will enter through the door near the Medaille Hall circle driveway. 

Please bring the completed questionnaire and payment with you on October 13. Cash or checks made payable to Healthvacs are accepted. Please direct questions to Nurse Marie Vukovics at vukovicsm@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2208.

OPTIONAL ACT TESTING FOR SENIORS 
Tuesday, October 17, is an ACT testing day for those seniors who purchased the test by the August 28 deadline. Testing begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 11:15 a.m. Testing will be in the Activity Center gym. Students who take the test will not have a regular school day; they will be dismissed after the test. For students not taking the test, this will be a regular school day.

OPEN HOUSE 
Thursday, October 19, for 6th, 7th and 8th grade girls and their parents. SJA students are dismissed at 12:33 p.m. (special schedule below). Students will receive a link to an online lunch order form. They can choose between two pre-packaged options: ham and cheese or honey mustard chicken tender wraps. Breakfast will be served as usual. All students not assisting with Open House must be picked up by 1 p.m. The library will not be open for after-school hours. Students remaining on campus and working Open House will be provided refreshments. They must wear dress uniforms.

Special Schedule: Open House 2023
Bell at 7:25 a.m.
Prayer and Pledge: 7:28 a.m.
1st hour: 7:29-8:02 a.m.
2nd hour: 8:07-8:40 a.m.
Announcements: 8:45-8:47 a.m.
3rd hour: 8:47-9:20 a.m.
4th hour: 9:25-9:58 a.m.
5th hour: 10:03-10:36 a.m.
6th hour: 10:41-11:14 a.m.
7th hour: 11:19-11:52 a.m.
Community Prayer: 11:52-11:55 a.m.
8th hour: 12-12:33 p.m.

FALL HOLIDAY
Friday, October 20, and Monday, October 23. School is closed.

MISSION TRIP INTEREST MEETING 
On Tuesday, October 24, parents with daughters in the classes of 2025 and 2026 are invited to an informational meeting regarding the mission trip program at SJA. We will gather at 6 p.m. in the Fife Student Commons. Please direct questions to Campus Minister Jade Spears at spearsj@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2296.

CATHOLIC LEADERSHIP ENCOUNTER
Parents of freshmen, sophomores and juniors are invited to an informational meeting on Wednesday, October 25, at 6 p.m. in the Brother Donnan Berry Student Center at Catholic High School. You will learn about next summer’s Catholic Leadership Encounter, set for May 25-June 3, 2024, in Estes Park, Colorado. This 10-day experience for SJA and CHS students will focus on increasing a student’s awareness of Catholic identity and discipleship; teaching skills to enable leadership and decision making; learning-by-doing experiences; and utilizing the Colorado outdoors for challenging environmental awareness and hiking activities. 

Please direct questions to CLE Director Charles Jumonville at cjumonville@catholichigh.org or (225) 505-3763.

ADORATION
Thursday, October 26, during all three lunch periods in the Chapel at SJA.

THE SOIRÉE: A REDSTICKER THURSDAY NIGHT 
Thursday, October 26, Fife Student Commons/Investar Quad. This is a casual, fun night of live music from the Peyton Falgoust Band, great food and drinks from some of Baton Rouge’s best restaurants, plus live and silent auctions and more. We have a new location and a great new vibe! Come enjoy a relaxed evening with SJA parents, alumnae and friends. 

Tickets are on sale at www.sjasoiree.org. 

Please direct questions to Assistant Director of Advancement – Events Jennifer Knight at knightj@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2270.

STUDENT COUNCIL FUN DAY
Tuesday, October 31. The theme for this Halloween Fun Day is Stick-or-Treat. Students will receive dress guidelines via email. General Fun Day guidelines were included in the Back-to-School Parent Newsletter. If your daughter has questions about her costume, please encourage her to contact Dean of Women Christina Myles at mylesc@sjabr.org. Please note that students who do not follow dress guidelines are subject to disciplinary action.

Halloween costumes should adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Costumes must be tasteful and appropriate: not gory and not political. They should be culturally sensitive (the difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation). 

2. Costumes should provide enough coverage that any type of bra would not be exposed.

3. No bathing suits or bare midriffs (no crop tops).

4. Full face masks must be removed in class but can be worn during unstructured time.

5. No full-face paint, no glitter, no toy weapons.

6. A skirt or dress on the shorter side should be worn with leggings or stockings.

7. Costumes to avoid include middle school uniforms, dressing up like the boys and dressing up like prisoners.  

FALL DRAMA PRODUCTION 
Wednesday-Sunday, November 2-5, the Black Box Theater of the Academy Arts Center. The SJA/CHS Black Box Company presents Frankenstein by Alexander Utz. This is an adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel in which the story of Dr. Victor Frankenstein is interwoven with elements of Shelley’s own life and the origin of the Frankenstein legend. As Mary tells the story to Percy Shelley, Lord Byron, Dr. Polidori and Claire, the scenes are depicted onstage as Dr. Frankenstein, the Creature, and the other characters come to life. Questions of morality and the dangers of disturbing nature are posed, leading us to the possible conclusion that perhaps the monsters we conjure are not always as inhuman as they seem. 

The show runs November 2-5, with weekday performances at 6:30 p.m.; a Saturday matinee at 12:30 p.m.; a Saturday evening performance at 6:30 p.m.; and a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets go on sale on Friday, October 13, on SchoolCash Online. They are $14.75 per adult and $8.50 per student. There are no seating restrictions. The Black Box Company hopes to see you there! 

Please note that this production is not suitable for all viewers, especially young children. Be advised that the production contains simulated violence and simulated death. Some of the characters depicted may be frightening to children.

SOPHOMORE PARKING
Beginning on October 1, sophomore students will have the opportunity to purchase parking spaces on campus. If purchased during the month of October, a parking space will cost $222 and is valid through the end of the school year. Prices are prorated and will be adjusted accordingly depending on the month in which the spot is purchased. Please note that available spaces are limited. Sophomores must have their driver’s license before purchasing a parking spot. Spots will be available on SchoolCash Online. 

HYGIENE FOR HOPE
This annual collection of feminine hygiene products and diapers benefits the Queen of Peace shelter operated at St. Agnes by the Missionaries of Charity, the Junior League of Baton Rouge Diaper Bank and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul shelters. We appreciate your generosity. Donations may be brought to the bins in St. Joseph Hall until October 6.

2023-2024 SCHOOL CALENDAR 
Click here for important dates for the 2023-2024 school year. Please note that all dates are subject to change.

CALENDAR CHANGE
On Friday, December 1, we will welcome a special guest speaker to campus. Sister Mary McGlone will join us at 9:46 a.m. in the Academy Student Center. We will follow Schedule 4, and dress uniforms are required. Our previously scheduled December Fun Day will be moved to Monday, December 11. The theme is “Disco December.” Students will receive dress guidelines via email. General Fun Day guidelines were included in the Back-to-School Parent Newsletter.

HOLIDAY OFFICE CLOSINGS 
The Main Office is closed on these holidays. Please plan accordingly.

• October 20 and 23: Fall Holiday 

• November 20-24: Thanksgiving

• December 20-January 3: Christmas

• January 15: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday

• February 12-16: Mardi Gras 

• March 29-April 5: Easter

OFFICE HOURS 
The Main Office in St. Joseph Hall is open from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

AFTER-SCHOOL RULES AND REGULATIONS 
After dismissal, students may remain on campus in one of the following designated areas: Student Commons, quad, courtyard or the Technology and Learning Center (TLC) between 2:50 and 4 p.m. Students may not leave campus after dismissal to roam the neighborhood. At 4 p.m., an announcement will direct students to sign in at either the TLC or Student Commons while they wait for their ride. The TLC and Student Commons are open until 5:30 p.m. Our security officer is on campus until 5:30 p.m. each school day. Students must sign out before leaving for the day.   

If a student is not picked up by 5:30 p.m., this will be reported to Dean of Women Christina Myles, and a plan will be made. After-school rules can be found in the school handbook under the Students and Parents portals. Please direct questions to Linda Hall at halll@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2420.  

ACT TEST PREP PROGRAM FOR 2023-2024
Gear Up for the ACT: SJA will offer a four-hour session for each subject-specific test of the ACT during the fall (before the December 2023 ACT date) and spring (before the March 2024 ACT date for juniors). These sessions will focus on strategies and practice techniques for that content-specific ACT test. The cost is $55 plus fees for ACT math, science, reading and English; ACT writing will cost $25 plus fees. Your payment includes an ACT practice book for that subject. Space is limited to 50 students per session. Sessions can be purchased on SchoolCash Online.

Spring Dates
Reading: January 13, 2024 (8 a.m.-12 p.m.)
Science: January 20, 2024 (8 a.m.-12 p.m.)
English: January 27, 2024 (8 a.m.-12 p.m.)
Math: February 3, 2024 (8 a.m.-12 p.m.)
Writing: February 4, 2024 (1-3 p.m.)

ACT Diagnostic Testing: SJA will offer ACT Diagnostic Testing in the fall and spring of the 2023-2024 school year. Students will practice taking a full-length ACT test in a test setting and receive specific feedback on the areas where they need to work to improve their scores. Each student will receive a detailed report of her test results, stating specific skills and content areas to focus on to achieve a higher score. The test will simulate a real ACT test with the setting, timing and using an ACT-released test. The cost is $15.50 plus fees. Extended time is offered. The Diagnostic Test Session can be purchased on SchoolCash Online.

Fall Dates:
October 7, 2023 (8-11:30 a.m.)

Spring Dates:
January 6, 2024 (8-11:30 a.m.)
February 24, 2024 (8-11:30 a.m.)

National Test Date for All Juniors: All students in the junior class will be required to take the ACT on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. This will take place during the school day. It will not include the writing portion. This date is a nationally recognized district test date, and the scores can be sent to colleges, LOFSA, etc. SJA will register the students for this test; students do not need to register online for this test. Parents will be required to pay for the test on SchoolCash Online beginning in August. The cost is $53 with payment due by January 15, 2024. More details will be included in the February and March parent newsletters.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS
Please be reminded that we must have one valid, regularly checked email address on file. If your email, phone number or physical address has changed since last time you updated our records, please let us know. Questions should be addressed to Assistant to the Registrar Stacy Rennhoff at rennhoffs@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2318. 

SCHOOL CLOSURES
When school will be closed due to weather or other circumstances, please be reminded that SJA generally follows the same procedures as the East Baton Rouge School Board and Diocese of Baton Rouge. Closures will also be announced via our School Messenger alert system (phone and text). 

If your phone number has changed since you last updated our records, or if you would like to add additional phone numbers to those we call/text, please contact Assistant to the Registrar Stacy Rennhoff at rennhoffs@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2318.

ILLNESS, DOCTOR VISITS, TARDIES 
If your daughter is sick and will not attend school, please send an email to attendance@sjabr.org by 7:30 a.m. If a student becomes ill during the day, she must report to the nurse’s office, and her parent will be called.

Most routine visits to the doctor should be scheduled outside of school hours. If a parent knows in advance that a student must arrive late or leave early for a doctor’s appointment, parental permission must be emailed to the Attendance Coordinator at attendance@sjabr.org. When the student returns to school, she must present a note signed by the physician to the Attendance Coordinator in order to receive an excused absence. 

Students are expected to be on time for every class. A student who arrives on campus after the 7:28 a.m. tardy bell must report to the Attendance Coordinator’s office for a tardy slip before entering class. An infraction will be issued upon the third unexcused tardy and for each additional unexcused tardy to school or class. 

WEDNESDAY MORNING ROSARY 
Every Wednesday at 7 a.m., the rosary is recited in the Chapel at SJA. 

YEARBOOK ORDERS 
The SJA yearbook captures once-in-a-lifetime memories in a single place. Click here to purchase your copy today at a discounted price of $65. The price will increase to $70 on October 1. A receipt will be emailed to you once your purchase is complete. 

If you have more than one daughter attending SJA, please purchase a copy under each student’s name.  

YEARBOOK DISTRIBUTION 
The 2022-2023 yearbooks will be distributed to students on Thursday, October 5, during all lunch periods.

SAVE THE DATE: PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT 
We are excited to announce that registration will open on September 29 for the Alumnae Association’s Inaugural Pickleball Tournament. We hope that you will join us for two days of fellowship, food and fun. The event will be held on Friday, December 1, and Saturday, December 2, in the Academy Student Center and Activity Center. Our tournament is opened to same-gender and mixed doubles teams. We welcome all alumnae, parents and friends 18 and older to participate. 

More information, sponsorship opportunities and registration will be available soon. 

SAVE THE DATE: CLASS OF 2023 SIX-MONTH REUNION 
Friday, December 15, 12-1:30 p.m., in the Dining Hall. Sponsored by the SJA Alumnae Association. Our 2023 graduates are invited back to campus for a light lunch and an opportunity to catch up with faculty, staff and friends. Yearbooks will be available for pickup. Contact Alumnae Director Alli Bourgeois ’14 at bourgeoisa@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2244 for details or to RSVP.

Counseling Center

The Counseling Center provides students with resources and support they need to be successful. Grade-level counselors support students during all four years at SJA. The Counseling Center collaborates with teachers and administrators to identify and discuss students who may need additional assistance and to determine best practices to reach all students both academically and socially. In addition, counselors meet with every student at least twice a year to discuss college and career readiness. Two full-time college advisors assist students with scholarship and college applications. A wellness educator designs programs in support of SJA’s social emotional wellness program.

Learning Center 

The Learning Center provides free-of-charge assistance to any student needing extra help with math, science, English or writing. Academic counseling is also offered. No appointments are necessary for any tutoring.

The Learning Center welcomes two new math tutors this year. Anna Crifasi (crifasia@sjabr.org) is a mathematics and sociology major at LSU, and Linda McEwen (mcewenl@sjabr.org) taught math at Mt. Carmel for 30 years before joining us.

Several seniors have been trained to serve as peer tutors beginning in October. They will offer tutoring for $20/hour in the TLC after school in all subjects, including foreign languages, theology and social studies.

If you are interested in hiring one of our seniors, the list is on the Learning Center’s Moodle page under Senior Tutors. You can view their resumes and find their contact information.

MATH RESOURCE
Math Resource is available Monday through Thursday during all three lunch hours and from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Learning Center classroom in the Technology and Learning Center. Email crifasia@sjabr.org or mcewenl@sjabr.org.

SCIENCE RESOURCE
Science Resource is available Monday through Thursday during all three lunch hours and Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Learning Center classroom in the Technology and Learning Center. Email brownh@sjabr.org, laplacev@sjabr.org,  krzystowczykn@sjabr.org or brownd@sjabr.org.

ENGLISH RESOURCE AND ACADEMIC COUNSELING
English Resource is available Monday through Thursday during all three lunch hours and Tuesday and Wednesday from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Learning Center classroom in the Technology and Learning Center. Email abadiej@sjabr.org. 

WRITING CENTER
The Writing Center provides instruction, resources and support. Trained peer consultants help students gain competence and confidence as writers through one-on-one sessions. Students schedule appointments through the Writing Center Moodle page. After-school workshops are offered on a variety of topics. The Writing Center is modeled on university writing centers and is a place for all writers at any stage of the writing process. Email knottsl@sjabr.org.

SPIRITUAL FORMATION 
SJA students can grow in their faith through various opportunities to pray, receive the sacraments and serve the dear neighbor. All students attend a monthly schoolwide mass or prayer service and an annual class retreat. The sacrament of reconciliation is offered to students biannually. Additionally, students may choose to participate in a weekly rosary, weekly Bible study, bimonthly Eucharistic Adoration, mission trips and various ministry clubs, including Student Ministry (juniors and seniors), Liturgy Committee, Liturgy Choir, Praise & Worship Band and Respect Life Club.

RETREAT INFORMATION

• Senior Retreat: October 9-10, 2023, Tall Timbers, Forest Hill, Louisiana 

• Junior Retreat: March 18, 2024, 7:30 a.m.-2:50 p.m., Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Baton Rouge

• Sophomore Retreat: February 23, 2024, 8 a.m.-2:50 p.m., SJA

• Freshman Retreat: November 6, 2023, 8 a.m.-2:50 p.m., SJA

Participation in retreats is required for promotion to the next grade level and to graduate from St. Joseph’s Academy. Appointments, co-curricular activities and travel should not be planned on a student’s retreat day(s). These absences will not be excused unless they are part of a school-sponsored event and approval is given by the campus minister.

All absences, excused or unexcused, must be made up with a full Catholic retreat of equal or greater duration by the last regular day of school (not including exam days). A student who is absent from her grade-level retreat should research a retreat she can attend to fulfill the make-up requirement. She should submit the retreat request to the campus minister for approval. Retreats attended as mandatory elements of preparation of a sacrament (i.e., confirmation retreats) are not eligible to be used to make up a missed grade-level retreat.

Retreat questions should be directed to Campus Minister Jade Spears at spearsj@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2296.

REQUIRED SERVICE PROGRAM 
The SJA service policy states that freshmen and sophomores are required to complete 15 hours of service during the 2023-2024 academic year while juniors and seniors must complete 20 service hours. The 2023-2024 Freshman and Sophomore Service Directory and the 2023-2024 Junior and Senior Service Directory can be found on MySJA and the Service Hour Project Moodle page. Please review the revised policies before completing service hours. 

The new service year began on April 1, 2023, for current students. The service year for incoming freshmen or students new to SJA for the upcoming school year began on June 1, 2023. 
 
All service hours must be done through a non-profit agency or through a for-profit business, with prior written approval, that serves those most in need. Service performed through a for-profit business must be non-clerical in manner. Tasks such as filing, answering the phone, etc., will not be permitted as part of the service program. Visiting with patients in nursing homes or hospice facilities does not need prior approval. All service hours must be done outside of normal school hours. Donations of any kind, including Sticker Sacks or meals prepared and delivered to soup kitchens or homeless shelters, are not eligible for the service program. However, SJA may offer a schoolwide donation opportunity for service hours. SJA reserves the right to limit the number of hours earned on mission trips; hours earned on SJA mission trips will be determined and applied after the trip is complete. This will ensure students receive accurate credit for the number of hours served.
 
These service directories include approved agencies. All students will use their MobileServe account to log service hours. These accounts are set up each year during Student Orientation. User guides for the website and cellular app can be found on the Service Hour Project Moodle page. Students may only participate in opportunities outside of those included in the service directories after receiving written permission via email from the Assistant Campus Minister.

The 2023-2024 service year for current students began April 1, 2023, and will end on April 8, 2024. Failure to complete service hours by the deadline will be examined on a case-by-case basis. However, completion of SJA’s service-hour requirements is necessary to advance to the next grade level and is a requirement for graduation. 

In conjunction with their senior retreat, members of the senior class participate in a day of service in the Baton Rouge community. This experience serves as an opportunity for the class to give back to the community as a group. Students are assigned to a service site for this day. Senior Service Day is considered part of the senior retreat and is a requirement for graduation. 

Please direct questions about service hours to Assistant Campus Minister Chelsea Colomb at colombc@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2221.

SJA ANNUAL FUND
The Annual Fund meetings with the upperclass and freshman parents were a success and were met with a lot of positive feedback. We thank the parents for their support and enthusiasm. We have already started receiving pledges and matching company donations. Let’s keep the momentum going. Our deadline of September 29 is right around the corner.  

Our ask is that you partner with SJA and participate in the Parents Annual Fund, no matter the size of your gift. Our goal is to reach 100 percent parent participation for the first time in the 155-year history of St. Joseph’s Academy.
 
The Annual Fund’s success is due to those like you – one thoughtful donor making one generous Annual Fund gift in one year. It’s the collective support of our donors which helps to afford so very much for the young women of St. Joseph’s Academy today and in the future. Remember that you, as one, can make a difference. Every gift – no matter the size – has a lasting impact.

Fill out your commitment card and send it in. Or click here to give now.  

If you have any questions, please contact Mission Advancement Director Meg Gerald at geraldm@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2254.

PAVE THE WAY BRICKS 
Make your mark on SJA’s campus by purchasing a brick for your daughter. Engraved brick pavers are placed around the Fife Student Commons. For more information, contact Mission Advancement Assistant Wendy Coniglio at conigliow@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2336. Click here to purchase your brick today. 

SJA Mothers' Club

Do you want to know about SJA Mothers’ Club events, meet other moms and support your Sticker daughter? Then join the Mothers’ Club! Our Mothers’ Club membership drive is officially under way. Your membership dues and volunteer service are crucial. Both enable us to support our girls and the SJA community throughout the year. We encourage all moms to join. 

If you would like to get more involved in the Mothers’ Club, please contact the Membership Chair at sjamcmembership@sjabr.org.

The Mothers’ Club looks forward to its Fall Social on Wednesday, October 11, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Uncle Earl’s. More information will follow through the Mothers’ Club.

We thank Kristina Funes and the Student Appreciation Committee for the cookie cake which was handed out during lunch to all SJA students. The Mothers’ Club does six events to treat students for their hard work throughout the year. We also want to thank Mimi Henderson and the Senior Grandparents Week Committee who volunteered to help serve food and refreshments to the seniors and their grandparents.

Please be reminded that prayer requests can be sent to parentswhopray@sjabr.org.

SJA Dads' Club

The Dads’ Club works in partnership with the school on a variety of events throughout the year. Some of the highlights of our involvement are class retreats, seniors’ last day, Open House and exam snacks, to name a few. Your membership dues, in combination with the profits from Dads’ Club-sponsored events such as the Parents’ Back-to-School Dance, Father-Daughter Day and the Sticker Scramble, benefit our daughters. Are you ready to join for the 2023-2024 school year? Sign up now on SchoolCash Online to join the best group of guys on campus. If you have any questions, please contact Dads’ Club Moderator Meg Gerald at geraldm@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2254.

DAD VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR FRESHMAN RETREAT
This year’s Freshman Retreat is set for Monday, November 6, and the Dads’ Club will provide lunch for the girls. We need approximately 8-10 dads from 10:45 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. in the cafeteria to help serve lunch. We are providing hot dogs, chips and cookies. 

If you are interested in volunteering for the Freshman Retreat, please click here.

CROSS COUNTRY

• Metro Championship: Thursday, October 26, Highland Road Park
• Regional Qualifier: Thursday, November 2, Highland Rd Park, 8:15 a.m.

SWIMMING

• City Championship: Friday and Saturday, October 27 and 28, Crawfish Aquatics

VOLLEYBALL

• Geaux Pink Game: Thursday, October 5. All profits benefit Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. There will be raffles and a bake sale. 
• JV Challenge Tournament: Saturday, October 7
• District Play at home: Tuesday, October 10, versus Scotlandville; Tuesday, October 17, versus Woodlawn
• Senior Night: Wednesday, October 18, 6 p.m. versus Baton Rouge High

Fall is in full swing, and the Sticker Shop is your go-to spot for all things spirited and stylish. We’re excited to share some fantastic updates with you.

Our latest additions are nothing short of spectacular and crafted by the talented local artist Becky Maher. Explore custom acrylic and gold ornaments, a keepsake block with crest and a glass vase ideal for any occasion. And that’s not all. Stay tuned as we bring back the beloved Pom Bar earrings and introduce the throwback Redsticker T-Shirt in navy!

As the days grow cooler, it’s the perfect time to swing by and have your daughter try on our sweatpants. With sizes ranging from XS to XXL in both red and navy, and options in wide leg and straight leg, you’re sure to find the perfect pair for every member of the family. Stay snug and comfortable this season.

SHOPPING MADE SIMPLE

• Your Daughter (in person): She can drop by during her lunch period to explore our latest offerings.

• Online: Shop from the comfort of your home by clicking here to browse our collection.

• You (in person): Park in the circle drive in front of Mother Alice Hall (3080 Kleinert Avenue). Get buzzed in, sign in with Mrs. Clarinda and come shop with us!

Store Hours: We’re here to serve you!
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.*
*Please note, we’re closed on days when the campus is closed.

SHOW YOUR STICKER PRIDE
Every purchase at the Sticker Shop not only lets you express your Redsticker spirit but also supports our wonderful SJA community and Mothers’ Club. We are genuinely grateful for your continued support as we make this year one to remember.

Thank you for being an integral part of our vibrant community. We’re eager to help you showcase your Sticker Pride!