Parent Newsletter
May 2022
- From the Principal
- Events
- Campus Life
- Counseling Center
- Student Resources
- Campus Ministry
- Mission Advancement
- Parent Clubs
- Athletics
- Sticker Shop
From the Principal
Dear Parents,
I pray that your families had a wonderful Easter and that our students enjoyed their spring break. We have a very exciting and packed calendar for the month of May and hope you can join us for some of these events.
At the end of this school year, we will be saying goodbye to several long-time members of our SJA community who will be retiring. The gatekeeper of all things at SJA is Mrs. Erin McLean, our students’ receptionist, who has been with us for 16 years. Ms. Dana Murray, former SJA counselor and current theology teacher, will retire after almost 17 years at SJA and a career dedicated to Catholic schools. Also with a career-long dedication to Catholic schools is Coach Brenda LeBlanc. Brenda has served our students for 28 years as a beloved coach, moderator and health and physical education teacher. Lena McGee is our “Ms. SJA.” Lena began her career at SJA in our dining hall. She spent time working for the Sisters and has been a member and leader of our maintenance staff for 21 years. Lastly, after 40 years dedicated to SJA, Mrs. Rebecca Stagg, our librarian, is looking forward to having more time to spend with her grandchildren. These ladies have been influential in the lives of our students, and a thank you is simply not enough to express the gratitude we have for them and their work on behalf of the school and the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph. May their days be filled with many blessings, surrounded by family and friends. We will miss them all.
During the month of May, we will celebrate our senior class of 2022. With events including May Crowning, Senior Walk, Senior Mass, Honors Convocation, Graduation and more, we honor this class who has been a joy to teach, even through two years of COVID restrictions. We look forward to seeing our parents celebrate their achievements with us as we send them off to the next step of life’s journey.
Underclass students will be winding up their classes, as well, and will begin preparation for final examinations May 23-26. These exams are an important part of semester grades, so students should be present for these four dates and not begin summer vacation early. If you have questions, please reach out to Dean of Students Erika Angarita (angaritae@sjabr.org or 388-2278).
Thank you so much for entrusting your daughters to us this year. I pray that you have seen our mission in action and beautiful growth in your daughter over this school year. Have a restful summer. We will take a break in June, but we will send a jam-packed, back-to-school newsletter in July.
The main office will be open 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to noon on Fridays should you have needs during the weeks of summer.
I love what I do, I love who I do it with and I love that we do it together in the name of our patron, St. Joseph.
Sincerely,
Stacia B. Andricain
Principal
Events
EXAM SCHEDULE FOR SENIORS
Monday, May 9: Theology 7:30 a.m.; Math 9:30 a.m.
Tuesday, May 10: Foreign Language 7:30 a.m.; Science 9:30 a.m.
Wednesday, May 11: English 7:30 a.m.
Thursday, May 12: Social Studies 7:30 a.m.
After their last exam, all seniors must “check out” of SJA. This means that when they are done using their tablets for exams, they should report to the librarian to start the process. Please back up prior to doing so. Seniors will be given a check-out list to make sure they have returned all Help Desk items, library and textbooks and have paid all monies owed (Dining Hall, tuition, etc.). Once the check-out process is complete, seniors can pick up their graduation caps from the Deans’ Office.
Seniors who do not have to take exams may go through the check-out process between Monday, May 9, and Thursday, May 12. Please begin with the librarian.
Seniors taking an AP exam after May 12 must check out after their AP exam. These seniors will need to work with Dean of Women Erika Angarita on an individual check-out plan. She will contact those students by Friday, May 6.
PRE-CALCULUS/PRE-CALCULUS DUAL ENROLLMENT; CALCULUS/CALCULUS DUAL ENROLLMENT FINAL EXAM
Monday, May 9, SJA Activity Center, 12:30-2:30 p.m. (extended time: 12:30-3:30 p.m.). Students will miss 6th through 8th hour classes. For additional information, please contact Lauren Morris (morrisl@sjabr.org).
AP EXAM SCHEDULE
Tests for AP courses taught at SJA will be administered in the Activity Center and the Catholic Life Center. Tests for AP courses taught at CHS will be administered at CHS.
Art History: Friday, May 6, 12 p.m.
Biology: Wednesday, May 11, 12 p.m.
Calculus AB: Monday, May 9, 8 a.m.
Calculus BC at CHS: Monday, May 9, 8 a.m.
Chemistry at CHS: Monday, May 2, 12 p.m.
Computer Science Principles: Monday, May 9, 12 p.m.
English Language & Composition: Tuesday, May 10, 8 a.m.
English Literature & Composition: Wednesday, May 4, 8 a.m.
Environmental Science at CHS: Tuesday, May 3, 8 a.m.
French at CHS: Thursday, May 12, 8 a.m.
Human Geography: Thursday, May 5, 8 a.m.
Latin: Friday, May 13, 12 p.m.
Macroeconomics at CHS: Thursday, May 5, 8 a.m.
Microeconomics at CHS: Friday, May 6, 12 p.m.
Physics C: Mechanics: Tuesday, May 10, 12 p.m.
Psychology: Tuesday, May 3, 12 p.m.
Seminar: Thursday, May 5, 12 p.m.
Spanish Language & Culture at CHS: Wednesday, May 11, 8 a.m.
Statistics at CHS: Thursday, May 5, 12 p.m.
United States History: Friday, May 6, 8 a.m.
United States Government & Politics: Monday, May 2, 8 a.m.
World History: Thursday, May 12, 8 a.m.
EXAM SCHEDULE FOR GRADES 9-11
Monday, May 23: Science 8 a.m.; Conflicts 10 a.m.
Tuesday, May 24: Social Studies 8 a.m.; Foreign Language 10 a.m.
Wednesday, May 25: English 8 a.m.; Conflicts 10 a.m.
Thursday, May 26: Math 8 a.m.; Theology 10 a.m.
Post-exam supervision will be provided in the library until 2 p.m. on Monday-Wednesday, May 23-25. Campus (including the library) will close on Thursday, May 26, at 11:30 a.m. Please make arrangements to pick up your daughters accordingly.
On Monday-Thursday, the Dining Hall will serve breakfast/snacks beginning at 7 a.m. and continuing until the second exam begins at 10 a.m.
ACADEMY AWARDS
Thursday, April 28, Schedule 6. Students from all grade levels will be recognized for academic and other achievements. Dress uniforms are required. Parents are invited to join us via livestream on our YouTube Channel starting at 9:42 a.m.
SPRING JAZZ BAND CONCERT
Thursday, April 28, 7 p.m., Catholic High School Gym.
STUDENT COUNCIL FUN DAY
Friday, April 29. The theme is Rocking Out of the School Year. Students received dress guidelines for this day via email.
EARLY DISMISSAL
Monday, May 2, for Faculty Professional Development. Students are dismissed at 1:33 p.m. We will follow 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.
MAY CROWNING AND SERVICE AWARDS
Wednesday, May 4, 1:38 p.m., Academy Student Center. We will follow Schedule 8. Dress uniforms are required. We will recognize members of each class who have given 50 or more hours of service during the school year. Seniors qualifying for the four-year award will be honored at Honors Convocation. We will also recognize the seniors who have completed all of the requirements of an SJA Ambassador, seniors who have worked as peer consultants in the Writing Center and Help Desk student technicians.
Immediately after Service Awards, we will celebrate May Crowning. Seniors participating in the annual ceremony are voted on by their classmates and the faculty/staff.
SENIORS' LAST DAY
Thursday, May 5. Parents and students are reminded that this is an academic day. Seniors may arrive on campus no earlier than 6:30 a.m. The Mothers’ Club will provide breakfast in the courtyard, and the Dads’ Club will provide a hamburger lunch. Seniors will be emailed additional information regarding dress and events for the day. We will follow Schedule 7. Please direct questions to senior class moderators Alexandra Arceneaux (arceneauxa@sjabr.org) or Emily Peavy (peavye@sjabr.org).
SENIOR WALK
The seniors’ final walk begins at 2:26 p.m. on Thursday, May 5. Parents who would like to be at the end of the walk should arrive to the orchard by 2:30 p.m. using any of the gate entrances. We are asking parents to be in this area only and not follow the seniors along the route on campus. Seniors will meet their parents in this area at the end of the route.
Parking will be available on Broussard and in the residential area on the Broussard side of the school. Please do not block any driveways. Please do not park at the Tyler Possa Law Office or on their grass. Look for signs indicting parking availability.
SENIOR MASS
Friday, May 6, 9:42 a.m., Academy Student Center. Senior Mass is the last opportunity for the school community to worship together with our seniors. We will gather in the Academy Student Center for the celebration of the Eucharist. Seniors are allowed two (2) guests at the mass and following reception. The mass will be livestreamed on SJA’s Facebook page for friends and families who can’t attend.
Due to parking limitations, we ask that students carpool with their parents and park in their usual school parking spot.
Seniors must be checked in by 9:15 a.m. They will be dismissed after mass to attend the reception with their two guests in the orchard. Seniors were given their graduation gowns on April 15 and 16 and are required to wear them for Senior Mass with a white or light pastel-colored dress underneath. Any color dressy shoe is allowed.
Schedule 6 will be followed, with dress uniforms required for grades 9-11.
RING CEREMONY
Friday, May 6, 6:30 p.m., Academy Student Center. Dress uniforms are required. Please note there will be no parking in the synagogue lot.
The class of 2023 will officially become the senior class at SJA. Juniors will join the 10,765 Academy alumnae who have preceded them in receiving their school rings.
Please note that participation is mandatory. If a junior cannot participate, she must submit a letter from her parents to Dean of Women Erika Angarita (angaritae@sjabr.org). Practice will be held immediately after school on Friday, May 6, in the Academy Student Center.
Please direct questions about the evening to Ring Ceremony coordinators Katie Comeaux (comeauxk@sjabr.org) or Brooke Haigler (haiglerb@sjabr.org). Please direct questions about outstanding balances on rings to Balfour at (225) 756-1881.
ADORATION
Thursday, May 12, all three lunch periods, Chapel at SJA. Parents are encouraged to pray with us from afar.
PRACTICE FOR HONORS CONVOCATION AND GRADUATION
Mandatory practice for Honors and Graduation for seniors will take place on Thursday, May 19, from 12:30 until 2:54 p.m. in the Academy Student Center. Practice is mandatory for all seniors unless permission is granted by Dean of Women Erika Angarita (angaritae@sjabr.org; 388-2278).
HONORS CONVOCATION
Friday, May 20, 6:30 p.m., Academy Student Center. The event typically lasts two hours. Immediate family is invited to attend. Seniors will have the opportunity to take posed pictures with their escort in the Activity Center from 5 to 6 p.m. Seniors will receive an order form at Honors practice. Pictures will be taken by Kleinpeter Photography. Seniors choosing not to have pictures taken must check in by 6 p.m. in the Activity Center.
Please be advised there will be no parking in the synagogue lot. You can use the Kleinert parking lot in addition to the Academy Student Center lot.
Any color long or mid-calf length formal dress or dress pantsuit may be worn. An escort is optional. If a senior is escorted by a man, preferred attire is dress pants, jacket and tie, a suit or a tuxedo. If the escort is a woman, preferred attire is a dress or dress pants.
Please direct questions to Dean of Women Erika Angarita (angaritae@sjabr.org; 388-2278).
MASS AND ONE HUNDRED FORTY-FIFTH COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES
Sunday, May 22, 3 p.m., Raising Cane’s River Center. Practice will be held on May 22 at 9 a.m. only for those students who have a special role in the graduation ceremony. All seniors, dressed in cap and gown, should report to the River Center no later than 2:30 p.m. to rooms L1-L4 by entering Arena Portal D. Each senior will be given two floor tickets and 18 general admission tickets. The entrance for floor seating will be Portal A on the ground level. Those guests with upper level/general admission tickets will enter upstairs in the galleria across from the east and west parking garages. Outside and inside doors to the arena will open at 2 p.m. A ticket is required to enter the arena.
The River Center has a clear bag policy. Noisemakers, banners, fat heads and other signs or posters will be confiscated upon entry.
Kleinpeter Photography will photograph graduation. To view and purchase images, please visit www.kleinpeterphotography.com and click View Events. Graduation will be listed under the SJA heading.
Please direct questions to Dean of Women Erika Angarita (angaritae@sjabr.org; 388-2278).
Campus Life
SUMMER READING LIST
The St. Joseph’s Academy English Department considers our reading curriculum to be our most significant contribution to the Academy’s mission to “educate young women as responsible and unifying members of the world community” in keeping with the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph. In asking our students to spend precious summer hours reading, we encourage them to continue the mission-based development of academic excellence and unifying empathy that reading provides.
Click here for the summer reading list for the 2022-2023 academic year.
We will once again adopt the book An Invisible Thread by Laura Schroff as our schoolwide read. I encourage our parents to read the book, as well. The SJA community first read the book 10 years ago, and we have had two visits from the book’s author in the following years. The new 10th anniversary edition has been printed and includes a new forward that includes a section about Ms. Schroff’s visit to SJA and the school’s 10-year dedication to our brown bag Sticker Sack program that the book inspired. Every Wednesday, SJA students make Sticker Sacks lunches for our local St. Vincent de Paul shelter.
NEGATIVE BALANCE FINALS EXAMS POLICY FOR 9TH-11TH GRADE STUDENTS
It is the policy of SJA that all tuition, fees and SAGE Dining Hall balances must be current prior to final exams. Parents will be notified if a student is to remain home on examination days if an account is not current. Delinquent payments made after Monday, May 16, must be paid by cash, cashier’s check or money order to be deemed received by SJA so the student will be allowed to take exams. For tuition balances, please direct questions to Accountant Louise Babin (babinl@sjabr.org; 388-2234). For SAGE balances, please check your account online or call SAGE directly at 1-855-302-0070.
SUMMER HOURS
Summer hours begin on Tuesday, May 31, and continue until Monday, August 1, when we resume regular hours. SJA will be closed Monday and Tuesday, July 4 and 5, in celebration of the Fourth of July.
Summer hours are 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.-12 p.m. on Fridays.
Please note that the Main Office will be open during the two weeks of Computer Orientation (July 18-21 and July 25-28) from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
TABLET INSURANCE
The insurance you purchased through SJA on your daughter’s tablet computer will expire on June 30. We strongly recommend that you renew your policy for next year. As you know, broken parts are costly to repair/replace. Click here for policy coverage information and other important details.
Beginning July 1, 2022, the computers will no longer have Accidental Damage Protection. Therefore, insurance is strongly recommended, as it will be used to repair any covered non-warranty breakage.
The cost of the insurance for the coming year (July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023) is $76.
The insurance process will once again be managed in house, and SJA will act as your contact when you need to file a claim. To enroll, please complete the Technology Policy Acknowledgement/Insurance form by Friday, May 27, 2022. If you choose not to purchase insurance, please select that option on the form and return it by May 27. Please note that we need a signed form on file regardless of your decision to purchase insurance.
Click here for the 2022-2023 St. Joseph’s Academy Technology Policy.
Click here to purchase the insurance policy through Worth Ave. Group. This payment portal will be open between now and July 31. Please note that your insurance will not go into effect until we receive both the electronically signed form and payment.
Please direct questions to Sharon Cashio (cashios@sjabr.org; 388-2246).
DINING HALL ACCOUNT REFUNDS
If your daughter is graduating or otherwise leaving SJA, please submit your request for a Dining Hall account refund to support@odin-inc.com by Friday, May 6. You will be issued a reimbursement via ACH within seven business days. Please be sure to leave enough money in your daughter’s account to cover her Dining Hall expenses through the end of the school year. Refund requests submitted after the May 6 deadline may be delayed up to eight weeks.
Accounts for returning students will be frozen over the summer to prevent auto-funding. Accounts will be reactivated for the first day of school. If you would like to receive the balance of funds in your daughter’s account, please log into your My Kids Spending account, or contact support@mykidsspending.com for assistance. Again, please be sure to leave enough money in your daughter’s account to cover her Dining Hall expenses through the end of the school year.
Any parent requesting a refund is asked to be sure your ACH information is correct in your My Kids Spending account to avoid delays in receiving your refund.
The parents of departing students may choose to transfer account balances to a younger sibling, cousin or family friend. If you wish to transfer an account balance, please email Food Service Director Amy Patureau (apatureau@sagedining.com) with the first and last names of both students.
MEDICATIONS
We ask that parents pick up their daughter’s prescription and over-the-counter medications before the last day of school. We are not able to store these medications over the summer. Please direct questions to School Nurse Marie Vukovics (vukovicsm@sjabr.org; 388-2208).
SUMMER ACT PREP
Gear Up for the ACT: SJA will offer four-hour sessions for each subject-specific test of the ACT during the summer. (ACT Writing will be a two-hour session.) These sessions will focus on strategies and practice techniques for each content-specific ACT test. The cost is $46.50 per session for ACT Math, Science, Reading and English. Your payment includes the ACT practice book for that subject. Space is limited to 50 students per session. Each session can be purchased on SchoolCash Online starting April 1.
Dates
June 8: ACT Science (12-4 p.m.)
June 9: ACT Math (12-4 p.m.)
June 22: ACT English (12-4 p.m.)
June 23: ACT Reading (12-4 p.m.)
July 7: ACT Math (12-4 p.m.)
July 13: ACT Reading (12-4 p.m.)
July 14: ACT Science (12-4 p.m.)
July 15: ACT English (12-4 p.m.)
ACT Diagnostic Testing: SJA will offer ACT Diagnostic Testing throughout the summer. Students will practice taking a full-length ACT test in a test setting and receive specific feedback on the areas that they need to work on to improve their scores. Each student will receive a detailed explanation 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 use of an ACT-released test. The cost is $15. Extended time is offered for each testing date.* The Diagnostic Tests can be purchased on SchoolCash Online starting April 1.
Dates
June 24: 8-11:30 a.m.
July 22: 8-11:30 a.m.
*Extended-time test normally ends between 12:45 and 1 p.m.
SJA ATHLETICS STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM, SUMMER 2022
Open to rising freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors who are trying out for or are on any athletic team for the 2022-2023 academic year.
It is the mission of the Strength and Conditioning Program to maximize each SJA athlete’s genetic potential in every component of athleticism and decrease the potential for injury in an environment that is safe, fun, motivational and intense.
Dates: June 6-July 29
Times: 6-7:30 a.m.(M-F) and 6-7:30 p.m. (Tuesday and Thursday)
Cost: $100
Questions: Liz Fontenot, MS, SCS (fontenote@sjabr.org)
You can register and pay on SchoolCash Online on the SJA website under Quick Links in early May. Please note that you must print the registration form and bring it with you on the first day you come to training.
A weekly sign-up genius link will be sent for Strength and Conditioning. You must sign up each week for the days you are coming. Because there is a 25-person cap per session, you won’t be able to work out if you haven’t signed up.
SAVE THE DATE
The Dads’ Club invites all SJA parents to a Parents’ Back-to-School Dance on Saturday, August 13, at 7 p.m. in the Academy Student Center. Tickets are $75 per couple and include food, beer, wine, soft drinks and daiquiris. Come dance the night away to the sounds of the Phunky Monkeys. More information to follow on this adults-only event.
YEARBOOK ORDERS
If you have not yet purchased a 2021-2022 yearbook, click here to order. If you are unsure if you have already purchased a yearbook, select the Find Your Order bar towards the bottom of the page, then enter your email address. The system only recognizes email addresses, not students’ names. Once your order is placed, you will receive a confirmation email from Herff Jones Yearbooks. Please direct questions to yearbook moderator Sara Rounds (roundss@sjabr.org).
The yearbook staff wants your pictures. If you have photographs from SJA sporting events, productions, afterschool events or other activities, we invite you to submit them for consideration and use in the 2021-2022 yearbook. Pictures should be uploaded to www.hjeshare.com. The school code is SJA.
SIZZLING SUMMER CELEBRATES 32 YEARS IN 2022
Girls in grades 3-9 will enjoy athletics, arts, academics, enrichment and technology camps during the month of June. This year, we are also inviting boys in grades 3-9 to attend most of our technology camps. Click here for all the details and to register.
SCHOOL IDs/LANYARDS
Students are expected to wear their school ID on the school-issued lanyard at all times. The ID must be worn on the outside of the uniform so it is visible. Students not wearing their ID will be required to purchase a new one for $2 and/or receive a checklist. Replacement IDs can be purchased in the Deans’ Office before or after school.
SENIOR TRIPS
Please be reminded that SJA does not sponsor senior trips.
WEDNESDAY MORNING ROSARY
Every Wednesday at 7 a.m., the rosary is recited in the Chapel at SJA.
Counseling Center
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.
Seniors
SARAH NELMS '10 Class of 2022 Counselor NELMSS@sjabr.org (225) 388-2223 |
Allison Hipwell Bruton ’95 Counseling Center Director College Advisor (A-j) brutona@sjabr.org (225) 388-2299 |
Ellen Smith Frazier College Advisor (K-Z) fraziere@sjabr.org (225) 388-2251 |
It’s hard to believe that senior year has come and gone. When the year started, it seemed that graduation was a long way off, yet here we are at the end of our seniors’ SJA journey. These young women have truly shown their dedication to SJA’s mission of faith development, academic excellence and personal growth. We wish them well in their future endeavors and know that they will continue to give their best.
Final details:
1. The week after graduation, a final SJA transcript will be sent to the college that your daughter listed on her Final Transcript Request form.
2. If your daughter took one or more dual enrollment classes, she must request her college transcript from LSU to obtain verification of college credit earned in order to schedule classes during orientation. (The SJA final transcript lists dual enrollment classes, but SJA can award only high school credit, not college credit hours.)
3. A final transcript (unofficial) will be mailed directly to your home address immediately after graduation. Be sure to keep it in a safe place and use it to make additional copies as needed.
4. If you need an official transcript after graduation, please contact Registrar Dana Schlotterer (schlottererd@sjabr.org). Information on TOPS Awards will be available online from your daughter’s LOFSA Student Hub account beginning in mid-June for students who have completed the FAFSA.
5. Please contact Allison Bruton, College Advisor A-K, at bruton@sjabr.org or Ellen Frazier, College Advisor L-Z, at fraziere@sjabr.org if you have any questions pertaining to college or application information.
Juniors
LINDSAY CARLINO '02 Class of 2023 Counselor carlinol@sjabr.org (225) 388-2225 |
Allison Hipwell Bruton ’95 Counseling Center Director College Advisor (A-I) brutona@sjabr.org (225) 388-2299 |
Ellen Smith Frazier College Advisor (J-Z) fraziere@sjabr.org (225) 388-2251 |
COLLEGE SELECTION
It’s hard to believe, but it’s time for your daughter to begin the final stages of the college selection process! You might be wondering how to best assist her with making one of her first major adult decisions. It is important to be supportive by engaging in conversations about choosing a college and listening to your daughter. It’s also important to be honest about any limitations (or wishes) your family might have regarding things like tuition or distance from home. Remember to find a balance between providing support and guidance while also allowing her to express her own desires and opinions.
We’d like to give you a few highlights of the journey that your daughter has explored regarding colleges and career choice.
CAREER EXPLORATION
Your daughter has taken several assessments through Naviance, our college and career software. “Do what you are” is a Meyers Briggs assessment that links her personality with her career needs. Another assessment, “Career Interest Profiler,” is based on the Holland’s codes that reveal work environments that fit her interests and personality. We looked for common themes to find a career path that would be a good fit for her. Your daughter also participated in Job Shadowing this spring, when she shadowed a professional in an occupation that she is considering pursuing in the future. Your daughter will also take part in this program again during her senior year.
COLLEGE EXPLORATION
We began with the basics by learning college terminology. We learned how to research admission criteria from different schools and began working on her college list. Her college list should include “Safety, Match and Reach” schools. We also discussed parts of typical college applications, including materials such as application fees, transcripts, test scores, essays and letters of recommendation.
Finally, all juniors have met with their college advisors (Ms. Bruton or Ms. Frazier) in individual meetings this semester. Below is a list of things to focus on this summer.
• Research colleges and scholarships.
• Discuss family limitations and/or expectations related to tuition and distance from home.
• Finalize your safety, match and reach list.
• Visit colleges, in person if possible or virtually.
• Update resume.
• Complete Student Insight Form.*
• Complete Parent Insight Form.*
• Finalize college essay. (Students wrote a personal essay in their English classes this year.)
• Make a list of important deadlines for the colleges on your list.
*This will be posted to your daughter’s Moodle class by May 15.
ACT
The SJA test center fills up quickly. Please encourage your daughter to sign up soon for the June and/or July testing dates if she is planning to do so. We highly encourage the girls to take advantage of the summer testing dates, as they are not dealing with the typical school year stressors of daily homework and studying. Please see all the upcoming dates below. All juniors have an ACT account. To register, your daughter can click here and log in. If she forgot her password, remind her to refer to the Login Reference Sheet created during her College & Career Group with Ms. Carlino this semester.
ACT Test Dates |
Regular Deadline |
Late Deadline |
June 11, 2022 |
May 6 |
May 20 |
July 16, 2022 |
June 17 |
June 24 |
Sept. 10, 2022 |
August 5 |
August 19 |
Oct. 22, 2022 |
Sept. 16 |
Sept. 30 |
Dec. 10, 2022 |
Nov. 4 |
Nov. 11 |
Feb. 11, 2023 |
Jan. 6 |
Jan. 20 |
April 15, 2023 |
March 10 |
March 24 |
June 10, 2023 |
May 5 |
May 19 |
July 15, 2023 |
June 16 |
June 23 |
SAT
If your daughter felt that she performed better on the PSAT and found that the test format and types of questions enabled her to better demonstrate her academic ability, she may want to consider signing up for the SAT. She can access her College Board account here to sign up. All students have a College Board account that they used to review their PSAT scores during both sophomore and junior years.
TEST SCORES AND COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Please note, many colleges are announcing that they are going test optional for admission again next year due to some tests being cancelled due to COVID-19. However, there is no guarantee that certain scholarships will be test optional, and TOPS eligibility requires the ACT (or SAT). Truthfully, there is still some uncertainty regarding test score requirements for the class of 2023; therefore, we continue to recommend that families make standardized testing a priority and that all students take the ACT or SAT at least two or three times.
This is an important and busy time for everyone, but it is also special and fun. Enjoy the process! And please know that we are here if you need help.
Sophomores
MARY BETH ELFERT
Class of 2024 Counselor
elfertm@sjabr.org
(225) 388-2281
Wow! Your daughter is halfway through her high school years. Final exams are quickly approaching, May 23-26.
Don’t forget about summer reading. It’s best not to wait until the last minute to get started.
EXTENDED-TIME ACCOMMODATIONS
Evaluations older than three years must be updated before returning to school in August.
COLLEGE GROUPS
Before the Easter break, the girls took a career interest inventory, began their college lists and updated their resumes. Please talk to your daughter about her college plans. This summer is a great time to start visiting colleges of interests.
GRADES AND EXAMS
Please make sure to check your daughter’s grades and help her to finish the year strong. If your daughter is struggling in a class, please encourage her to reach out to her teacher for help. Likewise, should you have a concern about your daughter’s grades, please reach out to the teacher directly. The teachers can provide insight as to why your daughter received a particular grade. In addition, the Learning Center and the Writing Center are great resources that continue to provide assistance during lunch and after school through the end of the year.
A LOOK AHEAD TO JUNIOR YEAR
During your daughter’s junior year, the focus is on college readiness. There will be events along the way to help with this process:
• National College Fair: The National Association for College Admission Counseling has several virtual college fairs. These are great opportunities for students to hear from the admissions representatives from more than 150 colleges and universities and have their questions answered. To see upcoming dates and schools participating, visit https://www.nacacfairs.org/virtual/.
• Juniors will have the opportunity to meet with college representatives visiting SJA.
• ACT registration for March 2023: Registration for this will be done in the fall semester.
• College & Career Group: In the fall, students will update their resume and college list.
• College Planning Seminar (spring semester)
• Job Shadow Day (spring semester)
• College & Career Group: In the spring, juniors will meet with their College Advisor to discuss their college plans.
• Summer of junior year: Some college applications open.
If you have questions or concerns regarding your daughter, please don’t hesitate to contact me at elfertm@sjabr.org.
Freshmen
NIKKI BANTA
Class of 2025 Counselor
BANTAN@sjabr.org
(225) 388-2283
The freshmen are busy finishing up their first year of high school.
• Final exams are quickly approaching. See the schedule in the body of the newsletter.
• Extended-time accommodations: Evaluations older than 3 years must be updated before returning to school in August.
• Summer is a great time to get in service hours and explore summer programs.
• Don’t forget about summer reading. It’s best not to wait until the last minute to get started.
• It’s been a pleasure getting to know your daughters this year.
Student Resources
Learning Center
The Learning Center provides free-of-charge assistance to any student needing extra help with math, science, English or writing. Also offered is academic counseling. Peer tutoring in foreign languages is provided by members of the National Honor Society and Beta Club. These student-led study groups are offered after school one day a week. Students will receive an email with details each week.
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 library. Email gruberj@sjabr.org or blanchardn@sjabr.org.
SCIENCE RESOURCE
Science 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 library. Email brownh@sjabr.org, laplacev@sjabr.org or krzystowczykn@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 library. 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.
ACT Prep Courses
We would like to provide you with information about test preparation classes. SJA does not promote any particular course; rather, we are sharing opportunities should your daughter want or need additional test-taking help.
The Extra Point holds ACT prep courses on SJA’s campus. For more information, visit https://extrapointtestprep.com/
Princeton Review: www.princetonreview.com
Mastery Prep: https://masteryprep.com/
Best in Class BR: https://bestinbr.com/act-prep/
Magnolia Prep: www.magnoliaprep.com
Khan Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org/join/T5BB5SDJ
Sylvan Learning Center: https://locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/baton-rouge-blue-bonnet-la/act-prep
Studyville: www.studyville.com
Materials found on the ACT website: www.act.org
Campus Ministry
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 bi-annually. Additionally, students may choose to participate in a weekly rosary, weekly Bible study, monthly 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.
REQUIRED SERVICE PROGRAM
The new Service Policy and Service Directories are on MySJA and the Service Hour Project Moodle page. The goal of the service program is to foster an encounter with Christ in those most in need and a desire to sacrifice oneself for them with acts of charity and through the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. Students will form sustained, interpersonal relationships with the dear neighbor that allow them to see all as created in God’s image and likeness and will serve them through the corporal and spiritual works of mercy.
We are moving away from x2vol and will spend the summer transferring to a new software program, MobileServe. Students will receive a MobileServe account to log their service hours. These accounts will be set up during Student Orientation.
Service hours for 2022-2023 are due on March 31, 2023. Due to the software change, students will not be able to digitally log hours until the fall semester. Students earning service hours before Student Orientation in August must secure proof of the hours served on agency letterhead or on St. Joseph’s Academy letterhead that can be picked up in the main office. Students will need to turn in one form per service activity. At Student Orientation, students will receive further instructions about uploading letterhead.
SERVICE REQUIREMENTS BY GRADE
Class of 2023: Students will choose one agency whose primary focus is those most in need and earn 20 hours from their chosen agency. Approved agencies can be found in the Junior and Senior Service Directory on MySJA and the Service Hour Project Moodle page. Students wishing to earn the 50-hour service award must obtain the additional 30 hours from any of the approved agencies in the Junior and Senior Service Directory whose primary focus is those most in need.
Class of 2024: Students are required to earn 20 hours from agencies whose primary focus is those most in need. Approved agencies can be found in the Junior and Senior Service Directory on MySJA and the Service Hour Project Moodle page. Students wishing to earn the 50-hour service award must obtain the additional 30 hours from any of the approved agencies in the Junior and Senior Service Directory whose primary focus is those most in need. Beginning in the summer of 2023, mission trips not sponsored by SJA will need written approval to be eligible for the 20 required hours for seniors.
Class of 2025: Students are required to earn 15 hours. Approved non-profit agencies can be found in the Freshman and Sophomore Service Directory, which can be found on MySJA and the Service Hour Project Moodle page. Students may only participate in opportunities not included in the Service Directory after receiving written permission via email from the Assistant Campus Minister. Students wishing to earn the 50-hour service award must obtain the additional 35 hours from approved agencies in the Freshman and Sophomore Service Directory. Beginning in the summer of 2023, mission trip hours for rising seniors will only be applicable to the 50-hour service award and will not be eligible to count towards the required 20 hours.
Please direct questions to Service Coordinator Jade Spears at spearsj@sjabr.org.
YOUTH THEOLOGY INSTITUTE
Loyola University’s Pastoral Life Center is hosting FaithActs Youth Theology Institute this summer. The program is open to rising juniors and seniors and will be held June 20-24 on the campus of Loyola University. Students will engage with the relevant sciences and explore Christianity’s rich biblical and theological traditions. Participants will discern how their faith can help them become leaders in support of creation and environmental justice. The program cost is $100. Financial aid is available from Loyola. Interested families can learn more and apply by visiting the website.
Mission Advancement
SJA ANNUAL FUND
With the end of the school year in sight, it seems things just continue to get busier. So this is just a quick reminder about the Parents Annual Fund and to ask for your participation in this year’s participation effort.
Did you know:
• Monies raised through the Annual Fund have a direct impact on the young ladies currently enrolled at SJA. Gifts are used for classroom technology, additional AP classes and renovations and improvements to the campus.
• 100 percent of SJA faculty, administrators and staff make their own charitable contribution to Annual Fund.
• 100 percent of the SJA Board of Directors has donated to the Annual Fund.
• Our goal is for every SJA family to support Parents Annual Fund.
Every gift matters. If you have not yet done so, please take a minute to make your gift today. Click here to give online with a credit card, Paypal or Venmo. You can also send your check made payable to the SJA Foundation to 3015 Broussard Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70808. Your support helps make St. Joseph’s Academy great. If you have any questions, please contact Mission Advancement Director Meg Gerald (geraldm@sjabr.org; 388-2254).
Enjoy the excitement of the end of the school year, and thank you for your support of SJA Parents Annual Fund.
Pave the Way Bricks
Make your mark on SJA’s campus by purchasing a brick for your daughter. Engraved brick pavers are placed near Mary’s Garden. For more information, contact Mission Advancement Assistant Wendy Coniglio (conigliow@sjabr.org; 388-2336). Click here to purchase your brick today.
Parent Clubs
SJA Mothers' Club
If you would like to get more involved in the Mothers’ Club and chair or co-chair a committee, please contact Mothers’ Club Vice President Maradith Boone at sjamcvp@sjabr.org.
Please be reminded that prayer requests can be sent to parentswhopray@sjabr.org.
MOTHER/DAUGHTER STYLE SHOW
On Sunday, May 1, the SJA Mothers’ Club will host the Annual Mother-Daughter Style Show. This year’s theme is It’s about the JOURNEY, not just the destination. We are excited to welcome Travis Thibodaux, formerly of the band Journey, to perform at our event. Thanks to all of you who have already purchased your tickets and autographed t-shirts. The doors will open 9 a.m., and the program will begin at 10:30 a.m.
If you signed up to help with the event, thank you, your assistance is appreciated. We are so excited to see the seniors and their mothers walk the runway this year.
PASS-IT-ON USED UNIFORM SALE
The Pass-It-On Used Uniform Sale will take place on Saturday, June 4, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Dinning Hall. A Signup Genius will be sent shortly to schedule your shopping slot as well as to volunteer for the event. Don’t forget to donate gently used uniforms at the bins located at the school entrances.
SJA Dads' Club
SENIORS’ LAST DAY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
The class of 2022 will have their last full day of school on Thursday, May 5. The Dads’ Club will serve a grilled hamburger lunch to all the seniors and the faculty/staff. We need your help! Please click here to sign up. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Meg Gerald, the Dads’ Club moderator, at geraldm@sjabr.org.
Athletics
SPRING PLAYOFF SCHEDULE
GOLF
State Tournament: Monday-Tuesday, May 2-3, Wetlands Golf Course, Lafayette, TBA
SOFTBALL
State Tournament: Friday-Saturday, April 29-30, Broussard Sports Complex, Broussard. Semifinals on Friday, April 29, vs. Dominican, 1 p.m. Finals on Saturday, April 30, at 12 p.m.
TENNIS
State Tournament: Thursday-Friday, April 28-29, Monroe, 8 a.m.
TRACK
Regional Meet: Thursday, April 28, Zachary High School, field events at 2:30 p.m., running events at 4 p.m.
State Meet: Saturday, May 7, LSU, 12 p.m.
2022-2023 SJA ATHLETIC TRYOUT DATES
All student-athletes must have an LHSAA physical form completed and signed by a physician and their parents before they can try out for any SJA sport. The form can be found on MySJA in the Resources Board, Athletics. You will print the form and take it to your daughter’s physician to complete and sign. This form can also be found on the SJA website under Quicklinks, Forms. Please scan the completed form, or take a picture of it with your smartphone, and upload to MySJA, Resources, Athletics before tryouts.
Please note that student-athletes must attend all tryout dates listed with their sport.
BASKETBALL TRYOUTS
Monday-Tuesday, May 23-24, 4-5:30 p.m., Academy Student Center. Please direct questions to Coach Tim Waller (wallert@sjabr.org; 388-2224).
CROSS COUNTRY ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
Wednesday, May 11, 3:15-4:30 p.m., Dining Hall. Please direct questions to Coach Mark LaHaye (lahayem@sjabr.org; 603-6575)
SOCCER TRYOUTS
Returning players: Monday-Tuesday, May 16-17, 4-5 p.m., SJA Stadium, Field #4, Burbank Complex.
New players: Tuesday-Wednesday, May 24-25, and if necessary, Thursday, May 26, 10-11 a.m., SJA Stadium, Field #4, Burbank Complex. Please direct questions to Coach Kyle Carmouche (carmouchek@sjabr.org; 229-6749).
SOFTBALL TRYOUTS
Tuesday-Wednesday, May 17-18, 4-6 p.m., location TBA. Please direct question to Coach Amanda Henley (henleya@sjabr.org; 603-1022).
TRACK AND FIELD INFORMATION/ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
Wednesday, September 7, 3-3:45 p.m., Activity Center. Please direct questions to Coach Charlie Daigle (daiglec@sjabr.org; 270-6029).
VOLLEYBALL TRYOUTS
Monday-Wednesday, May 16-18, 5-7 p.m., Academy Student Center. Please direct questions to Coach Sivi Miller (millers@sjabr.org; 388-2298).
All other sports will have their tryouts during the fall semester of 2022.
SUPPORT THE ’STICKERS
See the athletic pages of the SJA website (under Student Life, Athletics) for winter and spring sports schedules. Please direct questions to Athletic Director Dorinda Beaumont (beaumontd@sjabr.org; 388-2290).
Sticker Shop
What a fantastic year it has been! The Sticker Shop has been online for two years now, and we also have Instagram. Please visit shop online at www.sjastickershop.org and follow us on Instagram at @sjastickershop.
Graduation is just around the corner. Commemorate that wonderful milestone with a unique SJA keepsake from the Sticker Shop. Choose from a variety of items including our super soft SJA embroidered blanket, a ceramic plaque of the front gates, an SJA coffee mug to study with in college and much more.
All items that have been purchased online must be picked up by May 19, which is the last day the shop will be open.
Many thanks to our countless volunteers who worked in the shop this year and worked during our popup shop. We could not run the shop without you!