August 2022

Dear Parents,

Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year! I am excited to welcome a new class of turtles to our campus this week as Computer Orientation gets under way for our incoming freshmen. With just a few short weeks before the first day of school, we have gathered all the information that you and your daughters will need to start the year off right. If you have questions after reviewing the newsletter, please do not hesitate to email the person listed with each area or call the main school line at 225-383-7207 for additional assistance.

This year’s charism theme is Leadership: Weave One Heart. In 1650 France, our original Sisters of St. Joseph made lace by candlelight as a means to provide goods and services for the dear neighbors who were most in need. We continue to use the image of lace as both a thread in our history and to symbolize how we are still woven together as a fabric of women and men dedicated to unifying love with God, with self and with neighbor.   

Safety has always been a top priority of our day-to-day living in community. Learning about the tragedy in Uvalde, Texas, earlier this summer caused most school administrations to review their own safety plans, and we were no exception. Several members of team attended a school safety conference and held discussions centered around SJA’s plan and making sure we are abreast of the latest guidance from local, state and national authorities. As a reminder, SJA has an off-duty Baton Rouge police officer on duty each day from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. We spent time and resources this summer making sure that all gate locks and cameras are in the best working condition. A safety intern works with school leadership and our director of operations to keep the school up to date on best practices, as well as to coordinate all safety drills (fire, tornado, intruder). We will continue to keep parents informed and will do so as quickly as possible through our School Messenger system. This year, we will also provide information about how to opt in or out of receiving emergency text messages.  

It is an absolute delight to mention COVID-19 in the fourth rather than the very first paragraph of this message. Though cases are still prevalent, I will not require masks or distancing of our students at this time. As always, I ask that you monitor your daughters for symptoms and report to us immediately if they test positive. Our school nurse will outline the details of your daughter’s return-to-school timeline. A student who tests positive for COVID must stay home for five days (first day of symptoms is day 0) and can return to school on day six but must wear a mask through day 10. No mask is needed as of day 11. An exposed individual, regardless of vaccination status, can attend school but must wear a mask for 10 days. (The last day of exposure to a positive case is considered day 0.) She will be able to discontinue wearing a mask as of day 11. Please contact Nurse Marie Vukovics at 225-388-2208 or vukovicsm@sjabr.org.

With the retirement of Erin McLean at the end of last school year, Cristina Benigno has been named our student life coordinator. Cristina has worked at SJA for 16 years and is well suited to take over the role of student attendance. In the last two years of COVID, we have seen lower attendance. Of course, some of that is due to illnesses, but also to other issues, such as anxiety and, to be honest, a less-motivated student. Parents and the school must work together in making sure that your daughters are in class each day unless there is illness or a family emergency. We ask that you continue to do your best to make appointments at your daughters’ lunch period or after school. I ask that you please take some time to review the section regarding student absences in the Parent/Student Handbook, as these guidelines have changed. Notification to the student life coordinator is required of the parent for both tardies and absences. If you have questions about attendance, please contact Cristina at 225-388-2226 or benignoc@sjabr.org.

We are looking forward to many exciting events for our students and parents this year. We hope you will all join us for the annual Back-to-School Nights: Monday, August 15, for parents of freshmen and Monday, August 22, for parents of sophomores, juniors and seniors. You will hear from the school’s leadership, learn about our goals for the year and meet your daughter’s teachers.  

Thank you for partnering with us on this important journey for your daughters. We pray that the year will be one of personal growth as well as spiritual, academic, emotional and social growth and mental wellness.  

Please pray for us, and we will continue to pray for our parents each Wednesday morning.  

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

TABLET INSURANCE
The insurance purchased through SJA on your daughter’s tablet computer expired on June 30. If you have not yet done so, we strongly recommend that you renew your policy for the 2022-2023 school year. As you know, broken parts are costly to repair/replace. Click here for policy coverage information and other important details. 

As of July 1, 2022, the computers no longer have Accidental Damage Protection. As such, 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 is managed in house, and SJA will act as your contact when you need to file a claim. If you have not yet enrolled, please complete the Technology Policy Acknowledgement/Insurance form at your earliest convenience. If you choose not to purchase insurance, please select that option on the form. Please note that we need a signed form on file whether you choose to purchase insurance or not. 

Click here to purchase the insurance policy through Worth Ave. Group. This payment portal will close on 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; 225-388-2246).

SCHOOL HANDBOOK
The 2022-2023 School Handbook is located on the SJA website under the Parents and Students portals. Please note that it is the responsibility of students and parents to read the handbook and to be informed of its contents.

The School Handbook Acknowledgment Form 2022-2023 can be found in the yellow banner in MySJA upon login. Both you and your daughter must login and sign the form in order to submit. Signing and submitting this form indicates that you have read the handbook and agree to follow and uphold the policies and practices of St. Joseph’s Academy. Parent/guardian signatures also grant permission for your daughter’s photograph, video image, name and/or interview answers to be used for publicity purposes on the SJA website, in Academy-produced publications and in various external and SJA media outlets, including social media platforms. (See the Communications section of the handbook for complete policy.)

The signed form must be submitted no later than the first day of school on Wednesday, August 10.

Failure to abide by the policies of the handbook by either the student or the parent/guardian may result in the student’s removal from school. 

The School Handbook can be amended at any time during the school year. Parents will be notified of changes via the Parents Newsletter; students will be notified via email. Final interpretation of all items is determined by the Administration.

MEDICAL INFORMATION FORM
It is a requirement that we have an updated medical information form each year in order for your daughter to attend classes on campus. You will see the form in the yellow banner in MySJA upon login. These forms must be completed by Friday, July 29. 

If you experience technical difficulties accessing the forms, please contact Information Systems Manager Karen Faucheux (faucheuxk@sjabr.org). If you have questions about the required medical information or other health-related information, please contact Nurse Marie Vukovics (vukovicsm@sjabr.org).

REMINDER TO PARENTS OF SJA JUNIORS
All students 16 years of age and in the 11th grade are required by state law to provide a copy of an official Louisiana immunization record showing proof of having received a second meningococcal vaccine. This is due on or within one month following a student’s 16th birthday. 

SJA requires proof of the meningococcal booster for our records. If your daughter is 16 or turns 16 during the summer months, you will need to upload an official copy of the Louisiana state immunization record by the first day of Student Orientation on August 8, 2022. You should have received an email in early July with instructions for uploading your daughter’s immunization record through MySJA. If not, please contact Nurse Marie Vukovics (vukovicsm@sjabr.org). 

Please be aware that we cannot accept a summary of vaccinations from MyChart. Please contact your doctor’s office for an official record.

PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION
As a non-public school, St. Joseph’s Academy is not affected by the state law which requires parents to make an election at the beginning of each year to grant or deny consent for the school to collect your daughter’s Personally Identifiable Information and disclose it to the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA) for TOPS and other financial aid or to the state’s colleges and universities for admissions. We will share this information unless you request through your daughter’s grade-level counselor that it be withheld.

CUSTODY INFORMATION
St. Joseph’s Academy abides by the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) with respect to the rights of parents and, in the event of divorce, the rights of custodial and noncustodial parents. In the latter case, absent a court order to the contrary, the school will provide the noncustodial parent access to academic records and other school-related information regarding the student. If there is a court order specifying that no information is to be given, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school with a copy of the court order. We do not need the complete court order, only the part dealing with custody. Please direct questions to Principal Stacia Andricain (andricaina@sjabr.org; 225-388-2240).

ACT TEST PREP PROGRAM FOR 2022-2023
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 October 2022 ACT date) and spring (before the March 2023 ACT date for juniors). These sessions will focus on strategies and practice techniques for that content-specific ACT test. The cost is $55 for ACT Math, Science, Reading and English; ACT Writing will cost $25. Your payment includes an ACT practice book for that subject. Space is limited to 50 students per session. Each session can be paid for on SchoolCash Online.

Fall Dates
Science: August 27 (8 a.m.-12 p.m.)
Reading: September 17 (8 a.m.-12 p.m.)
Writing: September 18 (1-3 p.m.)
Math: September 24 (8 a.m.-12 p.m.)
English: October 1 (8 a.m.-12 p.m.)

Spring Dates: TBD

ACT Diagnostic Testing: SJA will offer ACT Diagnostic Testing in the fall and spring of the 2022-2023 school year. Students will practice taking a full-length ACT test in a test setting and receive specific feedback on the areas in which 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 and timing and using an ACT-released test. The cost is $15.50. Extended time is offered. Each session can be paid for on SchoolCash Online.

Dates
August 20 (8-11 a.m.)
October 1 (8-11 a.m.)
January 21, 2023 (8-11 a.m.)
March 4, 2023 (8-11 a.m.)

Please direct questions about the Testing Prep Program to Dean of Curriculum & Instruction Aimee Urdiales (urdialesa@sjabr.org).

ACADEMIC PREP WORKSHOP FOR FRESHMAN PARENTS
Transitioning to high school academics can sometimes be a challenge for incoming freshmen and their parents, as well. Melissa Brocato, director of LSU’s Center for Academic Success, and Jill Abadie, director of the SJA Learning Center, will host an academic prep workshop for parents of incoming freshmen with tips on study skills, organization and test taking. Lunchtime and evening sessions will be available on Tuesday, September 13, 12-1 p.m. and 6-7 p.m. More information will be sent to freshmen parents closer to the date.

SUMMER READING REMINDER
Please be reminded that all students must complete a summer reading assignment for their English classes before the start of the school year. Click here for the summer reading list for the 2022-2023 academic year.

DINING HALL ACCOUNTS
Please be sure that your daughter’s Dining Hall account has sufficient funds to begin the 2022-2023 academic year. Parents of freshmen and students new to SJA can create an online account through MyKidsSpending by clicking here after August 1, 2022. Click the Create Account bar at the bottom of the page and follow the prompts. If you have an existing MyKidsSpending account, please log in and verify that the Auto Fund feature is enabled to prevent your daughter’s Dining Hall account from running a deficit. Please note that you will not be able to create a new account or fund an existing account prior to August 1. 

Cash is not accepted for Dining Hall purchases. It is imperative that MyKidsSpending accounts are funded and active. More information is available at www.mykidsspending.com. Be sure to download the “Touch of SAGE” mobile app for Android and iOS to track events, view menus and more. 
 
For additional information, please contact Food Services Director Amy Patureau (patureaua@sjabr.org; 225-388-2247).

OFFICE HOURS
Summer hours for the Main Office in St. Joseph Hall are 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.-12 p.m. on Fridays through July 29. For August 1-5, hours are 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Beginning Monday, August 8, we will resume regular hours of 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

AFTER-SCHOOL RULES AND REGULATIONS
After dismissal, students remaining on campus must be in designated areas* only (Dining Hall, courtyard or library), where an afterschool monitor is present. Students may remain in or in front of the Dining Hall or in the courtyard from 2:50 p.m. until 4 p.m. At 4 p.m., an announcement will direct students to make their way to the library to sign in. Students may not leave campus after dismissal to roam the neighborhood. The library is open until 5:30 p.m. Our security offer is on campus until 5:30 p.m. each school day. 

If a student is not picked up by 5:30 p.m., this will be reported to the Dean of Women, and a plan will be made. After-school library rules can be found in the School Handbook under the Students and Parents portals. Please direct questions to Linda Hall (halll@sjabr.org; 225-388-2235).

*Once the new Student Commons opens, this space will be added to our after-school program. We will share additional information as it becomes available.

PE SHIRTS AND SHORTS
PE shirts will be available for purchase through the Sticker Shop at www.sjastickershop.org and can be picked up at the Sticker Shop on campus during the students’ lunch hours. Any appropriate SJA or other t-shirt will be acceptable for PE classes until the PE shirts are available in the Sticker Shop. Also required for PE are red or navy athletic shorts, any brand, of appropriate length. Sticker Shop hours during the school year are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Please note it is not open on days when campus is closed.

CLASS SCHEDULES
Student schedules will be posted online prior to the start of the school year. Schedules will not be printed and provided to students; as a result, students must print their own schedules. Once the school year begins, schedule changes will be considered during the first two weeks of classes based on level changes only (i.e., moving from Algebra II Honors to Algebra II College Prep). These requests are honored only if dropping or adding a course does not affect class sizes or teacher load and if the change is possible in the student’s schedule. Because electives are not required courses and are based on student choice, schedule changes cannot be honored as the deadline for requesting changes has passed.

Please direct questions to Dean of Academics Aubrey DeJohn (dejohna@sjabr.org; 388-2269).

STUDENT ORIENTATION
Monday, August 8, for freshmen and seniors*; and Tuesday, August 9, for sophomores and juniors. Click here for orientation schedules. Regular uniforms are allowed on orientation days. The first full day of school is Wednesday, August 10. Dress uniforms are required. Dress uniforms will also be required on Monday, August 15, as we celebrate mass.

*New this year, seniors will attend a second day of orientation. In addition to typical orientation activities on August 8, seniors will return on Tuesday, August 9, for a session with the college advisors, who will discuss the college admissions and application process. Laptops are required both days. 

Freshmen are reminded to print their class schedules and bring them to school on their orientation day, as they will have a chance to go through their schedule, meet their teachers and find their classrooms. 

Please be reminded that orientation is considered a school day, and your daughter should be present at the required time. If your daughter cannot attend her scheduled session, please submit the reason in writing to Activities Coordinator Aimee Cronan (cronana@sjabr.org). For additional information, please call the Deans’ Office at 225-388-2280.

YEARBOOK AND STUDENT ID PICTURES
Kleinpeter Photography will take photographs for the SJA yearbook and student ID cards during student orientation. Click here for the order form. The completed form and payment should be given to the photographer at your daughter’s designed picture time. Retakes will be taken on Thursday, August 18, during all lunch periods.

YEARBOOK ORDERS
The SJA yearbook captures once-in-a-lifetime memories in a single place. You can save $10 on the cost by purchasing your copy before school begins. Click here to purchase your copy today. 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.

CLASSES AT CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
Questions/issues for SJA students taking classes at CHS will be addressed during student orientation. Please direct curriculum questions to Dean of Academics Aubrey DeJohn (dejohna@sjabr.org; 225-388-2269). Transportation questions should be addressed to Activities Coordinator Aimee Cronan (cronana@sjabr.org; 225-388-2266).

BACK-TO-SCHOOL WELCOME AND PRAYER SERVICE
Wednesday, August 10, Academy Student Center. We will follow Schedule 5. Dress uniforms are required. Family and friends are invited to join us beginning at 10:02 a.m. 

PARENTS’ BACK-TO-SCHOOL DANCE
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. Tickets for this adults-only event are on sale on SchoolCash Online. 

SJA 101/FRESHMAN PARENTS BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT
This meeting for parents of all freshmen will be held on Monday, August 15, 6:15-8:45 p.m. in the Academy Student Center. Hear important information as your freshman daughter makes the transition from elementary school to high school. There will be presentations by school administrators, and parents will be offered the opportunity to visit their daughters’ classes and meet their teachers. Please bring a copy of your daughter’s schedule to the meeting. Student Ambassadors will be on hand to assist you with classroom locations. Attendance is optional.

FIRST SCHOOL MASS 
Monday, August 15, Academy Student Center. We will follow Schedule 4. Dress uniforms are required. Parents and friends are invited to join us for mass beginning at 9:47 a.m.

FRESHMAN SOCIAL
All freshmen from SJA and freshmen and 8th graders from Catholic High School are invited to a Freshman Social at CHS on Friday, August 12, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. SJA students will gather after school in the orchard and walk to CHS together. Chaperones will walk students back to SJA promptly at 4:30 p.m. for carpool pick-up. The social is designed to allow the freshman classes of both schools to meet new people and interact with old friends. Freshmen will be given more information during the first week of school. 

BACK-TO-SCHOOL DANCE
All students from SJA and CHS are invited to the Back-to-School Dance on Friday, August 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Academy Student Center. Further details regarding ticket information, dance theme and parking/carpool instructions will be provided closer to the date of the dance.

LEGACY MASS 
On Sunday, August 21, SJA’s Alumnae Office will host the annual Legacy Mass & Reception. Mass will be celebrated at 9 a.m. in the Chapel at SJA, followed by a brunch reception in Mother Alice Hall. All current SJA students, along with their mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers who are Academy graduates, are encouraged to attend as we celebrate legacy families. Please contact Alumnae Director Cori Martone Jones (martonec@sjabr.org; 225-388-2244) for more information or to RSVP. 

BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT FOR PARENTS OF STUDENTS IN GRADES 10-12
Monday, August 22, 6:15-8:15 p.m., Academy Student Center. There will be presentations by school administrators and the Mission Advancement Office and the opportunity to transition through your daughter’s eight-period day and meet her teachers. Please bring a copy of your daughter’s schedule. Student Ambassadors will be on hand to assist you with classroom locations. 

MISSION ADVANCEMENT MEETING FOR ALL NEW PARENTS OF SJA (Freshmen and New Students in Grades 10-12)
All new SJA parents are asked to attend a meeting with the Mission Advancement Office. We have three dates and times from which to choose. Please select the meeting that works best for your schedule. The meetings will be held on Wednesday, August 24, at 6 p.m.; and Thursday, August 25, at 12 or 6 p.m. All meetings will be held in the community room of Mother Alice Hall (3080 Kleinert). Please select your date as soon as possible, as space is limited. 

Those unable to attend any of the three meetings will be asked to schedule a make-up meeting with the Mission Advancement Office. Please direct questions to Mission Advancement Director Meg Gerald (geraldm@sjabr.org; 225-388-2254).

ACADEMIC AWARDS/INDUCTION CEREMONY
Friday, August 26, 9:54 a.m., Academy Student Center. We will follow Schedule 2. We will recognize students who have achieved academic distinction by earning academic letters and bars, as well as induct National Honor Society members and Student Council leadership. Family and friends are invited to join us or watch the livestream on our SJA Facebook page. 

BIG SIS/LITTLE SIS PROGRAM 
On Wednesday, September 14, freshmen “little sisters” will meet their senior “big sisters” as part of SJA’s traditional Big Sis/Little Sis program. The event will be held from 3 to 4 p.m. The program’s purpose is to welcome incoming freshmen to our school. Each freshman will be randomly matched with a senior group to foster new relationships with their peers and establish connections with their new classmates.

Several SJA-sanctioned activities and events occur throughout the year, all on campus: Candlelight Ceremony, Sweet Tooth Day, Hat Day and Senior Mass flowers. Seniors may invite their little sisters to join them in other activities, as well. While we want to foster relationships between the girls, parents must make final decisions as far as allowing your freshman daughter to participate in non-sanctioned events. We encourage parents of both seniors and freshmen to use the online Student Directory to communicate with one another if your daughters plan events outside of school.  

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 Mitchell (mitchella@sjabr.org) or Brooke Haigler (haiglerb@sjabr.org).

NSHSS
We have been made aware that a number of families receive information from the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) during the summer months. We want you to be aware that NSHSS is not affiliated with St. Joseph’s Academy and that NSHSS regalia is not permitted at SJA graduation.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS
As responsible stewards of the earth’s resources, we feel strongly that electronic communications should replace paper communications whenever possible. Please note that if you choose to unsubscribe to any electronic message you receive from us, you are unsubscribing to all 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 (rennhoffs@sjabr.org; 225-388-2318).

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
SJA generally follows the same procedures as the East Baton Rouge School Board and Diocese of Baton Rouge. School closures due to weather and other circumstances are announced via our phone messaging system. 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, please contact Assistant to the Registrar Stacy Rennhoff (rennhoffs@sjabr.org; 225-388-2318).

To improve the efficiency of our phone alerts, we ask that parents add St. Joseph’s Academy – 225-383-7207 – to their contacts and to listen to voice messages before hitting their phone’s call-back button. When we receive a large number of calls from parents before they listen to the voice message, it results in busy phone lines. Thank you for your cooperation as we strive to keep you informed.

SJA TELEPHONE SYSTEM
The school’s main number is 225-383-7207, but you are encouraged to call faculty and staff directly. Faculty members do not have physical phones; rather, their phone numbers connect directly to a voice mail box. Click here for the faculty/staff directory. 

2022-2023 SCHOOL CALENDAR
Click here for important dates for the 2022-2023 school year. Please note that all dates are tentative and subject to change.

HOLIDAY OFFICE CLOSINGS
The main office is closed on these holidays. Please plan accordingly.
September 5: Labor Day
October 21: Fall Holiday 
November 21-25: Thanksgiving
December 19-January 3: Christmas
January 16: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday
February 20-24: Mardi Gras 
April 7-14: Easter

CALCULATOR REQUIREMENTS
Students must have a TI-30XIIS scientific calculator for Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Algebra III and Business Calculus. Pre-Calculus Honors and AP Calculus students are required to have a TI-84 Plus CE series graphing calculator. We ask that you permanently label calculators before bringing them to school.

NATIONAL TEST DATE FOR ALL JUNIORS
All students in the junior class will be required to take the ACT on Tuesday, March 28, 2023. This will take place during the school day. It will 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; registration on ACT.org is not permitted for this test. Parents will be required to pay for the test on SchoolCash Online. The cost is $67. Payment is due by November 15, 2022. More details will be sent in the February and March parent newsletters.

PARKING AT SJA
Parking will continue to be a privilege for juniors and seniors only. We will continue to provide security for our school and parking lots between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. each school day. We ask parents of freshmen and sophomores to make carpool or other transportation arrangements. Juniors and seniors must have a valid driver’s license (not a learner’s permit) by Monday, August 8, to register a vehicle. If your daughter’s birthday falls after this date, her form will not be processed, and the payment will be refunded.

Follow these steps for registering your daughter’s vehicle for a parking pass for the 2022-2023 school year. 

1. Required information and payment must be completed on SchoolCash Online.
2. Submit the completed form and pay online by Thursday, August 4, at 3 p.m. to be placed in the lottery. Any spots purchased after this time will be assigned after the lottery is complete.
   - Parking lot spots are $286.25. Lot assignments and specific parking spaces will be assigned by a random lottery. Seniors will be assigned before juniors. Included in the lottery are these four lots: Synagogue/Lawyers’ Office, Kleinert, Mother Thollot House and Academy Student Center lots. Students will be able to list their lot choices in order of preference, but there is no guarantee that they will receive their first choice. If a student is assigned to a lot that is not her preference, she will not be allowed to request to a refund to park on the street. A spot cannot sit empty. If a student will not have a car to drive beginning Monday, August 8, then she must wait until she has a car to complete the form.
   - Street parking spots are $78.25 and sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Street spots are not included in the lottery. There are a limited number of spots available for street parking. For safety reasons, our goal is to have as few students parking on the street as possible.
3. Students will receive their parking assignments on Friday, August 5. During the first week of school, students will receive an email telling them when to pick up their passes. The student must bring a copy of her driver’s license to receive her parking pass. If a student does not have a license or if she has a learner’s permit, she is not eligible to get a tag and should not complete a form at this time.

SCHOOL IDS/LANYARDS
Students will be 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 SJ105 before or after school.

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

STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE
SJA carries student accident insurance through Wellfleet Insurance. All students are automatically covered, so there is no need to enroll.  

Coverage limit is $30,000 per injury from the first day of school until the last day of school. The policy pays 80 percent of the reasonable and customary expenses incurred for necessary medical, dental or hospital care (within 104 weeks for Accidental Dental expenses) up to a maximum of $30,000 for any one injury, subject to the deductible amount, excess provision and exclusions.  

Expenses incurred after one year from the date of injury are not covered. Deductible is $100, or the amount collectible from any other insurance sources, subject to the excess provisions, if applicable. Liability for school-time-only coverage will be limited to the part of expenses that is in excess of the total benefits payable by other valid coverage on an expense-incurred or provision-of-services basis. 

Students are covered for injury that occurs:

• while on the school premises during the hours and days when classes are in session and while participating in or attending any school activity, including athletics, sponsored by and under the direct and immediate supervision of the school;
• while away from the school premises, if participating in a school-sponsored, directly supervised activity, including all athletics on field trips;
• while commuting directly and without interruption to or from their place of residence and school for regular school-day sessions; and/or
• while traveling to or from any school-sponsored, directly supervised activity, including athletic events, in a school-authorized vehicle.

Please note that virtual insurance coverage extends to students participating in a school- sponsored class or activity whether at school or elsewhere. 

To receive a claims form, or if you have questions, please contact Director of Operations Linda Thompson (thompsonl@sjabr.org; 225-388-2305).

SAFETY REPORT
SJA is in compliance with federal regulations concerning asbestos. All federal guidelines for underground pipes are also in compliance. Additionally, both the sprinkler and fire alarm systems have been tested and certified for another year. 

For further information, contact Maintenance Supervisor Arthur Smith (smitha@sjabr.org).

PESTICIDE HYPERSENSITIVITY
SJA is in compliance with Act 237 and maintains a registry of students who are hypersensitive to pesticides. If your daughter has this sensitivity, please send written verification by a licensed physician and your written statement regarding her condition so we may attend to her needs. Send verification to School Nurse Marie Vukovics (vukovicsm@sjabr.org).

CARPOOL
If you are interested in forming a carpool in your neighborhood, please contact Student Life Coordinator Cristina Benigno (benignoc@sjabr.org; 225-388-2226) beginning Wednesday, August 3.

SAVE THE DATE: 10th ANNUAL SJA STICKER SCRAMBLE
On Monday, November 7, the SJA Dads’ Club will hold its 2022 Sticker Scramble at TopGolf of Baton Rouge. The Sticker Scramble is now in its 10th year and has raised more than $100,000 for enhancements to SJA. The tournament offers men’s, women’s and mixed teams all vying for the top prize. 

If you are interested in playing or in supporting this great event with a sponsorship, please click here or contact Dads’ Club Moderator Meg Gerald (geraldm@sjabr.org; 225-388-2254). You can also visit www.stickerscramble.org for more information.

Our goal is to raise $10,000 this year. All sponsorships, gifts and services are tax deductible. Rain or shine, we hope to see you on November 7 at TopGolf!

SAVE THE DATE: The Soirée
Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 17, for The Soirée, a fun night of live music, great food and drinks from some of Baton Rouge’s best restaurants, plus live and silent auctions, live music and more. The party happens in the Academy Student Center. There are many ways to be involved, and we welcome your help in making this event a success. If you would like information about joining the planning committee, volunteering, sponsorship opportunities or donations, please contact Assistant Director of Advancement Cydney Morris (morrisc@sjabr.org; 225-388-2270).

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. 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 sessions are offered between 3 and 4 p.m. on Wednesday in the library. No appointments are necessary for any tutoring.

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.

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.

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, 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. Information will be provided after school starts.
  
STUDENT RETREATS
Participation in retreats is required for graduation. Please plan accordingly. For additional information, contact Campus Minister Jade Spears (spearsj@sjabr.org; 388-2296).

Dates and locations are subject to change.
 
Senior Retreat: Sunday-Monday, October 9-10, Tall Timbers Retreat Center, Woodworth
Junior Retreat: Monday, March 27, Location TBA
Sophomore Retreat: Monday, February 6, SJA
Freshman Retreat: Monday, November 7, SJA

REQUIRED SERVICE PROGRAM
As a reminder, our service policy states that freshmen and sophomores are required to complete 15 hours of service during the 2022-2023 academic year while juniors and seniors must complete 20 service hours. 
 
To support and encourage service as a regular part of the lives of our students, we recognize those girls who go above and beyond the required service hours. Students completing 50 hours of service in one school year will receive special recognition at the end of the year. Students who complete 50 hours of service all four years are recognized at the Honors Convocation for seniors in May. 
 
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, 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.
 
The Freshman and Sophomore Service Directory and the Junior and Senior Service Directory can be found on MySJA and the Service Hour Project Moodle page. These directories include approved agencies. 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.

All students will receive a MobileServe account in August to log service hours. These accounts will be set up during a student’s Theology class. User guides for the website and cellular application will also be made available on the Service Hour Project Moodle page.

Students are able to log service hours during the summer. However, due to a change in software programs, students will not be able to digitally log hours until the fall semester. Students earning service hours before school begins in August must secure proof of hours served on agency letterhead or on St. Joseph’s Academy letterhead that can be picked up in the main office. Students will need one form per service activity. In August, students will receive further instructions on how to upload letterhead. Failure to complete service hours by the deadline will be examined on a case-by-case basis. However, the completion of SJA’s service-hour requirements is necessary to advance to the next grade level and is a requirement for graduation.

Campus Minister Jade Spears is available during all lunch periods to answer questions about service and to help students with service entries. Students may also email her at spearsj@sjabr.org or stop by the Campus Ministry office in Mother Alice Hall, room 206.

Service hours are due Friday, March 31, 2023. Please direct questions about service to Campus Minister Jade Spears (spearsj@sjabr.org; 225-388-2296).

SJA ANNUAL FUND

The SJA Annual Fund, our school’s annual appeal, is an essential component of St. Joseph’s Academy’s fundraising efforts. Last year’s appeal raised more than $700,000, supporting curriculum, faculty enrichment, facility enhancements and other areas of need. Our parents are key to the success of the Annual Fund. Last year, they contributed almost $230,000 towards the total. Thank you to everyone who partnered with us in 2021-2022.  

Outside of tuition, the Annual Fund is the second largest source of revenue for St. Joseph’s Academy. Help us to continue to grow the SJA Annual Fund and provide vital support to the school community by making a contribution during the 2022-2023 fiscal year. Upperclass parents will receive their commitment forms at Back-to-School Night on Monday, August 22. Freshman parents will receive their commitment forms at the freshman parent meeting of their choice on either Wednesday, August 24, at 6 p.m. or Thursday, August 25, at 12 or 6 p.m. The freshman meetings will be held in the Community Room of Mother Alice Hall (3080 Kleinert). Please choose your time here. 

Click here to donate online today.  

Thank you in advance for your generosity and support in continuing the tradition of excellence for our students.

For additional information, please contact Mission Advancement Director Meg Gerald (geraldm@sjabr.org; 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 in front of the new Student Commons. For more information, contact Mission Advancement Assistant Wendy Coniglio (conigliow@sjabr.org; 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. Join now on SchoolCash Online. 

We will kick off the year with our Mothers’ Club Meet & Greet for all moms on August 12, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in Mother Alice Hall. We look forward to seeing you there!

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 Father-Daughter Day and the Sticker Scramble, benefit our daughters. Are you ready to join for the 2022-2023 school year? Sign up now on SchoolCash Online to join the best group of guys on campus. 

The first 100 dads to join will have their names put into a drawing to receive two complimentary tickets and t-shirts for Father-Daughter Day in the spring. Plan now to join us for a day of fun and fellowship with your daughter and other SJA dads and daughters.

TRYOUT REMINDERS
Please be reminded that 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. Please scan the completed form, or take a picture of it with your smartphone, and upload to MySJA, Resources, Athletics before tryouts.

SWIM TEAM MAKEUP TRYOUTS
Sunday, August 7, Crawfish Aquatics, 1 p.m. This tryout is only for those who missed the June date. One-piece suits only. Please complete this tryout form in advance of August 7. Please direct questions to Coach Ali Buchart (bucharta@sjabr.org; 225-223-7382) or Coach Nan Murtagh (murtaghn@sjabr.org; 225-388-2330).  

There will be a retreat for the entire swim team on Monday, August 8, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Academy Student Center. There will be a meeting for parents and swimmers following the retreat at 5:30 p.m. in the Academy Student Center. Please direct questions to Coach Ali Buchart (bucharta@sjabr.org; 225-223-7382).

TRACK AND FIELD INFORMATIONAL/ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
Wednesday, September 7, 2022, 3-3:45 p.m., Activity Center. Please direct questions to Coach Charlie Daigle (daiglec@sjabr.org;225- 270-6029).

Please direct questions regarding the SJA athletic program to Athletic Director Erin Hart (harte@sjabr.org; 225-388-2260).

We are excited to welcome all of our families to the 2022-2023 school year. We especially welcome the class of 2026, the newest turtles! We are your headquarters for all SJA spirit items, gifts and uniform items.  
 
The Sticker Shop, run by the SJA Mothers’ Club, is your online retail store for all of your back-to-school essentials, including uniform sweatshirts, sweatpants, P.E. t-shirts and rain jackets. Please visit us for all your family’s official SJA spirit items. You can shop online and pick up your purchases curbside or have your daughter pick up during her lunch period. You can also shop inside the store.
 
We can help you get ready for fall sports! We also offer a large selection of merchandise for everyone in the family, including short- and long-sleeved t-shirts, sweatshirts, athletic shorts that can be worn for P.E., men’s polo shirts, children’s and baby t-shirts, dri-fit long-sleeved shirts, pajama shorts and pants, blankets, hats, stadium seats, vehicle decals for all sports, water bottles, SJA plaques and more.
 
OUR HOURS 
The store is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. for in-person shopping or curbside pickup from the circle driveway in front of Mother Alice Hall (3080 Kleinert Avenue). When you arrive on campus, call the Sticker Shop at (225) 388-2237, and a Mothers’ Club volunteer will bring your items to your vehicle. Additionally, students can pick up pre-purchased items on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays during their lunch periods through the Sticker Shop window.
 
We look forward to helping you show your Sticker pride!

We accept all major credit cards, ApplePay or checks made payable to SJA Mothers’ Club. Please forward any questions to stickershop@sjabr.org.
 
Visit www.sjastickershop.org to start shopping today!