Eagle Magazine Fall 2011

EAGLE SECOND BAPTIST SCHOOL

FA L L 2 0 1 1 E A G L E R E P O RT

Creativity at

Second

Baptist

School

Includes: The Report, SBS Annual Report

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Eagle / The Report 2011

campus

From the Head of School

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To ensure our students’ success for the future, SBS promotes creativity in the classroom, on the field, and on the stage.

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Campus News

A summary of the latest news, events, achievements and highlights at Second Baptist School.

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homecoming

Homecoming 2011 served as a festive event to unite the SBS community through both old and new traditions.

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The Last Word

Senior Adam Hammer reflects on the benefits of his journey at SBS.

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features

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Creativity at Second Baptist School: The Cultivation of an Essential 21st Century Skill

An in-depth look at the implementation of skills for success in an ever-changing workforce.

distinguished speaker luncheon

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The sixth annual Distinguished Speaker Luncheon celebrated SBS faculty and staff and recognized alumna Dr. Amy Woodruff ’88 and alumni parents Carolyn and Joe Durrett.

Social Media

Second Baptist School

6410 Woodway Drive, Houston, Texas 77057 www.secondbaptistschool.org

alumni 53

Established in 1946, SBS provides a world-class education for the leaders of tomorrow. SBS is a learning community for over 1,000 students (PK-12) who enjoy a breadth of educational opportunities – from customized learning experiences to travel exposure to technological advancement. Nurtured by a Christ-centered community that edifies the soul and an academically rigorous environment that enriches the mind, SBS graduates are armed with the character, confidence and capability needed to succeed in the world they confront in the 21st century.

Alumni Updates

A collection of alumni news from the 1980’s, 1990’s and 2000’s.

SBS Welcomes back alumni for homecoming 2011

senior send-off

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The school’s most recent graduates celebrated the end of their time at SBS with a reflection on their senior year.

Disclaimer: Second Baptist School makes every effort to ensure that all names and listings are accurate and complete. If a name has been omitted, misspelled or listed incorrectly, please accept our sincerest apologies.

The Cover: Mary Paige Stevenson

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More than 75 alumni and alumni parents came to campus for fellowship with former classmates and teachers.

The Eagle is published by the Office of Advancement in the fall, winter/spring and summer and is mailed free of charge to students, parents, faculty, alumni and friends of Second Baptist School. For more information call (713) 365-2310 or visit our website at www.secondbaptistschool.org.

is a junior and has been attending Second Baptist School since Pre-Kindergarten. By the time she graduates in 2013, she will be able to call herself a “lifer.” She enjoys participating in several activities at SBS including Varsity Cross Country, Varsity Tennis, and the Upper School musicals. Mary Paige is also an active member of Key Club, Spanish Club, and Science Club. Outside of school, Mary Paige uses her creativity by playing the piano, tutoring Middle School students, participating in National Charity League, mentoring fourth grade girls in GAP, and working with the JUMP worship team at Second Baptist Church.

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Senior Ashley Petkas dissects the value of social media in education and society.

Waco alumni lunch

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The Office of Alumni Relations recently visited the alumni in Waco.

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the report Strategic Plan Update

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An update on the 2006-2011 SBS Strategic Plan

Annual Report

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An outline of the fundraising efforts from the 2010-2011 school year

What is

creativity?

In A Whole New Mind, Pink argues that we are moving into a Conceptual Age in which the workforce will demand creative, entrepreneurial thinking of its leaders. We have come through the Agricultural Age of the eighteenth century, which focused on manual labor and the Industrial Age of the nineteenth century, which counted on factory workers. Most recently, we have come through the Information Age, which required knowledgeable workers who were used for the radical growth of communications, transportation, and technology. Because of the great advances of the Information Age, we no longer need workers who know just facts, as anyone can access information from the Internet nearly anywhere in the world. The future workforce needs people who can process and evaluate information and then use creative skills to problem-solve.

Pink challenges workers to ask three questions in order to help determine if one’s skills are valuable: First, “Can someone overseas do our craft, art, or skill cheaper?” Second, “Can a computer do it faster?” And third, “Is what I’m offering in demand in an age of abundance?” At Second Baptist School, we need to prepare our students to answer these questions and to give them the tools to be competitive in the job market and significant contributors to our society.

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hat is creativity, and what is its place in education? Of course, I immediately think of our wonderful fine arts and theater arts programs at Second Baptist School and how artistic creativity enriches our students’ lives.

However, one typically does not think of creativity as a skill vital to our students’ success and leadership in the future workforce.

Last summer, I read two books that changed my way of thinking, A Whole New Mind by Daniel Pink and Linchpin by Seth Godin. Both discuss the value of creativity in the coming age and challenged me to reevaluate the degree to which we promote creative skills across our curriculum.

As Head of School, I feel a great responsibility to ensure that our students are fully trained to understand clearly, think deeply, judge wisely, and have the courage to live their lives on the great principles and convictions of biblical truth. So, I found myself pondering these questions: What, specifically, are we doing to help our students as they strive to answer the three questions?

Are we really preparing students here at Second Baptist School to use innovative skills so that they can be competitive in the future workforce? After much thought and prayer, I believe that we are, in fact, doing numerous things to help our students not simply answer the three questions but answer them in such a way that they will be strategically placed in a position for success. And, I believe we can give a resounding “yes” to the question of whether we are preparing our students to have innovative skills. The article “Creativity at Second Baptist School: The Cultivation of an Essential 21st Century Skill” begins to defend the answers to these questions by evaluating creativity in the classroom at SBS and by profiling some creative minds currently engaged at our school.

In Seth Godin’s book, he describes the linchpin, or the indispensable worker, which every company wants to hire. He argues that linchpins are “the essential building blocks of tomorrow’s high-value organizations” (20), and that to become a linchpin, one should “stop settling for what’s good enough and start creating art that matters. Stop asking what’s in it for you and start giving gifts

that change people” (3). Of course, this idea mirrors the mission statement of Second Baptist School. We strive to equip students to do what God has called them to do, which intrinsically involves living life with an eternal perspective. When a person lives for something greater than himself, he cannot help changing lives and doing things that matter.

I believe that each of our students and faculty members is creative and can use this skill to be the remarkable human being that God created. As Godin says, “I’ve never met someone who had no art in them, though it is buried sometimes…we need you to stand up and be remarkable. Be human. Contribute” (29).

The first chapter of Genesis reveals that God brought out of nothing the light, darkness, water, air, land, animals, and people; because we humans were created in the image of God, we are hard-wired to create. When we reflect God’s character back to Him by unleashing our creative spirit, we bring Him glory. At Second Baptist School, we want to encourage our faculty and students to take risks at initiating creativity and innovation not simply because it distinguishes our institution, but because it delights our Lord.

Second Baptist School will not settle for the status quo when it comes to equipping our students to use their natural born creativity. We want students to create. We want them to create art through their imaginative skills, and we want them to do it for the name of our God. We believe that if our students are prepared to confidently unleash their innovative abilities, they will ultimately change the world for Christ.

So, whether they paint, act, sing, problem-solve, innovate, or whatever else God has called them to do, let them do it for the glory of God.

Go create!

Dr. Jeff D. Williams, Head of School

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A t h l e t i c n e ws f i n e a r t s N e ws C a m p us n e ws

campus news

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Campus News pp 4-19

Ten Years Later: Students Remember 9/11

To commemorate the national tragedy of September 11, 2001, Lower School students and teachers participated in the annual America Supports You Freedom Walk. (continued on next page)

Fine Arts News pp 20-25

Athletic News pp 26-33

Fall 2011 5

campus news Alumni Parent Speaks About Parenting Pre-Teens

Ten Years Later: Students Remember 9/11 continued

The Freedom Walk began in 2005 to commemorate those lost and those who responded on 9/11, as well as to honor those who continue to fight to preserve our freedom.

SBS has participated in this walk since 2007.

To begin the day, students participated in their weekly chapel service, which was focused on 9/11 and the importance of patriotism.

Head of Lower School, Mrs. Tamara Gallagher, read 14 Cows for America, a children’s book about a child who lives in New York City and returns to his village in Kenya after the attacks on the World Trade Center. He shares the story of 9/11 to those in his village and together they think of a way to help the citizens of NYC. They eventually offer the gift of 14 cows and the great lesson learned is “there is no nation so powerful it cannot be wounded, nor a people so small they cannot offer mighty comfort.”

In addition to Mrs. Gallagher’s reading the inspirational story, the students sang “America the Beautiful,” and the fourth graders were showcased in a special part of the song. As they began their freedom walk, each student was

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given an American flag to wave proudly as the group circled the campus in a spirit of reflection and prayed for those affected by the attacks.

Fourth graders Claire and Carlos held special flags their teacher, Mrs. Nichols, brought from Ground Zero. The stripes on the flag list the names of all those killed on 9/11.

Convocation Unites SBS Family for First Day of School

by Annie Samuelson ‘12 The 2011-2012 Second Baptist School year began with the cherished tradition of Convocation, and the excitement of the first day of school filled the Worship Center.

Students in grades kindergarten through twelfth gathered along with parents and faculty to bless the new year in prayer and fellowship.

The ceremony commenced as Dr. Jeff Williams, Head of School, invited students from each grade level to present their respective class flags. Mr. Clay Krhovjak, President of the Parents Association, opened with a prayer of thanks to God for the wonderful opportunities available at SBS. Following the opening prayer,

the congregation was led in the reciting of the pledges to the American, Texas, and Christian flags and to the Bible.

biblical truth.” He then reiterated the importance of prayer as an avenue to learn and understand God’s agenda.

Succeeding the pledges, eighth grader Kyle Wilkinson read Exodus 19:4-6a, which encourages students to remain steadfast in God’s covenant so that they may be His treasured possession. After the scripture reading, senior Emily Harvin, Head Prefect, delivered her speech in which she emphasized the unique value of Second Baptist School as “the best in education in service to our Lord.”

She challenged the students to seek “full advantage of the opportunities SBS gives you to enhance your education, your faith, and your friendships.”

“In light of the promises of devotion (pledges), our mission, and our passion there were two reasons why SBS gathered on the first day of school for Convocation. The first reason was to reflect on the truths of Exodus 19, which portrays an inspiring respect of God,” Dr. Williams said. “The second reason was to pray.”

Dr. Williams then reflected upon the truths in Exodus 19. He highlighted the mission of SBS, that each student “will be able to understand clearly, to think deeply and to judge wisely and to have the courage to live their lives on the great principles of

Bringing the assembly to a close, SBS teachers and staff encircled the student body to pray. Mr. Lee Maxcy led the closing prayer with words of thanks for the families represented by the students and for the many blessings and talents the Lord has bestowed upon each student. The students were then dismissed to class to embark on a new journey in a new school year.

SBS Alumni Parent Pam Thompson spoke to third and fourth grade parents recently about parenting pre-teens. She stressed the importance of making time for children in the midst of busy schedules and being there for them by seeking to understand their world. Children benefit when parents are active participants in their lives; parents can build relationships with children simply by helping with homework or attending events.

Mrs. Thompson encouraged parents to begin bringing up necessary topics with their children even before they are preteens. She also suggested setting boundaries with their children’s text messaging, e-mails and social networking. Thompson pointed out that “just like you open the front door to allow your children to play with a friend, you should have the same control over who they are texting or e-mailing.”

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campus news Middle School does not have the BLUES!

Avery Johnson Speaks at SBS

by Ashley Petkas ‘12 On September 16, the Second Baptist Upper School and Middle School had the opportunity to listen to a guest speaker, Mr. Avery Johnson. Mr. Johnson played in the NBA for a total of 16 years and later went on to become the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks. He currently resides in Houston, and is the head coach for the New Jersey Nets.

π Middle School wants you to know that even though the faculty will be occasionally dressed up like the Blues Brothers this year, they do not have the BLUES! “We do not have the BLUES in MS” is the theme for fifth through eighth grades this year, as teachers work to spread joy and happiness throughout the student body.

On randomly selected days during the school year, the faculty and staff will dress up in matching t-shirts and Blues Brothers paraphernalia – think sunglasses and black top hats! During these days, the teachers will incorporate the topic of joy into their lessons that day, as a reminder of Galatians 5:22a, “But the Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy...”

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The recurring theme throughout his speech was “You can do it!”

Mr. Johnson recounted specific achievements in his life and how this powerful statement helped him along the way.

“When I was approached to play in the NBA, I had some doubts, but when the coaches told me I could do it, I quickly realized that I had every quality that it took to actually make it. I wasn’t the tallest or largest on my team, but I was a fighter and would do anything and everything I could to be a part of the team,” Mr. Johnson said.

The San Antonio Spurs retired his jersey back in 2007 because his tremendous work ethic truly had made him a great player.

Through the stories of his life accomplishments, students were motivated to pursue their own dreams and goals.

“There are three reasons you can do it,” said Johnson. “You can do it because you are loved and people believe in you, you are capable of hard work, and you are special.”

The Prefect Trip

by Ashley Petkas ‘12, Publicity Prefect On July 25, the seven selected Prefects for the 2011-2012 school year traveled to Aspen, Colorado to spend five days and four nights in the wilderness. The trip challenged the Prefects to grow as leaders, to depend upon the others as a team, and to strengthen their faith in the Lord. Dr. Jeff Williams, Head of School, led the group by navigating the trails and picking the campsite.

The Prefects were also accompanied by faculty members Mr. Brad Lane and Mrs. Andrea Prothro.

The Prefects hiked to peaks such as Trail Rider Pass and Buckskin Pass.

The highest elevation gain they experienced was 4,924 feet and 12,462 feet above sea level.

“Hiking up the steep switchbacks of the mountains was definitely a challenge, but when you made it to the top you were greeted by such an astonishing view that it made everything worthwhile,” said Head Prefect Emily Harvin.

With this experience in hand, they are ready to take on their leadership responsibilities for the 2011-2012 school year.

“We were very blessed to have the guidance and support of the faculty members throughout the trip.

They really encouraged us to step outside of our comfort zones and experience things that we weren’t accustomed to,” said Unity Prefect Kayla Chambers.

The prefects began early that Tuesday morning and finished early afternoon on the following Saturday.

During the time they spent in the wilderness, they were able not only to see some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, but also to grow as leaders and develop lasting relationships with one another.

“We all became very close. When you’re out there you really have nobody to depend on but the people in your group,” said Student Life Prefect Molly Tollett.

“We all made a conscious effort to be there for each other and without that support, it would have made the challenges of each day considerably harder.”

Mr. Johnson was able to connect with the students and captivate them with his story, while introducing them to the tools of his success. Mr. Johnson’s visit was sponsored by Just Say YES (Youth Equipped to Succeed) and the organization’s executive director, Dan Bailey.

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campus news The Tradition Continues: Freshman Retreat

by Sara White ‘15

The class of 2015 embarked on the annual freshman retreat to Carolina Creek Christian Camp in Huntsville, Texas at the beginning of the school year. The trip was packed with lots of fun activities and solid team building as we learned how to manage high school and became closer as a freshman class.

Senior Retreat Creates Lasting Memories

by Annie Samuelson ‘12

The annual Senior Retreat has become a landmark event for high school students at Second Baptist School. The first full week of school, the senior class of 2012 left the big city and headed out to Round Top, Texas, where we spent two days at Round Top Retreat.

While there, we cycled through a round robin of sessions that taught us the importance of relationships, the significance of our time at Second, and the power of prayer.

That Monday evening, we all gathered for the infamous talent show where Joseph Dean stole the show with his swift karate skills.

The next morning, Ms. Jeannene Simonton, the senior Bible teacher, delivered her Ebenezer devotional.

Each senior received an Ebenezer stone, which represents God’s devotion to Israel and provides us with a tangible reminder of his faithfulness to us. The teachers

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and administrators then prayed over each student individually and blessed the beginning of senior year.

Head of Upper School, Nathan Barber, attended the trip and reflected upon the outcome of the retreat.

As soon as we arrived, we swam in the pool, played beach volleyball, canoed, participated in teambuilding exercises with Coach Lane and more! That night, our speaker reminded us about “Right Thinking vs. Wrong Thinking.” We learned to stay away from drama in high school and to live in the present while beginning to prepare for our futures. Then, we had free time to

connect with our classmates and just have some fun! After free time, we attended nighttime chapel with Coach Orr. Bright and early on Tuesday morning, we gathered for morning chapel with Coach Lane. His talk about making the most of high school was a great way to begin our day. After chapel, we were handed off to the senior prefects.

One of the most fun, yet messiest, parts of freshman retreat was the condiment-filled Slip-n-Slide that the Prefects had in store for us.

After that, we packed our bags to head home.

Looking back on the retreat, I think it offered the perfect way for us to get to know our classmates and teachers away from the classroom and the athletic field. It certainly made us all closer, and I will never forget freshman retreat!

“The Class of 2012 Senior Retreat will be one of the highlights of the school year. The time spent getting to know our new seniors and building stronger relationships with our returning seniors makes the time away from school well spent.

Senior Retreat will always be one of the things that makes SBS unique.”

The instruction we received at Senior Retreat gave us the tools to be mentally prepared for the stresses of senior year, college, and life ahead. The teachers encouraged us to take full advantage of our opportunities and not to fear leaving the comfort of our home, but to look forward to the exciting possibilities waiting for us at college and beyond.

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campus news Teachers Attend Harkness Training at Exeter

To learn a new method for challenging Second Baptist School students, four Middle School teachers traveled to New Hampshire to attend the Exeter Summer Institute. Each class that Adam Huss, Leslie Kellam, Sarah Pruet, and Martha Rees attended was held around a Harkness table, which allowed these teachers to experience firsthand the Harkness Teaching Method that SBS adopted last year. Because the teachers were able to be in the students’ shoes, they discovered the emotions connected with participating in a Harkness discussion. Each came back with not only a new teaching strategy, but also a new sense of self.

The Harkness Teaching Method originated at Philips Exeter Academy in 1931 when philanthropist Edward Harkness suggested a way that his large donation might be used to revolutionize the classroom. Per his idea, students participate in discussion around an oval-shaped table while the teacher directs conversation through a series of critical thinking questions. This teaching method, in use at many boarding schools and colleges, truly teaches students to communicate clearly and think deeply. Because the Table fosters a safe environment in which to ask questions and share opinions, this teaching method inevitably increases student participation. However, many students must first step outside their comfort zones.

“I had preconceived notions of what I would be like around the table – it was very stressful for me at the beginning of the week. At one table, I never wanted to speak.

It was enlightening to see the table from a shy person’s perspective,” Mrs. Rees said. “It strengthened my faith as I prayed for courage, confidence and timing of when to jump in and speak.”

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Participating in Harkness discussions stretched our teachers in many ways, as they were able to experience firsthand the feelings their students will encounter during the year.

“This experience really stretched me as a teacher; I’m more sympathetic to the kids because now I know what they feel like on their first day at the Table,” Mrs. Kellam said. “Knowing what they feel like will help me to teach my students with more sensitivity because there is no place to hide around the Table.”

All of the teachers said that each Table has its own personality, as each group makes the discussion its own.

Furthermore, discussions that begin around the table often continue once the group is dismissed, leading to greater opportunities for learning and ministry.

“By the end of the week at Exeter, our table dynamics had changed drastically to form a community. Struggles and conversations at the table are all part of the learning, and you surprise yourself because you continue to brew over the topics and discussions long after the class ends,” Mr. Huss said.

“The Table validates kids’ voices. It teaches responsibility and real life skills with an eternal impact and teaches them to defend their faith.

It taught me that as a Bible teacher, I need to shut my mouth more and let the kids articulate their faith.”

Because of its social component, the Harkness Method will work especially well in Middle School. It becomes the student’s responsibility to make sure that his or her classmates are participating and included in the discussions.

“You have to be sensitive to students because they are so vulnerable. They will shut down if they are attacked or uncomfortable,” Mrs. Pruet said.

“Everyday is new in terms of what happens around the table. My time at Exeter opened my eyes to how my students feel around the table – and as a teacher, that experience has changed me for the better.”

A Night at the Harkness Table

Fifth and eighth grade parents immersed themselves in their students’ classroom during “A Night at the Harkness Table.” Parents arrived at Woodway Village for this unique experience, then they proceeded to a Middle School classroom, but did not know what to expect from the instructional time. Early arrivals were instructed to fill the chairs around the Harkness Table, and after the seats filled, other parents were asked to sit in chairs around the room so they could observe the lesson.

All attendees were handed a booklet containing a story and photos about the Vietnam War. After they all had a chance to read through the material, sixth grade English teacher Susan Williams began the discussion by asking for reactions to the article and photos.

The dialogue started slowly but parents soon found their voices.

For some, it was easy to express thoughts, but for others it was more comfortable to listen and simply observe. However, all of the parents were thoroughly absorbed in the experience and intrigued by the Harkness Method.

“I thought it was great that parents were able to experience what our students go through,” Jon Guthrie, Head of Middle School, said. “Much like the students, we had parents who were more comfortable talking, and others who were shy. In the end, I think they all clearly understood the importance of learning around the Harkness table and speaking up to let their voices be heard.“ Once the discussion concluded, parents had the opportunity to ask Middle School teachers questions about the Harkness Method and its implementation in the classroom.

Sixth and seventh grade parents will be invited to participate in “A Night at the Harkness Table” during the spring semester. Don’t miss this amazing event!

Soaring Eagles Class Visits Veterinarian Office

The Soaring Eagles class ended its unit on pets with a visit to a pet store and a veterinarian’s office so they could ask questions and learn more about their favorite animals.

Students were excited to meet a woman waiting on her dog’s medicine who allowed the students to pet her golden retriever.

The students were taken into a treatment room during the visit.

Each of the eight students asked the vets a question. Students asked “Why do dogs sleep a lot?” and “Why do dogs chase their tails?”

After they asked their questions, students were able to take pictures with a Labrador, French Bulldog, and Cocker Spaniel. This was especially fitting because Mrs. Jobe had taught the students about small, medium and large before going to the vet’s office.

After picture time, the students were allowed to see the raised tub and dryer cages for washing and drying the dogs. When the class left, the vets gave each student a handful of stickers to take home.

The students had fun visiting the vet and would love to go back!

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campus news With this experience in hand, the SBTV news crew has a better understanding of how to create a news show and a greater appreciation for the vital nature of each role.

Eighth Grader Spends Summer with the Marines

Live in 3…2…1…

by Ashley Petkas ‘12 It is often said, “If you want to find the news, you must go directly to the source.” This summer, the SBTV crew and I experienced news-making first hand through an exclusive tour of the KPRC Channel 2 News Station. Mrs. Janell Luce, faculty member and former employee of Channel 2, was kind enough to set up the tour through her contacts at KPRC. We were amazed to see the amount of people and effort it took to make a single news segment possible.

Each role played a distinctive part in the production and with the absence of merely one person, the system could be disrupted.

During our tour of the actual broadcasting room, anchor Lauren Freeman came in for a breaking news update. After she presented the news, we were able to ask her a few questions before we moved on to the next room. It was amazing to meet a real anchor and watch how professionally she handled being thrown out on the news desk with only a second’s notice.

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by Ashley Petkas ‘12 Summer break is about taking advantage of free time and doing enjoyable activities. For eighth grader Sam LeVrier, this meant attending the Marine Military Academy Summer Camp in Harlingen, Texas. For one month out of the summer, students come to experience the actual activities that have been considered tradition within the Marine Corps family.

Activities include a mud course, a paint ball competition, an obstacle course, and an aerial space program.

“My favorite activity was the Aerial Space Program,” Sam said. “With an instructor by my side, I actually got to take control of the aircraft and conduct the landing.”

Standard procedure at the MMA summer camp is far from that of a typical camp. An average day for a camper consists of waking up at exactly 5:55 a.m., attending a physical training class, eating breakfast, cleaning the barracks, and then participating in his chosen activities.

The camp’s main objective is to strengthen each individual both mentally and physically as he undergoes a series of challenging tasks. By completing each activity, campers often feel a sense of pride and accomplishment that translates into their lives apart from camp.

“This experience was unlike anything else I have ever done,” Sam said. “I am so happy I attended the camp this summer and I can’t wait to go back.”

Middle School Shows Extreme Eagle Spirit

by Lindsey Williams ’16 The Middle School students had a wild and spirited Extreme Eagle Pep Rally. All the students showed their SBS pride by dressing up in blue and gold and screaming as loud as they could at the Middle School pep rally.

Fun prizes were handed out for best costumes and most school spirit. It was the first pep rally of the year and a great success!

As a middle school cheerleader, I had a great time leading the crowd. It was such a fun experience to play games with the students and perform cheers and dances to get them excited. The mascots were a huge hit with their funny dance routine.

During the class yell competition, each grade had a chance to compete to be the loudest and most spirited grade. The final round was between the fifth and eighth grades. Eighth grade won the spirit contest for showing the most Eagle pride! The Middle School students loved the Extreme Eagle Pep Rally, and everyone demonstrated strong SBS spirit.

Fifth Grade Fun at Pine Cove

π Fifth grade students visited Pine Cove Outback in Columbus, Texas for a day full of adventure! They eagerly participated in team building activities that brought them closer together as a class. The fifth graders were challenged by the ropes course, which they loved even though they thought it was difficult.

Climbing the 50 foot rock wall, students were pushed mentally and physically in order to reach the goal. Other favorite activities included the power pole, the breath taker, and the zip line. The Class of 2019 united while playing kickball, learning archery and having fun on the Superman Swing.

The new Middle School students finished the day on a high note as they boarded the buses. Memories of the trip will help to bond the fifth graders as they begin their journey through Middle School together.

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campus news Students and Teachers Gather for Prayer

by Kayla Chambers ‘12 At the end of September, the Second Baptist School community gathered around the three flagpoles for a national prayer day.

See You at the Pole, the global day of student prayer, began in 1990 with ten students who began a movement to pray at their school.

Twenty years later, millions pray on their campuses on the fourth Wednesday in September. This student-led event is simply a prayer rally where students gather before school by the flagpoles to lift

up their friends, nation, families, school, and most importantly, God.

our nation, and protection for our families.

Each year, the ministries that sponsor See You at the Pole events designate a different theme and scripture. This year, the theme was “Converge” and the scripture was Matthew 18:20, which says, “Whenever two or three of you come together in My name, I am there with you.”

After the event, senior Joshua Kee said, “See You at the Pole is an amazing event because it allows the community to offer thanks to God corporately. It is always an inspirational experience and I really enjoy coming to it every year.”

The Head Prefect, Emily Harvin, and the Unity Prefect, Kayla Chambers, led the students and teachers at SBS in prayer. Emily prayed for a blessed school year, the leaders of

History Comes to Life for Fourth Graders Fourth grade students visited the Sam Houston Memorial Museum in Huntsville where they experienced life in the 19th century.

π Sharing the Spirit: SBS Cheer Clinic

by Annie Samuelson ‘12 The Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Middle School cheerleading squads led the annual cheer clinic for lower school girls in grades K-fourth. As a fifth year cheerleader at SBS, I look forward to this tradition as an opportunity to bridge the age gap and to forge meaningful relationships with the younger girls. It was an energized afternoon as we taught the girls cheers, jumps, and a dance showing school spirit.

Later that night, the girls premiered their new routines on the field at the Kinkaid football game. I always love being a part of cheer clinic because I hope to teach the younger girls that cheerleading is about being a leader behind the scenes as well as in front of the crowd. The physical skills are only a small part of the job; cheerleading at SBS is really about having the heart to serve and encourage others.

“I liked getting to see the houses and what they looked like,” said Caroline.

While at the museum, students toured two of Sam Houston’s homes, observed cooking over an open fire in an outdoor kitchen and enjoyed fresh popcorn made over hot coals.

“The popcorn they made over the fire was very tasty,” said Emma.

During another stop on their tour, the students learned about the variety of chores given to children, which included gardening, building, and hunting.

“I learned that Sam Houston’s funeral was held in his house. I also liked learning about the guns,” said Luke.

To conclude their adventure, the students watched a short video about Sam Houston’s life and then enjoyed a picnic lunch. The fourth grade students are looking forward to continuing their study of Texas History.

Technology in Lower School Classrooms

As part of the campus-wide movement towards Apple computers and the 1:1 laptop program, each Lower School classroom has an iPad to further integrate technology into the curriculum. These iPads expand students’ learning experiences by giving them the ability to engage in many interactive educational tasks.

Students in first through fourth grades use iPads to take Accelerated Reader tests, practice spelling words and math facts, create stories, and make film presentations. Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students are able to learn through playing games, reading aloud, and practicing critical thinking using iPads.

Teachers will also be able to use the iPads as a camera in order to upload pictures and videos of the kids in action to the School website.

The iPads enhance center time and provide students with new learning opportunities and easy access to technology in their classroom.

Mother Goose Visits Early Childhood Program Nursery rhymes came to life for Soaring Eagles, Pre-Kindergarten and Bridge classes when Mother Goose visited Second Baptist School. Complete with animation and props, she sweetly sang favorite songs such as “Humpty Dumpty,” “The Cow Jumped Over the Moon,” and “Rock-a-Bye Baby.”

The highlight of Mother Goose’s visit was when she showed the students her “pet goose.” It seemed to have a mind of its own, as it would swivel its head around and come to life, even when Mother Goose insisted it wasn’t a real goose! The students were laughing so hard and enjoyed every moment of singing along with Mother Goose.

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campus news National AP Scholar Ben Pfeffer AP Scholar – Scored 3 or higher on 3 or more exams AP Scholar with Honor – Scored 3 or higher on 4 or more exams with at least a 3.25 average on all exams taken AP Scholar with Distinction – Scored 3 or higher on 5 or more exams with at least a 3.5 average on all exams taken

Six Seniors Recognized

by National Merit Corporation

Six members of the Class of 2012 have received recognition from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for their outstanding scores on the 2011 PSAT. These scholastically talented seniors were chosen from the 1.5 million students who entered the 2012 scholarship competition by taking the 2010 PSAT. “We are very proud of these bright students. Their National Merit recognition signifies not only exceptional academic ability but also an outstanding level of preparedness after years of hard work at SBS. These students certainly deserve our applause for their accomplishments,” Nathan Barber, Head of Upper School, said.

One percent of students who took the exam are named semi-finalists.

These students will continue in the National Merit scholarship competition and must demonstrate a high level of both academic and extracurricular accomplishments in order to become National Merit Finalists.

National Merit Semifinalists Josh Kee SaraGrace Lee

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NMSC also recognizes commended students who placed among the top five percent of students who took the PSAT. National Merit Commended Preston Dow Josh Dunegan Nick Madole In the National Hispanic Recognition Program, NMSC recognizes the top two percent of all Hispanic/Latino students who took the 2010 PSAT. National Hispanic Recognition Program Billy Arendt

SBS Announces 29 AP Scholars

Second Baptist School is proud to announce that 29 students in the Classes of 2011 and 2012 have earned Advanced Placement Scholar Awards for their performances on the AP Exams.

“The distinction of AP Scholar is a testimony not only to these students’ work ethics, as they have engaged in our most challenging courses, but also to their academic ability, as they’ve excelled in these courses. We’re proud of their accomplishments in the classroom, and we look forward to seeing how their hard work pays off in their future endeavors,” Nathan Barber, Head of Upper School, said.

Class of 2012 AP Scholars Sophie Adickes Billy Arendt Elyse Elsenbrook Adam Hammer Sam Mannetti Sam Miller Annie Samuelson AP Scholar with Honor Daniel Cho Josh Dunegan Emma Raymond AP Scholar with Distinction Joshua Kee Class of 2011 AP Scholars Erica Burton-White Julien Person AP Scholar with Honor Katie Lakenmacher AP Scholar with Distinction Mitzy Ayala Alexander Chae Danielle Cope Joey Daniels Bethany Dodson Regan Fuerst Ellen Geis Kristen Gunn Sarah Hamilton Garrett Luce William McMichael Ben Pfeffer Emmy Plezia Ryan Pool Zach Wallace

National AP Scholar – Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams

College Day at SBS

by Colette Cope ‘13 Upper School students and eighth graders recently participated in the annual College Day at Second Baptist School. With such a wide variety of colleges and universities represented, College Day allowed SBS students to learn more about small and large campuses, in-state schools, out-of-state schools, and colleges abroad. Over 100 representatives came to campus to showcase their schools, which included University of Texas, Texas A&M University, Louisiana State University, Duke University, Harvard University, and University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

“I really enjoyed the breakfast because it allowed me to connect on a more personal level with the college representatives,” Ashley Petkas, senior, said. “I was given the opportunity to ask all of my college questions and I definitely took advantage of it.”

Following breakfast, Upper School students made their way to the college fair in Woodway Village. Students were given a considerable amount of time to visit with representatives to learn more information about particular programs their colleges offered.

Each year, College Day provides an opportunity for students to learn about the types of schools that interest them. This time is particularly important for the juniors and seniors, who are able to ask particular questions about

each school’s academic programs, extracurricular activities, and campus life.

Once College Day officially concluded, the representatives were treated to a wonderful lunch provided by Key Club members and generous donors. Mary Paige Stevenson, Key Club officer and student planner of College Day, did an outstanding job organizing lunch and inviting representatives of the colleges to attend College Day. “It was so amazing to hear the responses from the college representatives. One of the representatives who had been on the road was especially appreciative of the buffet lunch and all the services the students and Key Club members gave them,” junior Mary Paige said.

“I enjoyed College Day because I was able to compare and contrast different colleges in the same venue. Learning about what makes each school unique helps me to make an informed decision about where I want to build my future and spend the next four years of my life,” junior Preston Williams said.

Seniors and their parents enjoyed breakfast with college representatives of their choice during the College Day Breakfast.

This was an excellent opportunity to visit with college representatives and learn more information about a specific school.

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And Never Been Kissed The Second Baptist School Department of Fine Arts recently presented And Never Been Kissed – a comedy in three acts. Set in the 1920’s, the youthful comedy features a group of young girls as they float through adolescence and romanticize the world around them. (continued on next page)

Fall 2011 21

fine arts news And Never Been Kissed continued The play stars Flory Patterson (Sophie Adickes) and her “best and truest friend” Millie Myers (Annie Samuelson) as Flory dreams of finding her one true love before turning sweet sixteen. Throughout the play three different young men capture Flory’s attention, and someone even courts Flory’s mom (Bethannie Greco). Two particularly funny comic characters were Flory’s little sister, Mavy Patterson (Meagan Maloney), and her sidekick Betty Ferguson (Katherine Herrington), who stopped at nothing to interrupt Flory’s quest for true love.

Congratulations to the cast of And Never Been Kissed!

Assistant Director: Christon Nichols Millie Myers.................. ANNIE SAMUELSON Understudy........... Alli Motley Flory Patterson............. SOPHIE ADICKES Understudy........... Bailey Wilkerson Gilmore Picker............. MATT COX Understudy........... Preston Dow Mrs. Patterson.............. BETHANNIE GRECO Mr. Peabody................. MICAH ADICKES Understudy........... Sam Mannetti Mavy Patterson............ MEAGAN MALONEY Understudy........... Brittainy Gutierrez Betty Ferguson............. KATHERINE HERRINGTON Understudy........... Emma Raymond Charlie McCulley.......... JOHN VAN ANGLEN Understudy........... Sam Mannetti Douglas Schaffer.......... KYLE HENDRICK Understudy........... Ethan Hackett Phillip Peabody............ ETHAN HACKETT Understudy........... Kyle Hendrick Christine Roberts......... KENDALL LOONEY Understudy........... Lauren Whitaker Gertrude Mason.......... KASEY SISSON Understudy........... Hannah Huguenard Christian Endeavor: EMMA RAYMOND BRITTAINY GUTIERREZ ALLI MOTLEY BAILEY WILKERSON LAUREN WHITAKER PRESTON DOW CAROLINE BOYD HANNAH HUGUENARD SAM MANNETTI RACHEL BLAKES SAM DUNEGAN

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fine arts news

November 18-20 • C Gym Visit secondbaptistschool.org/fineartsnews to purchase tickets

Students Shine at Fall Fine Arts Showcase

The Fall Fine Arts Showcase is an annual tradition at SBS where Upper and Middle School students present their varied artistic talents to an eager audience.

This year’s program started off with high energy, as the Middle School choir took the stage to sing “I Say A Little Prayer” and “Ease on Down the Road.” Outfitted in colorful costumes, the all-girl choir sang and danced with liveliness. To continue the momentum, the Eagle Band performed three numbers, which included “Near My God to Thee,” and was arranged by Director of Instrumental Music, Mark Lewis.

The freshmen Choir then presented a beautiful rendition of “For the Beauty of the Earth,” as well as two other vocal arrangements.

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Continuing the program, Vision Choir began its presentation with an African piece called “Bonse Aba,” during which seniors Kayla Chambers and SaMaya McCalpin wowed the audience with their beautiful solos. An a cappella version of “Shut De Door” was sung by the men, and was followed by the ladies singing “All Things Bright and Beautiful.” Together, the men and women of Vision Choir sang “Be Thou My Vision” and then collaborated with the freshmen choir to sing “Praise His Holy Name” to conclude the showcase.

The members of the audience were delighted when a group of Middle School students presented a sneak peek of Alice in Wonderland, Jr., the upcoming Middle School musical.

The extensive art exhibit in the foyer and musical presentations in the Sanctuary showcased the many talents of our students and impressed all who attended this event.

Mark your calendars now – students are looking forward to their Christmas concerts on Monday, December 5 (vocal) and Tuesday, December 6 (instrumental).

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Football Competes in Playoffs Varsity football had a competitive season, finishing 7-5 overall and 6-2 in district. They came in third in district, and traveled to Austin for the area round of playoffs. After a tough 14-10 loss to Hyde Park, the Eagles ended their memorable season. (continued on next page)

Fall 2011 27

athletic news classes that challenged the squads to perform to the best of their abilities. The cheerleaders were also taught how to be better school and community leaders through leading by example.

At camp, junior Margaret Hartman was elected the new chaplain of the 2011-2012 Varsity cheer squad, and Harper McGee was chosen as the chaplain of the Junior Varsity squad.

In reflection, Margaret said, “Cheer camp was so much fun! Our squad really bonded this year. It took every cheerleader to win all the awards we did.”

Football Competes in Playoffs continued

Throughout the fall, the varsity players had exciting victories over tough district opponents Fort Bend Christian and Westbury. During the October 14 game at home, the team had a “pink out” to raise awareness for breast cancer.

The team wore pink wristbands and tape, and the cheerleaders showed their support with pink hair ribbons and pompoms. Youth Against Cancer, a club in the Upper School, handed out pink ribbons throughout the day, and the student body dressed in pink.

Volleyball Ends Season in Final Four

The Varsity Volleyball Team had a tremendous year, and met one of their goals by making it to the Final Four at the TAPPS State Tournament. The Eagles placed high enough in the district tournament at the end of the season to qualify for playoffs.

Working hard and encouraging one another during the area playoffs, they beat top-seeded San Antonio Christian at their gym in three games. Next, they conquered regionals with a 3-0 win over Tyler All-Saints. Although they lost to Fort Worth Christian at the state tournament, the Eagles were excited about their final four appearance. Seniors Sara Bresser, Megan Rogers and Samantha Strother led the team this year.

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Cross Country Runners Improve Throughout Season

The Varsity Cross Country team had a successful season as the runners competed in district and then went on to qualify for the State Meet in Waco. At the district level, junior Tarik Tyler placed sixth in the boys’ division and freshman Victoria Hartman placed eighth in the girls’ group. Sophomore Annie Pitner also earned a medal in a meet this season. Overall, both the SBS boys and girls teams finished fourth place in district.

At the State Meet, the team ran hard and represented SBS well.

The weather was beautiful as each runner competed in his or her race, and ten of the fourteen runners achieved their personal best times of the year. It was a great way to end the season!

Cheerleaders Begin Season at UCA Camp

by Annie Samuelson ‘12, four-year Varsity cheerleader This past summer, the SBS Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Middle School cheer squads and mascots ventured to Galveston Island to attend UCA Cheer Camp at Moody Gardens.

The cheerleaders at Second Baptist School look forward to the tradition of cheer camp every year because it is a time set aside for the squad to bond and learn new skills. It was an action packed week filled with dance, jump, cheer, and stunt

The squads won many awards at camp, including first place for their home dance (Varsity and MS), Camp Champs – Extreme Routine (MS) and second place Camp Champs – Cheer (JV). The mascots and all three squads won the Traditions Award, which is given to a program that shows the most school spirit.

The teams are most proud of winning the Leadership Award.

The Leadership Award is voted on by the campers, and is given to a team that truly exemplifies what it means to be a cheerleader.

The cheerleaders were humbled to have been chosen by their peers for this coveted award.

Several SBS cheerleaders were also named All American Cheerleaders during tryouts the third day of camp.

Elyse Elsenbrook (Varsity), Miranda Girouard (Varsity), Meredith Kim (MS), Morgan LePori (JV), Courtney Lewis (Varsity), Alli Motley (Varsity), Elizabeth Plezia (JV), Schlea Thomas (JV) and Robyn Whitaker (JV) were all chosen as All Americans.

Making camp history, two SBS cheerleaders were also named Jump-Off Champions during the annual jump competition the second night of camp. Out of the 300 plus cheerleaders at camp, Robyn Whitaker took home the prize for the freshman and below category and Miranda Girouard swept the sophomore and above division.

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athletic news

Homecoming Brings SBS Family Together

by Ashley Petkas ‘12 In late September, Second Baptist School celebrated Homecoming.

The week’s festivities included themed dress days, the making of spirit signs, an all school pep rally, an Upper School dance, and the highly anticipated football game against Lutheran South High School.

“My favorite part of Homecoming week is the themed dress days because it allows the student body to express themselves through creative and fun outfits,” said senior SaraGrace Lee. The themes for the week included: grandparent’s day, alter ego day, and the famous class colors day.

During the week, Upper School students came together to create posters to represent their individual grades as well as some clubs and organizations. A panel of judges ultimately determined that the sophomore class had the most creative sign.

To officially kick-off Homecoming, Middle and Upper School students enjoyed a festive lunch catered

by Baker’s Ribs. Following the spirit lunch, the entire student body had the chance to show their school spirit at the all school pep rally. Students and parents attending the pep rally were entertained with a special homecoming dance performed by the eighth grade, junior varsity and varsity cheerleaders, and a fun, choreographed mascot presentation. Keeping the tradition of class yells, each grade level

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competed to win the competition within their school level by shouting the SBS cheer the loudest.

Congratulations to fourth, seventh, and eleventh grades!

All the festivities during the week led up to the big game on Friday against Lutheran South High School. Students and parents from the entire SBS community filled the stands to cheer the SBS Eagles on to victory. Everyone attending enjoyed the Homecoming Dinner that was provided by various Houston-area food trucks. Lower School students had a blast playing on the inflatables during the game, which were provided exclusively for them!

During halftime, five cars, each holding a member of the senior homecoming court, drove around the field for a grand entrance.

Parents of each nominee waited to escort their daughter onto the field where the Homecoming Queen was announced. Senior Sophie Adickes was crowned as Homecoming Queen.

Members of the Homecoming court included: Freshmen – Madeline Freeman, Victoria Hartman, Parker Plato Sophomores – Kayley Looney, Elizabeth Mayes, Harper McGee Juniors – Margaret Hartman, Emily Horner, Paige Plato Seniors – Sophie Adickes, Sara Bresser, Courtney Lewis, Annie Samuelson, Molly Tollett

Home coming 2011 More than 75 alumni and alumni parents attended the Third Quarter Alumni Party. Held on the deck of Jane’s Grill – with a perfect view of the football game – this group enjoyed catching up with one another and with SBS teachers and staff members. The party was catered by Marble Slab and was a great time for all of the former Eagles!

After the game, where the Eagles won 47-7, the students piled into the gymnasium for the first ever oncampus Homecoming dance.

“I was really excited to get to experience a Homecoming dance before I graduated,” said senior Morgan Cummins. “It was a lot of fun and a huge success!”

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Homecoming 2011

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Fall 2011 33

T

he majestic grace of the Grand Canyon.

The radiant colors of an ocean sunset.

The grandeur of the Rocky Mountains.

From God’s palette originate sublime images that etch wonder and beauty upon our hearts.

The story of creation in the book of Genesis reveals that God is the author of everything creative. The first chapter resonates with the awe-inspiring glory of God manifested through His creation. Later in the Old Testament, the passage in Jeremiah 10:12 underscores this ultimate revelation of creativity: “But God made the earth by his power; he founded the world by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens by his understanding.”

This God-given quest for creativity in the hearts of humans is reflected throughout the ages from the ingenuity of the Egyptian pyramids to the engineering marvel of the space shuttle. Creativity abounds and enriches our lives, and this call to creativity is essential for every individual to embrace. Regardless of whether one favors the arts, the sciences or some other area, the ability to create and inspire is a gift and should be pursued with passion, perseverance and prayer.

This issue of the Eagle celebrates the gift of creativity.

Second Baptist School embraces this gift and makes a strong commitment to incorporate creativity into every aspect of the educational experience, providing students with vast opportunities to master this essential skill. From athletics to the arts to academics to spiritual life and leadership, Second Baptist students are sure to discover their creative quests.

Creativity at Second Baptist School: The Cultivation of an Essential 21st Century Skill

by Johannah Kersey

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creativity... an essential 21st century skill

Creativity in the

Marketplace

I

n the bestselling book Linchpin, Seth Godin makes the argument that bringing a creative approach to the workplace is a critical element today. This creativity differentiates between a follower and leader. In fact, Mr. Godin assigns the ability to create and invent as the highest function in the hierarchy of value (see illustration below).

Taking this concept a step further, he argues that in order for people to significantly matter in their profession, they must function as linchpins. He defines linchpins as “the essential building blocks of tomorrow’s high-value organizations.”

He goes on to explain that “linchpins are indispensable, the driving force of our future” (20). While the old economy was built on loyal workers who followed directions in a factory-like fashion, the new system requires workers “with a genius for finding a new answer, a new connection, or a new way of getting things done.” (8).

At Second Baptist School, the faculty and administration are committed to fostering and educating linchpins who serve as game changers in their chosen professions.

Linchpins in Action

Many inspiring stories exist about individuals and teams who were able to think creatively and strategically to help invent solutions that enhance lives and even solve significant problems in society, such as medical conditions. In essence, they have served as “linchpins,” making a tremendous impact on the way individuals function and interact. The following stories highlight some of these visionaries, problem solvers and inventors who have made valuable contributions to society through their ingenuity.

Rescuing the Chilean Miners In 2010, a four-person NASA team led by Dr. James Michael Duncan joined the rescue mission to save the 33 men trapped 2,300 feet below the Earth’s surface in the copper mine collapse in Chile. While Dr. Duncan certainly relied on his vast knowledge and experience operating the space station, he also used his imagination to draw parallels between space and a mine to anticipate problems. Among other suggestions, Dr. Duncan came up with the idea of structuring a hierarchy among the miners to establish an organized community. Through his creative, strategic recommendations, he and others helped these men work together to survive.

Separating Siamese Twins

The Hierarchy of Value

(Godin 25)

Connect

Sell

Produce

Grow

Hunt Lift

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Create/Invent

Dr. Ben Carson of America’s topranked Johns Hopkins Hospital became the first doctor to successfully separate conjoined twins connected at the back of the head. Previous operations to separate twins joined in this way had failed. Carson led a 70-member surgical team to undertake this daunting operation. The twins were successfully separated and now live independently. While Dr. Carson undoubtedly utilized his years of medical training during the procedure, he also used

a degree of creativity in approaching this operation from a different perspective. “It’s very difficult to make progress without taking risks,” Dr. Carson said. “You have to do it in an intelligent way.”

Dr. Carson’s other accomplishments include serving as Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine for over 25 years and being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, by President George W. Bush in 2008. Today, Dr. Carson and his wife, Candy, dedicate themselves to expanding the reach of the Carson Scholars Fund. Their dream is to name a Carson Scholar in every school within the United States.

Inventing the iPad The creation of the revolutionary iPad began with the idea of creating a low-cost notebook computer. During a brainstorming session, Jonathan Ive, senior vice president of industrial design at Apple, proposed doing away with the keyboard and using a multi-touch interface. His bold, nontraditional suggestion launched a novel idea. Jonathan, along with Apple CEO Steve Jobs and the industrial design team, began experimenting with different screen sizes and shapes until they decided on one with the most simplicity. By doing away with all the buttons on a keyboard, the Apple team was able to invent something that would appeal to consumers who wanted an electronic tool easy to grab on the run and intuitive to use. Before the iPad hit the market in April 2010, there was lots of excitement but also a fair amount of criticism. Critics claimed that it was simply a large iPhone. However, it turned out to be an overnight success. In less than one month, Apple sold more than fifteen million iPads. The company’s “Think Different” ad campaign epitomizes the creativity required to invent such a magical tool.

Perhaps one of the most successful outcomes of the iPad was the hundreds of thousands of apps that soon became available to users. Specifically, some of the educational apps have helped educators make huge leaps in engaging and motivating students to learn.

Creativity in

Education

O

ver the past decade, a strong current has caused a ripple effect in the education system. Through studies and assessments, educators have come to realize the importance of arming students with a skill set that will help them thrive in a technologically-driven economy. Skills like creativity and critical thinking can not be generated by a computer. It is no longer acceptable to toss students out into the world with a brain full of facts that can be easily accessed through Wikipedia.

Students need to know what to do with these facts and why this information matters. The world is in need of creative thinkers, people who can approach old problems in new ways. As students face a very different economy, these higher-level skills have become even more valuable for marketability. Creativity is now a leading skill in high demand that can make all the difference in a student’s educational experience and future career opportunities.

Where Has Creativity Gone?

In August 2011, an article entitled “Are Today’s Youth Less Creative & Imaginative?” appeared in Live Science. The writer reports on a 2010 study of about 300,000 creativity tests dating back to the 1970s that found creativity has declined among American youth. “Children have become less able to produce unique and unusual ideas. They are also less humorous, less imaginative and less able to elaborate on ideas,” said Kyung Hee Kim, a creativity researcher at the College of William and Mary.

It is no surprise that teaching designed for the purpose of boosting standardized test scores is partly to blame. The classroom has become a place where students try to come up with the answers that will please the teacher. “The interaction between students and teachers has become one of intellectual

“Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.”

Albert Einstein “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”

Steve Jobs “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”

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creativity... an essential 21st century skill

hide-and-seek,” said Ron Beghetto, an educational psychologist at the University of Oregon. Instead, students need to be given the opportunity to think creatively through problems before reaching an answer.

The Partnership for the 21st Century has designated creativity as an essential skill.

Phil Schlechty, author of Schools for the 21st Century, notes, “Too many children leave school without having developed the skills, attitudes and habits of mind that will equip them for life in the 21st century” (2).

Snapshots of

Creativity

at Second Baptist School

S

econd Baptist School is ahead of the game. Our School has long recognized the need for creativity at every level of the educational experience.

Each year, new threads of creativity are woven into the web of learning. The SBS faculty works tirelessly to provide the right set of creative approaches to education, ones that will engender a sense of ownership and pride over knowledge.

Through student-led discussions, innovative projects, and team-oriented activities, students are constantly strengthening their imaginations. While the instances of creativity are too numerous to include here, the following section offers some intriguing examples of how creativity is helping our students become independent, critical thinkers equipped to take on the challenges of the 21st century.

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Head of School, Dr. Jeff Williams, remains highly committed to seeing SBS continue to lead the movement in educating thinkers who can solve problems creatively and critically. “In education, the drill and kill mentality is counterproductive. Instead, our role as educators is to plant the seed of creativity and teach our students to apply knowledge in unique and applicable ways,” he comments.

Dr. Williams likes to site the riveting scene in the movie Apollo 13 when the NASA director takes the engineers in a room and places all the parts of the space shuttle on the table and says, “Here are the parts…

Now, let’s get them home.” “In the same way, our teachers serve as NASA directors to our students. It is thrilling to see what happens in the classroom when we give students more responsibility and opportunity to create and problem solve,” he explains.

In order to set the creative process in motion, educators at SBS engage students emotionally, intellectually and spiritually in the subject matter. Most importantly, the curiosity of students is awakened through thoughtful assignments and projects.

Additionally, teachers help students with the association of material, crossing over disciplines to explain and apply concepts.

Through trial and error, students have the opportunities to make knowledge their own. Mastering a depth of knowledge in a particular subject matter also enables students to genuinely engage with the material instead of skimming a vast pool of information.

Creativity through the Classroom Experience A Community of Creative Learners: The Harkness Method The Harkness style of teaching has brought a wealth of creativity and critical thinking to the SBS classroom while enriching community as students share their ideas and questions with one another in a supportive setting. The Table invites students to genuinely engage with the subject matter and use imagination to interpret the text and make an investment in learning. The teachers who have adopted this teaching method into their classrooms are amazed by the advancements being made by students.

In order to learn how to implement the Harkness Method, four Middle School teachers had the opportunity to attend the Exeter Summer Institute in New Hampshire. Adam Huss, Leslie Kellam, Sarah Pruet and Martha Rees felt honored to attend. They not only acquired a new teaching strategy but also learned quite a bit about themselves. Other SBS teachers had the opportunity to participate in the Harkness training seminar held at Second Baptist School in August.

The Harkness Teaching Method originated in 1931 at Philips Exeter Academy. Students sit around an exquisitely-designed round table and participate in a discussion while the teacher instructs through asking questions and challenging student thinking.

The Harkness Method increases student participation and facilitates higher-level thinking skills. Each seminar that the SBS teachers attended was held around a table, which allowed the teachers to be in the students’ shoes and discover the emotions connected with participating in a discussion.

The Enrichment Class Already in its second year, the enrichment class has captivated the imaginations of Lower School students. Through handson projects, students come to class as discoverers. Instructor Mrs. Lana Kates has seen firsthand the positive effects of this class. “This year I have noticed that students who took this class last year are much more willing to jump in and take up the challenges presented to them. Their confidence is much stronger. Even the more quiet ones seem to shine,” she explains.

An additional advantage of the enrichment class is that the curriculum coordinates with other disciplines. When first graders are learning about Egypt in social studies and Bible, they are also building sugar cube pyramids during enrichment class. When second grade students are studying Greece in other subjects, they are making a replica of Greek architecture during enrichment class. This integration of subject matter helps students make valuable connections.

Red Herring Mysteries Mrs. Kates reads a problem to her students.

They can only ask her yes or no questions to solve the problem. Each student has three questions and must listen carefully to make sure another student does not read their questions. As a class, they discover the answer. This project helps students pay careful attention and work together to solve a problem.

Common Myths About Creativity 1. A person is either born with creativity or not.

While individuals certainly possess different degrees of creativity, this gift is something that can be acquired through exposure and experience.

2. Creativity is only for artists and musicians.

Creativity transcends disciplines and sectors; it is the vital life force behind achievements.

Creativity is the magical ingredient for the football player, band member, scientist, diplomat, leader, and scholar.

3. Creativity does not have uses in the real world.

Look no further than technological advances to see the vital need for creativity in the workforce. From Google to Apple, smart thinkers who are creatively wired are essential for bringing new inventions to the marketplace.

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Teacher

Testimonials The following teachers share some stories about the discussions enjoyed around their tables this fall semester. Their reflections highlight the creative learning taking place in the SBS classroom.

Martha Rees

Adam Huss

Kim Orr

Learning the Harkness Method has strengthened my faith. I find it invigorating as a teacher to be part of an audience. Each day presents a new opportunity to learn again. We are constantly in the process of learning together.

The discussions in our class have been phenomenal since we started using the Harkness Method. My students have opened up and demonstrated good manners at the Table. It is so refreshing and rewarding as a teacher when your students think deeply and grasp an understanding of a concept.

They do this by listening to each other.

Students today have been given the answers for so long that they no longer find the process of learning necessary.

The Harkness Method provides a way for students to discover knowledge instead of simply memorizing it.

Middle School English Teacher

I like to think that educating our children is like training them to ride a bike. We are not pulling them along; instead, we are behind them holding onto the bike until we can let go. In the same way, that is my role as a teacher. I want them to be able to think and learn on their own.

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Students are placed in groups of three to four people and given a mound of clay, a straw and sticks. They are asked to create something original with these objects following certain guidelines. Through collaboration and creative thinking, each group builds a unique design.

Robots

In the past, discussions in my classroom have been about the survival of the loudest.

Now, every student engages in discussion and feels part of a higher purpose. Not only are students learning more around the table than in a traditional classroom, but they are also learning to communicate more effectively by looking one another in the eye and acting with courtesy. Divisions are erased at the Table as everyone treats one another with respect. Students find safety at the Table.

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Middle School Bible Teacher

We have had some extremely profound discussions this year. We had a discussion over “Why do you believe Jesus is the Messiah?” My first period started the day off with a bang.

Students began sharing about their faith. One student opened up about why she believes in Jesus.

For her, it wasn’t necessarily the books, church, songs or memory verses, although still paramount to her Christian faith. It came down to how God manifested himself through her life. She spoke about a mission trip that impacted her when she saw God at work through the needs of people. Through her testimony, I believe the students more fully understood the concept of faith.

Upper School Bible Teacher

Since using the Harkness Method in my classroom, I have observed students displaying a deeper understanding of the topics and questions we are discussing. They ask challenging questions and then want to find the answers themselves instead of looking to me for all the answers.

Each student is engaged in the discussion and takes ownership of learning. I have seen the desire for truth come alive in my class like I have never seen it before.

During discussions, they have learned how to respectfully disagree and support their opinions with quality sources. They often ask each other, “What do you think?” Essentially, they find answers as a class.

The process of learning is about growing together.

Sometimes, I feel like they forget they are learning.

Students research about robots in different fields, such as medicine, engineering and science. Then, they plan and design their own robots using technology. The culmination of the unit involves building a robot. Both a conceptual and hands-on project, students engage their imaginations every step of the way.

Making Texas History Come Alive When students are able to experience history, they receive a much richer understanding of the past and how it influences their lives today. This kind of exploratory learning is exactly what takes place in the fourth grade Texas history classroom.

For the major project, students have four options from which to choose according to their skills and interests. The first option involves building a 3-D model of the Battle of the Alamo or San Jacinto. For the artistically minded, another option is to create the six flags of Texas on construction paper, as well as create their own flag for Texas. For those who enjoy crafting language, the third option is to write a poem or song about the Texas revolution. The final option is to make a PowerPoint presentation with heroes of the Texas revolution.

Visualizing Mathematical Concepts Helping students understand how math applies to the world around them is vital.

“Creative thinking helps a student develop different approaches to problem solving.

Everyday scenarios make it real, applicable and interesting to the student. I tell them to think of themselves as detectives trying to solve a problem” says third grade math teacher Mrs. Andrea Sage.

To emphasize the measurement unit, Mrs. Sage brings house plants into the classroom, and students figure out the area and perimeter of the plants. “Through this illustration, students grasp the importance of these measurements,” she explains.

Students also measure objects in the classroom, which helps them visualize this concept all around them.

When teaching decimals, Mrs. Sage brings in sports’ statistics to emphasize a popular application of this concept. By playing clips of close sporting events like Olympic races, she emphasizes how important hundredths of a second can be in a close race. “The kids loved seeing how these math concepts apply to them. In fact, several boys enjoyed applying the principles to baseball statistics,” says Mrs. Sage.

“By designing the major project in this fashion, students take more ownership and pride in their project and show more interest in completing it, which fosters creativity. It allows them to display their strengths, whether it is building a model, drawing, writing or working with technology,” explains Mrs. Cori Agnew, fourth grade history teacher.

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creativity... an essential 21st century skill

Creativity through

Technology

O

ne of the ways in which SBS empowers students is through the integration of technology into the curriculum.

Students are not only learning more about their subjects through technology, but they are also learning how to use technology in productive ways. SBS’s commitment to using technology in the classroom is a commitment to preparing the next generation of professionals to compete in a global economy.

iPads in the Lower School This year each Lower School classroom received an iPad. This tool expands the learning experience by giving students the ability to engage in many educational tasks inside and outside the classroom.

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The One-to-One Program Students arrived at SBS on the first day of school with new backpacks, school supplies and books. But, they also came to school equipped with new MacBooks in hand. Beginning this school year, students in grades 5-12 began participating in the One-to-One Program. This movement has proved invaluable in helping engage students in the learning experience.

Mr. Jeremy Donalson, Middle School technology specialist, marvels at the benefits the laptops have brought to the classroom experience.

“Students seem more focused on their work now that it is hands on. Since they are focused on the outcome, they take time to incorporate more creativity into their projects and lessons. The laptops have seemed to make classroom instruction even more individualized and student-specific than before,” says Mr. Donalson. “The kids have caught on to the limitless possibilities and are constantly exploring and sharing their information with other students.”

First through fourth graders are using iPads to take Accelerated Reader tests, practice spelling words and math facts, and create stories and film presentations.

Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students learn through game play, readaloud activities and critical thinking using iPads. Teachers use the iPads as a camera in order to upload pictures and videos of the kids in action to the School website. The iPads enhance center time as well as providing students with new learning opportunities and easy access to technology in their classroom.

The teachers have demonstrated a “contagious excitement” about ways to use laptops. To name a few examples, Mrs. Ellen Barrett and Mrs. Nancy Wahl have created outstanding blogs online that allow students to collaborate while leaving feedback on a secure site. Mrs. Karen Jensen has incorporated WebQuests into her classroom to enable individualized instruction. Mrs. Susan Williams has used Google Earth in English class to help students visualize the setting of a class novel. Additionally, Mrs. Ellen Barrett has used iMovie to have her students present on the topic of “globalization.”

Mrs. Melissa Herring, Lower School technology specialist, is thrilled by the technological advancements in Lower School. “Students are receiving valuable experience with technological devises that will give them a competitive edge. While students already know how to use the technology, they are learning how to make it applicable to their lives.”

Mr. Troy Karcher, Upper School technology specialist, shares his observations about the technological advancements in Upper School. “When I visit different classrooms, I’m amazed by how quickly students and teachers have adapted to the program.

One would think these teachers have been teaching with laptops for years.”

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The laptops are allowing many teachers to go paperless. Students can simply upload assignments to the assignment drop box on the SBS website. Teachers also use Adobe Pro to circulate handouts electronically.

Students simply download forms, handouts and note pages from the class page and save them to their laptops.

Another advantage to the laptops is that each student now has a school e-mail address. “Communicating with students has never been easier. Teachers are able to communicate quickly with their students about upcoming assignments and tests.

Coaches also have the opportunity to send out announcements to their students. In turn, students are able to communicate with one another about duties in extracurricular organizations,” explains Mr. Karcher.

The Creative Application of Technology in Classrooms Biology: Go!Animate & Prezi Rather than having students simply memorize abstract terms and concepts in biology, Mr. David Seale invites his students to take learning a step further and use technology to explore the fascinating ideas in this field. “Since creativity is one of the beneficial attributes of a scientist, it makes sense to foster that same instinct in students,” he says.

Using laptops, students can make unique works of expression through animated characters and movies using the sophisticated features on the Go!Animate website. Specifically, they created an animation to feature the biography of a scientist. “Instead of just getting up in front of the class and rattling off biographical information, they have to actually think about who this person is, what he or she has accomplished and present this person in an entertaining way,” explains Mr. Seale.

to group objects, students created a classification system using the website Prezi, a cloud-based presentation software that opens up a new world between whiteboards and slides. Students took pictures of various objects around the school campus.

Then, they uploaded their pictures to the website and created a classification system for those objects. If they took pictures of signs, they broke those down into signs with similar characteristics and then broke those down further into even more specific characteristics until all the signs belonged to a group.

English: Animoto In Mrs. Kathy Lee’s English class, students enjoyed a creative writing unit that involved putting their words into an electronic presentation. After students selected a picture of someone from a series of portraits displayed in the library, they wrote one sentence about this person and then expanded that into one paragraph.

Ultimately, they produced a two-page paper, creatively interpreting the person. “They loved this project and produced incredible vignettes,” says Mrs. Lee. To conclude the project, students used the website Animoto to create video slideshows. A powerful web 2.0 resource, Animoto enables students to produce stunning presentations incorporating images, video clips, music and text.

Students produced an Animoto project for the book Into the Wild in Mrs. Tammy Seale’s English class. The assignment asked students to tell Chris McCandless’s story using pictures, phrases from the text, words from the code and music. Using the SBS Honor Code, they followed the same structure and adapted it to reflect the moral code by which Chris lived his life.

In order to do this project, students had to imagine the things he saw during his journey. “Through this electronic project, students exercised creative thought and proved a rich understanding of the major concepts presented throughout the novel,” says Mrs. Seale.

When learning about the classification of organisms and how it is helpful for scientists

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Creativity through the

Fine Arts The Visual Arts

The visual arts program begins in the lower grades with pre-kindergarten’s focus on the development of fine motor skills and continues through fifth grade’s art appreciation, ceramics, pastel and watercolor work. In weekly art classes taught by skilled instructors, our youngest students find and hone their talents. In the Middle School and Upper School, students benefit from the expanded programs in sculpture, photography, ceramics, multicultural art, drawing, and Art I through Advanced Placement Art.

Learning about Impressionism Mrs. Kim Day empowers each student with the confidence to be an artist. “I make it clear that everyone is creative regardless of how well one is able to draw. I believe this truth allows our students the freedom to express their creativity through the process by which they make art, rather than focusing on the final product,” she says.

One of Mrs. Day’s favorite projects to do with her students is the second grade study of the Impressionist movement, specifically Claude Monet. By comparing several works from this movement, students grasp an understanding of the style and then step into the role of Impressionist painters. Given broad guidelines on subject and brushstroke style, the students create their own scenes right out of Claude Monet’s garden. “I love seeing these students creatively express what Impressionism means to them,” explains Mrs. Day.

By Sarah Hall

the canvas. Through this project, “they get to be very creative in their subject matter and learn how to see a focal point as well as how to match colors and show shading,” explains Mrs. Amy Mann, Middle School art teacher. The final paintings express the individuality of each student. “The images ultimately reveal the true spirit of creativity as God modeled for us when He created each individual uniquely in His image,” she says.

Striking a Balance In Upper School art classes, Ms. Linda Parker and Mrs. Nora Ripple strive to equip students with a deep knowledge of the elements and principles of art. Most projects emphasize these fundamentals. At the same time, students have the flexibility to create within these restrictions. “I try to strike a balance between following necessary guidelines and finding full independence as an artist,” says Mrs. Ripple. Students feel a sense of security having boundaries to work within as they create. “Once they have succeeded with a project, their confidence becomes more solidified, and they are emboldened to try new things,” she says.

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of

Thoughts on Creativity

by Artists Amy Mann Middle School Art Instructor By definition, to be an artist you must create something that represents something else, whether it be an idea or an actual object or person. In Middle School, students are still learning the skills, tools and mediums that enable them to create. In essence, they are exploring new ways of making things. Whether it be with a paint brush or an ink pen or a colored pencil, learning to use all of these tools helps students express their creative thoughts. This creativity may be useful to them now or it may serve as a stepping stone to spark future creativity.

Nora Ripple Upper School Art Instructor

By Ben Pfeffer

Painting in the Abstract Eighth grade students put their imaginations to work when they create abstract paintings. They choose a small portion of a photograph and enlarge it on

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Profiles

By Maddie Farace

Creativity is one of the most important skills needed in order to flourish in today’s society, and it is foolish to think creativity is only needed in the realm of the arts.

No matter what line of work a student decides to pursue, a creative mind that can think outside the box will prove to be imperative to success. Innovating, making unexpected connections, pushing the boundaries, and creating better ways of doing things are all part of being creative. Creativity is the edge our students must have to succeed in the global community in which we find ourselves.

Creative Minds The best measure of how creativity shapes individuals is by looking around at the creative expressions of SBS students. Each one uses his or her gifts to excel and enrich the lives of others. As students learn to be more creative in the way they approach life, the outcomes are meaningful and lasting.

The following profiles reflect some of the creative responses of our students.

Living out the Love of Jesus

Ava Grace & Hunter Loveless Second Grade

my husband, our oldest daughter McKenzie and my mother.”

The Loveless family will never forget this expression of creativity.

“I wanted so much to freeze that moment in time, to capture forever that precious family time when the journey of learning about our Lord was so beautifully displayed, thanks to the creativity of our teachers.”

Extending a Helping Hand Creativity abounds in the Bible classrooms where stories and truths about Jesus Christ are brought to life for students. Mrs. Stephanie Loveless, mother of Ava Grace, Hunter, and McKenzie, has always been in awe of those individuals given the gift of teaching. In particular, she admires how SBS teachers use creativity to help students learn more effectively. “Nowhere is creativity more evident than in the Bible classroom,” she remarks. “The songs, visuals, and crafts, among other things, ensure that no child misses out on God’s Word.”

Last spring, Mrs. Loveless will never forget picking up Ava Grace and Hunter from school one day and hearing their enthusiasm for the lesson they had learned about in Bible class. “They were talking over each other and completing one another’s sentences. They were so excited about re-enacting for our family how Jesus humbly washed the feet of his disciples,” she says.

As soon as they arrived home, Ava Grace and Hunter busied themselves around the house collecting materials they would need for washing feet. Over dinner, they shared with the rest of the family what they had learned at school. Mrs. Loveless recounts what happened next. “Following dinner they very seriously lined up our chairs, put towels on the floor and filled a bowl with water.

Taking turns, they read the story aloud from the Bible. In a most sincere and reverent way, these two seven-year olds washed and dried not only my feet but also those of

Chloe Sanders, Fourth Grade

Never one to sit on the sidelines, Chloe Sanders is always on the lookout for ways to help. Her expression of creativity through an act of kindness has made a lasting impact on those outside the Second family. When Alabama was hit with over 100 tornadoes on April 27, 2011, Chloe’s relatives from Alabama told her about the Harris family, friends who had lost everything from the disaster. Immediately, Chloe was determined to figure out a way to help. Chloe and her mom came up with the idea of selling her hair bows and accessories and donating the proceeds to the Harris family. She called her project “Bows for Alabama” and marketed by sending e-mails to friends.

When it was all said and done, “Chloe sold all of the hair accessories and through the generosity of God’s people raised $1,900 for the Harris family.

This was a wonderful lesson for Chloe, as well as a reminder to us that when we set out to be the hands and feet of Jesus, He takes care of ALL the details,” says Mrs. Sanders. The Harris family had decided not to go on their annual mission trip, but when they

received the donation from Chloe, they were able to attend the trip.

“If a nine-year-old girl who didn’t know them could touch their lives, they realized they were meant to make the mission trip happen,” says Mrs. Sanders.

While students learn and practice creativity at school, it is also important for creativity to be reinforced at home. For the Sanders family, creativity has always been a way of life. They hold Philippians 4:13 close to their hearts: “I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.” This verse has inspired them to take risks and achieve the challenges God sets before them. “Scott and I have always told our children that they can do anything they put their minds to accomplishing. The words ‘I can’t’ don’t sit well with this family. We believe that you get out of life what you put into it, and if something is worth doing, you do it 100 percent,” says Mrs. Betsy Sanders.

Part of mastering creativity is learning how to conquer challenges along the way. “A common phrase around our house is ‘Be a problem solver.’ When one of our children faces a challenge, we encourage them to think of ways to overcome it instead of stepping in and taking care of it for them. We are always willing to give advice if asked, and we are always there as backstops if they fail, but we try to teach them that they need to be creative thinkers,” says Mrs. Sanders.

The Sanders family is grateful that SBS provides a haven of creativity. “Second Baptist has been wonderful in stretching and broadening our kids’ imaginations as well as helping them think out of the box.” Specifically, Chloe and Caleb have enjoyed the “Island of the Skog” and the Kindergarten dinosaur report. “These projects spark creativity and give them freedom to be creative without being afraid of wrong answers. This approach builds both creativity and confidence,” says Mrs. Sanders.

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creativity... an essential 21st century skill

The Performing Arts The Vision Choir The Vision Choir is made up of an astounding one third of the Upper School students. All students with a variety of interests can be seen on stage performing side by side in this large ensemble. The fall showcase, football games, Christmas and spring concerts are just a few of the opportunities to hear the Vision Choir perform a variety of music styles.

Q&A

with Tammy

“Choir gives students the avenue to express themselves not only with words, but also through music. Being an individual in a group and interdependent upon one another allows them to express their own thoughts and feelings and understand the perspective of others. Choir students become more globally aware, learn to collaborate and serve as more responsible citizens,” explains Mrs. Tamberley Patterson, director of choir.

Q A Please share about your musical background.

I grew up with music and was blessed with the gift of singing and playing the piano. Music is my God-given talent, passion and joy. I have always felt that I needed to use it by singing praises to God. Since the time I started playing piano at the age of eight and singing in the adult choir at church in seventh grade, I knew that I wanted to major in music and become a teacher. I have performed both as a soloist and part of a choir throughout my life. I have taught music for many years in public schools and served as a music administrator for part of that time. But, teaching has always been my first love.

God has blessed me with the tremendous opportunity to teach in a Christian environment here at SBS.

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Patterson Why is choir an important part of a student’s educational experience?

Being in choir is just plain fun when everyone is working together. You are part of a large group creating something beautiful and significant.

Singing offers a way for high-performing students to relax. The idea of making students wellrounded, educated adults is essential. There is no more comprehensive way of doing that than by participating in music, something so creative and powerful. Choir members learn important life skills that are taught and developed. It takes hard work, dedication, listening, problem solving and a strong work ethic to achieve excellence.

Choir Director

What opportunity do students have to become more creative and imaginative through participation in choir?

Every time we sing, we create something brand new. Music is everychanging and evolving.

Students learn concepts, which lay the foundation to create a product that reflects the composer’s intent. Singing is poetry put to music, and each poem is different. Students must think about what they are singing in order to convey the text. They learn to express the different styles of music and the culture that it represents so that each song has its own unique tone and quality.

What better way to tell a story than through music?

Band

Teaching students how to play and make music is the driving force for the Second Baptist School Instrumental Music Department. Developing the musicianship of the individual student is the foundation of the curriculum. “Band is a performancebased class that challenges students to develop and establish their individual abilities in music,” explains Mark Lewis, director of instrumental music and band.

“Creativity and imagination come into play when the students take the music, personalize it and transform it into a performance that brings enjoyment and pleasure to the audience.”

This fall, the Eagle Band was busy preparing for the Fall Fine Arts Showcase and providing entertainment for the fans attending the football games. Mr. Lewis shares how he is integrating technology into band. “With the introduction of laptops for 5th-12th grade students, all band students are now learning how to integrate technology into preparation for class and concerts. Students have been introduced to SmartMusic, which is an award-winning interactive music software that provides the ideal practice environment. As students practice, SmartMusic provides an immediate assessment, displaying the notes that students played correctly in green and the notes they played incorrectly in red.”

Theater Arts The Theater Arts program at SBS serves a wide range of student interests. The goal is to allow students the opportunity to experience music in many different aspects, so that music becomes a lifelong love and experience. The first full-scale theatrical production occurs in Middle School when students annually perform the nine weeks performances and the fall musical program.

The Upper School offers two major productions annually, the fall drama and the spring musical. SBS musicals are performed at the Hobby Center Zilkha Hall in the downtown Theater District in Houston.

The Spring Musical is the ultimate culmination of the Second Baptist School Fine Arts program.

Stepping into the World of Alice in Wonderland, Jr. The musicals at Second Baptist School provide a phenomenal outlet for students to develop artistically and creatively through show-stopping performances that rival professional ones. This fall Middle School students have the opportunity to stretch their imaginations as they perform in Alice in Wonderland, Jr. “I’m very excited about the sheer fantasy of this show. Creativity is limitless!” exclaims Mrs. Cindy Blades.

From the White Rabbit to the Cheshire Cat to the Mad Hatter and Queen of Hearts, the fascinating characters provide a full range of personas for students to explore. “I enjoy watching students come into their roles as the rehearsal process progresses,” explains Mrs. Claire Westmoreland.

To foster creativity in the performers, Mrs. Blades and Mrs. Westmoreland have each ensemble member create a characterization for the role they portray. They explore the background of that particular character. “It truly makes a difference on stage when they know who they are as an actor and why they are part of that particular scene. It gives them a purpose for being on stage,” says Mrs. Westmoreland. “Alice in Wonderland, Jr. lends itself to creative interpretation,” explains Mrs. Blades. “The student forms vocalization, bodily movement and mannerisms when performing various Wonderland characters.”

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DistinguishedSpeakerLuncheonDistinguishedSpeakerLuncheonDistinguishedSpeakerLuncheonDistinguishedSpeakerLuncheon Dr. Benjamin Carson As a child, Benjamin Carson Sr., M.D. dreamed of becoming a physician, but dire poverty, poor grades, and a low self-esteem seemed insurmountable. However, because of his mother’s challenge to strive for excellence, Carson persevered and became one of the world’s leading neurosurgeons. He currently serves as a full professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and has directed pediatric neurosurgery at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center for nearly a quarter of a century. Among other successes, Carson performed the first separation of craniopagus (Siamese) twins joined at the back of the head in 1987, the first completely successful separation of type-2 vertical craniopagus twins in South Africa in 1997 and the first successful placement of an intrauterine shunt for a hydrocephalic twin.

Dr. Carson has been awarded many prestigious honors, and continues to motivate others through his extraordinary contributions to society. To highlight just a few of his honors, Carson was named by CNN and Time as one of the nation’s 20 foremost physicians and scientists, was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve on the President’s Council on Bioethics, and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the nation. He is president and co-founder of the Carson Scholars Fund, which recognizes young people of all backgrounds for exceptional academic and humanitarian accomplishments. He also co-founded Angels of the OR, which provides grants to assist families with non-covered medical care expenses involving both pediatric and adult neurosurgery. Carson’s four books, Gifted Hands, THINK BIG, The Big Picture, and Take the Risk: Learning to Identify, Choose and Live with Acceptable Risk, provide inspiration for leading a successful life. Carson has been married for over 30 years and is father to three sons.

Amy currently has a private practice in the Houston medical center.

Additionally, she is a clinical instructor at the University of Texas Health Science Center Medical School and a clinical assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine. She has been published in medical journals for her research in the areas of breast cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Amy and her husband Trent, also a physician, have three children, two of which are following in their mom’s footsteps as students at SBS. Issac is in the third grade and Lauren is in Kindergarten. While Brette is only four months old, she hopes to join her big brother and sister at SBS one day.

2011 Distinguished Alumni Parents For nearly 33 years, there has been a member of the Durrett family enrolled at Second Baptist School. Beginning with their son Brant, who was a member of the first graduating class in 1982, and continuing through their granddaughter Brooke, who is currently a fourth grader, the School has been a focus of the Durrett’s time and resources since they moved to Houston in 1978.

DistinguishedSpeakerLuncheonDistinguishedSpeakerLuncheonDistinguishedSpeakerLuncheonDistinguishedSpeakerLuncheon

Distinguished Speaker Luncheon: from the perspective of a student

by Ashley Petkas ‘12

S

econd Baptist School held its sixth annual Distinguished Speaker Luncheon at the Hilton of Americas. Over 600 people were in attendance and all proceeds from this event will go toward a Christmas bonus and salary increases for our teachers in the upcoming year.

This year, the keynote speaker was Dr. Benjamin Carson, one of the world’s leading pediatric neurosurgeons and a man of great faith. Before Dr. Carson made his speech, I was able to meet him and ask a few questions. In our Bible classes this semester, we’ve watched his movie Gifted Hands, so it was an honor for me to meet him in person. From my time with Dr. Carson, I learned that he is a man who is able to perform some incredible tasks because of his faith in Jesus Christ.

Dr. Carson said, “Faith helps in all things and my career is no exception. Knowing that I have the Lord behind me is extremely encouraging. It is by my faith that I took some of the risks I did.”

Dr. Carson took a risk when he decided to operate on a set of Siamese twins who were conjoined at the head, a feat no one had ever performed successfully. Because of his faith, he had the confidence to take a risk; without the risk, he would never have been able to save the lives of those two babies.

The luncheon opened with a performance from the Upper School choir, Revelation, and later went on to recognize the Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished Alumni Parents.

Dr. Amy Woodruff, from the Class of 1988, was honored as the 2011 Distinguished Alumni. Dr. Woodruff is a cardiologist who

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specializes in electronic disorders of the heart. Mr. and Mrs. Joe Durrett were recognized as the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Parents for their extensive involvement and contributions to SBS throughout their 30 plus year relationship with the School.

Following the awards, Dr. Carson took the stage to deliver his message. He discussed life growing up and the events that led to his career choice.

“Medicine was really the only thing that drew me in as a child.

Most kids dreaded the hospital, but I enjoyed going because I loved the ambiance.”

Dr. Carson went on to be one of the most successful neurosurgeons in his field, and is currently the Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Because of his work ethic and superior education, Dr. Carson was able to receive the proper tools needed to become a physician.

“Education is extremely important and at times underestimated.

God gave us speech and he gave us a brain. It is our job to use them to the best of our ability.”

Dr. Carson’s story is characterized by determination and faith; his life serves as an inspiration for leading a successful life.

Thank you to the Distinguished Speaker Luncheon committee and chairmen – Liz and Dan Baker and Terri and Jim Huguenard – for making this a special day for the SBS community.

2011 Distinguished Alumni – Dr. Amy Woodruff ’88 Dr. Amy Woodruff graduated from Second Baptist School in 1988. While a student at SBS, she excelled in all areas of academics, but especially found a passion for science. Today, she is a cardiologist and electrophysiologist specializing in electrical disorders of the heart.

Amy received her Bachelor of Science from Baylor University, where she graduated magna cum laude in 1991. She attended medical school at Baylor College of Medicine, graduating cum laude in 1995. Following medical school, Amy completed her residency at Baylor College of Medicine, where she was chief resident of internal medicine. Her fellowship was in cardiology at the Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital. She also completed a fellowship in clinical cardiac electrophysiology at Scott & White Memorial Hospital and Texas A&M Health Science Center.

Joe Durrett graduated from the University of Mississippi in 1957 with a degree in chemical engineering. He has served as the President of Sergeant Oil and Gas since 1976. Carolyn has degrees in both nursing and interior design from the University of Texas and the University of Houston. Carolyn and Joe have been married for 53 years and have three children and six grandchildren.

While parents of SBS students, the Durrett’s served as members and chairmen of the SBC School Committee, and active volunteers at school functions. Carolyn was a room mom, field trip and school dance chaperone, and she dedicated countless hours to the field day and book fair fundraisers. Carolyn and Joe were both loyal supporters of athletics, as their sons were standout basketball players.

Their oldest son, Brant graduated from SBS in 1982, their son, Charles in 1986, and their daughter, Marcy Durrett Johnston graduated in 1987. Brant’s wife, Shari Nelsen Durrett, graduated in 1984, and is currently the Director of Communications at the School. Carolyn and Joe’s oldest grandchild, Hailie, was the first legacy graduate of SBS, graduating in the Class of 2009. Three of their granddaughters are currently students at the School – Ashley will graduate in 2015, Abbey in 2019 and Brooke in 2020.

Carolyn and Joe are both active members of Second Baptist Church, where they have both taught adult Bible classes. Joe is a deacon and has served as a prayer room volunteer since its inception over 25 years ago. Carolyn is a member of the choir and has volunteered with Friends International.

DistinguishedSpeakerLuncheonDistinguishedSpeakerLuncheon 2011 Distinguished Speaker Luncheon Committee Chairmen: Liz and Dan Baker and Terri and Jim Huguenard Advisory Committee

Meredith and Carter Crow Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook Ann and Michael Jobe Holly and Clay Krhovjak Becca ’89 and Scott Schwinger Kim and Don Sweat Leigh and Jim Tomforde Julie and Wayne Wiesen Greta and Chuck Zimmerman

Host Committee

Jackie and Mark Adickes Kerry and Rick Antona Haley and Jake Baker Jeni and David Burg Andrea and Bob Crawmer Suzi and Bill Dore Wendy and Tommy Fatjo Lisa and Al Hartman Carrie ’92 and Ryan Holcomb Maureen and Russel Holt

Joy and Eric Johnson Susan and David Lewis Kim and Brad Lindig Lindy and Randy Price Holly and David Spurlin Elizabeth and Bill Stevenson Leslie and Mathew Verghese Amanda and Trey Vick Denise Traylor and John Whetsell Tracy and Richard Wilkerson

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Transforming our World Through Social Media:

How tweeting and blogging are changing the way we communicate By: Ashley Petkas ‘12 Advances in technology have done much to change the way we live and communicate over the past decade. Social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, and blogs have transformed the way that the world connects. Teenagers are not the only ones on these social networking sites; parents and teachers have slowly begun to make the transition. According to a new survey, adults in America who use the Internet are joining social networks at a rapid rate and the number with an online profile has quadrupled in the past three years.

Thirty-five percent of U.S. Web users aged eighteen or older have a profile on a social network. Social Media sites provide career opportunities, social benefits, academic benefits, and up-to-date information.

Currently living in Austin, SBS alumni Kelsey Orr ’05 is the New Media Coordinator and Content Specialist for Gray Digital Group, a full-service interactive web agency.

Previously she worked on Governor Perry’s 2010 gubernatorial campaign as the Social Media Manager & Photographer. She uses social media tools in her career, which is one that did not even exist when she graduated from SBS. “I never knew what I wanted to be when I grew up, because it didn’t quite exist. When Twitter gained momentum in 2008, I was intrigued by the relationship-driven tool,” Kelsey explains. “The idea of getting to see snippets of my sister’s day, view breaking news and share tips about local restaurants, sparked an interest in social media in my

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life. Social networks expand brand images into a tangible space, and allow various communities to come together. Today, the ever-developing new media tools inspire my work and lifestyle.”

We live in a society that is in constant motion, which makes staying in contact much more difficult. Social networking has also become a fun and convenient way to stay in touch with friends and family from all over the world.

“I was really sad to leave my friends behind when I graduated eighth grade,” Morgan Cummins, senior, said. “But sites like Facebook allow me to keep in constant contact with them and see what they are up to.”

Second Baptist Alumni Lee Owen ’02 shares a similar opinion.

“I have a Facebook page and I use it to keep up with friends from SBS and college. It is interesting to see what everyone is up to, where they work, and how their families keep growing.”

Social media is not just a social trend; it has recently become an academic trend as well. Social networking is now being used as a tool in the classroom to provide a superior education. Since Second Baptist School introduced the One-to-One Program, teachers are able to use cutting edge technology, like social media sites, to enhance their classrooms. Second Baptist

Fall 2011 51

Alumni Updates Send your updates to

teachers have created online blogs where they post learning tools such as videos, vocabulary, study guides, and lesson plans. History teacher, Mr. James Brown, is one of the many who use blogs to provide information to students.

sbsalumni@secondbaptistschool.org!

2012 Mark your calendars!

“I’m a big fan of using an online blog because it allows students to access information faster. It is also convenient because the students can’t lose anything; it is kind of hard to misplace the Internet,” Mr. Brown said.

Eagle / Report

1982

1985

c l a ss a g e n t

c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Craig Moritz

cmoritz@spe.org

Eve Phelps Giddens Eg996320@aol.com

Beth Brock Looser bblooser@aol.com

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FLIGHT NIGHT – BASKETBALL GAME 1/6/2012 7:30 PM TO 9:00 PM

Social networking sites also allow Internet users to receive up-to-date information. In fact, print and television media outlets no longer provide audiences with the most current information since social media users can tweet or blog in real time.

52

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. . . . . . . –––––––––––––––––––– ............................

Also, at major universities, many professors are creating Twitter accounts to provide their students with a constant stream of academic updates. When used correctly, social media allows students to have the world at their fingertips with the click of a button.

In the early morning of January 18, 2011, Baylor University got word that there was an alleged gunman on campus. The school quickly went on lockdown and advised When used correctly, social students to media allows students to have stay inside. the world at their fingertips Although many news with the click of a button. stations provided updates on the story, students got the word out at a much faster rate. Baylor students posted status updates on their Twitter and Facebook accounts to inform friends and family. Second Baptist School students learned about the gunman in Waco before many local news stations were able to cover the story. Across the world, a man actually live-tweeted the raid on Osama Bin Laden.

Sohaib Athar, a resident of Abbottabad, Pakistan, was up late one night tweeting about helicopters circling in the sky and a

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Watch the Eagles play and stop by the alumni table for free giveaways!

1983 c l a ss a g e n t

––––––––––––––––––––

Trisha Pessara

. . .trisha.pessarra@motivaent.com ................................

...................................

1986 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Kimberly Arnold Parker kap1228@gmail.com

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mysterious explosion. Little did he know, he was actually recording the U.S. attack on the world’s most wanted terrorist. He was able to get word out long before President Barack Obama made the announcement that Bin Laden had been killed. One of Athar’s followers also tweeted, “I think the helicopter crash in Abbottabad, Pakistan, and President Obama’s breaking news address are connected.”

Through social networking, Internet users are able to thrive in a new job market, keep in contact with friends, have access to more educational tools, and receive information seconds after an event. Social networking has completely revolutionized the way people communicate with one another. It has changed and will continue to change the way we learn and live.

ALUMNI DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT 1/6/2012 9:00 PM TO 10:00 PM Get ready for the first SBS Alumni Dodgeball Tournament after Flight Night in the gym!

Check in at 8:30 p.m. and game begins at 9:00 p.m.

1984

Michelle White

rm_white@yahoo.com

c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Charles Beall

charles@beall.org

Helen Buckner

. . . . . .helen@bucknerweb.com .............................

...................................

1987 c l a ss a g e n t ––––––––––––––––––––

Dawn Williams Trozzo

. . . . . . . . .dwtrozzo@aol.com ..........................

HOUSTON ALUMNI NETWORKING LUNCH 2/29/2012 Don’t miss another lunch at our favorite Houston steakhouse – The Taste of Texas!

...................................

1988 c l a ss a g e n t ––––––––––––––––––––

Kimberly Thode

. . . . . . . . .kctwalker@aol.com ..........................

Fall 2011 53

Alumni Updates

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Alumni Updates

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1989

1993

1996

1998

c l a ss a g e n t s

c l a ss a g e n t s

c l a ss a g e n t

c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––

Leslie Niermeyer

Anne Munger Freeman

Sabrina Morgan Ogelsbee

Meredith Jolley Arendale

lniermeyer@yahoo.com . . . . . . . .smogles@yahoo.com ...........................

jarendale@comcast.net

...................................

––––––––––––––––––––

Allison Moody Ball

Kelly Clanton Holton

. . . . . . .alliball02@hotmail.com ............................

kcholton@hotmail.com

Meghan Griffin

. . . . .marymeg2002@yahoo.com ..............................

Austin Fatheree and his wife

had their second child on August 8, 2011. Her name is Emerson Renee Fatheree.

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1990

1994

c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

dford@ford-math.com

lucian.bukowski@staubach.com

Tisha Harper Krause

Peyton Millinor

Donny Ford

. . . . . . . . tkrausepfs@aol.com ...........................

Lucian Bukowski peyton@mail.com

Keith Morris

keith@rkm3law.com ...................................

1991 c l a ss a g e n t s

––––––––––––––––––––

Leslie Stiver Rice lsr@maisonriz.net

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1997

...................................

1992 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Kristin Johnson Paull kpaull@planetpaull.com

Lisa Rude

. . . . . . . . jill@harris-hmg.com ...........................

54

Eagle / Report

Jenni Pipkin Swyka and her husband Nick welcomed their new baby boy, Nicholas Lew Swyka IV (“Cole”), on June 7, 2011. jenniswyka@yahoo.com

c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Reagan Fincher

reaganfincher@yahoo.com

Katy Kyle

. . . . .katy.kyle@expresspros.com ..............................

Thomas Stuckey

tomstuckey@suddenlink.net

Marilyn Van Zandt Kehr

Meghan Griffin Norton and

marilyn_kehr@yahoo.com

Chris Wood

cabwood@gmail.com

Corbin Womac married

Jill Moses Holstead

. . . . . .jmholstead@comcast.net .............................

Mitch Little, and his wife, Kelly, recently celebrated the one-year birthday of their twins. Molly and Matthew were born on September 11, 2010. The family of four resides in Irving, Texas.

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1995 c l a ss a g e n t ––––––––––––––––––––

Marissa Mariner Womble

. . . . . . . mwomble@gmail.com ............................

Shannon Johnson married Trey Cranson on October 13, 2011, on a Disney cruise to the Bahamas.

Shannon works for HIMA, an oilfield safety company out of Germany. sjohn714@yahoo.com

Heather Van Ravenswaay on October 15, 2011 in Chappell Hill, Texas. They met at the 2008 wedding of SBS alum Kimberly McInturff Cima ’99. Pictured are SBS alums in attendance to celebrate their marriage: Whitney Womac ’00 with fiancé Don Arroyo, Kimberly McInturff Cima ‘99 with husband Ivan Cima, Corbin Womac ’97 with wife Heather Womac, Chris McInturff ’97 and Paige Partin McInturff ’05.

The newlyweds live in Houston.

her husband, Ben, are thrilled to announce a new addition to their family! Ella Frances Norton was born in Atlanta, on Monday, May 23, 2011, at 2:09 p.m. Ella was 8 pounds and 13 ounces and 22 1/2 inches long. marymeg2002@yahoo.com

Austin Powers married Tabbetha Amber Dubois in Bald Head Island, North Carolina on August 20, 2011.

Alumni at the wedding included: Abdul Barazi ‘99, Jacob Saour ‘99, Jonathan Wilson ‘99, Matt Gentle ‘99, Andrea Little Gentle ‘00, Brett Warren ‘99, Laura Low Frank ‘02, and Jamie Weaver ‘99.

Fall 2011 55

Alumni Updates

Alumni Updates

SBS Welcomes Back Alumni for Homecoming 2011

M

ore than 75 alumni and alumni parents were back on campus for Homecoming 2011.

After arriving at the football game, alumni checked in at the alumni tent to receive their free giveaways and catch up with former teachers and classmates. During the Third Quarter Alumni Party, held on the deck of Jane’s Grill, alumni and alumni parents visited with one another while they watched the football game. The party was catered by Marble Slab and was a great time for all of the former Eagles!

Alumni in attendance included: Craig Moritz ‘82, David Bolling ‘83 Charles Beall ‘84, Shari Durrett ‘84, Elaina Dichiara Piggott ‘84, Charles Durrett ‘86, Kevin Gordon ‘86, Dawn Trozzo ‘87, Denni Daniels ‘88, Amy Woodruff ‘88, Travis McWilliams ‘88, Laurie Rankin Carl ‘88, Amelia McFarland ‘89, Becca Schwinger ‘89, Doug Daniels ‘89, Scott Sage ‘90, Tracy Carter Cowan ‘91, Carrie Skelton Holcomb ‘92, Candy Donalson Robinson ‘94, Greg Donalson ‘94, Marissa Womble ‘95, Kirk Craig ‘96, James Patterson ‘96, Pamela Swank Virgadamo ‘96, Jason Kates ‘97, Chris McInturff ‘97, Jeremy Donalson ‘97, Chris Earnest ‘98, Bryant Lee ‘98, Nicole Giraudin Martinez ‘99, Jayne Jennings ‘99, Justin Kates ‘99, Meredith Shanklin Earnest ‘00, Bianca Bucaram ‘02, Nora Ashkar Ripple ‘02, Lauren Ashkar Baker ‘02, Blake Skidmore ‘03, Joe Blades ‘03, Hannah Noble ‘03, Chris LeVrier ‘04, Jonathan McKenzie ‘04, Alex Monzon ‘04, Leah Terrell ‘05, Stefanie Currey Litlzer ‘05, Paige Partin McInturff ‘05, Evan Elsenbrook ‘05, Jodi Hatton ‘06, Taylor Kingshill ‘06, Brooks Shanklin ‘06, Stacy Buckalew ‘06, Hayley Calhoun ‘06, Kelly McInturff ‘07, David Velez ‘08, Kendall Shanklin ‘09, Hailie Durrett ‘09, Christopher Lewis ‘10, Natalie Tollett ‘10, Mikhail McLean ‘10, Isaiah McDuffie ‘11, William McMichael ‘11, Danielle Cope ‘11, Mitzy Ayala ‘11, George Beauchamp ‘11, Taylor Odum ‘11, Alex Cooper ‘11, Caroline Wallace ‘11, Kaitlyn Kellam ‘11, Ana Isabel Appedole ‘11, Madison Peveto ‘11, Matthew McKellar ‘11, Ladonna Bunnell ‘11, Ben Riggle ‘11, McKinzie Jones ‘11, Cory Caron ‘11, Tanner Crake ‘11 and Scott Terrell ‘11.

56

Eagle / Report

Fall 2011 57

Alumni Updates

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1999 c l a ss a g e n t s

––––––––––––––––––––

Lori Smith Johnson Smithers83@aol.com

Alumni Updates

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pounds 1 ounce. She watched her first Baylor game on September 2 with her Daddy and Grandpa. She’ll be a sixth generation Baylor Bear when she gets there in 2029. Sic’em Bears! erin.l.watkins@gmail.com

2002 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Kristin Hendee

khendee@aol.com

Jackie Wahl

Amanda Skelton Yocum

. . . . . . jackie.wahl@yahoo.com .............................

asyocum@yahoo.com

Beth Trahan

crushBT@yahoo.com

Ben Jennings and his wife,

Katie, welcomed their new baby boy, Archer Daniel Jennings, on September 23. He weighed 8 pounds 4 ounces and measured 20 inches long. Big sister Maggie will be two years old in October and big brother Hunter is four years old.

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2000 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Christen Bringhurst Myers ceebs2815@aol.com

Erin Larkin Watkins

. . . . . .erin.l.watkins@gmail.com .............................

Whitney Womac got engaged to

Kristin Ann Hendee and Corbin

Don Arroyo in May. They are both graduates of Baylor University and met on a blind date after college.

Whitney is a second grade teacher at Bradfield Elementary in Highland Park ISD and Don is an attorney working with the FDIC. Their wedding is planned for December 2011. whitney_womac@yahoo.com

Price Blackford were united in marriage on Saturday, March 19, 2011 at the Church of St. John the Divine. Mrs. Lisa Hendee Blackard ‘97 served as the Matron of Honor. Other SBS alumni in the wedding party included Nora Ashkar Ripple ‘02, Katie Dunn ‘02, Carrie Ford ‘02, and Melissa Long ‘02. Kristin and Corbin live in Charlottesville, Virginia.

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2001 c l a ss a g e n t s

––––––––––––––––––––

Rory Brewton

Larkin Faye Watkins was born to Erin Larkin Watkins ‘00 and Wink Watkins (dad) on September 1 at 5:55 a.m. and weighed 8

rjbrew@gmail.com

Peter Warden

. . . . . .peterwarden@gmail.com .............................

Meredith Herring Stevens and

her husband Brian have recently moved from Honolulu, Hawaii, to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, with their children, Cameron (4) and Caden (2). Brian is currently serving in Afghanistan. dith83@hotmail.com

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2003 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Bradley Jackson

bradleyjax@gmail.com

Mary Margaret Porter

. . . .marymargporter@gmail.com ...............................

58

Eagle / Report

Bryan Aulds was recently promoted to Lieutenant and is serving with the HSC-9 Tridents Squadron (currently deployed) based out of Norfolk, Virginia.

He is flying Nighthawk helicopters and recently received his HAC certification, which allows him to command the aircraft. His wife, Jennifer, is an Education Director with Sylvan Learning Centers in Chesapeake. The photo shows Bryan flying with the USS-77 George Bush during recent training exercises.

Catherine Crane played on the

Republican National Committee Softball team when they played the Democratic National Committee in June. RNC won the game 21-7.

Amy Danvers married Ben

Johnson on May 21, 2011. They met in Houston while volunteering with Young Life. SBS alums in the wedding party included maid of honor and sister, Julie Danvers ‘01, bridesmaids Hannah Noble ‘03 and Kim Martin ‘04 and groomsman and brother, Scott Danvers ‘05.

The newlyweds reside in Houston, where Amy works in campus recruiting for Deloitte and Ben works in commercial real estate. amydanvers@gmail.com

Lauren and Timmy LeVrier are now proud parents of triplets born August 10, 2011. Londyn Grace, Layton Jack, and Lance Craig are all home and doing well.

The new family feels so blessed by this crazy and exciting journey that is just beginning! laurenlevrier@gmail.com Fall 2011 59

The Class of 2011 Says Goodbye at the Senior Send-Off

Alumni Updates

T

he most recent senior class gathered together one last time at the home of Class Agent Danielle Cope for the Senior Send-Off on Wednesday, August 10. The gathering was a casual time for the close-knit group to see each other before leaving for college.

Kirby Fine recently left Bank of America Merrill Lynch and now works for The Carlyle Group. He is still based in New York City. kirbyfine@gmail.com

The former seniors were eager to receive their yearbooks and spent time flipping through each page recalling many fun memories of their years at Second Baptist School. A highlight was discovering that their mascot had been given its own senior page.

“It was so enjoyable to see the students, hug them one more time, and remind them again that we love them and pray for them,” said math teacher Laura Kates.

A special thank you to Danielle Cope and her family, as well as William McMichael, for assisting in the planning of this fun event.

Elizabeth Owen married Robert

Waco Alumni Lunch

T

aking time away from their busy college and work schedules, Second Baptist School alumni living in Waco gathered for a lunch hosted by the SBS Office of Alumni Relations. The alumni gathered at Ninfa’s, close to the Baylor University campus. Mrs. Christine Oliphant, beloved Upper School counselor, was there to catch up with her former students, who enjoyed seeing her.

Former SBS Eagles had much to share about living, working, and going to school in Waco.

Laura Terrell Lalani ‘02 shared the excitement of the upcoming arrival of her second baby girl, due early next year. Barb Erben ‘06 discussed the beginning of her new career in finance, as she took a job with a local bank upon graduation from Baylor. Other SBS alumni in Waco are working on undergraduate degrees, attending seminary, and managing careers.

SBS will return to Baylor in March, during the Texas College Tour and will host another event for Waco alumni!

60

Eagle / Report

Roark on January 22, 2011 at Houston’s First Baptist Church, and the couple said their vows in the exact spot where they met. Their reception was at the Museum of Natural Science. Elizabeth and Robert currently live in Houston, where Elizabeth teaches Chemistry in Alief and Robert works for Wapiti Oil & Gas. eoroark713@gmail.com

Kimberly Martin and Drew Tatum

were married on Saturday, July 9, 2011, at Second Baptist Church.

Elizabeth Benjamin ‘04 was Kim’s maid of honor. Kim and Drew are 2008 graduates of Baylor University. They are now living in Dallas, where Kim is in human resources with Staffelbach Design Firm, and Drew is employed at JLB Partners, a real estate development company. kimberlym37@gmail.com

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2004 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Casey Brewton

cabrewton@gmail.com

Rebecca Hickman

. . . . . . . . rsh1129@gmail.com ...........................

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2005 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Robert Doty

rdoty87@yahoo.com

Elizabeth Suffield

. . . . . . . desuffield@gmail.com ............................

Mary Jo McSpadden and

Cody Don Johnson were united in marriage on June 4, 2011 at The Winfield Inn located in Kyle, Texas.

Mr. Johnny Polk officiated at the Christian ceremony. Mary Jo is a 2009 honors graduate of Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. She is a teacher with Communities in Schools in Lubbock, Texas. Cody is a graduate of Brownwood High School. He will be completing his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree at Texas Tech University.

Presently he is employed at Carpet Tech. Megan Dixon ‘05 was a bridesmaid and read scripture during the ceremony.

Other SBS Alumni attending the wedding included: Capt. Patrick McSpadden ‘00, Mallory Dixon ‘07, Lauren Allen ‘05, Lindsey Hunsaker ‘05, Sarah Ressler ‘05, Maegan Toups ‘05, Becca Dixon ‘10, and Garrett Luce ‘11.

Fall 2011 61

Alumni Updates

Aaron Thompson made his major league debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates on August 24, 2011. He pitched 4 1/3 scoreless innings to send the Pirates to a 2-0 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers.

Alumni Updates

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2007 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Mallory Dixon

malloryd313@yahoo.com ...................................

2006

Paul Thompson

. . paul.thompson8811@gmail.com .................................

c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Jenny Long

jenniferlaurenlong@gmail.com

Parker Jones graduated from Texas A&M in May 2011 with a Bachelors in Petroleum Engineering. He married Lauren Bailey on May 28, 2011, and following their honeymoon, began working for Forest Oil as a production engineer in their Houston office. They recently added a puppy to their home and are proud parents of Biscuit.

Brooks Shanklin

dbshanklin@gmail.com

Seliece Dodds

seliece.dodds@gmail.com

Colin Aulds graduated from Belmont University on May 15, 2011, and received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Music Business from the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business. He is currently living in Nashville producing his own and other artists’ music in the Nashville area. Colin occasionally writes articles on political and social topics for an independent newspaper in the Nashville Area.

Chris Klein is working in the

media department at Second Baptist Church.

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Charlotte Hale graduated

Christina Greene launched her

handmade jewelry line, Christina Greene, in April 2011. The Christina Greene line is a unique, handmade collection made of semi-precious stones and gold findings. christinagreenedesigns. com. christina.greene4@gmail.com

in May of 2011 with a Bachelor of Music in Oboe Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Arts Management from the University of Tulsa. She is currently working toward a joint degree in law and business (JD/MBA), also at the University of Tulsa, and plans on graduating in May of 2015. charlotte-hale@utulsa.edu

2008 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Eagle / Report

2009 c l a ss a g e n t s

––––––––––––––––––––

Sarah Mayes

Sarah Holland

tylohse@gmail.com

Jacob Plagens

matthew.kerns@bba09. mccombs.utexas.edu

Seh2990@comcast.net jnplagens@gmail.com

Ross Seaton

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Head of Second Baptist School, Dr. Jeff Williams, caught up with University of Oklahoma freshmen David Buckley, Joey Daniels and Margaret Maurer before a Sooners football game in September.

2010 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Shannon Dodds

shannondodds@comcast.net

Josh McKenzie

. . . . . mckenzie.jsm@gmail.com ..............................

Hailie Durrett

sarahkmayes@aol.com

christina7006@aol.com

at a Colorado School of Mines football game. John is a junior at CSM in Petroleum Engineering and Jennifer is a sophomore at the University of Oklahoma, also majoring in Petroleum Engineering.

hailied90@gmail.com

Christina Hayes

seatonross@gmail.com

62

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John Doughtie ‘09, with sisters Jennifer ‘10 and Jordan ‘18,

Tyler Lohse

Matthew Kerns

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2011 c l a ss a g e n t s ––––––––––––––––––––

Danielle Cope

dcdandy@hotmail.com

William McMichael

. . . wemcmichael@sbcglobal.com ................................

Members of the Class of 2011 joined SBS Upper School teacher Clare Towery at her Texas A&M vs.

Baylor tailgate. Pictured: Maddie Peveto, Danielle Cope, Ellen Geis, Garrett Luce, Clare Towery, Ben Riggle, Tanner Crake, Scott Terrell and Jesse Worsham ’09.

Fall 2011 63

WORD NUMBERS

ast The L

By the

by Adam Hammer ‘12

This year, I started my fifth and final year at Second Baptist School. Previous to joining the Second Baptist community, I spent twelve years overseas in an assortment of schools in a variety of countries. However, I feel that it is fair to claim that my time at Second Baptist School has been the single most molding experience of my life.

Prior to the summer of senior year, it is customary for AP English students to be assigned a senior author. Last spring, Leo Tolstoy was assigned to me and so was his Russian masterpiece “War and Peace.” The thrill of being assigned Tolstoy was quickly transformed into dread as the 1500 page novel was smacked on my desk in May—this was not the way I had envisioned the start of my senior summer.

Yet I began the daunting book and progressively fell in love with it. Behind its intricate story line and complex characters was lodged a philosophical belief of Leo Tolstoy—the philosophy of Determinism.

Essentially, the doctrine asserts that man’s life is much like the rack of a billiards table. Just as a billiards game commences with the cue ball breaking the rack and scattering the balls, a man’s life is defined by a few substantial actions that “break the rack” and determine the way for the rest of his life.

For five years, I have bled the colors blue and gold, attended weekly chapels, participated in class discussions and yearned to beat Kinkaid in every sport possible. In four seasons of football, I have been pushed physically to break past my limits. In four years of English, I have cultivated my mind and plunged deeper into the essence of literature, western society, and the very meaning of life. In two Upper School musicals, I have learned to depart from my comfort zone and broaden my horizons. In daily Bible classes, I have memorized scripture, debated pre-destination, and studied numerous religious doctrines. And in five years of SBS, I have grown into the person I want to be.

I think it is a fair to assume that SBS has been my cue ball. This school has scattered the billiard balls of my life and placed them for a straight shot to success in a future so clouded by uncertainties. And for this, I am forever grateful to the Second Baptist School community and family.

2010-2011

first

place finish at state for the

Varsity Men’s Swim Team!

STATE CHAMPS!

1806 was the

average

SAT

score for the Class of 2011... the state average SAT score was 1462.

9

106,322,877

members of the Class of 2011 are participating in

college athletics.

The

25

were read by Lower School students through the Accelerated Reader Program.

th 5

anniversary of Upper School musicals was celebrated with an unforgettable anniversary party, showcasing memorable moments on stage over the years.

Fifty-three students made a profession of faith in the

2010-2011 school year.

words

seniors from the Class of 2011 were recognized as National Merit Finalists.

835

MacBooks were prepared for the launch of the 1:1 Program.

7

seniors were appointed as the School’s first group of Prefect leaders.

80%

increase in attendance at the Distinguished Speaker Luncheon – more than 900 SBS families, alumni and friends gathered to hear featured speakers Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy.

12 employees at the School are proud SBS alumni.

30,000 HOURS

of community service was performed during Second Serving.

Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID Permit #2901 Houston, TX

713-365-2310

Address Service Requested

Parents of Alumni If this magazine is addressed to a graduate who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the SBS Alumni Office by fax (713) 365-2355, phone (713) 365-2310 or email sbsalumni@secondbaptistschool.org.

Please forward this edition of the Eagle on to your SBS graduate. Thank you.

Photo by Jacob Doty ‘11