SNOISSIMDA
The BSM Difference
As a premier Catholic, college-preparatory school, Benilde-St. Margaret's is committed to educating the whole student in Body, Spirit, and Mind. This deliberate and balanced approach that combines extensive cocurricular offerings, exploration of faith, and rigorous academics prepares students for success in college and life. Red Knights graduate and leave BSM empowered to make a difference in their communities. We not only create good students but good people who are ready to serve our world.
www.BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 Admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
A Catholic, college preparatory school, grades 7 - 12
Fast Facts 65% •••• •••• •••
65% Catholic students Benilde-St. Margaret’s School is a premier Catholic, 11:1 Student to faculty ratio
college preparatory school in the Twin Cities. BSM was founded in 1974 to serve a student body who came primarily from the merger of all-girl St. Margaret’s Academy
$
(founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet in Tuition Assistance $1.8 million awarded annually
1907) and all-boy Benilde High School (founded by the Christian Brothers in 1956). With a typical enrollment around 1,200 students in grades 7-12, students come to BSM from over 50 cities throughout the greater Twin Cities
1:1 Laptop Program Every student is provided an Apple MacBook Air
AP
70 +
58
22 Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
metropolitan area. BSM supports about 20% of its student body with tuition assistance totaling nearly $1.8 million each year.
Overall Enrollment | 2021-2022 1,200 students 52% male | 48% female 21% students of color
70+ Athletics and Activities Programs
Junior High | 260 | average class size 22 Senior High | 940 | average class size 22
93% of students are involved in at least one co-curricular program
Our Mission At Benilde-St. Margaret's, we educate, empower, and inspire learners within a Catholic community to lead lives of faith, achieve academic excellence, and contribute meaningfully to a global society.
Students come from 58 neighboring cities
www.BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 | admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
How is BSM From our focus on the “whole” student to our “known by name” different from other philosophy, BSM strives to create a positive atmosphere for local private schools? successful education. We provide a balanced approach to teaching and learning so that our Red Knights are not only good students but good people. Our goal is to provide a valuable experience that stays with students for the rest of their lives. How do we Our application is free and can be completed online by visiting apply to BSM? bsmschool.org/application-process. As part of the application process, transcripts will also be requested for review. Our application for the 2022-2023 school year will open Oct.1, 2021, and our priority application deadline is Jan. 7, 2022. You can visit throughout the year during one of our Open How do I learn more about the Red Knight Houses, at an event on campus, or schedule your own experience? personalized tour at your convenience. For more details contact us at admissions@BSMschool.org or 952-915-4345. My family would like to visit to BSM. How do I set that up?
We invite all prospective families to visit and experience BSM firsthand. You can learn more about on campus opportunities and schedule a visit at our website BSMschool.org/visit.
How much does For the 2022-2023 school year, tuition for our Senior High is it cost to attend $16,520 and our Junior High tuition is $14,155. Typically, annual BSM each year? tuition increases are between 1-3%. Additionally, there is a $200 registration fee and $400 technology fee.
Contact BSM Admissions to learn more: Email admissions@BSMschool.org or call 952-915-4345.
t h g i n K ions
t d s e e R 10 Qu Top
AN
ED R E SW
Is financial aid We understand that attending BSM is an investment, which is available? If so, why we make financial aid available to families (7-12) who how do I apply? qualify. TADS, our financial aid assessment, becomes available in October for the following year and can be completed online at TADS.com. I’m curious about BSM’s academic offerings. Where can I learn more?
We pride ourselves on the academic rigor we provide in both our junior and senior highs. From Advanced Placement offerings to immersion-based learning, we strive to provide a range of options for each individual student. Feel free to review both our senior high and junior high academic structures by visiting BSMschool.org/academics.
How successful 99% of Red Knights meet or exceed their predicted academic is BSM’s college potential and go off to prestigious colleges, universities, and preparatory focus? service programs across the country. This is the result of our 4-year college and career planning program led by our dedicated counseling staff. Learn more about our college preparatory focus by visiting BSMschool.org/college-resources. What co-curricular About 93% of Red Knights participate in at least one of the programs are available? 70+ athletics and activities offered at BSM. There are offerings in both the junior high and senior high. Visit BSMRedKnights.org or BSMschool.org/activities to learn more.
Are all families welcome regardless of faith and religious beliefs?
About 65% of our families identify as being Catholic; however, the BSM community is accepting of ALL families and faith traditions. Our theology curriculum and religious environment are designed to meet students wherever they may be on their faith journey.
How is BSM From our focus on the “whole” student to our “known by name” different from other philosophy, BSM strives to create a positive atmosphere for local private schools? successful education. We provide a balanced approach to teaching and learning so that our Red Knights are not only good students but good people. Our goal is to provide a valuable experience that stays with students for the rest of their lives. How do we Our application is free and can be completed online by visiting apply to BSM? bsmschool.org/application-process. As part of the application process, transcripts will also be requested for review. Our application for the 2022-2023 school year will open Oct.1, 2021, and our priority application deadline is Jan. 7, 2022. You can visit throughout the year during one of our Open How do I learn more about the Red Knight Houses, at an event on campus, or schedule your own experience? personalized tour at your convenience. For more details contact us at admissions@BSMschool.org or 952-915-4345. My family would like to visit to BSM. How do I set that up?
We invite all prospective families to visit and experience BSM firsthand. You can learn more about on campus opportunities and schedule a visit at our website BSMschool.org/visit.
How much does For the 2022-2023 school year, tuition for our Senior High is it cost to attend $16,520 and our Junior High tuition is $14,155. Typically, annual BSM each year? tuition increases are between 1-3%. Additionally, there is a $200 registration fee and $400 technology fee.
Contact BSM Admissions to learn more: Email admissions@BSMschool.org or call 952-915-4345.
t h g i n K ions
t d s e e R 10 Qu Top
AN
ED R E SW
Is financial aid We understand that attending BSM is an investment, which is available? If so, why we make financial aid available to families (7-12) who how do I apply? qualify. TADS, our financial aid assessment, becomes available in October for the following year and can be completed online at TADS.com. I’m curious about BSM’s academic offerings. Where can I learn more?
We pride ourselves on the academic rigor we provide in both our junior and senior highs. From Advanced Placement offerings to immersion-based learning, we strive to provide a range of options for each individual student. Feel free to review both our senior high and junior high academic structures by visiting BSMschool.org/academics.
How successful 99% of Red Knights meet or exceed their predicted academic is BSM’s college potential and go off to prestigious colleges, universities, and preparatory focus? service programs across the country. This is the result of our 4-year college and career planning program led by our dedicated counseling staff. Learn more about our college preparatory focus by visiting BSMschool.org/college-resources. What co-curricular About 93% of Red Knights participate in at least one of the programs are available? 70+ athletics and activities offered at BSM. There are offerings in both the junior high and senior high. Visit BSMRedKnights.org or BSMschool.org/activities to learn more.
Are all families welcome regardless of faith and religious beliefs?
About 65% of our families identify as being Catholic; however, the BSM community is accepting of ALL families and faith traditions. Our theology curriculum and religious environment are designed to meet students wherever they may be on their faith journey.
College Matriculation 2017-2021 Alabama A & M University The University of Alabama American University* Arizona State University* The University of Arizona* Auburn University Augsburg University* Baylor University* Belmont University Bemidji State University* Benedictine College Bethel University* Boston College* Boston University* Bowling Green St University University of British Columbia Brown University Butler University California Lutheran University California Polytechnic State University University of California-Irvine* University of California-Los Angeles University of California- San Diego University of California- Santa Barbara Carleton College* Case Western Reserve University* Catholic University of America Champlain College Chapman University* Clarkson University Clemson University* Coastal Carolina University* Colgate University University of Colorado Boulder* Colorado College* University of Colorado- Colorado Springs* Colorado School of Mines* Colorado State University- Fort Collins* Columbia College Chicago* Columbia University - New York Concordia College at Moorhead* Concordia University-Montreal Concordia University- Saint Paul* Creighton University* Dartmouth College* University of Dayton Denison University University of Denver* DePaul University* Drake University* Duke University Elon University* Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Southern College Florida Southwestern State College Franklin Pierce University Franklin University Switzerland
George Mason University George Washington University* Georgetown University* Gonzaga University* Grand Canyon University* Gustavus Adolphus College* Hamilton College Hamline University* Hampton University Harvard University High Point University* College of the Holy Cross* Illinois Wesleyan University Indiana University* Iowa State University* University of Iowa* University of Kansas* University of Kentucky* Lake Forest College* Lawrence University LIM College Lindenwood University Louisiana State University Loyola Marymount University* Loyola University Chicago* Loyola University Maryland Luther College* Lynn University* University of Manitoba Marist College Marquette University* University of Mary Massachusetts Institute of Technology University of Massachusetts- Amherst Mayville State University McGill University University of Memphis Miami University- Oxford* University of Miami* Michigan State University Michigan Technological University* University of Michigan- Ann Arbor* MidAmerica Nazarene University Milwaukee School of Engineering Minnesota State University- Mankato University of Minnesota- Duluth* University of Minnesota- Twin Cities* Mississippi State University University of Missouri-Columbia* Montana State University* Mount Holyoke College University of Nebraska- Lincoln* University of New England New York Film Academy New York University* North Central University* North Dakota State University* University of North Dakota*
Northeastern University* Northern Illinois University University of Northern Iowa Northern Michigan University* Northwestern University* University of Notre Dame* Ohio University Ohio Wesleyan University Oregon State University Emory University-Oxford College Pacific Lutheran University University of the Pacific Pennsylvania State University Pepperdine University* Point Loma University* Providence College* University of Puget Sound Purdue University* Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute* University of Richmond University of Rochester Rockhurst University Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Sacred Heart University* Saint Anselm College College of Saint Benedict* Saint John’s University* Saint Louis University* Saint Mary’s College* Saint Mary’s College of California Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota* San Diego State University University of San Diego* Santa Clara University* Savannah College of Art & Design Seattle University* University of South Carolina* South Dakota School of Mines and Technology* South Dakota State University* University of Southern California* Southern Methodist University* Spelman College St. Catherine University St. Cloud State University St. Olaf College* St. Petersburg College University of St. Thomas* Swarthmore College Syracuse University* The University of Tampa* Temple University Texas Christian University* The University of Texas at Austin Culinary Institute of America Ohio State University Tulane University of Louisiana Union College
United States Air Force Academy* United States Naval Academy* Unity College University of Jamestown University of North Georgia University of Northwestern University of Oregon* University of South Hampton University of St. Andrews Utah State University University of Utah* Vanderbilt University* University of Vermont Villanova University* Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Viterbo University* Wabash College Wake Forest University Waseda University Washington and Lee University Washington State University in St. Louis University of Washington- Seattle* Wellesley College* Wilberforce University Willamette University College of William and Mary* The University of Winnipeg Winona State University* University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire* University of Wisconsin- Madison* University of Wisconsin- River Falls* University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point University of Wisconsin- Stout* University of Wisconsin- Superior* University of Wisconsin- Whitewater Xavier University* York College of Pennsylvania Youngstown State University
GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT & COLLEGE/CAREER PLANNING Preparing for success starts as soon as you walk through our doors.
GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT Benilde-St. Margaret’s offers a comprehensive guidance program that includes personal and academic counseling, with emphasis placed on helping students plan for their future. The Guidance Department provides assistance beyond our Red Knights’ high school careers. BSM offers an extensive selection of collegepreparatory courses, and each student is assigned a counselor that stays with them from their very first day at BSM until they graduate.
COLLEGE AND CAREER CENTER The BSM College and Career Center is a resource center for both students and parents. The counselors and trained parent volunteers
BSM’s Guidance and College Counselors individually assist all Red Knights in setting and reaching goals for successful futures.
staff the College and Career Center and are available to assist our Red Knight families. There are approximately 200 college representatives who visit with interested students each year in the College and Career Center.
* indicates more than one student attending
BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 | admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
College Matriculation 2017-2021 Alabama A & M University The University of Alabama American University* Arizona State University* The University of Arizona* Auburn University Augsburg University* Baylor University* Belmont University Bemidji State University* Benedictine College Bethel University* Boston College* Boston University* Bowling Green St University University of British Columbia Brown University Butler University California Lutheran University California Polytechnic State University University of California-Irvine* University of California-Los Angeles University of California- San Diego University of California- Santa Barbara Carleton College* Case Western Reserve University* Catholic University of America Champlain College Chapman University* Clarkson University Clemson University* Coastal Carolina University* Colgate University University of Colorado Boulder* Colorado College* University of Colorado- Colorado Springs* Colorado School of Mines* Colorado State University- Fort Collins* Columbia College Chicago* Columbia University - New York Concordia College at Moorhead* Concordia University-Montreal Concordia University- Saint Paul* Creighton University* Dartmouth College* University of Dayton Denison University University of Denver* DePaul University* Drake University* Duke University Elon University* Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Southern College Florida Southwestern State College Franklin Pierce University Franklin University Switzerland
George Mason University George Washington University* Georgetown University* Gonzaga University* Grand Canyon University* Gustavus Adolphus College* Hamilton College Hamline University* Hampton University Harvard University High Point University* College of the Holy Cross* Illinois Wesleyan University Indiana University* Iowa State University* University of Iowa* University of Kansas* University of Kentucky* Lake Forest College* Lawrence University LIM College Lindenwood University Louisiana State University Loyola Marymount University* Loyola University Chicago* Loyola University Maryland Luther College* Lynn University* University of Manitoba Marist College Marquette University* University of Mary Massachusetts Institute of Technology University of Massachusetts- Amherst Mayville State University McGill University University of Memphis Miami University- Oxford* University of Miami* Michigan State University Michigan Technological University* University of Michigan- Ann Arbor* MidAmerica Nazarene University Milwaukee School of Engineering Minnesota State University- Mankato University of Minnesota- Duluth* University of Minnesota- Twin Cities* Mississippi State University University of Missouri-Columbia* Montana State University* Mount Holyoke College University of Nebraska- Lincoln* University of New England New York Film Academy New York University* North Central University* North Dakota State University* University of North Dakota*
Northeastern University* Northern Illinois University University of Northern Iowa Northern Michigan University* Northwestern University* University of Notre Dame* Ohio University Ohio Wesleyan University Oregon State University Emory University-Oxford College Pacific Lutheran University University of the Pacific Pennsylvania State University Pepperdine University* Point Loma University* Providence College* University of Puget Sound Purdue University* Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute* University of Richmond University of Rochester Rockhurst University Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Sacred Heart University* Saint Anselm College College of Saint Benedict* Saint John’s University* Saint Louis University* Saint Mary’s College* Saint Mary’s College of California Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota* San Diego State University University of San Diego* Santa Clara University* Savannah College of Art & Design Seattle University* University of South Carolina* South Dakota School of Mines and Technology* South Dakota State University* University of Southern California* Southern Methodist University* Spelman College St. Catherine University St. Cloud State University St. Olaf College* St. Petersburg College University of St. Thomas* Swarthmore College Syracuse University* The University of Tampa* Temple University Texas Christian University* The University of Texas at Austin Culinary Institute of America Ohio State University Tulane University of Louisiana Union College
United States Air Force Academy* United States Naval Academy* Unity College University of Jamestown University of North Georgia University of Northwestern University of Oregon* University of South Hampton University of St. Andrews Utah State University University of Utah* Vanderbilt University* University of Vermont Villanova University* Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Viterbo University* Wabash College Wake Forest University Waseda University Washington and Lee University Washington State University in St. Louis University of Washington- Seattle* Wellesley College* Wilberforce University Willamette University College of William and Mary* The University of Winnipeg Winona State University* University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire* University of Wisconsin- Madison* University of Wisconsin- River Falls* University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point University of Wisconsin- Stout* University of Wisconsin- Superior* University of Wisconsin- Whitewater Xavier University* York College of Pennsylvania Youngstown State University
GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT & COLLEGE/CAREER PLANNING Preparing for success starts as soon as you walk through our doors.
GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT Benilde-St. Margaret’s offers a comprehensive guidance program that includes personal and academic counseling, with emphasis placed on helping students plan for their future. The Guidance Department provides assistance beyond our Red Knights’ high school careers. BSM offers an extensive selection of collegepreparatory courses, and each student is assigned a counselor that stays with them from their very first day at BSM until they graduate.
COLLEGE AND CAREER CENTER The BSM College and Career Center is a resource center for both students and parents. The counselors and trained parent volunteers
BSM’s Guidance and College Counselors individually assist all Red Knights in setting and reaching goals for successful futures.
staff the College and Career Center and are available to assist our Red Knight families. There are approximately 200 college representatives who visit with interested students each year in the College and Career Center.
* indicates more than one student attending
BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 | admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
Advanced Placement
ACT
BSM offers 23 Advanced Placement courses. In 2021, there were 25 AP Scholars with an average score of 3.57, 16 AP Scholars with Honors with an average score of 3.57, and 29 AP Scholars with Distinction with an average score of 4.15.
– 188 students from the Class of 2021 took the ACT. representing 92% of the class. – The average score of the highest ACT for those students was 27, compared to the Minnesota average of 21.1 and the national average of 21.0.
AP Five-Year Score Summary
2021
Students
252
271
501
446
Number of Exams
485
466
512
77 scores 3+
Matriculation BSM’s class of 2021 went on to post-secondary education at a rate of 92% (90% to four-year programs and 2% to two-year programs).
SAT - Number of seniors taking the SAT: 31 - Percent of the Class of 2021 taking the test: 14%
– In the Class of 2021, the average ACT score for the top 25 percent was 28.
Class of 2021 ACT Summary Section
Middle 50%
Mean
English
22-33
26.8
Math
22-29
25.7
Reading
23-33
27.9
Science
23-30
26.3
Composition
23-30
26.4
National Merit In the last five years, 35 seniors have been recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, including fseven Commended Scholars and semi-finalists from 2021. All juniors take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT).
COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN • COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN • COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN • COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN • COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN Freshman Year
Freshmen Individual Meetings (Fall): Counselors meet individually with students and parents (optional) to discuss the student’s high school and college goals. Naviance Family Connection Introduction (October): Freshmen are introduced to Naviance, a college and career planning website that they will use throughout their years at BSM. Freshmen High School and College Planning (Yearlong): Counselors meet with the freshmen eight times on “Freshmen Fridays” during the school year. At these meetings, they talk to the students about how to make the most out of high school including the importance of academics, study skills, and extracurricular involvement.
Freshmen also hear from a panel of our seniors who will pass along advice and tips about how to make the most out of their years at BSM.
Sophomore Year
Pre ACT test with interest inventory (October) Sophomore Sessions: The counselors will work with the sophomores for five days throughout the year regarding college and career planning. Sophomores will also hear from a panel of our seniors in the spring regarding college visits, test preparation, and the college planning and application process. College Planning Meeting for Parents of Sophomores (January)
BSM College Fair (April): Representatives from approximately 120 colleges and universities in the United States are invited to BSM. Sophomores are invited to attend.
Junior Year
Junior PSAT/College Planning Timeline Meeting (September) ACT Prep Course (First Semester) BSM facilitates a rigorous 13week in-school ACT prep program. Each week, BSM's ACT Prep Instructor will teach 60 minutes of ACT instruction covering all frequently tested concepts and critical test-taking skills across English, math, reading, science, and the writing test.
PSAT (October): All BSM juniors take the PSAT/NMSQT. Results are mailed home in December. PSAT is the National Merit Scholarship qualifying test. Junior/Counselor Individual Meetings (February/March): The counselors meet individually with each junior during February and March to discuss the following topics: possible postsecondary options, important criteria in college selection, possible majors/career fields, college application process, etc. Junior "Building Your Future Day" (February): All BSM juniors take part in this all-day college/ career planning workshop. The students attend several sessions led by college admissions counselors, a representative from a test-prep agency, and the BSM Guidance and College Counseling Team.
Students will also receive a college/career portfolio that is worth .5 credits and a Pass/No Pass grade, and is a graduation requirement. Part of the portfolio is required attendance at the BSM College Fair in April. College Planning Meeting for Parents of Juniors (February) Letter of Recommendation Survey (due in April): Juniors fill out a survey about their high school activities and achievements, their postsecondary plans, and their goals for the future. This survey is required of any student who will need a recommendation letter from a teacher or a counselor.
BSM College Fair (April): Representatives from approximately 120 colleges and universities in the United States are invited to BSM. BSM juniors are required to attend. College Representative Visits (Yearlong) Over 200 colleges and universities send admission representatives to speak with our students in our own BSM College and Career Center each year. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are able to attend these meetings with permission from their teachers.
Senior Year
Senior Small Group Meetings (end of August): Counselors meet with all seniors in small groups during their BSM hours. The counselors address a variety of topics related to the entire college application process. Summer workshops are also offered to give seniors a head start on the college application process. College Planning Meeting for Parents of Seniors (August, September): The counselors host a college planning meeting for senior parents during the first part of September and discuss many of the topics addressed during the senior small group meetings. Parent Questionnaire (Early September): Parents of seniors will be asked to complete a questionnaire about their sons and daughters.
This questionnaire is used by the counselors when writing letters of recommendation. Individual Counselor Meetings (September/October): The counselors meet at least one time with each senior to go over their college application progress. Counselors will help make sure each student has a well-rounded list and will help organize deadlines and requirements for each of their colleges. College Financial Aid Program for Parents of Seniors (November): Parents of seniors are encouraged to attend this informative session on financial aid given by a financial aid officer from a local college or university. National Decision/Reply Date for Colleges (May 1)
Advanced Placement
ACT
BSM offers 23 Advanced Placement courses. In 2021, there were 25 AP Scholars with an average score of 3.57, 16 AP Scholars with Honors with an average score of 3.57, and 29 AP Scholars with Distinction with an average score of 4.15.
– 188 students from the Class of 2021 took the ACT. representing 92% of the class. – The average score of the highest ACT for those students was 27, compared to the Minnesota average of 21.1 and the national average of 21.0.
AP Five-Year Score Summary
2021
Students
252
271
501
446
Number of Exams
485
466
512
77 scores 3+
Matriculation BSM’s class of 2021 went on to post-secondary education at a rate of 92% (90% to four-year programs and 2% to two-year programs).
SAT - Number of seniors taking the SAT: 31 - Percent of the Class of 2021 taking the test: 14%
– In the Class of 2021, the average ACT score for the top 25 percent was 28.
Class of 2021 ACT Summary Section
Middle 50%
Mean
English
22-33
26.8
Math
22-29
25.7
Reading
23-33
27.9
Science
23-30
26.3
Composition
23-30
26.4
National Merit In the last five years, 35 seniors have been recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, including fseven Commended Scholars and semi-finalists from 2021. All juniors take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT).
COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN • COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN • COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN • COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN • COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PLAN Freshman Year
Freshmen Individual Meetings (Fall): Counselors meet individually with students and parents (optional) to discuss the student’s high school and college goals. Naviance Family Connection Introduction (October): Freshmen are introduced to Naviance, a college and career planning website that they will use throughout their years at BSM. Freshmen High School and College Planning (Yearlong): Counselors meet with the freshmen eight times on “Freshmen Fridays” during the school year. At these meetings, they talk to the students about how to make the most out of high school including the importance of academics, study skills, and extracurricular involvement.
Freshmen also hear from a panel of our seniors who will pass along advice and tips about how to make the most out of their years at BSM.
Sophomore Year
Pre ACT test with interest inventory (October) Sophomore Sessions: The counselors will work with the sophomores for five days throughout the year regarding college and career planning. Sophomores will also hear from a panel of our seniors in the spring regarding college visits, test preparation, and the college planning and application process. College Planning Meeting for Parents of Sophomores (January)
BSM College Fair (April): Representatives from approximately 120 colleges and universities in the United States are invited to BSM. Sophomores are invited to attend.
Junior Year
Junior PSAT/College Planning Timeline Meeting (September) ACT Prep Course (First Semester) BSM facilitates a rigorous 13week in-school ACT prep program. Each week, BSM's ACT Prep Instructor will teach 60 minutes of ACT instruction covering all frequently tested concepts and critical test-taking skills across English, math, reading, science, and the writing test.
PSAT (October): All BSM juniors take the PSAT/NMSQT. Results are mailed home in December. PSAT is the National Merit Scholarship qualifying test. Junior/Counselor Individual Meetings (February/March): The counselors meet individually with each junior during February and March to discuss the following topics: possible postsecondary options, important criteria in college selection, possible majors/career fields, college application process, etc. Junior "Building Your Future Day" (February): All BSM juniors take part in this all-day college/ career planning workshop. The students attend several sessions led by college admissions counselors, a representative from a test-prep agency, and the BSM Guidance and College Counseling Team.
Students will also receive a college/career portfolio that is worth .5 credits and a Pass/No Pass grade, and is a graduation requirement. Part of the portfolio is required attendance at the BSM College Fair in April. College Planning Meeting for Parents of Juniors (February) Letter of Recommendation Survey (due in April): Juniors fill out a survey about their high school activities and achievements, their postsecondary plans, and their goals for the future. This survey is required of any student who will need a recommendation letter from a teacher or a counselor.
BSM College Fair (April): Representatives from approximately 120 colleges and universities in the United States are invited to BSM. BSM juniors are required to attend. College Representative Visits (Yearlong) Over 200 colleges and universities send admission representatives to speak with our students in our own BSM College and Career Center each year. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are able to attend these meetings with permission from their teachers.
Senior Year
Senior Small Group Meetings (end of August): Counselors meet with all seniors in small groups during their BSM hours. The counselors address a variety of topics related to the entire college application process. Summer workshops are also offered to give seniors a head start on the college application process. College Planning Meeting for Parents of Seniors (August, September): The counselors host a college planning meeting for senior parents during the first part of September and discuss many of the topics addressed during the senior small group meetings. Parent Questionnaire (Early September): Parents of seniors will be asked to complete a questionnaire about their sons and daughters.
This questionnaire is used by the counselors when writing letters of recommendation. Individual Counselor Meetings (September/October): The counselors meet at least one time with each senior to go over their college application progress. Counselors will help make sure each student has a well-rounded list and will help organize deadlines and requirements for each of their colleges. College Financial Aid Program for Parents of Seniors (November): Parents of seniors are encouraged to attend this informative session on financial aid given by a financial aid officer from a local college or university. National Decision/Reply Date for Colleges (May 1)
SENIOR HIGH View the Program of Studies
2021 - 2022 PROGRAM OF STUDIES
Junior High | Grades 7-8 A Catholic, college preparatory school, grades 7 - 12
Benefits of the Benilde-St. Margaret’s Junior High experience: • Access to a premier, Catholic college preparatory school in the Twin Cities • Each 7th and 8th grade student is personally known and recognized as a valued member of the BSM community • BSM Junior High students are engaged because BSM values and delivers a balanced approach to teaching and learning • Students personally explore and develop their faith in BSM’s caring environment • Students develop individualized partnerships with faculty and staff to help Red Knights set and reach goals that shape their future • BSM Junior High students learn from a dedicated faculty who average 15 years of experience teaching in a middle school setting • Parents gain a connection to an active, engaged, and welcoming parent community • Students work on study skills, time management, and core academics to make the transition to senior high seamless • Students have designated time each week for Advisory and Wellness which provide opportunities for personal growth spiritually, socially, and emotionally
“ For me, BSM is a place where I feel safe, where people are kind and where you can be yourself. I really feel like there is a community that is caring. ”
www.BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 | admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
“I have friends at BSM I could have never imagined having at my previous school. I have met some of the nicest people and am so happy to be at such a great school.” Did you know? • BSM students and their families come from more than 58 different cities in the metro area. • BSM has more than 30 extracurricular athletics and activities programs specifically for BSM Junior High students (with potential opportunities to join high school level teams or clubs). • Over the last five years, 48% of our BSM Senior High valedictorians began their Red Knight careers in the BSM Junior High. • BSM offers retreat programs and service learning opportunities for both 7th and 8th grade students. • The BSM Junior High has a number of support services students and families can take advantage of including, academic/learning specialists, small group support, and 1:1 counselor meetings. • Students benefit from smaller class sizes (average of 21) while still sharing in the energy and spirit of a larger school environment. • The BSM Junior High uses WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) to facilitate peer-to-peer mentoring between 7th and 8th grade students. • BSM Junior High students have multiple opportunities to learn and grow outside of the classroom setting through a range of annual trip offerings and service-based experiences. • There are 60 BSM Junior High students currently enrolled in upper level classes in the BSM Senior High. • The BSM Junior High employs a full-time counselor who specializes in the middle school environment. The counselor meets with each 7th and new 8th grade student to ensure a smooth transition into BSM and to provide support and guidance throughout their Junior High experience. BSM faculty and staff members also regularly take part in professional development to strengthen their understanding of adolescent mental health.
“Benilde-St. Margaret’s School is a great place to learn with a cool environment. BSM has so many great teams, clubs, and activities. There really is something for everyone.” A Catholic, college preparatory school, grades 7 - 12
JUNIOR HIGH View the Program of Studies
2021 - 2022 PROGRAM OF STUDIES
REAL-WORLD OPPORTUNITIES
Pictured: BSM Marketing & Communications interns working alongside BSM marketing professionals during weekly meeting
BSM's EPIC Partnership Program provides a wide range of professional learning opportunities for students.
EPIC at BSM
Explore. Partner. Inspire. Connect.
EPIC is BSM's Professional Partnership Program that allows students to EXPLORE passions and career paths, PARTNER with professionals, gain INSPIRATION, and CONNECT with experts in various fields inside and outside the four walls of the classroom.
EPIC Internships
EPIC Events
Students gain direct experience working in the field both internally at BSM and externally. These are multi-day or multi-week experiences where the student brings authentic value to the company or organization. Meanwhile, the student is getting a deep dive into fields of interest.
Students attend events designed to help them explore passions and learn more about particular occupations or vocations. These are single day events either on campus or off campus.
EPIC Job Shadows & Site Visits Students explore a company or organization up close. These experiences may involve several students and employees. Generally, these experiences are 2-6 hours on a single day.
BSM IT interns completing 3D printing request
EPIC Mentorships & Classroom Engagements Students gain insights and mentoring from external partners while working on specific classroom projects. This could include visits to the classroom or a mentoring relationship via phone, email, or video conferencing.
Twin Cities Film Festival interns attending Annual Gala
Students participating in virtual reality training at REM5VR Lab
Interested in learning more about EPIC? Contact Steve Pohlen at 612-618-2419 or spohlen@bsmschool.org.
REAL-WORLD OPPORTUNITIES
BSM's RED Program applies design thinking in real-world contexts through creativity and collaboration.
RED at BSM Research. Entrepreneurship. Design. RED is a collaborative academic department offering student hands-on learning experiences that parallel the modern
"I’m excited that I can invent real things that make a real difference in the world."
workplace. RED challenges students to solve the problems that impact their world using creativity and collaboration.
Research - Students not only explore evidence and data analysis, but they learn how to ask thoughtful questions, conduct real investigations, and generate meaningful knowledge.
Entrepreneurship - Teachers foster creativity, curiosity, collaboration, and courageous risk taking. Students have opportunities to write real business plans, advocate for social change, and chart their own exciting paths towards innovation.
Design - Students utilize innovative processes like Agile and Design Thinking to empathize, define, ideate, prototype, test, and deliver. "We know the future will demand a lot from students, and the challenges they face are unprecedented. But with RED classes, students strive to find authentic ways to rise to these critical challenges." -Anne Dougherty, BSM Engineering Instructor
"How can we change the world?"
RED Classes Include: • RED Capstone • InvenTEAM • Product Design Art • Faith In Action • BioMed (AP Research) • Journalism
• Engineering • SLIP (Spanish Language Internship Program) • Coding and Agile Development • Investing and Portfolio Management • And more!
To learn more, contact Engineering Instructor Anne Dougherty at adougherty@bsmschool.org.
ATHLETICS
At Benilde-St. Margaret’s, we offer a variety of co-curricular athletic programs for our students.
We encourage all Red Knights to get involved in at least one co-curricular activity, and we are proud that over 93% of our students actively participate in at least one program. We offer more than 25 varsity athletic programs. Many of these sports have multiple teams for both senior high and junior high students. Go Red Knights! As of the start of the 2021-2022 season, BSM has won over 43 team State Championships and over 24 Individual State Championships.
BSM is part of the Metro West Conference which includes the following schools: Bloomington Jefferson, Bloomington Kennedy, Chanhassen, Chaska, New Prague, Orono, Robbinsdale Cooper, St. Louis Park, and Waconia.
www.BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 | admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
Notable Alumni: Sean Lumpkin ’88, NFL Football Player Kelly Cheeseman ’95, COO of the LA Kings (NHL) BSM Red Knight Athletics Fall Sports
Winter Sports
Spring Sports
Cross Country
Alpine Skiing
Baseball
Football
Boys’ Basketball
Boys’ Golf
Boys’ Soccer
Girls’ Basketball
Girls’ Golf
Girls’ Soccer
Dance Team
Boys’ Lacrosse
Girls’ Swimming & Diving
Boys’ Hockey
Girls’ Lacrosse
Girls’ Tennis
Girls’ Hockey
Softball
Volleyball
Nordic Skiing
Boys’ Tennis
Fall Dance Team
Boys’ Swimming
Track & Field
Wrestling Participation opportunities available for senior high and junior high
To learn more about our activities, please contact BSM Athletics and Activities Director Jerry Pettinger at jpettinger@BSMschool.org or 952-915-4346.
Devean George ’95, NBA Basketball Player and 3-time NBA Champion Andrew Alberts ’99, NHL Hockey Player and Stanley Cup Finalist Kachine Alexander ’07, WNBA Basketball Draftee Amanda Trunzo '07, Red Bull Crashed Ice World Champion Kelly Panek ’14, US Olympic Women’s Hockey Gold Medalist
A Catholic, college preparatory school, grades 7 - 12
ACTIVITIES
Red Knight co-curricular programs provide a wide range of opportunities for all students.
In support of Benilde-St. Margaret’s mission statement,
The BSM Drama Department performs three shows throughout each academic year - two in our senior high and one in our junior high
the Red Knight co-curricular programs provide a wide range of opportunities that encourage broad participation for all students, promoting values, discipline, and life skills that enable students to develop their potential in an atmosphere of fun and friendship. Over 93% of BSM students are involved in one or more sport or activity. BSM math league has won State Championships along with speech, debate, and table tennis. BSM’s Journalism program, The Knight Errant has annually won state and national awards from the Minnesota High School Press Association (MHSPA), the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA), and the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA). Red Knight Volunteer Corps (RKVC) is the biggest club with over 400 members each year. Over the past five years, 467 BSM students have earned the President’s Service Award for performing at least 50 (junior high) or 100 (senior high) hours of service during a 12-month period. Combined, these students volunteered 65,239 hours.
www.BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 | admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
In addition to our athletic programs, our activities allow students to explore their passion. Many of our alumni, like those listed below, took those passions from BSM and have had successful careers. BSM Red Knight Activities* Apotheosis
National Arts Honor Society
Band
National Honor Society
Will Steger ’62, Arctic Explorer
Bowling
National World Language Honor Society
Business Professionals of America
The Knight Cavalier (Jr. High newspaper)
Mark T. Vande Hei ’85, NASA Astronaut
CER Science Club
The Knight Errant (Sr. High newspaper)
Chess Club
One-Act Play
Choir
Orchestra
Clay Target Team
Red Knights for Human Rights
Debate
Red Knight Volunteer Corp
Destination Imagination
Reviving Daisy
Notable Alumni:
Brig. Gen. Steve Whitney '88, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Logistics, U.S. Air Force Dr. Elizabeth Rogers ’94, Neonatologist and Researcher at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Michael Fabiano ’02, World Renowned Opera Singer Erik Madigan Heck ’02, Artist and Photographer Alexandra Campion Young ’04, Attorney and Founder of the Center for Girls’ Leadership Alexandra Sifferlin ’08, New York Times Journalist Kale Walch ’12, Owner and Operator of The Herbivorous Butcher
To learn more about our activities, please contact BSM Athletics and Activities Director Jerry Pettinger at jpettinger@BSMschool.org or 952-915-4346.
Drama Drone Racing Eucharistic Ministry Engineering Club Figure Skating Club
Sailing Club Ski & Snowboard Club Speech Student Ambassadors
FIRST Lego League
Student Council
Fishing Club
Students for Human Life
Knightlife
Table Tennis
Knowledge Bowl
Ultimate Frisbee
Link Crew (Sr. High)
WEB (Jr. High)
Math League Medical Club Mock Trial Mountain Biking
Yearbook *New activities and clubs added each year based on interest and participation.
A Catholic, college preparatory school, grades 7 - 12
PARENT ASSOCIATION
The BSM Parent Association is dedicated to building a strong and supportive community for parents, students, and faculty/staff by organizing a variety of events and programs throughout the year.
The dedication of our parent volunteers allows our community to welcome new families, provide speakers for parents and students, support and celebrate our faculty and staff, organize social events, and raise money to make our programs accessible to ALL members of the BSM community. Funds raised are also used to provide scholarship opportunities for students and to assist the school with improvement projects each year. All BSM families are encouraged to attend Parent Association events and get involved with volunteer opportunities throughout the year.
For more information on the Parent Association or to get involved, please email BSMPA@BSMschool.org or call 952-927-4176.
Social Events • New Parent Junior High Picnic • Knight School • Homecoming BBQ in the Red Zone • Mother/Son Senior High Event • Father/Daughter Senior High Dinner Dance • Parent Nights Out Programs • Parent Ambassadors: Parent volunteers welcome and serve as a resource for families new to BSM. • Junior High Activities Committee: Parents help plan social events for junior high students and connect with other BSM parents. • Recognition and Appreciation: Events and programs to recognize students and faculty throughout the year. • Hospitality: Volunteers provide hospitality for school-hosted events. • Breakfast during Finals: Parent Association provides a free, nourishing breakfast for all students during finals week in winter and spring. Faith and Wellness • Prayer Line: Bi-weekly emails list prayer petitions for the BSM community. • Prayer and Share: Parent prayer and fellowship for the spiritual support of the BSM community. • Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament: Monthly and during final exams • Community Book Read • Just For Parents Speaker Series: Monthly forum for parents to learn and exchange insight from BSM. Fundraising Events • AmazonSmile • Box Tops for Education • Knightsbridge (featuring over 55 local merchants) • Spring Plant Sale Spirit Shop Open on most school days and during special events. Parent volunteers operate the in-school store selling gym uniforms, team spirit wear, and BSM merchandise.
www.BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 | admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
Tuition 2022-2023 Junior High (Grades 7-8): $14,155 Senior High (Grades 9-12): $16,520 Registration fee: $200 Technology fee: $400 Laptop insurance option: $70 Tuition can be paid annually, semi-annually, or over 10 months via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). If you have questions about tuition assistance, please contact Shané Sisco at 952-767-3121 or ssisco@bsmschool.org.
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TUITION ASSISTANCE PHILOSOPHY
Our goal is to help students and families make the cost of tuition as financially affordable as possible.
The Benilde-St. Margaret’s community recognizes the commitment and sacrifice students and families make to receive a Catholic education, and we realize the value in having an economically diverse student population. Therefore, our goal is to help our students and families meet the cost of a great education. As part of our Lasallian Mission, Benilde-St. Margaret’s awards more than $1,800,000 in financial aid to help students and families seeking a BSM education. Traditionally, about 20 percent of the student body will receive financial aid. Students and families should apply to Benilde-St. Margaret’s regardless of limited financial means. Although the school will not be able to fully meet every request for aid, we work diligently to make a BSM education affordable by providing need based tuition assistance When awarding tuition assistance, the school’s tuition assistance committee considers the family’s demonstrated need, which is the difference between what the family can reasonably be expected to pay and the cost of tuition. To determine tuition assistance, BSM uses guidelines established by the school and TADS (Tuition Aid Data Services). Tuition assistance applications are available in the fall at www.tads.com and are considered based upon completion date and funds available. Interested families are strongly encouraged to apply for tuition assistance as soon as possible as awards are given on a first come, first served basis. If available funds become limited, families will be put on a waitlist based on the completed TADS application date. Tuition covers approximately 90% of the cost of an education at Benilde-St. Margaret’s. The remainder is covered through fundraisers such as the Annual Fund and the Knight for all Seasons gala. In this manner, every student is receiving some tuition assistance.
A Catholic, college preparatory school, grades 7 - 12
www.BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 | admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
Admissions Timeline 2021-22
BSM is here to guide you through the admissions process.
2021 2022
SEP
Open House
• Open House, Sept. 9, 2021 8:30-10:30 a.m.* • Call for a tour • Fall sports begin - visit BSMRedKnights.org for game schedules
JAN
Open House
• Open House, Jan. 5, 2022 6-8:30 p.m.* • Priority application deadline, Jan. 7, 2022 • Incoming 7th, 8th, 9th grade admissions test, Jan. 8, 2022 8:30 a.m. (Make-up date is Jan. 13, 2022)
MAY
Open House
• Open House, May 19, 2022 8:30-10:30 a.m.* • New family event stay tuned! • BSM summer camps open for registration • Join us at the senior high spring musical
OCT
Open House
• Application for 2022-2023 school year opens on Oct.1, 2021 • Open House, Oct.14, 2021 6-8:30 p.m.* • Schedule an individual tour or day visit • Cheer on our fall sports or attend the fall play
NOV
Open House
• Start admissions application process • Open House, Nov. 11, 2021 8:30-10:30 a.m.* • Work on tuition assistance (TADS) application
DEC
• Schedule a campus tour or day visit • Start application process • Work on TADS application • Winter sports begin - join us in the stands
Open House
MAR
APR
• Acceptance letters sent later in the month • TADS application due Feb.15, 2022 • Schedule a visit • Winter sports in season! • Join us at the junior high musical
• Tuition assistance letters sent March 1, 2022 • 9th Grade Registration March 5, 9 a.m.- Noon (Make-up March 8, 2022) • Visit campus - schedule a tour or day visit
• Open House, April 7, 2022 8:30-10:30 a.m.* • Cheer on our spring sports teams
JUN
JUL
AUG
FEB
• Summer camps still accepting registration
• Admissions team on campus for the summer - call with questions!
• Summer camps in full swing • Still taking applications for start of year - call admissions to start the process!
• Get excited - it's the start of the school year! • Current families complete Red Knight Round-up • Fall sports tryouts are here!
*Date, time, and format could be subject to change.
There are many dates to remember and places to enter the admissions process. Please contact a member of our team for more details about the process for your individual family. Just as each student is an individual in our halls, each family is an individual in this process. Thank you for your interest in BSM.
www.BSMschool.org | 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 | admissions@BSMschool.org | 952-915-4345
Contact the BSM Admissions Team with questions at 952-915-4345 or admissions@bsmschool.org. @benildestmargarets
@bsmredknights
@bsmredknights