Eagle Summer 2010

EAGLE SECOND BAPTIST SCHOOL

S u m m e r E dition 2 0 1 0

Celebrating Outstanding Seniors from the Class of 2010 Plus – Closing the Textbooks: Students Explore the World Through Interim Term

Igniting Hearts and Minds: The Newly-Designed Core Program

Second Baptist School

6410 Woodway Drive, Houston, Texas 77057 www.secondbaptistschool.org Established in 1946, SBS provides a world-class education for the leaders of tomorrow. SBS is a learning community to 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 Christcentered 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 flattened world they confront in the 21st century.

The Eagle is published by the Office of Advancement in the fall, winter 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.

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.

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From the Head of School Dr. Jeff D. Williams discusses the trip he made in April to visit alumni and other independent schools with the intent of learning how to continue to build upon the success of SBS.

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

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The Last Word SBS Director of Library Services Brenda McManus talks about celebrating her passion for reading.

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Celebrating Outstanding Seniors

Remarkable graduates from the Class of 2010 are spotlighted as they reflect on the past and anticipate their very bright futures.

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Closing the Textbooks: Students Explore the World Through Interim Term

SBS students journeyed around the city, the state and the globe during the most anticipated two weeks in Upper School.

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Igniting Hearts and Minds: The Newly-Designed Core Program

Beginning next year, the spiritually rooted and intellectually charged core program will challenge and encourage students in their faith.

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In Memoriam

Second Baptist School pays tribute to 1994 graduate Edd Hendee.

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Alumni Updates

A collection of alumni news from the 80’s, 90’s and 00’s.

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Alumni Speaker Series

Featuring an Emmy-winning producer, a mayor and more, the Speaker Series was a memorable day for students.

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Alumni Baseball Game

Former players, and coaches embarked on a new tradition at the first annual alumni baseball game.

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students and challenging them to defend their faith and beliefs. Recognizing faculty with a passion for teaching that matched our own faculty’s, we were blessed to have had the opportunity to learn from the SSCA teachers, making us eager to return to Houston with ideas to share.

We were honored to visit SSCA and plan to reciprocate with a visit to our campus this fall.

We left SSCA and traveled to Middlebury, Vermont, where we had the privilege of visiting with Harris Huguenard (2009), a student-athlete at Middlebury College. Aware that each of our current SBS students would be selecting a college in the future, I was curious about what had piqued his interest in Middlebury. Harris indicated he had been most impressed with Middlebury’s reputation and quality of education. Founded in 1800, Middlebury is now a top-tier liberal arts college. With approximately 2,300 undergraduate students and a 9:1 student-faculty ratio, Middlebury is nationally known for its language instruction, international studies, here are many reasons to celebrate Second Baptist environmental studies, and world-class facilities in the School: the academic success of our students, the athletic sciences. As Harris hosted our campus tour, it was evident prowess of the Eagles, the character that epitomizes our that this young man successfully has adjusted to the rigor student body, and the incredible parent community that of a challenging academic load while maintaining the helps to make this school a family. Though I can boast demands of a football schedule. Was he prepared for easily, no words of mine can compare to the words of such a challenge? Harris unequivocally answered, “Yes.” our own alumni, students who themselves praise the Desiring to know how we could better prepare our future foundation SBS has provided them as they navigate their SBS graduates, we questioned Harris further. His answer: way through college. This spring, I had the opportunity He wished he had had more experience in defending to visit a number of our alumni on their own campuses. his point of view and his faith. This comment became a As I visited their campuses and other independent critical point I wanted to remember. Before leaving, we schools with the intent of learning how to continue to had the blessing of praying with Harris, thankful for our build upon the success of Second Baptist School, their time with such a remarkable young man. words brought great reason to celebrate.

Next, we traveled to West Point where we visited

The trip in April took me, along with Mrs. Andrea Ben Adams (2007), Trevor Hanson (2009), John Buckley Prothro, Director of Admissions, and Ms. Ranelle (2009), and Ryan Hendrick (2009). What an honor it was to Woolrich, Middle School Academic Coordinator, to the tour the “post” and be escorted by four cadets who were once our students. We had a great afternoon hearing As I visited a number of our alumni about their successes and challenges. Each cadet and other independent schools with the shared that he felt fully intent of learning how to prepared academically and spiritually for the Academy. upon the success of Interestingly, all of them Second Baptist School, echoed Harris’s sentiments.

They wished they had their words brought great reason to celebrate. had more experience in defending their opinions Northeast, where we traveled some fifteen hundred and points of view in their secondary education. We miles in five states. We eagerly embarked on the trip with treasured the opportunity to pray with the men and a two-fold purpose: to observe classroom practices in continued on our journey. some of the nation’s top independent prep schools and

In New Haven, Connecticut, we had fun meeting to hear from our own alumni at their future alma maters up with Carter Deutsch (2008), a Yale student-athlete. about how SBS has prepared them for college. The trip Carter acted as our tour guide as he shared with us exceeded our expectations, as what we experienced only about his college experiences. A highlight of the tour increased our awareness of the greatness of our School. was seeing the “Yale Bowl,” where he spends a good

Our first stop was South Shore Christian Academy amount of his time practicing and playing football. Carter (SSCA) in Weymouth, Massachusetts. SSCA is a small noted how well prepared he was to attend Yale and school outside Boston, a hub of learning. The school’s how he has managed to play football while successfully quality Christian education in a community that is not carrying a strong academic load amongst some of the known for its strong evangelical stance inspired us. Having world’s brightest students. We were honored to hear how the opportunity to observe a middle-school English class, he cherished his days at SBS and how God has been his an upper-school history class, and an AP English class, refuge at this secular campus. Praying for Carter and his we witnessed teachers fostering engagement with their Christian witness ended our time at Yale.

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Sunday we had the opportunity to visit Tim Keller’s Redeemer Church in New York City where we heard his inspiring message. What a time of praise and worship as Mr. Keller presented the Truth. His words and presentation style matched his writings and only increased my excitement that many of our students would be reading his The Prodigal God this summer as part of our Core reading.

From New York City, we traveled to Long Island, New York, to visit the Stony Brook School, a Christian boarding school that utilizes the same Prefect Program the SBS Upper School has implemented for the 20102011 school year. We met with a number of students and faculty and gained invaluable insight as our tour guide, the Head Prefect, shared her views of the role of the Prefect system in the school and her thankfulness for her education at Stony Brook. We left Stony Brook with a great appreciation for Christian boarding schools.

At Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, New Hampshire, one of the nation’s most prestigious and elite independent schools, the faculty (including our former Upper School English teacher Johnny Griffith) and staff enthusiastically greeted us. Our agenda that day included observing more than ten classes where we observed first-hand the teachers’ skilled use of the Harkness method and met with faculty and students. A unique teaching style developed at Exeter, the Harkness method affirms that a properly educated student must be able to write and speak effectively, demonstrating not only knowledge but also confidence in analyzing ideas, problems, and propositions. Students must be able to integrate disparate information and synthesize a coherent meaning that brings greater clarity and understanding out of complex issues. The Harkness method encourages students to use their voices confidently; answer and ask questions; respectfully challenge ideas; and pose their own views, using the text as a basis for the discussion.

These principles were the same skills our alumni had noted in critiquing their post-secondary experiences.

Therefore, I am thrilled to report SBS’s decision to implement the Harkness method in the humanities courses starting in 6th grade for 2010-2011 as we seek to build the level of engagement of our students in the classroom. What a privilege for us to have begun to build a relationship with the Exeter faculty. We look forward to hosting a visit for some of the Exeter faculty this August to assist in SBS faculty training.

We followed Phillips Exeter with a trip to St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire, where we toured one of the most beautiful campuses in America and met with students and faculty. There, we studied St. Paul’s use of Harkness tables and various technology advances the school has instituted. As we shared about Second Baptist School, our tour guide, a philosophy teacher, was both intrigued about and complimentary of SBS. He, too, is eager to visit SBS in the fall.

Our final day was spent at Phillips Andover Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, recently named by Forbes as the third best Independent School in America, where we visited with former SBS student and now rising senior Cammy Brandfield-Harvey who currently has three sisters attending SBS. She was most complimentary of her education at SBS as sound preparation for Andover.

Having visited SSCA, Middlebury, West Point, Yale, New York City, Stony Brook, Exeter, St. Paul’s, and Andover in a few short days, we were exhausted yet disappointed that our trip was drawing to a close.

Several days of visiting alumni and schools provided us with a trove of ideas we are excited to implement at Second Baptist School. After observing in classrooms, conversing with like-minded faculty of other schools, and especially hearing from our own alumni, it was reiterated to us that SBS is preparing students for life beyond upper school. But most encouraging was the affirmation in our belief that we have much to celebrate at SBS. This visit confirmed for me that He is present and active in one of America’s finest institutions here at the corner of Woodway and Voss in Houston, Texas. Celebrate with me as we look towards a bright future!

To God be the Glory

Dr. Jeff D. Williams

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A t h le t i c n e w s

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campus news Campus News pp 4-23

Fine Arts News pp 24-31

Athletic News pp 32-39

Annual Eighth Grade Trip to Washington, D.C. Second Baptist School’s eighth grade class embarked on a whirlwind tour of Washington, D.C., where they spent a week seeing first hand the history of the United States.

After landing in a very snowy Washington, D.C. on Monday, the students began with a visit to the World War II, Jefferson, and Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorials. Despite several feet

of snow piled on the ground, the students dove into the history of these memorials. By far, one of the highlights of the trip was the private, Christian tour of the Capitol Building on Monday night given by Congressman John Culberson. Students not only had the privilege of touring the Capitol, but also hearing the biblical and Christian basis of America.

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Washington, D.C. continued Tuesday morning, students woke up bright and early to make the trip to Annapolis, Maryland, to visit the United States Naval Academy.

Here, the students learned about the history of the United States Navy and heard fascinating stories of great naval heroes. After lunch, students visited the Holocaust Memorial Museum in the District of Columbia. Students were able to view footage of actual concentration camps and Nazi rallies. This visit was incredibly emotional as students watched the horror that unfolded during the rise of Hitler’s power.

Tuesday afternoon, the eighth graders traveled to Arlington National Cemetery where they were able to visit the grave of President John F. Kennedy as well as witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

On Wednesday, the group embarked on a tour of the White House where they heard many stories of past Presidents. Students visited the China Room, the Red, Blue, and Green Rooms, as well as the State Dining Room. Each room was rich in the history of the United States. Afterwards, the eighth graders visited the National

Cathedral, followed by the Smithsonian, American History Museum and Natural History Museum.

Students began their day on Thursday by visiting Mt. Vernon, Virginia, the home of President George Washington. After touring the grounds, students were allowed the honor of paying their respects to the first President by laying a flower at his grave. Afterwards, students visited the Iwo Jima Memorial, which is dedicated to the United States Marine Corp.

Shortly after lunch on Thursday, the group visited the National Air and Space Museum in the Smithsonian Complex and ended their day with visits to the Lincoln, Vietnam, and Korean War Memorials.

The trip ended Friday with a tour of the Library of Congress followed by a visit to the Washington Monument.

This once in a lifetime adventure was an unforgettable memory for the eighth grade students.

SBS Book Fair

The Woliver-Anderson Library hosted the 2010 Book Fair “Houston Proud! Read All About It!” which was an event that joined together students and families to celebrate reading. Upon entering the library doors, visitors were surrounded by the sights and sounds of popular Houston landmarks. This year’s featured author for Middle School was Houston native Mrs. Andrea White – wife of former mayor Bill White. Lower School students welcomed the featured illustrator, Houstonian Mr. Layne Johnson.

Special guest was storyteller Aileen Kirkham also from the Houston area.

“The theme of the 2010 Second Baptist School Book Fair sums up the ‘total’ Book Fair experience! We were proud of our students, visiting author, illustrator and storyteller as well as the many parents and grandparents who volunteered their time and talents to make our annual Book Fair a success,” said Brenda McManus, Director of Secondary

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Library Services. “Generous parents, grandparents and friends of the library donated approximately 400 new books to the library’s collection!

We, at Second Baptist School, ARE ‘Houston Proud!’”

On Tuesday night during Book Fair Week, the SBS community enjoyed Family Night, where the author and illustrator were on hand to autograph books, and the students and their families could shop for books during the extended hours.

Special thanks to the Book Fair Chairman, the committee chairmen and the army of volunteers who numbered over 75 strong.

Upper School Students Attend Student Leadership University

Recognizing that the biggest part of leadership is serving, Upper School students devoted themselves to Student Leadership University. This in-house conference was held for two days as US students learned how to

become leaders that are convinced, conscious, competent, contagious and confident. Dr. Jay Strack and his team of college professors challenged the students to become Christian leaders in the 21st century.

With courses focused on time management and life management skills, SLU helped students prepare for their bright futures as outstanding Christian leaders.

Parents, youth ministers, teachers, and students hail Student Leadership University as the nation’s premiere leadership training program with a distinctively Christian worldview. They believe that students can walk confidently through the transition into adulthood if given the information, inspiration and tools to do so.

The aim is to equip, motivate, enable, and empower students for leadership in their communities, schools, churches, and workplace.

They believe that their training gives them a 20-year leap into the skills needed to walk confidently into the future.

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School Wide Service Day

Monday, January 18 was a memorable day in the life of Second Baptist School as students in all grade levels found unique opportunities to serve and develop leadership skills during Lower School and Middle School service days, and the Upper School Student Leadership University.

Each grade level in Lower School took on a different project for the day, ranging from care packages to baking cookies.

Pre-Kindergarten classes joined together and used their talented hands to serve residents at neighboring Vosswood Nursing Home. Each student painted a winter snowflake scene wall hanging for the residents to help lighten their days. During their service project, the Pre-Kindergarteners learned the importance of serving others.

The Kindergarteners brought food and toiletries for care packages that were sent to Air Force members who are serving in Afghanistan. The boxes were sent to an Air Force Officer whose wife graduated from SBS. He distributed them to his fellow officers. The Kindergarten teachers had planned to send 20 boxes, but because of the generosity of SBS families, 24 boxes were sent. The Kindergarten children enjoyed bringing items and packing boxes.

During the Lower School Service Day, first graders had the chance to work first hand with Amanda ‘96 and Kirk Craig ‘96 and their first grader Elijah, as they introduced students to their own Agape Ministries.

Agape Ministries is a ministry bringing hope and transformation to the Third Ward through economic, emotional and spiritual empowerment. Students filled bags with school supplies, candy, and handwritten notes, and cards of love and encouragement to be given to children at Agape. It was a blessing for the first graders to be able to see

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and feel ministry at work and to be directly connected to the recipients.

Second graders chose to honor and bless soldiers in Iraq with their Service Day. For two weeks, students brought food and snack items, toiletries, magazines, and games to be placed into care packages.

The second graders assembled 100 care packages for an entire Army troop that is stationed in Kirkuk, Iraq. Notes and pictures were also included with the bags when they were mailed. The students were excited for the opportunity to say “Thank You” to the soldiers for protecting and defending the United States.

Third graders made placemats to give as gifts to a local nursing home on Lower School Service Day. The children spent the morning busily pouring their love for their community into Valentine placemats to brighten the dining tray of the residents of Hearthstone Nursing Home. A great lesson was learned as the third graders walked their faith through serving others.

Showcasing their voices, fourth graders spent weeks learning patriotic songs to share with the residents of Vosswood Nursing Home. On January 18, students and teachers visited Vosswood where they delivered homemade cookies, sang, read poetry, prayed, and enjoyed fellowshipping with the overjoyed residents. Several fourth graders accompanied a nurse to personally visit those residents unable to leave their rooms. Together they shared cookies, conversation, and cheer.

The students enjoyed their day of service and many asked when they could return.

SBS Middle School students used their writing skills to write letters to members of the military. During their Bible classes, they watched an inspirational video about the sacrifices that military members make on a daily basis for the United

campus news States. Following the video, Middle School students wrote letters containing stories about their own family members in the military, sharing encouraging Bible verses, and discussing current events like weather and sports. They were also certain to thank the troops for their sacrifice and commitment to serving the United States.

Fourth Graders Present Morning News Show

Does the future of news broadcasting lie in the SBS fourth grade? Take one look at their Eagle Eye News, and it’s easy to see that these talented boys and girls have very bright futures ahead.

Fourth graders produce a morning news show for Lower School students to watch four days a week.

Informing viewers with the most upto-date information about the lunch menu, teachers’ birthdays, Bible verse of the day and a fun fact, the Eagle Eye News has become very popular among students.

Every fourth grader had the opportunity to be featured in the Eagle Eye News. Teams of five students film on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons in Ms. Crowell’s classroom. Members of the crew include a production assistant, two pledge anchors and two news anchors.

“I am in charge of pressing play for the music, getting the set ready, and helping with the lights. I really like technology, so this is really fun,” Alex, fourth grade student and production assistant, said.

US Teacher Excels In and Out of Classroom

Nationally recognized speaker, mentor, and master teacher are just a few accolades that Upper School teacher Gladys Wood has earned. In her 39-year career as an educator, Mrs. Wood has challenged each of her students to push themselves to excellence, never settling for average.

As an Advanced Placement consultant for twelve years, Mrs. Wood travels across the country going to AP Summer Institutes where she gives presentations to other AP calculus teachers on her new methods of math education.

Additionally, Mrs. Wood is an AP Table Reader and Table Leader for National AP Exams. She assists in the grading process of the AP Exams that many of our students take yearly.

Furthermore, for the last two years Mrs. Wood has been a National Consultant Mentor, where she takes two teachers under her wing for a year by coaching, observing them as they give presentations at AP conferences, and encouraging them throughout the year.

In her seventh year of teaching in the Upper School at SBS, Mrs. Wood teaches the grueling AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC and dual credit Calculus. She says that what keeps her coming back each year are the incredible students at SBS. “Being involved with the AP organization has added a layer to what I do at SBS and keeps me up to date with the knowledge of what our students will be competing against when they graduate,” Mrs. Wood said.

“As a teacher, I must keep current about what college professors around the nation want their incoming students to know,” Mrs. Wood said.

At a recent AP conference in San Antonio, Mrs. Wood gave four presentations about high school mathematics, specifically calculus.

Her presentations included, Functions: What We Wish Students Knew; Everything about Polar for PreCalculus and BC; BC: Understanding the Error in Series; and 2009 AB Free Response Questions – Advice from a Table Leader.

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PK and Bridge Celebrate Texas

The mood was full of anticipation and excitement as cowboys and cowgirls from the Pre-Kindergarten and Bridge classes galloped into the gymnasium on stick horses for their annual Hoedown. Singing Texas themed songs, square dancing, saying their Bible verse (John 3:16) and reciting facts about Texas were all part of the fun things that the students got to perform for their grandparents, parents, and special friends during their program.

The Pre-K and Bridge cowboys and cowgirls were very proud of themselves as they sang with loud voices to traditional Texas songs such as “Deep in the Heart of Texas” and “God Bless Texas.” Some of their favorite moments of the program included: “Riding into the gym on the stick horse.” – Ana “Reciting John 3:16.” – Tyler “I liked riding my horsey and wearing cowboy boots.” – Emily “Wearing my pretty brown and pink cowboy boots.” – Danielle “Reciting Texas facts because I got to say one.” – Katelyn “Square dancing because I got to dance.” – Kevin “Saying my Texas fact because I got to see my Mom and Dad better.” – Molly “The Cowboy Prayer because I knew it all.” – Nicholas “Standing on the bleachers because the more we sang, the more the parents clapped!” – Victoria

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campus news Students Attend Model UN Conference

Sixteen Upper School students participated in the annual Model UN Conference where they had the opportunity to portray delegates from other nations.

Model United Nations is an Upper School club where students role play a nation at a mock UN with hundreds of other Houston area students. SBS students had the opportunity to role play the nations of Hungary and New Zealand.

At the end of the conference, the chairmen of each of the committees gave out two Outstanding Delegate Awards. This year, SBS students received three of these awards.

Outstanding Delegates: William McMichael – International Court of Justice, New Zealand Sam Miller – GA 1, New Zealand Josh Kee – World Health Organization, Hungary

NHS Inducts New Members Recognized for their outstanding academic achievements during their Upper School years, 43 US students were inducted into the prestigious National Honor Society. As each student was recognized, a list of

their accomplishments was read aloud to their peers, families and special guests. While their accolades were being read, they signed their name into the National Honor Society Book, officially marking their commitment to scholarly excellence and leadership. This ceremony is both a tradition at SBS and a huge milestone for US students to attain as they pursue their academic goals at the School.

Dead Sea Scrolls Come to Life

Ancient history came to life for our students when an SBS family generously permitted the School to display recent biblical archaeological acquisitions. The display in the Woliver-Anderson Library included a fragment of the Dead Sea Scrolls, a 4,000-year-old handle from a storage jar, and a Roman oil lamp.

Faculty, staff, and students were all invited to see the special exhibit.

As the curious students observed the historical items, their teachers discussed with them the role and significance each item played in history. What an incredible opportunity for SBS to partake in these amazing treasures.

US Students win Science Competition

SBS Upper School students competed against several schools, both public and private, in the 2010 Science Olympiad Regional Tournament at Texas A&M University in Galveston.

Science Olympiad is a nonprofit organization developed to improve the quality of science education, increase student interest in science, and provide recognition of outstanding achievement in science education by both students and teachers. All of this is done through interscholastic competitions where students in grades 6-12 can

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participate at invitational, local, regional, state, and national level competitions against teams from across the country.

The outstanding achievements from SBS include: First Place Finishers: The Build Team for Mission Possible: Katie LeVrier, Ben Riggle, Regan Feurst, Daniele Cope, Kristin Gunn, Ellen Geis and Ryan Pool Second Place Finishers: Ornithology: Josh Dunegan and Ellen Geis Write It, Do It: Kristin Gunn and Daniele Cope Third Place Finishers: Cell Biology: Katie LeVrier and Mary Paige Stevenson Remote Sensing: Mary Paige Stevenson and Katherine Ann Rush We’ve Got Your Number: Josh Kee and Josh Dunegan

Students Excel in TAPPS State Music, Art and Academic Contests

Looking through a camera lens, holding a paintbrush, concentrating on writing a story, or singing prepared solos, SBS Upper School students excelled at the TAPPS State Competitions. In the TAPPS Art Competition, SBS took first place in the state! Representing the School in art, music, and academics, the students competed against private schools statewide to receive their high marks.

TAPPS Art: Serena Hudson: Drawing – Black and White, 3rd; Painting Opaque, 4th; Mixed Media 2D, Honorable Mention; Apparel, Product, and Jewelry Design, 3rd; Senior Portfolio, 5th; On-Site Photography, Honorable Mention Ellen Geis: Drawing Black and White, 1st; Drawing Color – Single Media. Honorable Mention; Drawing – Mixed Media, 2nd; Painting Transparent, 1st; Printmaking, 5th

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Nicole Simone: Drawing Black and White, Honorable Mention; On Site Photography, Honorable Mention Savannah Thode: Drawing Single Media, 1st; On Site Photography, 3rd; Seek and Sketch, 5th Caroline Schwartz: Graphic Design, 1st; Mixed Media 3D, 4th Maddie Farace: Graphic Design, 2nd Ben Pfeffer: Graphic Design, 5th Mitzy Ayala: Painting Transparent, 3rd Alec Beustring: Painting Transparent, 4th Keeler Porter: Mixed Media 3D, 1st Margaret Britven: Mixed Media 3D, 6th; Relief Sculpture, 1st and 2nd; Sculpture, 1st Apparel Product and Jewelry 2nd; Pottery, 3rd Henry Riasco: Relief Sculpture, 3rd Joey Daniels: Photography Unaltered, 1st Zachary Wallace: Photography Unaltered, Honorable Mention TAPPS Academic: William Whaley: Ready Writing, 1st; Literary Criticism, 4th Danielle Cope: Literary Criticism, 3rd TAPPS Vocal Competition: Kyle Hendrick, Kevin Smith, and Joshua Dunegan went to Belton, Texas, to participate in the TAPPS State Solo competition. Kyle and Joshua received Excellent ratings for their performances at the State level.

Kevin Smith received a Superior rating for his performances at the State level.

campus news Students Inducted into Spanish Honor Society

Twenty-one qualified Upper School students were inducted into La Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica, or Spanish Honor Society, based on their outstanding achievements in their Spanish classes. The honored students have an interest and passion for the Spanish language and culture. The ceremony was very formal, as the speaking was done in both Spanish and English. Following the induction, a lunch was served complete with tres leches cake.

The inductees for 2010 are: Advanced Placement Students: Lena Allouche and Lauren Hruzek Spanish Level 3 Students: William Arendt, Taylor Barnett, Agatha Brandfield-Harvey, Margaret Britven, Danielle Cope, Tanner Crake, Kirstyn Dominy, Regan Fuerst, Ellen Geis, Kristen Gunn, Sarah Hamilton, Sam Mannetti, Haley Mathis, William McMichael, Benjamin Pfeffer, Madison Peveto, Emmy Plezia, Ryan Pool, and Lauren Weber

Presidents Parade in the Sanctuary Waving their American flags up high and singing with loud voices, the second graders presented their Parade of Presidents Program to parents, grandparents, classmates and special friends last week. It is the highlight of the year when the second grade students draw names and find out which President or First Lady they will portray in the program. They spend time learning important facts about their person, color a large picture of their person for the special Portrait Gallery and put together a costume to wear that accurately portrays their President or First Lady.

During the program, the second graders sang American themed songs, led an Armed Forces tribute and proudly represented the respected leaders of our country. When asked, “What was your favorite part of the President’s Program?” the performers had some very thoughtful answers!

“Carrying the Navy flag down the aisle and watching all the men stand up as we sang ‘Salute to the Armed Forces.’ This was a great honor for me.” – Harris “Using my Texas accent to represent Lady Bird Johnson, ‘I was purty as a ladybird!’ I worked hard on the accent.” – Madeline “Introducing the ‘Salute to the Armed Forces’ and asking all the veterans to stand as their branch of the armed service was recognized.”

– Katie Anne “Saying my speech as Hillary Clinton. I was so excited when I found out she wanted to be an astronaut and she wrote a letter to NASA.” – McKenna “I liked saying my speech and singing the songs.” – Ben “My favorite part of the presidents’ program was giving the closing. I also liked singing the songs.” – Claire “I really liked parading down the aisle!” – Dylan “I liked giving my speech and dressing up in my costume.” – Anna Lea

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Seventh and Eighth Graders Compete in Math Contest

New Devices in PE Class Teach Students to Monitor Heart Rate

The top five scores from each grade received award certificates.

Congratulations to the following SBS students!

“The goal of the new heart rate monitors is to not only integrate technology into our curriculum, but we also want to do our part to teach the students about childhood fitness,” Susy Crosser, PE Coordinator, said.

SBS seventh and eighth graders recently competed in the Texas State Math League Competition, where they had the opportunity to take a test to qualify for one of the top scores in the School. The students compete against their own classmates and against other schools in the same league. The purpose of the competition is to build interest and confidence in mathematics through solving worthwhile problems. Each contest is 40 multiple choice questions with a 30-minute time limit.

Seventh Grade Don Dao Macy Schmidt Rammy Allouche Blake Dow Dalton Dentler Eighth Grade Katherine Fisher Gabriel Velez Connor Bryant Sydney Salters Ryan Wilson

Exercise intensity means something different to everyone. To one student a fast paced walk can meet their target heart rate, while it takes a sprint to reach another’s target rate. Recent research shows that school-aged children should get a minimum of 60 minutes of daily physical activity at moderate to vigorous intensity. In order to help students learn about exercise intensity and their target heart zone, PE teachers are using heart rate monitors in second through eighth grade PE classes.

Worn on their wrist and resembling a watch, the students wear the monitors while they are exercising in PE. The monitor acts as a pedometer and tells the student their number of steps, while also telling them their current heart rate. The monitors are used intermittently throughout the school year in PE classes.

Junior Class Presentation

The Junior Class Presentation is a long-standing tradition at Second Baptist School that has evolved over the years into one of the most cherished times in the life of an Upper School student. The eleventh graders are escorted by their parents and an US administrator or teacher presents each student and reads aloud their accomplishments over the last three years. This formal ceremony marks the transition of responsibility from the current graduating class to the rising senior class.

“Abby is the youngest of our four children, so this ceremony was extra special for us,” Mary Anne Burger, SBS Parent of Cedric ‘05, Jack ‘06, Claire ‘09 and Abby ‘11, said. “For the first time after the ceremony, 14

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I volunteered at the Junior Class Lunch, and that was such a sweet time to see all of the kids bonding together. It was a special day for our family.”

MS Competes in Ice Cream Challenge

“I scream, you scream, we all scream for ICE CREAM!” What better way to spend a warm afternoon than enjoying some homemade ice cream on the Athletic Fields?

It was fun for all as middle school students, their families and faculty and staff gathered on the Athletic Fields for the First Annual Middle School Ice Cream Cook-Off Challenge. On a sunny day after school, families made their way to the rocky playground where music was playing and ice cream was shared.

“I thought it was such an exciting time for us! I feel like we accomplished what we set out to do and that was to just have fun with our kids,” Jon Guthrie, Head of Middle School, said.

Middle School teachers made teams based on the grade level they teach and an administration team was also formed. Each team came up with a theme for their table, decorations

and matching outfits to round out their creative endeavors. The teams made their own flavor of ice cream and the families walked around and sampled each of the flavors.

To add to the fun, some teams even offered selected toppings or homemade cookies to form ice cream sandwiches.

All of the attendees had the opportunity to vote for their favorite tasting ice cream during the event.

After the ballots were counted, the teachers from the seventh grade team were announced as the winners of the ice cream cook-off challenge. They received a gold trophy in recognition of their outstanding efforts!

SBS Junior Wins Camper of the Year Award

Recognized for their exemplary leadership among their peers, juniors Ellen Geis, William McMichael and Ben Riggle were selected by their teachers to attend Camp Enterprise. This leadership conference is held in Houston and is an event where students meet with business and community leaders to discuss and explore leadership. The campers hear presentations from Houston business leaders and then form teams to intensely navigate

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Youth Against Cancer Walks for their Cause

Youth Against Cancer has become one of the most exciting organizations on campus, spurring student awareness of cancer research in the Upper School. The club raises funds to donate to the American Cancer Society, Texas Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House in Houston. Throughout the school year, YAC hosts fundraisers such as bake sales and Walk for the Cure.

Tripling the amount raised in the 2008-2009 school year, the group raised over $3,000 this year. Additionally, students donated a grocery gift card this past fall to the family of Layla Grace, a two-year old Houston girl who lost her battle to Neuroblastoma on March 9.

Participating in their second annual Walk for the Cure, club members and US teachers joined together on a beautiful afternoon to walk at Memorial Park.

This event generated a great amount of money to donate to cancer research.

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campus news an imaginary company through building a business plan.

On the last day of camp, the attendees and counselors nominate students for Camper of the Year. This year, six students were nominated for this award. Each of the nominees has 15 minutes to prepare and give a speech on leadership. At the conclusion of the speeches a runner up and Camper of the Year are selected. William McMichael was selected as the Camper of the Year and received a $5,000 scholarship to the college of his choice. He formally accepted the award at a Rotary Club luncheon and was asked to talk about his plans for the future.

William is the second SBS student to win this honor.

Camp Enterprise features outstanding speakers from the fields of manufacturing, engineering, health, communications, business services, and more. Topics at the conference include management and employee relations, starting a business, government relations, ethics, the role of business in society and the community, and much more. This program is designed to give students better insight into the business world for themselves and their peers.

and even Cher! The cast of actors told stories to a young girl, the “Baby Jesus Freak”, a new Christian, about what it looks like to have a life that is completely sold out for Jesus.

In the audience, Lower School students watched in awe as they saw their classmates present the highenergy program. They enjoyed the flashing lights and bright colors that the fourth graders wore.

“The song ‘Staying Alive’ was my favorite part. The fourth graders did a really good job,” Ellis, a first grade student, said.

Memorizing lines, dance steps and songs all paid off as the crowd of parents, grandparents, siblings and friends were impressed by their tremendous talents!

SBS Students See Clearly

The SBS Nurses’ Office is helping students to see! Mandated by Texas law, each year the SBS Nurses Office conducts vision and hearing screenings for all students in PreKindergarten, Kindergarten, and grades 1, 3, 5 and 7. They have been successful in early detection of Amblyopia, which is sometimes referred to as “lazy eye”, in many

Fourth Graders Share the Good News

Keeping with tradition, the fourth grade class presented “Jesus Freak” for their Grandparents Day program.

This was a special presentation from the students about what it means to be sold out for Jesus.

Fourth graders did a great job entertaining the SBS family with their songs, choreographed dances and outstanding acting abilities as they portrayed Peter and Paul from the New Testament. During the program, Peter and Paul explain what a life of a “Jesus Freak” looks like, with the help of appearances from Barnabas, John, Albert Einstein

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SBS students. Amblyopia must be discovered by age three or four to have favorable treatment results.

Between the ages of four and six, treatment results will only be fair while detection at ages six and up often leads to poor visual results.

Many times a student will totally lose vision or be blind in the affected eye if the problem goes undetected.

“I am very passionate about offering this service to our families,” Sharon Toups R.N., Director of Health Services, said. “My experience has been that sometimes vision problems are missed by the pediatrician staff, so it is important that we check our students here at school also. Next year all of our registered nurses will be certified to help with the vision and hearing screening process.”

A third grade student had her vision checked earlier this year, and though she passed the test, Mrs. Toups called her mom and recommended that she book a follow up visit with her ophthalmologist.

“Mike and I would not have realized that Sarah, our daughter, needed glasses if it had not been for the visual screening SBS provides and Mrs. Toups’ expertise. The eye doctor said that since Sarah’s problem was caught at such an early age, the vision could be completely corrected by the teenage years.

What a blessing to have my child at SBS and to have such loving care,” Christine Oliphant, SBS Parent and Upper School Counselor, said.

Another SBS family had a similar experience with their vision

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screenings. When their Kindergarten daughter had her vision screening, Mrs. Toups again found that her vision was not as strong in one eye. Mrs. Toups called the mom, former SBS Nurse Sherry Drinnon, and they booked an appointment with a pediatric eye specialist.

The doctor recommended that all of Mrs. Drinnon’s children be checked for Amblyopia, and both her Kindergarten and three year old daughters tested positive for it. Fortunately, her infant son had strong vision.

“The vision screenings changed our whole families life and saved the vision of two of our three children,” Mrs. Drinnon said. “Our children are bathed in spiritual love at SBS and receive such a great education. This experience is proof that SBS cares about every aspect of my children!”

Kindergarten student Gracie was also tested in the Nurses’ Office during her annual vision screening, and confirmed what her mom already suspected – Gracie needed glasses.

“After seeing the written report from the Nurses Office, I knew I had to face the truth and take action,” Mary Martinez, Gracie’s mom, said. “Gracie is doing great with her glasses!”

MS Readers Join Book Club

Many sixth graders would like to be asleep at 7 a.m. on a school day, but one extraordinary group of sixth graders can be found at school on Wednesday mornings participating in a book club – Books and Breakfast, or B&B, for short.

campus news Twenty-six students join with the sixth grade English, Social Studies and Math teachers along with the MS Curriculum Coordinator and the MS Librarian at this voluntary book club. They meet at 7 a.m. and enjoy breakfast together, and then break into smaller groups based on what book they are reading. Once in groups, they discuss their books together with the adult leader.

Following group discussion, all of the students join back together in prayer, and then they head to first period.

“It is a great blessing for both students and teachers to be able to meet together and share our love of reading with each other,” Nancy Wahl, sixth grade English teacher, said. “The excitement is contagious, and we look forward to lifting up the pleasure of reading at the B&B for many years to come!”

On their first meeting, each of the adult leaders presented a different book to the B&B members and then the students got to choose

Science Classes are Larger than Life

Through innovative, interactive adventures, Lower and Middle School students discovered new ways to explore science – in sixteen-foot balloons. The Orbit Earth and Big Canyon Balloon expo was set up in the gymnasium for students to participate in this special science exhibit.

The students enjoyed the larger than life lesson on outer space because it was a new and fun way to learn about the solar system. The Orbit Earth modeled the relationship between the earth, sun and moon. It allowed students to create day and night, eclipses, and seasons using scale models of the earth and moon. The exhibit also included a demonstration of the phases of the moon and how the planets revolve around the sun with the students holding models of the planets. The earth they explored was 16 feet tall and the moon was 4 feet tall.

In the Big Canyon Balloon exhibit, the students encountered the world of a canyon and delta formation through the innovative cold air inflatable. Students were able to see the effects of erosion first hand, as well as the movement of sediment down river. Inside the balloon, students found a fossil record and an oil deposit to closely examine. This creative classroom ignited student learning and gave them a real insight into canyons.

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which book they wanted to read.

The groups were formed based on which book the member chose to read. Prior to B&B each week, the students complete their reading assignment and come ready to discuss what they’ve read. Many of the students have already completed their entire books ahead of time because they are so excited to read!

Outside of B&B, the students have joined a blog set up by the adult leaders to collaborate and discuss their books. The blog has been such a big hit among the book club members that it has even inspired some new teacher bloggers. To see what the B&B members have been reading and commenting about, check out their blog at http:// readtodiscover.blogspot.com.

Kindergartener Begins Homeless Ministry

It all began in December with a simple prayer. As Jeremy and Hillary Bennett were tucking their 5-year-old daughter Kylie into bed, she prayed for $100 so she could give it to the homeless. About a month later, Jeremy was driving into work, tuned into the radio and heard a moving story about the homeless and the desperate situation they were in this winter during one of the freezes the city of Houston had. He quickly called Hillary and they prayed about what they could do to fulfill Kylie’s prayer from a month ago. How could they help the homeless?

By 11:30 a.m. that morning, God had already begun to answer their prayers. They had already raised close to $200. By 6 p.m., they had more than $700 and three boxes full of blankets and coats. With the money, the Bennett family went to Academy and bought 70 sleeping bags (the store even donated money to help out the cause).

After loading up their cars, the family made a stop at Starbucks to purchase three carafes of hot coffee to distribute. They spent the evening distributing sleeping bags, coats, blankets and hot coffee to the homeless.

“My favorite part about visiting the homeless is giving them sleeping bags so they can be warm at nighttime when they sleep,” Kylie said.

During their visit, they were also able to pray for some of the homeless people. After such a fulfilling night, the Bennett family knew that this wasn’t their last trip to help the homeless. Kylie’s Prayer had just begun.

“Kylie not only has listened in Bible, she has taken action by praying about what she has heard and seen. I am a firm believer that God desires to use people of all ages, especially children, if we as adults will listen to them,”

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campus news Tamara Gallagher, Head of Lower School, said. “When she prayed passionately for the homeless, her parents DID listen when she had a tug on her heart for the homeless. I love her heart of compassion and desire to take action.”

The next time they went out, they collected tennis shoes beforehand.

Through shoe donations and money collected, they gave 60 pairs of shoes to the men on the streets, in addition to toiletries, clothes, cupcakes and cookies. Now, each time the group heads downtown, they choose one item that they will spend the majority of the cash donations on.

“My husband and I went with the Bennett’s the second time they went out and we were blessed by the people we met downtown and the people that went to minister to the homeless. I think the thing that stood out to me the most was the sincerity of the people from both sides,” Kathy Abney, Kylie’s teacher, said. “I saw Kylie’s mom ask a man how she could pray for him. He responded that he needed a job. She immediately bowed her head and began to pray out loud amongst a large group of bystanders! It gave me the encouragement I needed to do the same with a man who came up to me and ask if we were giving away a truck. I said, ‘If you need a truck, let’s pray for one.’”

New Officers Elected for Key Club

Key Club is a service-oriented club in the Upper School that meets weekly to plan and execute service projects.

This school year, Key Club has been very successful, as they have contributed in many outstanding ways at SBS and in the community.

Key Club purchased the core books for US students, donated money to Angels of Light and awarded a $1,000 scholarship to a senior at Honors Night. During their popular poinsettia sales at Christmastime, the club raised $9,700 to donate to Brookwood Community.

The strong traditions of Key Club will continue with the officers that have been elected for next school year.

President Katie Lakenmacher First Vice President Ellen Geis Second Vice President Sophie Adickes Secretary Regan Fuerst Program Chairman Kristen Gunn Treasurer Addie Brandfield-Harvey Chaplain Billy Arendt Senior Representatives Ladonna Bunnell and Danielle Cope

The group varies in size each time they make a run. They made their fourth trip downtown Saturday, May 15.

Junior Representative Drew Tolson

Kylie’s Prayer has also reached people though their blog, www.kyliesprayer.com. The blog documents all of their “runs” to serve the homeless and features videos telling more of their story, and interviews with some of the men they have served.

Outstanding Readers Attend AR Party

Sophomore Representatives Katherine Ann Rush and Mary Paige Stevenson

There are several millionaires in Lower School! Eighteen third and fourth graders achieved the honorable title of “AR Word Millionaire”. During the 20092010 school year, each student

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read over one million words. This year, five students were named “multimillionaire” by reading over two million words or more, with one student at almost 4.5 million words!

The millionaires were invited to attend a party in their honor that was catered by Marble Slab. While they enjoyed their ice cream sundaes, the students played “Win, Lose, or Draw: Book Edition”. Each student received an AR Millionaire T-shirt and a personalized “dog tag” necklace that had the number of words they read on it.

This year’s AR Word Millionaires are third graders Harrison, John, Thomas, Zachary, Kate, Spencer and Kenner; and fourth graders Michael, Joseph, Kendall, Grace, Cassidy, Clark, Jordan, Joe, Nic, Trae and Nick.

Lower School Students Give up their Locks for Others

Sometimes giving to others can be as simple as getting your haircut.

Several SBS Lower School girls have done just that over the past school year by donating their hair to Locks of Love, a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada under age 21 suffering from longterm medical hair loss from any diagnosis. Each participant had to grow her hair long enough so she could have at least ten inches cut off to donate.

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Faith Askew, a third grade student, was motivated because her dad had cancer, and lost his hair. “I wanted to give hair to a little girl whose hair fell out because of her cancer treatment.

My dad lost his hair and that made him sad.”

Rose Sansone, also in third grade, donated hair to Locks of Love several years ago because her high school aged sister donated her hair.

“My sister was in high school and lots of girls were doing it. My sister did it too.”

Grace Gallagher, a fourth grader, was inspired by her babysitter. “My babysitter’s hair was so long and thick that she was able to make seven wigs.” Grace put herself into the position of a young girl with cancer. “I would feel sad if my hair fell out so I wanted to help make a wig for a girl that happened to.”

Grace even inspired her third grade sister, Mariah. Mariah loves her new short haircut and says she would recommend that other girls give hair to Locks of Love. “It makes you feel good to help someone.”

Jillian Wright, third grader, said Mrs. Gallagher told her mom about Locks of Love, and both she and her mom thought it was a great idea. Jillian says, “It felt good to get my hair cut and I was happy to help people. I like my short hair.”

Head of Lower School Tamara Gallagher joined the girls in donating her hair to the cause as well.

campus news PHYSICS STUDENTS ATTEND STEPHEN HAWKING LECTURE

A group of Upper School students traveled to Texas A&M University to see worldrenowned astrophysicist Stephen Hawking as part of the Wiley Lecture Series.

“Fascinating doesn’t even begin to cover it. I was so enthralled that I didn’t know what to think,” David Seale, Upper School Science Teacher, said.

During his lecture, Dr. Hawking explained the ramifications of being sucked into a black hole, if survival is even possible, and what awaits you on the other side. Dr. Hawking subscribes to the theory that black holes cannot be used to pop from one side of the galaxy to another. Also, information is never lost, not even in a black hole, but is reassembled and can even escape. This method of thinking expanded the SBS students way of thinking about physics.

For a man who must use a computer to communicate (he suffers from Lou Gehrig’s disease) the students and teachers felt that Dr. Hawking was very down to earth, his language was easy to comprehend, and he has a very acute sense of humor. His method of talking involves twitching a muscle on his cheek in a manner much like winking to move and select words from a screen full of words. He narrows down the subject to commonly used words and phrases that are associated with this world and this can facilitate a conversation.

“It was an exceptional evening that exposed the students to one of the brightest minds out there, and expanded our own minds to the wonders of the universe,” Mr. Seale said.

The night concluded with a question and answer session with Dr. Hawking and his associates from Cambridge University.

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Fine arts news

Standing Ovation for Meet Me in St. Louis

Performing four shows to full houses, the cast and crew of Meet Me in St. Louis did a tremendous job under the lights at the Hobby Center!

It was all about family as Upper School students presented the ever so charming musical Meet Me in St. Louis. The story of the Smith Family came to life when the talented cast took the audience on a ten-month journey as they anticipated the World’s Fair in St. Louis. Complete with a first-class set and costumes, Meet Me in St. Louis set the bar even higher for future SBS musicals!

As a new addition to the show this year, the cast gave an exclusive performance for the students at Yellowstone Academy one afternoon. The Yellowstone students loved the musical, and could be heard laughing and singing along. They all left the Hobby Center with big smiles on their faces!

Thank you to all of the cast parents for their hard work on the sets, costumes, food, transportation and the cast party!

Congratulations to the cast and crew of Meet Me in St. Louis!

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“My favorite part of being in the musical was being able to be with all my friends and being able to express a different side of me. Playing the role of Grandpa was extremely fun because it made people laugh and I got to be goofy and silly,” James Rickaway, junior, said.

Cast David Abbott Sophie Adickes George Beauchamp Jason Blades Emily Boyd Sara Bresser Danielle Cope Tanner Crake Becca Dixon Beth Dodson Kirstyn Dominy John Durie Elyse Elsenbrook Daniel Garza Ellen Geis Will Hale Adam Hammer Jenna Hendrick Kyle Hendrick Lauren Hurley Joshua Kee Daniel Lakenmacher Sam Mannetti Haley Mathis Josh McKenzie William McMichael Alli Motley Ben Pfeffer Nick Ramsey Matthew Rankin Emma Raymond James Rickaway Katherine Ann Rush Caleb Russo Annie Samuelson Kasey Sisson Scott Terrell Tyler Thomas – Orchestra Molly Tollett Natalie Tollett Jacob Wallace Lauren Whitaker Bailey Wilkerson Davian Wilson

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Crew Abby Burgher Ryan Brockman Bethany Greco McKinzie Jones Alyssa Mellilo Grace Peacock Paige Plato

“After being in the musical for four

years, I was really hit hard when it was all over. All of the SBS musicals have impacted my life in amazing ways. I will always miss the stage, the adrenaline rush, and the people. These experiences are truly unforgettable memories,�

Jenna Hendrick, senior, said.

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Choir Ends the Year on a High Note

The choirs of Middle School and Upper School students presented their Spring Vocal Music Concert to a packed Sanctuary of families, teachers, and SBS alumni.

Kicking off the concert with their rendition of “Consider Yourself” and “Getting to Know You”, the Seventh and Eighth Grade Choir wowed the audience with their impeccable talents. The Ninth Grade Choir beautifully sang “What a Wonderful World”, followed by the talented Vision Choir singing “New York, New York”, “Through the Eyes of Love” with soloist Lauren Hurley, “Early One Morning” and “I Am.” The anticipated moment of the evening came when the Vision Choir sang “The Blessing” and all choir alumni were invited onstage to sing along. Rounding out the evening were the senior farewell solos as these veteran choir members made their final appearance with Vision Choir.

Band Impresses Audience in Spring Concert

Ending their year on a high note, the Instrumental Music Department gave their annual Spring Concert,

featuring the talents of fifth grade Beginning Band and the sixth – twelfth grade Concert Band. The Beginning Band played “American Folk Trilogy”, “Trumpet Voluntary”, and “American Spirit March”.

The Concert Band performed four pieces of music. They were “Joyance” which is based on the 18th century hymn “Rejoice the Lord is King”, “All Aboard” which was a gospel boogie arrangement of “This Train is Bound for Glory”, “River of Hope” which was based on the Appalachian folk hymn “Down to the River to Pray”. They ended the concert with a fast, arousing arrangement of “The Big Circus March”. This piece depicted all the excitement, color, and sounds of a circus in a small-town, rural America.

“This past year has been an incredible year for the band program at SBS. We started 15 beginning students in band this year and they performed better than most fifth grade band students I have had. The sixth grade band students are now playing at a ninth grade level,” Mark Lewis, Director of Instrumental Music, said. “The Upper School band students have exceeded my expectations for them this year. They are maturing in their sound and have worked very hard to make the concert the success that it was. Both groups performed exceedingly well.”

During the Spring Concert, awards were presented to several of the students for their outstanding accomplishments in band.

Outstanding fifth grade band members were Anya Parrish and Daniel Knight. Outstanding sixth grade band member was Kyle Wilkinson. Outstanding seventh grade band member was Kai Mosvold. Joshua Dunegan was recognized for advancing to the state level with his trumpet solo and also received The Director’s Award for Band. Senior Tyler Thomas received the Patrick Gilmore Award for Band and Lauren Hurley received the John Philip Sousa Award for Band.

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fine arts news SBS Artists Enter Rodeo Art Competition

The rodeo is not just for cowboys and cowgirls, but for artists, too! This year, Lower and Middle School students created portraits in their art classes to enter in the annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Program Competition. The students made their artwork using a variety of media, with themes such as rodeo bulls, cows, cactus, chickens, and landscapes. The students spent about a month working on their artwork in class and then it was judged by the Rodeo Art Committee in January.

Every entry is a winner with the participants each receiving a certificate of merit, signed by the Rodeo President. Congratulations to the ribbon winners from SBS. Blue Ribbons Isabel (KB) Grayson (KD) Ashley (1A) Carlie (1C) Matthew (2C) Lily (2D) Madeline Freeman (7th) Stanley Chang (7th) Thomas Csorba (7th) Red Ribbons Alex (KA) Wyatt (1A) Emily (2A) Elisa (2C) Krista (3B) Olivia (3C) Alex (3E) Joseph (4A) Jimmy Richardson (7th) Will Brazelton (7th) White Ribbon Zane (4D)

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Senior Selected for TPSMEA All-State Choir

Earlier in the school year, seniors Natalie Tollett and Kevin Smith were selected to the TPSMEA Regional Choir as finalists for their outstanding vocal performances at the TPSMEA auditions. Each of the four regions in Texas select 20 students as finalists in each of the voice parts – soprano, alto, tenor and bass. After the regional finalists are selected, those students then have the opportunity to audition for the state choir.

Kevin represented SBS well with his performance at the Regional Choir competition.

Natalie was able to continue her journey to the All-State Choir where she was one of 40 sopranos selected out of 400 competing and then awarded the prestigious ranking of 4th in the state. Due to her high ranking, she was selected to be the leader of a group of 10 singers throughout the weekend of the TPSMEA All-State Choir Conference. With her tremendous talent and leadership, Natalie’s group was specially selected to perform a section of a song during the Saturday evening concert.

“How exciting it was to see Natalie perform with the outstanding All-State Choir and to hear her excitement as she spoke about this incredible opportunity,” Jim Sparks, Director of Vocal Music, said. “Natalie truly has a talent in her singing and it is a joy to work with her.”

As a member of the TPSMEA All-State Choir, Natalie had the opportunity to perform with the most outstanding singers from private schools across the state during the weekend of January 29-30. The choir rehearsed together during a clinic with guest clinician, Dr. Tom Jaber, Professor of Music, Director of Choral Activities and Vocal Coach at Rice University.

The rehearsals led up to the pinnacle performance featuring the choir, along with the AllState Band and All-State Orchestra, at Texas State University in Evans Auditorium.

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fine arts news MS Actors Perform End-of-Year Shows

Seventh grade drama students presented their end-of-year-play, Alice in Wonderland to their classmates and families. Their energetic, upbeat rendition of this classic story was funny and quirky.

Members of the cast included: Blake Dow, Anthony Leon, Mary Kerr Winters, Nicole Begala, Michaela Schirra, Christiana Elliott, Kai Mosvold, Alex Miller and Stanley Chang.

Cumulating their year in drama, the other seventh grade drama class performed The Trial of Tom Sawyer.

The talented cast was made up of: Katharine Towne, Mackenzie

Townsen, Catherine Elliott, Leah Prillaman, Jack Wiesen, Chandler Dunham, Samuel Dunnegan, Parker Plato, Caleb Raltson, Morgan LePori, Asha Worsham, Robyn Whitaker, Harry Burg, Jason Turnage and Grahme Wallace.

The eighth grade drama class performed the highly entertaining Wildcat Katie Brown for their end-of-the-year performance. The audience enjoyed this hilarious tale of a town and their growing interest in Katie Brown. Actors and actresses included: Meredith Ammerman, Mattie Davis, Harper McGee, Lexi Harwell, Hayward Hildreth, John Schwartz, Chris Beavers, Meagan Maloney, Tave Wise, Will Thompson, Conner Bryant, Clay Broussard, Charlie Frizzell, Ethan Hackett, Sarah Geis and Elizabeth Mayes.

MS Actors Perform Romeo and Juliet Scenes

The eighth grade Theatre Practicum students performed scenes from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet just in time for Valentine’s Day. Complete with costumes from the era, a stone balcony and lattice set the stage for the famous balcony scene, every eighth grade girl was Juliet and every boy Romeo. This was a part of their duet acting study in class.

Entering Verona, Italy, in the courtyard of Juliet Capulet, Romeo professes his love to Juliet in the famous balcony scene. The students analyzed the scene for understanding and gave their own interpretation while acting in the Elizabethan language. As they completed their respective scenes, each concluded, “Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I shall say goodnight till it be morrow.”

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Athletic news

Golf Wins Fourth in State

The Varsity Golf Team placed fourth at the TAPPS State Tournament. The golf team had a tremendous year, taking top honors at six tournaments in a row, including district and regionals. Although the team missed the state title by just a few strokes, they had a tremendous season and made their mark in the TAPPS golf community.

“The SBS golf team had an outstanding year and I am very proud of their accomplishments, and the way they represented Second Baptist School,” Johnnie Butterfield, SBS Varsity Golf Coach, said. “This year they raised the level of play for future golf teams at SBS.” Junior Scott Terrell placed 5th at the state tournament and received all-state honors.

“We had a really great season this year. We came up short at state, but with most of our team returning, we are excited about next year,” Scott Terrell, three-year Varsity golfer, said.

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Varsity Baseball Swings for a Winning Season

Although the Varsity Baseball Team was young this year, they proved that they are one of the top baseball teams in the state!

After winning first place in TAPPS District 4-4A with a record of 13-1, the team entered the playoffs primed for a run at another State Championship. Their dream fell short in the Regional game when they lost a heartbreaker to Argyle Liberty Christian. After leading 2-0 for most of the game, Liberty Christian scored three runs in the top of the 7th to go ahead 3-2.

Despite getting a man on base in the bottom of the 7th, the Eagles were unable to bring him home and lost the game.

Despite this tough loss, it was still a great year for Eagle Baseball.

Seniors Brandon Powell and Jason Stading helped lead the way to a great overall record of 28-9.

Brandon’s baseball career continues this fall at Samford University in Birmingham and Jason has signed to play at Southwestern University in Georgetown.

Juniors Garrett Luce, Jay Calhoun, Trey Soape and David Buckley were strong all year as well and will

provide a tremendous core of talent and leadership as seniors in 2011.

Softball Competes in State Semi-Finals

The Varsity Softball Eagles had quite a run this season. They defeated San Antonio Christian by a score of 10-0 in the TAPPS 4A Bi-District Playoff Game. Then they went on to win the TAPPS Regional game by beating Ft. Worth Southwest Christian with a score of 1-0 at the University of MaryHardin Baylor. With this win, they advanced to the TAPPS State SemiFinal game in Waco where they were narrowly defeated 1-0 by Fort Worth Christian. Under the leadership of senior captain Kendall Stiefel, the team had a tremendous season.

Outstanding Year for Tennis Team

The Varsity Tennis Team finished the regular season with a record of 6-3 and placed 3rd overall in District.

Three players qualified for the State tennis tournament – Shreve Pratt, Mike Hartley, and Christine Kharkevitch. These freshmen competed in the TAPPS State Tournament for Boys’ Doubles and sophomore Christine Kharkevitch went on to win the Girls 4A championship for Singles!

Track Team Runs Impressive Season

The track team had an outstanding showing this year at both the district and state level. At the District Track Meet, SBS had four girls and three boys reach the finals. For the girls, Chioma Nwankwo reached the finals in the 100, 200 and 400; Erica Burton-White in the 400; Ashley Elliott in the 300 Hurdles; and Natalia Miller in the Shot Put. For the boys, Nick Jones reached the finals in the 100 and 200; Tarik Tyler in the 400 and 800; and Thomas Anderson in the Shot Put and Discus.

Additionally, Tarik Tyler and Thomas Anderson qualified for the Regional Meet – Thomas in the Shot Put and Discus and Tarik in the 400 and 800.

At the State Meet, Tarik Tyler qualified for the 400 and finished 4th!

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athletic news New Weight Room for Athletes

The Athletic Weight Room has been renovated and stocked with new equipment for SBS athletes to use. Many of the older machines and weight racks have been replaced with eight Legend Fitness combination platform racks. New color coded bumper plates have been added and additional sets of dumbbells completed the updates.

The configuration of the Weight Room better utilizes the space,

hence, giving coaches the ability to work out larger numbers of athletes together. The new layout also allows athletes to remain in one station and have a complete work out – which prevents coaches from having the athletes move from station to station.

Stop by the Weight Room in the Athletics area to see the new improvements. The upgrades were partially funded by the Eagle Athletic Booster Club.

Spring Athletic Teams Celebrated at Spring Swing

Nothing says “spring” better than Baseball and Softball games! Second Baptist School was the place to be for Spring Swing, the celebration of the baseball and softball teams.

SBS Eagle fans came out to cheer on the teams and fellowship with one another during the annual event held on Friday, March 26. Before the first pitch, senior Natalie Tollett sang the National Anthem. The Varsity teams had an exciting evening as

Senior Signs to Play College Basketball

Staying in his hometown, senior forward Mikhail McLean will play for the University of Houston basketball team next year. Mikhail joined the UH program after signing his National Letter of Intent and will compete as a freshman at Houston during the 2010-2011 season. He chose the Cougars over Boston College, Auburn, Arkansas, Cleveland State and Detroit.

“Mikhail is a terrific addition to Cougar Basketball and is the type of student-athlete we want in our program. He played in an extremely successful high school program. Mikhail is very mature with tremendous work ethic and leadership skills,” James Dickey, University of Houston Head Basketball Coach, said. “He is long, athletic and has the ability to be a skilled offensive player, outstanding defender and rebounder.”

As a senior at SBS, Mikhail averaged 13.2 points and 4.4 rebounds per game while earning TAPPS All-State Second Team honors and helping lead the Eagles to an impressive 32-6 overall record and an appearance in the state championship game.

“Throughout the year Mikhail provided a tremendous amount of leadership for the Second Baptist basketball team. Mikhail did a tremendous job of defending, scoring and providing stability to a team with new players, new coaching staff and a new direction. Daily Mikhail worked hard and led by example playing in pain and sacrificing his game for what his team needed. I believe that his selflessness led his team to a berth in the state finals,” Roger Kollmansberger, Head Varsity Men’s Basketball Coach, said.

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they both were victorious over district rival Concordia Lutheran, and held their respective senior recognition ceremonies prior to the start of their games.

Camp Ozark provided two inflatables that kept kids bouncing for hours. Younger fans showed their school spirit by wearing removable sticker baseball tattoos and wearing Spring Swing t-shirts. Dinner was grilled by the hard working Burger Daddies, while the snow cone stand, hosted by SBS alumni, was a very popular spot for the younger guests.

As a special treat, the Junior Eagle Booster Club members entertained the crowd during the third inning when they sang “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” led by Dr. Mark Adickes, SBS Parent.

Touchdown Club of Houston Honors SBS for Sportsmanship

Second Baptist School was selected

by Houston Football Officials of the Texas Association of Sports Officials (TASO) as the Private School / 3A UIL team to receive the Sportsmanship Award for the 2009 football season. The award is based on the actions of the teams and coaches at games, actions of

the support groups at games and respect for the American flag.

This award has existed for 4A and 5A programs for the past four years, but this is the first year it has been awarded to lower classifications and private schools. Other contenders for the award included Houston Christian High School and Kinkaid School. SBS is very honored to accept this award and thanks our entire school community for their influence in this award. The award was presented at the Touchdown Club of Houston annual luncheon.

Team captain Drew Sekaly and Coach Mike Sneed accepted the award for SBS. A “traveling trophy” was awarded that the School will hold until next year. It is proudly on display in the Athletic Alumni Room at SBS.

Swim Team Sets New Records at State Meet

The SBS Varsity swim teams had a tremendous showing at the TAPPS state meet with the boys winning second place and the girls coming in third. This is a huge accomplishment for the SBS swimming program.

As a team made up of mostly underclassmen, it will be exciting to see what great things this team will accomplish in the years to come.

“I can not say enough about both the SBS Boys & Girls teams! What an impressive season. I am so proud of everything they have accomplished over the past 3 months,” Mark Hahn, Head Swim Coach, said. “A special thanks to the four seniors on the team – Chris Jolly, Daniel Lakenmacher, Josh McKenzie and Dillon Whalen for a job well done, for their leadership and hard work in and out of the pool.”

Aside from winning numerous medals and accolades, the SBS team also left a strong impression among the competition with their unmatched sportsmanship. Going into the meet, the boy swimmers from Lutheran South and SBS knew

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athletic news Basketball Finishes Second in State

After a nail biting victory in the semi-finals round, the Men’s’ Varsity Basketball team advanced to the State Championship.

With six seconds left to play in the state semi-final game, SBS was down by two as Henry Riasco ran the ball down the court and took the shot of his career from behind the three. As the buzzer sounded, the ball swished through the net, scoring the winning basket of the game. The Eagles crowd erupted as the team claimed victory over Arlington Grace Prep with a final score of 59-57 to advance to the state championship game.

“I am very pleased with the effort and progress that this team made throughout the entire year. They always believed that they could somehow find a way to win and Friday evening proved that to be the case,” Roger Kollmansberger, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, said.

The seats were filled on Saturday night with SBS fans traveling to Mansfield, Texas, to watch the Eagles compete for their second state championship title. The mood of the gymnasium was hopeful as SBS faced its toughest opponent this season – Westbury Christian. The Eagles started off strong during the first half of play, but eventually fell to Westbury with a score of 78-59.

The TAPPS State Tournament All-Tournament Team honors went to Alex Cooper, Riasco and LJ Rose for their outstanding performances during the state tournament. Congratulations to the Men’s Varsity Basketball team on a great season. They finished with an overall record of 31-6.

“I am so proud of our players, parents, fans and coaching staff for their continued support of Second Baptist School athletics,” Kollmansberger said. “We are already looking forward to next year! We are also excited for the futures of our four seniors: Daniel Whaley, Mikhail McLean, Andre Prince and Henry Riasco.”

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that the competition would not only be tough, but it would be close, and they spent the entire meet with incredibly close scores. It came down to the final event to determine the winner of the State Meet. In the end, Lutheran South ended up winning by just one point. Although this was a tough loss for the SBS boys, the team members, led by Coach Hahn, walked across the

Natatorium to congratulate Lutheran South personally, prior to the start of the awards ceremony.

The overall team scores put SBS very close to its competition and they proudly won second place (boys) and third place (girls). The team credits its success to hard work throughout the season and tremendous teamwork.

Also, several new SBS school records were set at the State Meet, including: Boys Swim Team 200 Medley Relay, 200 Free Relay, 400 Free Relay, 50 Free, 100 Free and 100 Breast for the Boys Team.

For the Girls Swim Team new records were set in the 200 Free Relay and the 400 Free Relay.

Senior Signs to Play Soccer at Notre Dame

Senior Rebecca Twining has signed a letter of intent to play soccer at the University of Notre Dame.

As a Varsity all-state soccer player throughout her high school career, Rebecca has led her team to the playoffs and has been a valuable asset to the Eagles victorious 2009-2010 season.

During a special ceremony in the Woliver-Anderson Library, friends, family and coaches gathered to honor Rebecca for this momentous occasion. Coach Geoff Brooks commented on what a unique and talented athlete Rebecca is and how she is a mentor to many of the players on her team. Her father, Kent Twining spoke of Rebecca’s journey with soccer and her daily dedication to her growth, both spiritually and athletically. Rebecca ended the ceremony by expressing her heartfelt gratitude to her coaches, her school, her family and especially her friends who have held her up through the journey.

“Getting the opportunity to coach Rebecca has been a true joy – not only to see her develop as an athlete, but to see her grow as a Christian young woman. Watching her fulfill her dream by signing with a top ranked Division 1 school was most definitely a highlight. Rebecca’s contribution to our soccer program will be missed, but we look forward to following her career as she begins playing for Notre Dame in the fall,” Coach Brooks said.

Second Baptist School congratulates Rebecca for this outstanding moment in her life and looks forward to hearing about her many future achievements.

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athletic news Athletes Receive TAPPS Honors

Congratulations to the winter and spring athletes on their TAPPS all-district and all-state honors!

Softball First Team All-District Maddie Farace Regan Fuerst Kendall Stiefel Savannah Wilkinson

Second Team All-District Sara Bresser Ellen Geis Jennifer Mohler Grace Peacock Kimber Walker

Second Team All-District Victoria DeBerry Emmy Plezia

Honorable Mention Emily Harvin Kendall Looney Alyssa Melillo Kristen Thomas

Honorable Mention Danielle Cope Baseball First Team All-District Billy Arendt Jay Calhoun Brandon Powell Drew Tolson Trey Soape Second Team All-District Garrett Luce Jason Stading Honorable Mention Jeremiah Briscoe Daniel Rankin Jordan Stading Women’s Basketball First Team All-District Taylor Barnett Second Team All-District Braeden Brock Jennifer Doughtie Maddie Peveto Honorable Mention Shannon Dodds Men’s Basketball First Team All-District Alex Cooper Mikhail McLean LJ Rose Women’s Soccer First Team All-District Ladonna Bunnell Sarah Hamilton Molly Tollett Rebecca Twining

Men’s Soccer Second Team All-District Adam Hammer Chris Jolly Honorable Mention Tanner Crake Chris Lewis Patrick Riner Second Team All-District Andre Prince Henry Riasco Honorable Mention Charles Allen Julien Person Swimming First Team All-State Margaret Hartman Katharine Kimmel Claudia Mills Grace Pfeffer Second Team All-State Jason Blades Chris Jolly Josh McKenzie Ben Pfeffer Ryan Pool John Van Anglen Dillon Whalen All-State Academic Awards Jason Blades Ladonna Bunnell Sarah Hamilton Chris Jolly Josh McKenzie Ben Pfeffer Ryan Pool Rebecca Twining

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by Johannah Kersey

celebrating

outstanding seniors from the class of 2010.

Life is marked by celebrations; Holidays, birthdays, weddings and anniversaries represent important milestones that confer a sense of harmony and purpose to our calendars. In the midst of life’s demands, we pause on these sacred days to reflect, cherish, and celebrate blessings. In many ways, it is difficult to imagine life without the joy of passages.

Humans crave the opportunity to celebrate, whether it be a new life, a major stepping stone, or a significant accomplishment. This desire for celebration is a God-given gift created for people to enjoy, and high school graduation represents one of those celebratory occasions when time stands still as we applaud the achievements of the young adults.

In honor of the Class of 2010, this issue is devoted to recognizing some of the many contributions this class has made to Second Baptist School. In order to provide a glimpse into this Class of 2010, several students have been selected to represent the talent and diversity of this newly-minted graduating class. The featured students have excelled in various academic and extracurricular activities, demonstrated strong character, and most importantly reflected the mission of SBS through their endeavors. From athletic accomplishments to academic success to musical magic, to spiritual discipleship, these students leave large footprints in the soil of the School.

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Shannon Dodds Enthusiastic

Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 Shannon Dodds has taken life by the reins at Second Baptist School. From serving as captain of the women’s basketball team to working as yearbook editor, Shannon has soared as a leader and student. Rather than seeking her own advancement through these roles, she has sought to make a positive impact by helping others realize their dreams. “As I look back over the 14 years at Second, I realize that leadership is all about service,” she says.

Mrs. Ruth Dale, yearbook sponsor, comments on Shannon’s contribution to Second. “Assiduous, Shannon determines to learn. As the graphic design editor of the yearbook, she led by example. She never asked a student to do anything that she was not willing to do herself. Frankly, I am impressed with her aggressiveness, creativity, determination, and ability to schedule extracurricular activities around a full academic load.

I have never heard Shannon complain about her work load or refuse any assignment she has been given. It is not adequate to say that Shannon accepts responsibility. She seeks it.”

Often times, people glamorize leadership positions without looking at the hard work required to create opportunities for others. “Leadership requires learning how to take the role without complaining when things don’t go as planned,” Shannon explains. In particular, she values her involvement on the varsity basketball team. “The team camaraderie and all the amazing lessons I have learned through challenges and victories enriched my experience at Second,” she says. Her commitment to the team motivated her to excel in other areas and helped her manage her time wisely.

Shannon’s mantra for making the best of one’s academic experience is getting involved. “There is something to be learned from each experience. Being involved allowed me to meet so many great people: students, teachers, coaches, administrators. We learn so much from others.” she says.

When it comes to the essence of her experience at Second, Shannon is most grateful for the community that embraced her. “Love God. Love people. I learned this early at Second.

It really is all about relationships. My teachers cared for me and because they cared for me I wanted to go to their classes. When I think about all the times the teachers and administrators have been kind, patient, loving, giving, forgiving, even in discipline – I realize that they have taught me this valuable lesson not merely with their words but with their behavior. It was the love of God in their hearts that was lived out in their lives,” she remarks.

Shannon will attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in elementary education.

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Josh McKenzie Dedicated

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 An award-winning swimmer, member of the tennis and football teams, performer in the musicals, member of the Vision Choir and member of the Key, Spanish and Science Clubs among other things, it is difficult to find something in which Josh McKenzie didn’t participate during his time at SBS. Yet, he gave each sport, service project, and club his full commitment and enthusiasm.

Josh’s strong leadership in many dimensions of the School earned him the prestigious Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Award. The HOBY leadership conference at Rice University that Josh attended made a significant impact on him. “Being surrounded by thousands of leaders motivated me to be more vocal and passionate about leadership during my junior and senior years.” Indeed, he took the skills he learned at this conference and ran with them.

Attending SBS has taught Josh the importance of discipline.

Since he was involved in so many different activities, he embraced the structure that the School offered and customized a schedule that enabled him to use his time wisely. He anticipates that this same disciplined approach will help him succeed in college.

Mrs. Mary Johnson, AP biology teacher, appreciated Josh’s balanced approach. “He always entered the classroom in the morning with a smile and a greeting. Although very active in the football and the musical, he did not let those activities dissuade him from studying for AP Biology. I look forward to what I know he will accomplish.”

Some of Josh’s greatest moments at Second came through team participation. On the football team and in the musicals, he appreciated the amount of quality time students spend together practicing for victory. This bonding experience enriched his overall academic experience. He also found that this team mentality extended into the classroom where small class sizes boosted learning opportunities. He credits the faculty for creating such a nurturing environment. “Their primary purpose is to prepare students for college and help them become men and women of God. I believe they are the best teachers one can find in Houston,” says Josh.

Spiritual growth has also played a significant role in Josh’s experience at Second. In particular, he appreciated the lessons on the pursuit of happiness, a series about how people try to find happiness through money or success, led by Ms. Jeannene Simonton during senior Bible classes. “We try to define ourselves by things in this world, but nothing material lasts,” remarks Josh. “I found it interesting to hear about every aspect of materialism and how it doesn’t bring happiness.”

After interning for an orthopedic surgeon during Interim Term at SBS, Josh confirmed his desire to pursue a career in medicine. Josh plans to take the pre-med track in college.

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Allison Elliott Wise

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. James 1:5 While knowledge comes from learning and analyzing information, wisdom results from viewing life from a higher vantage point and fulfilling God’s purpose through careful decision making. On the other side of graduation, Allison Elliott now understands that she was gaining wisdom in addition to knowledge all along the way.

During her freshman year, she felt that she needed an MVP medal to prove her hard work. However, she now sees that her biggest accomplishment is something intangible. “My greatest achievement is making it to where I am now. My perseverance is definitely an accomplishment because I did not start out here.

Being able to look backwards and be farther from the starting line feels good every time,” she explains.

Allison’s refreshing spirit of honesty encourages others to celebrate the little achievements along the way. “Every time a discouragement presents itself, it is always a good thing to look back and see the improvement. Honestly, sometimes that improvement will be hard to spot, but that only means that it is on the way. Don’t give up on yourself,” she advises. “You can only be something great if God’s hand is evident in your life.” English teacher Mrs. Tammy Seale appreciates Allison’s evident faith: “She is a bright, energetic, compassionate and genuinely well-rounded individual whose life is undeniably Christ-centered.”

Allison’s enthusiasm for gaining knowledge and wisdom is inspiring. “Allison displays a passion for knowledge and an intellectual curiosity that stimulates productive discussion with other students. This year, she opened up to new authors, pushing herself beyond her boundaries, devouring works by authors such as Tolstoy, Salinger, and Camus,” explains Mrs. Seale.

Making the Lord the center of her life has unlocked many doors of understanding for Allison. She refers to the Lord as her “preservation and strength.” As she reflects back on her time as a student at Second, she realizes that she would not be where she is today without the Lord in her life. “If I hadn’t fixed my walk with the Lord as soon as I did, I have no idea who I would be right now,” she says.

Allison’s involvement out of the classroom is equally as important to her as what she accomplished academically. From investing in friendships to pursuing hobbies to serving others, she found deeper understanding about life through these pursuits. “Lasting relationships are the most valuable thing that I have currently because I know that they can stand the test of time,” she says. Her words of wisdom for other students are to “be present in your grade... Do not dwell in the shadows and don’t let anybody else do so.”

Allison will attend Furman University where she will pursue a degree in education.

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Mikhail McLean Selfless

Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:4 For Mikhail McLean, life is all about putting himself in third place while putting Christ in first place and others in second.

Whether in the classroom or on the basketball court, he always asks himself what he could do to help others succeed. In turn, this selflessness has made Mikhail into an effective leader that others want to follow.

As captain of the SBS men’s basketball team, Mikhail had ample opportunity to establish a cohesive team environment and that is exactly what he did. He took advantage of the fact that basketball is such a team-oriented sport and brought his teammates together, leading them all the way to state finals.

As a senior at SBS, Mikhail averaged 13.2 points and 4.4 rebounds per game while earning TAPPS All-State Second Team honors and helping lead the Eagles to an impressive 32-6 overall record and an appearance in the state championship game.

“Throughout the year, Mikhail provided a tremendous amount of leadership for the Second Baptist basketball team. Daily he worked hard and led by example playing in pain and sacrificing his game for what his team needed,” says Roger Kollmansberger, Head Varsity Men’s Basketball Coach.

According to Mikhail, opportunities don’t just happen without hard work, sacrifice, and willpower. New to SBS as a sophomore, Mikhail found the academics challenging. “I hadn’t been prepared for the high level of academic expectations at SBS,” he says. Instead of feeling frustrated and giving up, Mikhail forged a path and did what it took to attack his school work. Through dedication and study skills, he improved his grades and excelled.

Mikhail considers graduating from SBS as his biggest life accomplishment so far. “I feel proud to have graduated from such a prestigious college preparatory school,” he says. In Mikhail fashion, he didn’t stop at his own success, but he also has helped other students find their way academically. “He has taken other newcomers under his wing tutoring them on the intricacies of Junior and Senior English Review and the value of note cards for research papers,” says Mrs. Becky Larkin, Director of College Guidance.

Mikhail’s philosophy on life is simple: “Take advantage of what is in front of you and don’t take anything for granted.” One of the many ways he has demonstrated that principle is through his spiritual growth at Second. “I’ve learned how Christianity is an everyday thing,” he explains. The basketball team provided an ideal place for him to see his faith in action. “As the captain, I had the responsibility of keeping my teammates accountable to one another. If something went wrong, I took responsibility for it. Many people become followers unless they have a strong leader,” he says.

Mikhail will play for the Cougars basketball team next year.

He looks forward to the opportunities in store for him at the University of Houston.

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Kelsey Noble Faithful

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 Kelsey Noble appreciates the authenticity she has found in the SBS environment. “To this day, I feel like the same kid when I arrived at Second in Pre-K because the School has encouraged me to stay true to myself and values. I’ve been allowed to be an original instead of a clone. At the same time, I’ve grown in my faith and as a person.”

One of the most important life lessons that Kelsey has learned along her journey is that God is in control. “No matter what the circumstance, everything is going to work out as it should,” she says. To remind herself of this truth, she posted I Corinthians 15:58 on her bedroom wall: “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

Keeping her priorities straight has been the key for making the most of her academic experience. “Stress comes from holding onto things beyond my control,” she explains. “My family and teachers have helped me put God first in all that I do. I would always tell myself ‘to let go and let God.’” She used the challenging, stressful times to grow stronger in her faith.

Kelsey’s junior Bible class also provided an opportunity for her to deepen her faith. Under the teaching of Mr. Dan Mitchell, she was challenged to learn profound concepts and truths from the Word. “Mr. Mitchell spoke directly to us with honesty and sincerity and brought details in Scripture alive. I was amazed to learn how many steps Jesus took to get to the well in the story of the woman at the well. He genuinely cares about his students and their futures. His faith is so incredible and inspiring to me,” she remarks.

By serving as chaplain of student council and editor of the yearbook, Kelsey has had a chance to put her faith and knowledge into action. “I gained a greater understanding for the importance of time management and developed patience as a result of these positions,” she says. Mrs. Ruth Dale has positive words to say about Kelsey’s influence at SBS. “Kelsey possesses an eagerness to serve others and to improve her world. She values people, all people, and I am convinced that her commitment to her faith – to be all that God wants her to be – guides her thoughts and actions. Kelsey drinks deeply from all that passes her way, challenges those around her, leaves a part of herself behind, and moves on to higher things.”

In the fall, Kelsey will attend the University of Houston. After that, she will pursue a career in operations for a baseball team.

She discovered her passion for this role through an internship with the Director of Baseball Operations for the University of Houston baseball team. She completed this internship through the SBS Senior Internship Interim Term program.

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Ellie Rosenthal Passionate

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17 For Ellie Rosenthal, life presents a series of adventures to explore. When she learned that SBS offered an Interim Term trip to the Galapagos Islands, she dived into the new experience and attended the trip with open eyes, taking in all the geography and wildlife. She credits this trip as a significant milestone in her educational experience. She was most impacted by “seeing God’s creation untouched by human hands.” A science enthusiast, Ellie was able to stretch her knowledge of biology as she examined the subjects of her lessons.

Last summer, Ellie had the opportunity to participate in Ecoteen, a summer volunteer opportunity with the Houston Museum of Natural Science for young people with a desire to help further interest and enthusiasm in the study of natural science. “This experience awakened my interest in science,” she says.

Additionally, Ellie participated in Girls State. Being around so many leaders inspired her to develop her leadership skills even more fully. Although both her parents have worked in government, she learned firsthand about the legislative process and the importance of voting. “It opened my eyes to the system and how important my little part is to the overall process.”

Ellie credits the teachers, friends, and small class sizes for helping her succeed at Second. “I appreciated being able to think through ideas, speak my opinions freely, and discuss Jesus Christ in small classes. I want to provide the same loving, Christian environment for my kids someday.” Science teacher Mrs. Mary Johnson comments on Ellie’s contribution as a student: “She started my day and ended it as she was taking two biology classes. Her excitement for science is contagious.”

Ellie received the Science Club’s Joy Deshmukh Scholarship for Science Excellence. Her passion for science was also recognized in the community when she received a notable scholarship from the Houston Museum of Natural Science for her remarkable talent in biology.

As a first-hand witness to Ellie’s academic abilities, Upper School Guidance Counselor Christine Oliphant uses the following words to describe her: “Dependable, responsible, caring, friendly, helpful, intelligent, and joyful.” These character traits explain why Ellie has thrived as a student at Second. In turn, she credits SBS for helping her develop strong values. “The School has made me strong in who I am because I know who I am,” she says. This process of learning one’s strengths is at the core of the Second experience.

Through Ellie’s science courses and experiences, she has developed a passion for animals. She hopes to specialize in wildlife biology in addition to studying ancient history. In her own words, she loves “being on the brink of discovery.” Indeed, she will always find herself in this very place.

In the fall, Ellie will attend Baylor University where she will pursue a degree in biology.

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Austin Price Thoughtful

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Matthew 22:37 Experience and change have been operative words for Austin Price during his journey through Second Baptist School. When he read A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce for AP English, he readily identified with Stephen Dedalus who is on a search for identity and self-knowledge.

Austin inspires others to continue growing as individuals. “I have learned to embrace change. Between my first week of freshman year to my last week of senior year, I have become a new person,” he explains. “Especially in the transition from freshman to sophomore year, I drastically altered the worldview I represented. In all, I changed the way people saw me, for the better.”

Austin understands that change is not possible without participating in new experiences. During his senior year, he served as captain of the cross country team, an experience that enhanced his leadership skills. “While I was not even close to being the best runner on the team, I felt that the other runners truly looked up to me and appreciated me,” he says.

This team shared a bond athletically and spiritually, keeping one another accountable. “It wasn’t until I filled the shoes of a team leader that I began to experience major growth spurts in my Christianity,” he explains.

Literature and writing have been passions for Austin during his academic career. In particular, he has appreciated Mrs. Ruth Dale’s influence on his writing skills. He won first place at the District TAPPS writing competition for the essay he composed.

“I was pleased to honor my AP English teacher, Mrs. Dale, a teacher for whom I hold a lot of respect. I applied much of what she has taught me concerning the analysis of literature and thematic application into a prize-winning essay,” says Austin.

“Excited about life and what it has to offer, driven to accomplish all that is possible, a thinker who ponders the whys and wherefores” are the words Mrs. Dale uses to describe Austin.

“Whether playing a piano concerto of Rachmaninoff, or Brahms, or reading Sophocles, Dostoevsky, Camus, Conrad, Kafka, Tolstoy, or C.S. Lewis, or working a calculus problem, Austin captivates the situation,” she explains.

Outside the classroom, Austin has taken advantage of travel opportunities to further his education. “My friends from other high schools call Second Baptist the ‘school of opportunities’ because they have seen me participate in school trips to both France and China, and I will forever be thankful for these overseas experiences that SBS has provided,” he says. Austin has many aspirations for his future and plans to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a doctor and participate in International Medical Outreach, an organization that his father directs. Additionally, he would love to use his literary talent by writing a book someday. One thing is for sure: Austin will bring adventure, thoughtfulness, and purpose to whatever he pursues.

Austin will attend Washington University in St. Louis.

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Leslie Slaughter Cheerful

A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit. Proverbs 15:13 When it comes down to it, one’s attitude makes all the difference. Leslie Slaughter proves this statement true. As editor-in-chief of yearbook and an academic scholar, she has managed to maintain an optimistic outlook on life while tackling all her responsibilities. “I rarely, if ever, see her without a bright smile on her face. It cheers me up just to see her coming down the hall or into my office. I believe that she is able to see something positive in every situation,” says Ms. Carol Ware, Upper School Registrar.

In her role as editor-in-chief, she has gained some valuable skills that will serve her well in college. In order to manage her team successfully, meet deadlines, and design the yearbook, she has relied on good organization skills. Without organization, she sees how everything else tends to suffer.

It is no surprise that Leslie remains so cheerful when you learn that she finds spiritual growth so important to her daily routine.

“I try to step away for at least 20 minutes a day to read the Bible.

This time makes one feel more relaxed and at peace. It helps me do my best in all other tasks.” Bible class has also been a pivotal part of Leslie’s spiritual growth. “Ms. Simonton’s teaching has challenged me spiritually this year. I now read the Bible more. I appreciate how she tells us about life in a candid, honest style,” says Leslie.

Leslie appreciates how Christianity surfaces in different subjects.

In AP English, she was intrigued by the book Heart of Darkness.

In particular, she found it interesting how the narrative shows that evil is omnipresent and must be confronted instead of ignored. “Mrs. Dale taught us that only through Christ can one face evil,” she says.

Throughout her experience at Second, Leslie values the friends she has made at School. Since the first grade, she has forged friendships with people she can trust, and she knows that these friendships will last a lifetime. She also appreciates the teachers and administrators who have always responded swiftly with support, whether that means coming to School early or staying late.

According to Leslie, balance has been a key for success. Without it, she would find it impossible to accomplish everything that she undertook. Competing athletically, succeeding academically, and excelling in extracurricular activities require the kind of dedication and discipline that Leslie exhibited as a student. As described by Mrs. Donna Sims, Associate Director of College Guidance, “Carpe diem is Leslie Slaughter’s operative word. She wastes not a minute during her busy school day. Every minute of her day is purposeful. As soon as she completes one assignment, she moves on to another. She pushes herself to her limits, expecting from herself nothing less than perfection.”

In the fall, Leslie will attend the University of Texas at Austin.

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Will Whaley Tenacious

Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.

But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. Psalm 1:1-2 Will Whaley has mastered the art of doing all things well that he undertakes. The secret to his success? “Trial by fire,” he says candidly. “I came to the realization that God is in control. If He wants me to succeed, He will allow that to happen. My job is to let the stress factor go.” While tempted to have feelings of apprehension around every new corner, Will says that “God will fulfill what he wants me to do instead of what I want to do.” This courageous outlook on life has taken Will far.

In addition to excelling academically, Will has also had time to hold two jobs outside of school. Work experience has played a vital role in Will’s academic experience as the jobs have helped shape his career goals. During his senior year, he worked for an investment advisory firm where he has gained significant experience in a business environment. “I now know what it takes to be a leader as a business person and Christian. I understand the importance of working hard in school in order to succeed in my career.” Using his knowledge of technology learned at Second and independently, he has become an entrepreneur by starting his own business, troubleshooting computer issues for clients. This job has taught Will “the importance of networking and the power of one’s reputation.”

Mrs. Larkin comments on Will’s professionalism as a student.

“A scholar and businessman, Will excels academically and applies his intellect as a computer consultant and intern in a financial advisory firm. Will has also contributed to SBS by playing on the basketball team and through many service projects.”

Will credits the teachers at SBS for his positive experience as a student. “I discovered the advantage of knowing one’s teachers,” he explains. “Harnessing that opportunity gave me a much more tailored learning experience.” In particular, he is grateful for Mr. Dan Mitchell’s Christian influence on him in Bible class during junior year. “He helped me study the Bible from an analytical approach. I appreciate how he would provide the original translation, which revealed the brilliance of the language. The truth shared in his class resonated with me and gave me a fuller picture of the Gospel,” he explains.

In senior Bible, reading Mere Christianity has impacted Will significantly. “The way that Lewis builds his argument from the ground up appeals to the lawyer side of me,” he says.

“It is so important to be able to defend one’s faith.” Will is grateful for this read because he now feels equipped to have an intellectual discussion about his faith.

At Baylor University, Will plans to pursue a degree in the Business Fellows Program, which allows for double and triple majors. With this degree, he then plans to attend law school.

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Leah Wakefield Compassionate

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12 Every time Leah Wakefield spells the word purple, she can’t help singing the song she learned from a teacher in Lower School to prepare for a spelling quiz. This memory is surrounded by many magical learning moments that turned on the light switch of knowledge. She has particular fondness for her bridge teacher Mrs. Nancy Jennings and her kindergarten teacher Mrs. Kathy Abney who have remained supportive of her throughout the years. “I’m amazed by how the teachers really do care about you,” she explains. This continuity in the learning process has given Leah confidence and courage to reach her full potential.

Finding balance has made all the difference for Leah. She admits that learning balance comes “through messing up at first.”

As she practiced living a balanced life, she was able to see a significant difference. By senior year, she had figured out how to weave together school, church, family and social activities, making her feel satisfied and fulfilled.

What Leah most appreciates about SBS is the faith-based approach to learning. “I have gained a good foundation faithwise,” she says. In Bible class, she has enjoyed studying Mere Christianity and Blue Like Jazz. “I sometimes feel like the author of Blue Like Jazz is in my head as I’m going about life. I definitely plan to read this book again during college,” she comments.

Leah’s Christian influence on others was recognized when she received the Servant Award chosen by her classmates. “This award humbled me and made me realize that whatever I do should be with God’s love,” she says. Her servant heart has certainly impacted the Second community.

“Leah’s Christianity is not merely head knowledge. Her faith has grown into an incarnate faith. Whether in the Second Baptist classroom or on the mission field serving the garbagedump inhabitants of Central American countries or inner-city underprivileged children, she exudes service, compassion, and mercy. Wherever her feet trod, she becomes the hands and feet of Jesus, constantly seeking to build others up and serve them as she seeks to restore the shalom to the culture where God has sent her. Her legacy to this school and to God’s Kingdom will be eternal,” says Mrs. Donna Sims.

With a passion for missions, Leah has served as the director of Mission Board at her church. Through this role, she has not only applied her faith but also her school knowledge as she has balanced budgets and planned mission trips. Additionally, she has traveled on mission trips to Nicaragua and Acuna, Mexico where she served in areas of extreme poverty. These experiences have given her a desire to explore mission opportunities in college.

Leah will attend Texas A&M University where she plans to study communications.

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Connor Wood Magnanimous

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 Connor Wood: named to the All-State football team for three years; selected as a U.S. Army All-American quarterback; named the private school player of the year in 2009 by Texas Football Magazine; named one of the state’s top quarterbacks in the class of 2010; graduated summa cum laude; inducted into the National Honor Society. The honors abound for this impressive athlete and gifted student, and Second Baptist School is certainly proud of the legacy Connor leaves behind.

Despite all of his titles and stats, Connor considers winning the Servant Heart award at SBS as his greatest achievement. Selected by the students, this honor spotlights a student who has led while serving the needs of others. “The sports stuff is shallow compared to knowing that my classmates put their trust in me,” he says. This perspective perfectly illustrates Connor’s humble, grounded take on life.

What makes Wood such an exceptional athlete is the fact that he is a strong leader in addition to his athletic abilities. As the quarterback of the Eagle football team for four years, Connor led the team with integrity and vision. His quest for victory combined with his compassion for others inspired his teammates to reach their full potential as athletes. Head Football Coach, Mike Sneed, values Connor’s contribution to the football program. “Connor Wood is undoubtedly the greatest leader, athlete, and competitor that I have coached in my career. He would be my #1 draft choice if I were starting a football team. He is, simply put, an outstanding young man from a great family!”

Additionally, Connor appreciates the in-depth spiritual knowledge he has gained at SBS. Since Lower School, he has stored up lessons from devotionals, truth from scripture memory, and wisdom from the Bible. “I’ve learned how to dissect verses, how to study the Bible and how to connect everything I’ve learned. I now have the opportunity to live out my faith,” he says.

As Connor prepares for his role on the Texas football team, he is committed to excelling on and off the field.

“There are so many moving parts on a football team. My role is to find my nitch and be the best I can possibly be for the team,” he says. Ultimately, his dream is to win a national championship. As he thrives as an athlete, he ultimately hopes to bring glory to God. “It is such an opportunity. I want to be a positive role model for younger athletes and accomplish the greatest things for God.” Connor is attending the University of Texas at Austin where he is a member of the football team.

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Class of 2010 A c a d e m i c a n d S e r v i c e Aw a rd s

Senior Servant Award

The Servant Award is unique because it’s the only award given that is not voted on by faculty or a committee, but by the students themselves. The Servant Award is given to the young man and young woman in each grade level that is truly exhibiting the character of Christ in their daily lives.

These students are living the Christ life on the field, on the stage and in the classroom.

Austin Price and Leah Wakefield

National Merit Commended

The National Merit Scholarship Program identifies academically outstanding students through the administration of the PSAT each year. Of the 1.4 million students who take the PSAT, 34,000 Commended students whose scores are slightly below those required for semifinalist standing are recognized for their efforts.

Emily Boyd Walter Deere Sam Elliott Allison Elliott Andy Malone Austin Price Lucy Spicer Tyler Thomas

Golden Eagle Award

The Golden Eagle Award is presented to a senior girl and boy athlete that best exemplifies a Christian athlete. This is the highest award that an athlete at Second Baptist School can obtain. It is presented on the basis of Christian leadership, team work, fair play and courage. The selection of the male and female recipient of this award is made by the coaches.

Chris Jolly and Kendall Stiefel

Soaring Eagle Award

The Soaring Eagle Award is presented to the senior boy and girl that have deeply enriched the Fine Arts Department and the Second Baptist School community with their God-given talents. Over their four year Upper School career, these students have been artistically and successfully involved in multiple areas of the fine arts.

Tyler Thomas and Natalie Tollett

Honor Roll

The yearly honor roll is the highest academic honor given to a student at Second Baptist School. It is presented to the students who have made the Honor Roll each grading period of the school year. To qualify, the student must be taking 6 of more graded courses and earn a 4.0 GPA or better.

Anna Blick Emily Boyd Shannon Dodds Hallie Havard Katie LeVrier Mary Martin Sarah McDonnell Austin Price Caroline Ross Leslie Slaughter Kendall Stiefel Alexandra Tripp Leah Wakefield Daniel Whaley Will Whaley Betsy Williams

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54

Graduates

Lena Allouche University of Houston

Kirstyn Gail Dominy Baylor University

Lauren Forrest Hurley Austin College

Mary Christine Martin Baylor University

Alexander Van Beustring Abilene Christian University

Jennifer Quinn Doughtie University of Oklahoma

Caroline Castleberry James University of Alabama

Sarah Wetsch McDonnell Southwestern University

Anna Kathryn Blick Texas A&M University

Lynn Samuel Elliott Samford University

Hayley Caroline Johnson University of Mississippi

Joshua Stephen McKenzie Undecided

Emily Patricia Boyd University of Texas

Mary Allison Elliott Furman University

Natalie Christine Johnson Undecided

Mikhail Leron McLean University of Houston

Braeden Reese Brock Texas A&M University

Seth Fazely Hackett Baylor University

Christopher Shane Jolly Texas A&M University

Kelsey Madison Noble University of Houston

Ryan Elliott Brockman Texas Tech University

Hallie Noelle Havard Texas A&M University

Daniel Edward Lakenmacher Texas Christian University

John Brandon Powell Samford University

Spencer Wade Coleman Texas Christian University

Jennifer Blair Hendrick University of Texas

Katherine Elizabeth LeVrier Texas A&M University

Walter Marvin Deere Texas A&M University

Shelby Claire Herring University of Mississippi

Christopher David Lewis Baylor University

Austin Marshall Price Washington University in St. Louis

Rebecca Mathes Dixon Baylor University

Lauren Nicole Hruzek University of St. Andrews

David Sheng-Yi Lim Texas A&M University

Shannon Renee Dodds University of Texas

Serena Evangelina Hudson University of Texas

Andrew David Malone Texas A&M University

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Jeffrey Randolph Price University of Tennessee Andre Kenneth Prince James Madison University

Blackburn Photography

Nicholas Steward Ramsey University of Texas

Leslie Ann Slaughter University of Texas

Alexandra Maria Tripp Baylor University

Henry Junior Riasco Undecided

Kevin Ryan Smith Texas A&M University

Rebecca Lee Twining University of Notre Dame

Elizabeth Leigh Rosenthal Baylor University

Lucy Victoria Spicer Seattle University

Leah Catherine Wakefield Texas A&M University

Caroline Nicole Ross Baylor University

Jason Stewart Stading Southwestern University

Dillon Terrence Whalen Texas Christian University

Richard Anthony Salinas University of Houston

Kendall Katlyn Stiefel Houston Baptist University

Daniel Holland Whaley Texas A&M University

Caroline Renee Schwartz Michael Ryan Tauber Virginia Polytechnic Institute University of Tulsa and State University Rachel Diane Thomas William Andrew Sekaly Texas A&M University Texas A&M University Tyler Jordan Thomas Nicole Brooke Simone The Citadel Louisiana State University Natalie Joe Tollett Baylor University

Lifers

William Stewart Whaley Baylor University Beverly Elizabeth Williams Baylor University Connor Buchanan Wood University of Texas

SBS Class of 2010

Emily Boyd Becca Dixon Shannon Dodds Kirstyn Dominy Jennifer Doughtie Sam Elliott Allison Elliott Hallie Havard Jenna Hendrick Chris Jolly Kelsey Noble Austin Price Jeff Price Ellie Rosenthal Kevin Smith Rachel Thomas Leah Wakefield

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I

in • ter • im [noun] – an intervening time; interval; meantime : in the interim

nterim Term, a two-week experience in March, enables students to explore personal interests, integrate disciplines, and expand their minds in ways unavailable in the regular classroom setting.

From savoring Houston to traveling abroad, students use these two weeks to discover new interests by taking classes of their choosing.

“The purpose of Interim Term is to enrich both the lives of our students and the curriculum of our school,” Kathy Payne, Director of Interim Term, said. “The intensity and variety of the courses both on and off campus are designed to complement our strong, regular academic schedule.”

Local Interim Term Classes

Closing the Textbooks: Exploring the World through Interim Term

Every student in the Upper School lives for it.

They dream about it, plan for it, and begin talking about it seven months in advance.

No, it is not Spring Break, graduation, or even summer. The buzz is all about Interim Term – the most anticipated two weeks of the school year for an Upper School student.

March 1 - 12, Upper School students spent two weeks in classes focused on developing their creativity – Lego My Lego, Wooden Model Planes, and Hand Bells; and their minds – Brain is a Muscle, Defying Gravity at NASA, and Model Rocketry. They investigated the city of Houston through The Stars Come Out at Night, where students attended some of Houston’s highly acclaimed plays and musicals, and they served in the community through Diverge and Agape Development Ministries.

Applying the principles of physics to an old favorite children’s toy, students discovered the importance of good design in structures and expanded their interest in the principles of engineering. In Lego My Lego teams of students built scale models of the Taj Mahal, the Eiffel Tower, a fire truck, and a working carousel using Lego blocks. One of the team leaders said Legos made him more aware of the importance of design in building. Missing any small step in building the Eiffel Tower led to significant difficulties later on as the structure grew. Later in the week they used the computer lab to design their own structures. They designed plans for Minute Maid Park, Toyota Center, dream homes, and works of art. Some of the students even took the next step of ordering Lego blocks for their design to build at home.

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Handbells

Diverge

Costa Rica Etiquette

Costa Rica

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Animal Rescue

Diverge

Created to be Creative

Building Wooden Model Airplanes also focused students’ attention on the importance of design as they built WWII models from scratch. A favorite hobby from by-gone days, the students were introduced to the craft of making a balsa-wood model which none of them had ever done. Nevertheless, students enjoyed learning the intricate details of plane design as well as the experience of constructing the models with their own hands.

Resounding from the hallways of the fourth floor, the Monday jangle of the Hand Bells class ultimately became beautiful melodies as students mastered playing these classical instruments. The students were focused as Mark Lewis, Director of Instrumental Music, taught them how to read music and stay in rhythm. “For a group that had never even read music before, the students did a great job,” Mr. Lewis said. “In two weeks, the students learned basic rhythms and hand bell techniques.

The last day of the class, the students performed three short pieces of music that utilized various techniques such as tolls, martelatto, and thumb damps. I was amazed at how quickly the students were able to put together a short performance.”

Twenty-one freshmen learned the importance of exercise, both mental and physical, to keep their brains in good condition during Brain is a Muscle. Each day the class reviewed different elements of the brain and how it affects one’s physical and mental well-being. Students learned about the brain’s structure and plasticity, and how they can personally control those elements through their thoughts and physical activity, as well as what they eat. Learning means using the plasticity of the brain to face new challenges that can stretch and mold the brain’s potential. Freshmen enjoyed the challenge of Sudoku, logic puzzles, online brain games, and snacks of “brain food:” blueberries, strawberries, and hummus.

And they ended the week with a Scrabble and Sudoku tournament.

In Defying Gravity at NASA students learned about the depth and breadth of the U.S. space program. They studied the two major space programs NASA developed and currently oversees: Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. Along with examining the history of NASA, students had the opportunity to do a real-time analysis of NASA’s plans for the future. Current events in the news led students to research and discuss the viability of the U.S. space programs as purposed by NASA and hotly debated by Congress and the administration.

There was an explosion on the sixth floor of the Jane Elder Building when Introduction to Model Rocketry

“Playing with the precious kids at Agape was one of my favorite memories of Interim Term,” Kaitlyn Kellam, junior, said.

“I really took a lot away from the experience of working in an inner-city ministry.”

lifted off. Surrounded by their materials, students looked like they had entered a disaster zone as they were carefully constructing their rockets. Putting what they had learned in physics to the test, students spent the first part of the week designing and building their rockets.

On Friday, they headed to the SBC West Campus where they put their work to the ultimate test and launch their rockets.

“Building rockets is a lot of fun, but it’s much harder than you would think,” Scott Terrell, junior, said. “It takes a whole lot of patience!”

Interim Term Around Town During The Stars Come Out at Night, students spent the week enjoying cultural

arts performances in Houston’s highly acclaimed Theater District. Each day presented a new venue as the group attended performances such as Cirque Dreams: Illumination at the Hobby Center, Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps by the AD Players, and a suspenseful one-act play, Machinal, at the Main Street Theater. The city shone brightly that week for SBS students who dressed up each night to discover the abundance of talent located in their own hometown.

A group of hard-working freshmen signed up to take Diverge. Throughout the week, they spent the mornings working at various Houston charities including Star of Hope, End Hunger and WHAM. On the day they visited Star of Hope, the students sorted and organized canned foods, and prepared sheets to make the beds. “It’s a lot of work for just two people, so it’s great that our group can help. It took us only 30 minutes to do what it would have taken the employees two hours to do,” Denton Thomas, freshman, said.

“It’s nice to be able to give back.” At the End Hunger food bank, students assembled frozen dinners that would be distributed to shut-ins. The students became very aware of the importance of working carefully and not to waste or drop food. The director explained each moment of carelessness would be one less bite someone would have and sometimes this is the only meal a person would have that day. The students took their assignments seriously.

They felt they had truly accomplished something and wanted to go back.

In the Third Ward, south of downtown near the University of Houston, students were eager to work with the Agape Development Ministries, a non-profit organization founded by two of SBS’s own graduates, Kirk and Amanda Craig.

As the neighborhood children arrived home from school in the afternoon, SBS students were waiting to greet them for the Backyard Bible Club, a time where our students presented Bible study and other programs to the younger children in addition to playing and talking with them. “Playing with the precious kids at

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Agape was one of my favorite memories of Interim Term,” Kaitlyn Kellam, junior, said. “I really took a lot away from the experience of working in an inner-city ministry.”

Interim Term Across the State Always a popular choice for underclassmen during Interim Term, the Texas College Tour buses were loaded on Monday morning to begin their trek across our great state as they visited six colleges in five days. On the agenda: Houston Baptist University, University of Texas, Southern Methodist University, Texas Christian University, Baylor University and Texas A&M University.

Counselors from college admissions offices led SBS students on campus tours and held information sessions where students were able to ask their myriad of questions. With the mounds of information they gather on the Texas College Tour, many students began narrowing down their college selections.

The trip was breathtaking and full of adventure,” Troy Karcher, Upper School Math Teacher, said.

Throughout the trip, students loved the adventure of new discoveries, and a favorite with all the students was hiking through Smuggler’s Cave found just below Rock Slide rapids. Peaceful nights in camp along the river taught the students and chaperones about the beauty and majesty that attracted the first settlers to Texas.

Students Experience Interim Term Abroad One of the most popular options during Interim Term 2010 was the week-long adventure to Costa Rica. For students in the Spanish department, Costa Rica serves as a language-intensive experience.

Students explored wildlife and culture during their journey south. Despite an unexpected amount of rain, the students got to zipline down a volcano, white water raft down a river, tour a coffee plantation, hike through the rainforest and much more.

“Texas College Tour is important because it allows our students to hear directly from college admissions what the colleges’ expectations are for acceptance. It lets the student see different types of universities – private, public, small, large,” Christine Oliphant, Upper School Counselor, said.

“Students can also see and interact with SBS alumni on each of the campuses which gives them a wonderful insight to the realities of college life.”

“From the moment we arrived in Costa Rica, we saw houses that were not well-made – huts, homemade homes, orphanages – it was really eye-opening for us to see this other side of the world,” Faith Walker, junior, said.

Santa Elena Canyon

“Our big day at the beach ended up being a Spades tournament under the cabana.

Mr. Don Ellisor and I taught the students how to bid and play with a partner,” Mrs. Janell Luce, Spanish teacher and trip leader, said. “Even though it was not the rainy season in Costa Rica, we got rain almost every day of the trip, and yet our students had great attitudes throughout it all.”

Exploring Santa Elena Canyon of Big Bend National Park, an adventurous group of sophomores, juniors and seniors kayaked between the canyon cliffs soaring above them. This remote canyon is famous for sightings of endangered peregrine falcons as well as its majestic canyon vistas, some as high as 2600 feet. Students spent five days hiking, camping, and kayaking as they learned about the contrasting riparian and desert ecosystems. During the day, the Big Bend guide taught geology pointing out unusual rock formations along the canyon walls as they floated downstream, and at night the guide taught astronomy with the star-filled skies.

“As a Texas resident all of my life, I have never seen stars like those at Big Bend.

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Due to the unusually inclement weather during their trip, the leaders were forced to deviate from the agenda and create alternate opportunities for the students.

The remainder of their visit included seeing small eruptions from Mt. Arenal, exploring the jungle, eventually relaxing on the Caribbean beach and taking a Costa Rican dance class.

All of the participants agreed that one of the highlights of their trip was working at Abraham Project, an orphanage in

Costa Rica. Hauling lumber, pulling nails, sanding and organizing reclaimed wood were all on the agenda as the students did more than 30 hours of labor for the orphanage building projects. Abraham Project has three foster homes, and they are currently caring for 15 children. Also on the property are a day care, church, cafeteria, and, opening soon, a tabernacle.

In addition to the labor SBS students provided, they donated two new cordless drills, which made the Abraham Project foreman very pleased. Typically, the orphanage workers use recycled tools to do work on the place, and they were ecstatic to have brand new supplies!

“Working at the orphanage was an unbelievable experience for us. Before we started on the construction work, we were able to play with all of the kids – it was so much fun to spend time with them,” Faith said. “It was rewarding to know that we were helping to make their temporary home a better place for them to live.”

During their trip, students were taught “Pura Vida” which is a Spanish saying for “pure life” or “everything is good” and a common term used in Costa Rica. The students applied this term to not only their trip, but their lives as well.

Something that stood out to all of the Costa Rica travelers was the exquisite splendor of the country. Being surrounded by rainbows, fresh fruit, animals and nature reminded the students about the vast beauty of God’s world.

“The full impact of God’s creation and design was everywhere we turned in Costa Rica – from stacked rainbows in the rain forest, to the giant insects, spiders, snakes, and animals that were right outside our hotel doors. Plus we had the opportunity to see erupting volcanoes, pineapples, coffee, and bananas growing everywhere and Hawaiian-like vistas in every corner of the country. The coastlines were like tropical paradises but all within a small and very friendly country,” Mrs. Luce said. The teachers kept a blog (www. secondspeaks.wordpress.com) while they were gone, which is still active for viewing.

Also traveling abroad, a small group of students experienced the life of

students in China. Taking Chinese calligraphy classes, art and music lessons, and Chinese history, the students lived with host families as they immersed themselves into the world of Chinese teenagers – including indulging in fun activities like karaoke performances and birthday parties. To say their experience in China was unlike any other Interim Term trip would be a vast understatement.

Prior to arriving in Chengdu, where SBS students lived with host families and attended high school classes, they took the opportunity to explore China.

During their three days of touring in the snow, they saw Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, tombs of the Ming Dynasty, the Great Wall, as well as other interesting sites in Beijing.

Costa Rica

Staying with host families gave the students a unique insight into living in China. The host families were thrilled to have the American students and kept them busy by taking them to a street festival, museums, gardens, ancient towns and ruins.

“The first night we arrived, my host family took me to a ‘hot pot’ restaurant for dinner. It was all going well until the end of the meal when the waiter brought out a brain,” Jason Blades, junior, said. “I’m usually a very picky eater, but I ate it anyway. It was just strange!”

“The greatest lesson I learned from experiencing China was that even across the world, we are all the same.”

– Jason Blades

Not only did the students have to adjust to using chopsticks and eating unusual items, they also adapted to Chinese culture by immersing themselves in the lifestyle of the students in China.

One day at the schools they were visiting, SBS students spoke to classes at the high school and answered questions about life in America. Some students even signed autographs!

The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

Texas College Tour

“The greatest lesson I learned from experiencing China was that even across the world, we are all the same,” Jason said. “The cultural barrier between us is not as much of an issue as we make it out to be. In China, I learned that we can all be friends.”

One of the trip sponsors, Kathy Lee, US English teacher, said the trip impacted her personally because it gave her a perspective on a culture and people group of which she had little previous knowledge.

“Watching our American students interact with their Chinese roommates and then talking about their experiences with their host families was a great memory for me of the trip,” Mrs. Lee said, “The students really handled themselves well in all situations and showed great maturity while visiting a foreign culture.”

Diverge

Due to the impact SBS students made on their new Chinese friends, they were given a going-away party. Learning that Chinese parties are more like performances, the SBS students got to teach the Chinese students the “CottonEye Joe” and how to sing “The Star Spangled Banner” in four-part harmony.

While on their trip, the group kept a blog written by Junior Beth Dodson, sbsinchina2010.blogspot.com, which is still live online.

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“I have lived in Texas all my life and I have never seen stars like those at Big Bend. The trip was breath-taking and full of adventure.”

– Mr. Troy Karcher

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Interim Termcourses Advanced Bridge Agape Development Ministries Animal Rescue Auto Mechanics Beginning Bridge Captive Flames Workshop Career Exploration – Internship (Senior only) Chefs-R-Us Classic Film Created to be Creative Cultural Survey Dead Man Talking Defying Gravity at NASA Diverge and Serve Etiquette Four C’s of Diamonds Go Texan! The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Golf Hand Bells Horseback Riding 101 Houston Outdoor Adventure Houston’s Stars Come Out at Night Houston On Parade I Don’t Believe in (Movie) Magic Introduction to Model Rocketry Investments & Personal Finance I and II Lessons from the Holocaust Law & Order Lego my Lego 9-Ball Corner Pocket Pin-Hole Photography PSAT or P$AT SAT Prep – Math SAT Prep – Verbal Stencil Silk Screening Strat-O-Matic Baseball The 4th Estate – The Once Subtle and Now Ever Present Power in Modern Politics The Research Process Virtual Galapagos Wooden Model Airplane Building Woodshop

travel

Big Bend National Park China Costa Rica Texas College Tour Washington, D.C.

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Celebrating Milestones In this edition of the Eagle, we are CELEBRATING our beloved teachers and staff members that have reached service milestones in their careers at Second Baptist School.

Thank you for your dedicated service to SBS!

5

Years

Erin Johnson

Julie Applegate Director of Advancement

10

Lower School Bible Teacher

Andrea Prothro

Sarah Pruet

Director of Admissions

Middle School English Teacher

Years

Beverly Bradley Lower School Teacher

Sharon Cook

Cheryl Currey

Upper School Computer Teacher Upper School French Teacher

Toni Monzon Asst. to the Director of Admissions

Jim Sparks

15

Director of Vocal Music

Kathy Abney

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Karen Keir Asst. to the Head of School

Iris Stewart

Dr. Jeff Williams

Lower School Teacher

Head of School

20

Rayna Williams

P.E. Teacher and Women’s Athletics Coach

Years

Years

Lower School Teacher

Karen Jensen Middle School English Teacher

Allison Armond

Marcie Renken

Middle School Math Teacher

Lower School Teacher

Nancy Merritt Accounts Payable

S u m m e r

R e a d i n g

Igniting Hearts and Minds The Newly-Designed Core Program at Second Baptist School

Second Baptist Upper School is proud to announce the revamped Core Program. Spiritually rooted and intellectually charged, Core will challenge and encourage students in their faith through the reading and studying of a Christian book in each grade level. According to Head of School Dr. Jeff Williams, “This initiative will inspire students to be definitive and authentic in their faith. Our hope is that these books will help students apply the spiritual truth to their hearts.� Additionally, these Christian Summer 2010 65

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masterpieces will open valuable conversations among students as they reflect on the biblical truth etched on each page.

In order for students to have the time to read and digest the books, the program allows students the opportunity to read the works throughout the summer and write reflective journal entries in response to creative, thought-provoking questions. In order to encourage application, some of the questions ask students to apply knowledge to real-life scenarios. When students return to School in August, they will be ready to engage in fruitful discussions in their respective Bible courses.

Students have expressed appreciation for what the Core Program has in store for them.

Incoming senior George Beauchamp provides his insight: “I appreciate how the teachers are involved in making an impact on our lives through selecting different books for each grade. I hope I will gain a strong set of standards for my religious and social life.”

Ben Pfeffer, also a rising senior, comments: “I hope that Upper School students will be inspired by their readings and will allow their lives to be changed by what they uncover.”

The faculty is also enthusiastic about Core. Senior Bible teacher Ms. Jeannene Simonton, who has helped lead the Core initiative, expresses her passion for the program: “I am very excited about the changes for Core this year. Each book selected is a perfect fit for the grade level and curriculum that the students will be taking.”

Freshmen: Exploring the Essence of Faith Freshmen will read Faith and Doubt by John Ortberg, best-selling author and pastor. In this book, Ortberg shows how doubt plays an important role in having faith and reveals how uncertainty can actually lead to trust. “We all hope,” Ortberg writes, “but we cannot hope without faith, and so we must not hope for something but someone, Jesus Christ.”

Mr. Brad Lane, the Bible discipleship teacher of freshman students, has already shared excerpts from two of the books with his students and expects great discoveries to come from reading this book. “I have been pleasantly surprised by the conversations these books have started among students and faculty,” he says. He is also pleased by how well the freshman book works with his class. “I already teach in a style that encourages them to think and question. This book is about the room God left for doubt when it comes to having faith in Him.” This book will help freshman establish a firm foundation at the beginning of their journey through Upper School.

Sophomores: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus During the sophomore year, students will read The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller, who was called “a C.S. Lewis for the twenty-first century” by Newsweek. Keller, an effective pastor in New York City, reveals the message of Jesus inside this parable and challenges readers to see Christianity in a new light.

According to Mr. Brett Chancey, biblical discipleship teacher, this book “allows us to gain a different perspective on the story of the prodigal son. Keller reveals both brothers’ perspective. Through that, he looks at redefining the concepts of being lost, sin and hope.” Mr. Chancey particularly likes what Keller has to say about salvation in the book:

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“Jesus’ salvation is a feast, and therefore when we believe in and rest in His work for us through the Holy Spirit; He becomes real to our hearts. Overall, this book is one that will relate to our students, challenging them not only to rethink the story of the prodigal son, but also rethink who they are and who they will become in Christ. This rethinking process is not a watering down of the Gospel, but rather a reinforcement of the heart of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

The focus on discipleship in this book will encourage students to respond to the call for following Christ at this pivotal time in their lives.

Juniors: Rediscovering the Person of Jesus Juniors will study The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey, an award-winning writer. In this book, Yancey portrays the life of Christ “from below, to grasp as best I can what it must have been like to observe in person the extraordinary events unfolding in Galilee and Judea,” says Yancey. Readers are taken on a journey into the culture in which Jesus lived and ministered.

Mr. Dan Mitchell, who teaches Biblical Exegesis, comments on the value found in this book. “While it has been around for about 15 years, its content is timeless, like Scripture.

Each chapter addresses a different aspect of Jesus’ life. Yancey covers topics such as Jesus’ genealogy, ancient Judaism, the Roman Empire and the like.”

“The bottom line for the student who takes this assignment seriously is that he or she will have a historically and biblically accurate understanding of who Jesus was and is.

That understanding will give the student a solid foundation for coming to grips with the events in the life of Jesus that John the Apostle records. It also gives them a starting point for beginning to wrestle with some of the deeper theological concepts I will introduce to them such as propitiation and justification,” says Mr. Mitchell.

With a sophisticated writing style and a focus on the gospel of John, this work is the perfect fit for juniors.

Seniors: Sharing your Faith Seniors have the opportunity to read Simply Christian by N.T. Wright, the Anglican Bishop of Durham, England. In this insightful book, this Biblical scholar makes the case for Christianity and answers probing questions that all of humanity ponders. The fresh insights found on the pages lead readers to a deeper awareness of their faith and its relevance in our culture. Wright uses straightforward reasoning to tackle some of the tough questions asked about Christianity from people who are seeking.

“I am thrilled to be teaching N.T. Wright’s Simply Christian,” Ms. Simonton remarks. “He wrote it as his homage to C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity and since that classic is a part of the senior curriculum, it fits perfectly. I think that the journal questions are quite reflective in nature and should help the students stay focused as they read.” Some of the journal questions ask students to role play with a non-Christian who is interested in learning about the Christian faith.

This practical work provides the ideal tool for seniors to tuck away for future use when defending their faith in college. After studying this book and Mere Christianity, seniors are sure to graduate with an awareness of how to share one’s faith in an effective manner to win others to Christ.

Summer 2010 67

EagleFest 2010

N ot even a little wet weather can stop EagleFest! The day was filled with excitement as the school family prepared for one of the most anticipated events of the year. The day began with the all-school parade, where each grade level enters the field to the live music of bagpipes and the SBS drum line. Once the entire student body marched in, the senior class spiritual life chairman read the traditional prayer of the sportsman, and VISION choir members sang the national anthem. After the EagleFest Flame was lit, EagleFest Chairman Joy Johnson officially kicked-off the day with the announcement, “Let the Games Begin!” and the field events were underway.

Each grade level participates in a field event ranging from a three-legged race, a jump rope race, to dizzy bat and tug-o-war.

A new addition to the field events this year was the “Man in the Stands” interviews where parents and spectators were asked SBS trivia questions and awarded prizes between field events.

At the conclusion of the field events came an exciting moment for many attendees as the free tuition drawing took place.

One of the early highlights of the day was the hillbilly band, featuring SBS dads and SBC staff members, performing during the family picnic lunch. The band played “oldies but goodies” like “Celebrate Good Times” and “My Girl.” To add to the excitement, the band members wore their finest hillbilly clothes, and even blacked out a few of their teeth! The picnic lunch was definitely one to remember.

After lunch, younger students were bursting with excitement as they headed to the carnival. Whether getting drenched on the water slide, climbing a rock wall, or battling it out in the middle of an invisible ink war, the carnival was hopping until closing time. While Lower and Middle School students were busy at the carnival, Upper School students geared up for powder puff.

In the strongly competitive powder puff games, the seniors remained victorious as the senior girls beat the junior girls in football and the senior boys beat the junior boys in the last match of the exciting volleyball game.

With their kids busy playing, SBS moms and dads were found inside participating in the EagleFest Auction. The 2010 auction was the largest to date, and bidders could find a vast array of items to bid on. From exclusive jewelry to fellowship parties, to the coveted front row student parking spot and even a

Scene & Heard 68

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My favorite part of EagleFest is…

“Invisible ink and all of the games!”

Lauren, Jillian, Mykah, Audrey, third grade, and Madeleine, second grade

“I love the water slides!”

Savannah Wilkinson, ninth grade “I love EagleFest because of the Powder Puff games.” Ashley Elliott, ninth grade

“The bungee jumping at the carnival is my favorite part of EagleFest.”

Nick, fourth grade

“My favorite part of EagleFest is the Cake Walk!” Lauren, fifth grade

Summer 2010 69

brand new puppy, SBS parents enjoyed bidding on items to support EagleFest.

All funds raised through EagleFest go towards the Teacher Endowment Fund, which supports teachers’ salary increases and their retirement fund. The unifying theme between all who were present at EagleFest was a love of the Lord and a supportive spirit of Second Baptist School.

EagleFest Grandparents’ Breakfast With love in the air, Second Baptist School celebrated Valentine’s Day with the annual SBS Grandparents’ Breakfast.

Over 350 Lower and Middle School students and their grandparents enjoyed eating a delicious breakfast, provided

by Chick-Fil-A, and watching a brief presentation about EagleFest. Some grandparents graciously contributed to the Teacher Endowment Fund by having their picture formally taken with their grandkids.

One grandparent said this year was “by far the finest grandparents’ event ever at SBS and that the presentation was wonderful, colorful, and well-organized.” The Valentine’s Breakfast was a special opportunity to welcome grandparents to campus. They all delighted in a light-hearted morning surrounded by pink and purple hearts, balloons, and colorful drawings from their adored grandchildren. The breakfast was a special chance for the students to spend time with their grandparents at their school.

The event was a success thanks to the hard work by chairs Kim Wright and Stephanie Loveless, as well as EagleFest chair Joy Johnson. Many thanks to these ladies and the effort of all the volunteers who served food and made the event a lovely affair to remember!

2010 EagleFest Committee Joy Johnson – General Chairman Carrie Holcomb ’92 – Carnival Chairman Denise Whetsell – Field Events Chairman Lori Claypool – Auction Chairman Shannon Dawson – Picnic Chairman Julianne Blodgett – Underwriting Chairman Paige Bell – Secretary

My favorite part of EagleFest is…

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“My favorite part of EagleFest is getting people back from last year!” Carly, fifth grade

“My favorite part of EagleFest is the ‘pick-a-chop’” Meg, third grade “My favorite part of EagleFest is the rides!”

Bailey, third grade

“We love invisible ink!” Cate, Johanna, Jordan, Keaton, fourth graders

“My favorite thing about EagleFest is the games” Domanique, fifth grade

“My favorite part of EagleFest is the ‘pick-a-chop’ game!” Christopher, fourth grade

Summer 2010 71

Speakers On When real life collides with textbook concepts, students grasp a deeper understanding

Lost Boy Meets with Freshmen

Wayne Kerr Performs in LS Chapel

In their freshman English classes, the ninth grade students studied Elie Weisel’s Night, a memoir about the author’s experiences in Auschwitz. In an effort to teach the students that genocide was not simply limited to Nazi Germany and the Holocaust, the English teachers brought in two speakers from a mission organization called Aid Sudan.

Lower School students were in for a treat when Christian recording artist Wayne Kerr stopped by their Chapel service to perform and speak. The students enjoyed singing and clapping along to popular praise songs during their morning time of worship.

David Humphrey is the Houston Director of this group, and works with local Sudanese refugees to train and prepare them to journey back to their home country to share the gospel. Aliet is one of the Lost Boys of Sudan, a group of boys who fled their homes and journeyed on foot across Africa to escape civil war. Aliet spoke of his flight to Ethiopia, his eventual journey to America, and the difficult transition to American culture.

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Mr. Kerr sang and led praise and worship songs with the students. Once the music was over, he had a special message for the students. His question to the students was, “What happens when we really worship God?” And the answer was, “God responds!”

Mr. Kerr went on to describe a mountaintop experience he had with God during a chapter in his life. Describing to the students the story of Acts 16:22-34, they learned how their faithful worship of God can lead to big responses from God.

Campus of the world around them and their role in it.

Speakers on campus enhance classroom learning at Second Baptist School

Author Speaks at LS Chapel

SBS Alumni Speaks to Science Club Members

Lighting Designer Speaks to Seventh Grade Drama Class

Lower School students had the honor of welcoming Christian author and speaker, Lisa Archinal to their weekly Chapel service. Mrs. Archinal shared with the students how God has become her life raft.

Students were encouraged to learn how they can depend on God to hold them up no matter what their circumstances may be, which was a very poignant message for the students to hear.

The Science Club welcomed SBS Alumni Faith Schorre Knudsen ’02, to speak to the group about her job at NASA. She spoke about the International Space Station and what it takes to keep resident astronauts and cosmonauts performing well. Faith works in Mission Control for the International Space Station, as a Biomedical Engineer (BME).

Their primary role is to work alongside the Flight Surgeon to make sure the crew is happy and healthy. This includes a whole host of responsibilities, including monitoring Station air and water quality, making sure crew members’ exercise equipment is up and running, and facilitating video conferences for crew members with their families. ISS crew members are in space for six months at a time. This November, they will celebrate 10 years of continued manned presence on the International Space Station.

The Seventh Grade Fundamentals of Acting students studied Technical Theatre during the spring semester. To culminate their study, Ian Berkman, a gifted lighting designer, spoke in the classroom about his career in Lighting Design. He walked the students through the creative process of designing a lighting plot for a show.

He expressed the necessity of reading the script once for understanding, and again for mood and tone, noting the time of day and place as designated by the playwright. The students have been studying types of theatres, theatrical terminology, and production process. Mr. Berkman complimented the students’ understanding by stating they were approaching a college level comprehension!

Mrs. Archinal is a wife and mother of three beloved children of her own. In the midst of her passion for her family, she has carved out time to write a children’s book titled, I Love You Like. This rhythmic and beautifully illustrated book (by Lesley Steiweg) helps children understand how much they are loved.

For an autographed copy of the book, please write Lisa at Lisaarchie@earthlink.net.

Summer 2010 73

speakers on campus

Guest Speaker Brings Owls to Campus

Dentist Gives First Graders a Reason to Smile

To conclude their unit on owls, Mary Anne Weber from the Houston Audubon Society visited fifth grade science classes. Mrs. Weber talked about how we can protect all habitats of birds, including owls. The students were able to listen to the sounds that different owls make as Mrs. Weber talked about their similarities and differences.

There are 1,420 good reasons why SBS first graders need to take care of their teeth. First grade mother and dentist Dr. Leena Patel explained to the 71 first graders that they are each blessed with 20 baby teeth. It is important, Dr. Patel said, to brush and floss these teeth so gums will be healthy as baby teeth are lost and permanent teeth grow in their place.

Mrs. Weber brought three owls with her – barrel, screech and great horned – which was especially fun for the students since they had just finished reading a book about horned owls.

To conclude her presentation, Mrs. Weber talked about the Audubon Society and its importance in our community. The Audubon Society works to promote the conservation and appreciation of birds and wildlife habitat.

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Dr. Patel spoke to all four classes of SBS first graders in February as part of National Dental Hygiene Month. Students were given an opportunity to discuss and learn about the foods that are good and the foods that are not so good for dental health, as well as right and wrong ways to brush and floss.

Each student enjoyed leaving the presentation with a goodie bag. The first grade teaching team received classroom posters reminding students to “rock your smile” by brushing and flossing.

Civil Liberties Expert Addresses AP Classes

Amazing Race Winners speak to Sixth Graders

Students Explore Life in Ancient Greece

Cindy Rosenthal, SBS Parent of Ellie ’10 and Amy ’13, visited Upper School AP U.S. Government and Politics classes to talk about the United States Constitution.

Mrs. Rosenthal discussed the Bill of Rights focusing primarily on the fourth amendment, which deals with unreasonable searches and seizures, probable cause and warrants. Mrs. Rosenthal outlined the difference between criminal and civil courts and federal and state courts. She discussed pertinent court cases that applied to civil liberties involving the fourth amendment.

Mrs. Rosenthal currently trains policy officers on these issues daily, making her an authority on the subject.

Each year the sixth grade Global Studies classes embark on an adventure that takes them around the world. They spend the year learning about all of the different countries and the people who live there. At the end of the year each student chooses a country to research for an end of the year project.

The students model their projects after the television show, “The Amazing Race”. Each project actually creates a leg of the race.

Students must research the culture and history, as well as the location and important landmarks to complete this project.

Lower and Middle School students had an exciting opportunity to learn the roots of our society through one of the great European civilizations of 2,500 years ago.

A guest speaker from Young Audiences Arts for Learning donned an authentic Greek soldier costume and took the audience on an adventure through ancient Greece, 700 B.C. to 350 B.C. During their journey, the students met its citizens and experienced their daily challenges. The students were able to trace the origins of much of our vocabulary to Greece, and discover the armor and equipment of the Greek citizen soldier.

“It was really beneficial for my classes to hear from Mrs. Rosenthal because they are studying Civil Liberties and this is her area of expertise. She was able to relate her job experiences in order to help the students understand how the Bill of Rights applies to their lives. Her personal relationship with some of the students further enhanced the learning experience. It was an invaluable lesson,” Clare Towery, AP U.S. Government and Politics Teacher, said. Opportunities for outside speakers to address SBS curriculum are amazing chances for our teachers to bring their subjects to life, creating a stronger capacity for applicable educational tools.

For the second year, SBS students have been privileged to have an actual winner of “The Amazing Race” come and speak to them about the experience. Uchenna Agu, and his wife Joyce, were the winners of season 7. Uchenna came and spoke to the sixth graders and shared what it was like to travel the world on the show. Along with traveling to great places like Argentina and Botswana, Uchenna shared how experiencing other cultures really changed his perspective on his own community (in Houston). Hearing about his experiences really gave the students a deeper understanding of the project.

Uchenna now has created his own version of the race that takes place right here in Houston. It is called The GREAT RAISE. It is modeled after the award winning show, but has teams racing around Houston to raise money for several charities in the community. Uchenna is also creating new educational software for elementary and middle school students to learn about countries and cultures around the world in fun and innovative ways.

Summer 2010 75

speakers on campus

Juniors Learn about Leadership from Shell Oil Executive Marvin Odum, President of Shell Oil Company and Director of Upstream Americas, recently spoke to junior Bible classes about leadership. He is the father of SBS junior, Taylor.

Mr. Odum and his wife, Loli, told the students that leadership is essential throughout their lives and they were impressed that it was such an integral part of the curriculum at SBS. He emphasized that in the working world, it’s not about business, but it’s about people. He shared examples of great things that his company did for their New Orleans employee’s right after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

“We are extremely grateful for Mr. and Mrs. Odum spending time with our students.

Their family life and their marriage are a reflection of grace and integrity, two attributes that Mr. Odum brings to bear on his business decisions. Thanks to them both for leading by example,” Dan Mitchell, eleventh grade Bible teacher, said.

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During his presentation, Mr. Odum gave students a list of the “DNA of a Good Leader” so that they may strive to lead successful professional lives.

1. A good leader has a strong internal compass that dictates their decisions.

2. They should be willing to take chances and get out of their comfort zones.

3. Always find a way to give back, not just financially, but with your time, as well.

Following his presentation, Mr. Odum answered many questions from the juniors about his career path, traveling opportunities he has had through working at Shell, and what the students’ majors might be in college to benefit them the most when they graduate.

E d d

H e n d ee

E

dd Kellum Hendee went home to the Lord on Saturday, February 13, 2010. He was born February 19, 1976 in Dallas, Texas. Edd came to Second Baptist School (class of ‘94) after sustaining a Joe Thiesman leg break while playing football his sophomore year of high school. At Second, Edd turned his incredible focus towards academics. Second Baptist proved to be the perfect fit for Edd. He excelled in his academic work, and loved the challenge Second offered. Edd also loved all aspects of the school. He became the school’s social chairman, renting out the Houston Zoo for dances and covering the school with elaborate themes for pep rallies, he played goalie for the school’s new soccer team, and he made it his mission to distract opposing basketball teams while cheering – denting all of Nina’s pots and pans in the process.

Edd also served in the Key Club under his beloved biology teacher Dennis Phillips. He made lifelong friendships in his few years at Second, and the school propelled him on to the Lawrenceville School and United States Naval Academy.

Edd married the love of his life, Claudine Moore Hendee of Houston, Texas, on February 17, 2002, and together they had three beautiful children, Campbell (almost 5), Hudson (3) and Reagan (1). He considered his family the best accomplishment of his life. After his naval service, Edd graduated from Harvard Business School in 2006, and went to work with Barry Sternlicht at Starwood Capital Group in Greenwich, where he quickly rose to vice president of acquisitions. Edd is survived by his wife and children, mother Nina Johnson Hendee, father Edd Campbell Hendee, sisters Lisa Hendee Blackard and Kristin Ann Hendee. Please keep the Hendee family and friends in your prayers.

Class of 1994

SBS Senior year photos

Summer 2010 77

Alumni Updates ...................................

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1982 C M

1985 E P G

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

Beth Brock Looser

raig

oritz

cmoritz@swbell.net

1983 T P risha

essara

tpessara@shell.com Stars for a Night: Mark Stouse and his wife Debbie were the guests of a leading Hollywood producer at the 2010 Academy Awards in Beverly Hills, where Debbie walked the red carpet along with Hollywood’s finest.

Debbie and Mark attended the Night of 100 Stars Oscar Party as well – what a night! Mark leads global communications for $2 billion BMC Software, regarded by many as one of the hottest companies in the technology space. He was recently listed in the top ten communications executives in the United States for 2009.

Debbie splits her time between being a mom and her role as the managing partner of Sendero Consulting, a leading change management communications firm serving Fortune 100 companies.

Their sons Alexander and Christian are now 5 and 3, respectively. mstouse@gmail.com

ve

helps

idden

gcendd@aol.com bblooser@aol.com

SBS Alumni Deedra Jo Walton, MLS is the head

electronic resources librarian for the University of Central Florida College of Medicine. She is loving that Florida sunshine! djwalton@ mail.ucf.edu

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

1986 K A imberly

rnold

Parker

kimberly.parker@wnco.com

Michelle White

rm_white@yahoo.com ...................................

1987 D W awn

illiams

Trozzo

dwtrozzo@aol.com

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1988 K T imberly

hode

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

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

1984 C B harles

eall

charles@beall.org

Helen Buckner

helen@bucknerweb.com

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1989 L N eslie

iermeyer

lniermeyer@yahoo.com

Sabrina Morgan Ogelsbee smogles@yahoo.com

A l u m n i U p d at e s

Home Show

S

BS Alumni find lots of ways to be creative! On April 22, an open viewing themed “A Few of Our Favorite Things” included several private businesses that were showcased at a lovely Home Showing at Anne Munger Freeman’s home (1993). Hosted by Munger Interiors, the viewing offered delicious treats and a casual ambience for the ladies to exhibit their many different products, including smocked dresses and personalized baby accessories, piñatas, and fantastic home décor.

Alumni Businesses at the Home Show: Lillian Boyd: Carrie Skelton Holcomb (1993) Munger Interiors: Amy (1989) and Liz Munger (2000) Tiny Bit More: Amanda Skelton Yocum (1999) Posh Pinatas: Becca Kirk Schwinger (1989) Check out these products on Facebook and the Web!

A

Baylor SING

time of year that brings the Greeks on campus together for song and dance acts – All-University SING is a mini song and dance production put on by the fraternities and sororities at Baylor University. Each act is 7 minutes long consisting of both singing and dancing. Brooks Shanklin (2006) was a SING chair for his fraternity, and said he worked for about 10 months coming up with theme ideas, songs, choreography, costumes, backdrop, etc. “It was definitely a very time consuming and demanding position, but I loved every minute of it,” says Shanklin.

This year was a huge success, with many SBS Alumni participating in the long practices and professionalquality production.

Some SBS Alumni in Baylor SING: Kappa Sigma: Brooks Shanklin and Jack Beauchamp (2006); Sigma Alpha Epsilon: Drake Dominy (2006), Tom Beauchamp and Michael Price (2008); Tri-Delta: Alyson and Ashley Goddard, Jenny Long (2006), Barbara Erben (2007), Leslie Garza and Rachel Deere (2008); Pi Beta Phi: Ellen Lutken (2007); Kappa Kappa Gamma: Christiana Blades (2008)

Summer 2010 79

A l u m n i U p d at e s Lisa Spoelhof Schra and her

family: Jeffrey, Willem (age 10) and Xander (age 7) have recently been appointed as missionaries through their denomination to work at an international Christian school.

two award nominations, making for a grand total of four. The Red Bull Air Race was nominated for best graphic design and won for Best Technical Team Remote for the second year in a row! The award ceremony was hosted in April in New York City, which he attended with his sister Annabel Stephan and other SBS graduates. ...................................

1990 D F

Chris Wood

cabwood@gmail.com

1995 M M

1991 L S R eslie

tiver

ice

lrice@fulbright.com

Jill Moses Holstead jill@harris-hmg.com

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1992 K J ristin

ohnson

Paull

kpaull@planetpaull.com

1993 A M nne

unger

Freeman

jarendale@comcast.net

1994 L B ucian

ukowski

lucian.bukowski@staubach.com

Peyton Millinor peyton@mail.com

EAGLE

marilynkehr@talkamerica.net

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80

Marilyn Van Zandt Kehr

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

tkrausepfs@aol.com

stranger to the red carpet, he was back in the spotlight this year with

tstuckey@hal-pc.org

Meredith Jolley Arendale

ord

Tisha Harper Krause

career in production, including a 2008 Emmy nomination and his first Emmy in 2009. Now, a seasoned professional and no

Thomas Stuckey

anne.freeman@aiminvestments.com

onny

Andrew Stephan has had a long

keith@rkm3law.com

After a decade in private equity and commercial real estate and following a year-long sabbatical of international backpacking, Peyton Millinor is parting ways with the corporate world.

Influenced by the physical and spiritual needs he encountered abroad, Peyton has been led to join a CAM International (www. caminternational.org) team in Honduras, where he will serve as a missionary. Peyton’s role will focus on sustaining the churches and communities CAM has established.

Many of the projects he will be working on involve construction throughout the region: homes, bridges, community centers, water wells, etc. He will be in Siguatepeque, Honduras and will primarily focus on interaction and relationship building with locals who live there. For more information on this calling, including ways to support and encourage him, email Peyton at Peyton@mail.com. www.caminternational.org/give

dford@ford-math.com

The school is in Vienna, Austria and serves students from K-12 grade from over 30 nations, many of whom are not Christians. The school is a good fit for their family especially since the mascot is the Eagle! To sign up for their email updates while they are away, send a note to lisa.schra@gmail.com.

Keith Morris

arissa

ariner

Womble

mwomble@gmail.com

A l u m n i U p d at e s

Successful Alumni Speak to US Students

F

rom Hollywood, California to Grandview, Texas, seven prestigious alumni were welcomed back to campus to participate in the Fourth Annual Alumni Speaker Series. The highly anticipated event highlights outstanding SBS alumni and gives them the opportunity to share their educational and career accomplishments with Upper School students. The interaction among the students and alumni encourages the students in their pursuit of their educational and career goals.

“It was a pleasure to see some of the changes that have taken place at Second over the years, to sit down with my teachers from back in the day, and to be able to share some of my experiences with the kids,” Andrew Stephan ‘89, featured speaker, said.

Prior to the start of the Alumni Speaker Series, the alumni enjoyed a luncheon with SBS teachers and faculty members where they were able to reconnect and visit with one another.

Alumni participating in this year’s event included: Travis Buck, Class of 1988, Mayor of Grandview, Texas, and owner of his own real estate firm, Andrew Stephan, Class of 1989, Emmy-winning executive TV producer, Amy Munger, 1989, and Elizabeth Munger, 2000, Owners of Munger Interiors, an interior design and art advising firm in Houston, Mike, 1998, and Deb, 1999, Turner, Professional wedding photographers, owners of their own business, MD Photography, Brooks Shanklin, Class of 2006, Senior at Baylor University

Summer 2010 81

A l u m n i U p d at e s

Alumni Networking Lunches Would you like for us to come to your area?

Email sbsalumni@secondbaptistschool.org and we can set up a luncheon!

Austin Alumni Networking Lunch Austin, Texas is known for many things including live music, delicious TexMex restaurants, and a population of creative, open-minded citizens who are constantly providing fresh perspectives in art and industry. Second Baptist School alumni are no exception, and the young professionals living in Austin were glad to share stories about their lives at the Eagle Alumni Networking Lunch hosted at Cain and Abel’s on the Lake.

Through visiting with each other and with Becky Larkin and Dr. Jeff Williams, a common theme of appreciation for Second Baptist School was evident among the alumni – especially discussing past teachers and friendships that are still strong because of the School.

They all have different stories, but no matter what path brought these alums to live in the state’s capital city, they share the legacy of Second Baptist School. The SBS Alumni Office would like to thank all of those who attended the lunch and made it such a success. We love our alumni, and will be praying for great things in Austin because of their presence there.

Alumni in attendance included: Joe Hon (1989), Marlo Holdren (1995), Amy Palmer and Melissa Warak (1996), Sarah Simmons Railey and Lucy Sayles (1997), Clay Holsey and Todd Warak (1999), Sam Whiteside and Mark Storey (2002), Alex Leach (2003), Elizabeth Suffield and Adam Burkin (2005), Paul Thompson (2007)

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A l u m n i U p d at e s ...................................

1996 A M llison

oody

Ball

alliball02@hotmail.com

Melissa Warak attended Vanderbilt University where she met her husband David Haffner when they were both broadcasting college radio at Vanderbilt University. They married in 2005 and Melissa continued in the art history graduate program at the University of Texas. Since David is a long-time collector of records, the couple purchased a record store called Friends of Sound on South Congress, a hip area of Austin. The store specializes in rare and collectible vinyl and was recently featured as a music destination in the New York Times.

David’s interest in rare funk, soul, and psychedelic music from the 1960s and 1970s makes for a large portion of the store’s inventory, but they also have very strong rock, jazz, and hip hop sections.

Friends of Sound sells quite a bit of their records internationally, and Melissa’s brother Todd Warrak (1999) coordinates the store’s website and internet sales.

Melissa’s dissertation is about music and art in the 1960s, so the family’s interest in this genre of music extends to their business as well! Check out their store, Friends of Sound: http://friendsofsound. com, mwarak@mail.utexas.edu ...................................

1997 R C eagan

rockett

Fincher

reaganfincher@yahoo.com

Katy Kyle

katykyle@hotmail.com

Rossa Noelle Ferrada Kelly

is currently living in Michigan. She continues to work as a clinical pharmacy technician investigating medication errors by day, and singing opera in recitals when the opportunity presents itself at night. She also started a blog back in September 2009 called An Opera Singer in the Kitchen (www.ameliefille.blogspot.com) that features vegan recipes, opera videos and recitals, and even jewelry creations. She joined an online food publishing company called Foodbuzz where she publishes her own recipes.

In February 2010, she won the Pace Picante Superbowl recipe challenge. She also publishes and features her recipes on Foodista, Saveur, Petitchef, Veganwiz, and Foodbuzz. Blog: www.ameliefille. blogspot.com

summer internship, but would love to catch up with old classmates/ teachers by email! cory.e.noel@ gmail.com ...................................

1999 L S J ori

mith

ohnson

Smithers83@aol.com

Amanda Skelton Yocum asyocum@yahoo.com

Beth Trahan

crushBT@yahoo.com

Julie Yau-Yee Tam, her husband Saqib Siddik, and their pet hamster, have moved back to Texas! Julie works for NBC as a news reporter at the network’s Dallas-Fort Worth TV station. She is also busy running her company

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1998 K C elly

lanton

Holton

kcholton@hotmail.com

Meghan Griffin

marymeg2002@yahoo.com After earning her undergraduate degree at Biola University and working as an accountant for several years in Southern California, Cory Noel decided to pursue her dream of becoming an attorney. She took some time off to volunteer and travel before moving to New Jersey to begin her studies at Seton Hall University School of Law, where she graduated in May 2009. She then passed the New York and New Jersey bar exams and has been practicing immigration law at a firm in her Brooklyn neighborhood since this past fall. She regrets having had to miss her class reunion because of a

that edits documents, from college application essays to resumes to marketing materials and much more: www.TheApplicationMasters. com. Julie volunteers for the Asian American Journalists Association and her alma mater Rice University’s admissions office and alumni association. julieyytam@ yahoo.com

Summer 2010 83

A l u m n i U p d at e s Baptist School and Leah (2005) teaches Second Grade at SBS. Way to go Terrell family!

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2000 C B hristen

ringhurst

ceebs2815@aol.com

Myers

Allison Zimmerman married

Chris Wallace this January. She attended the University of Texas and works in legal recruitment for Weil, Gotshal & Manges, LLP. Chris

Erin Larkin Watkins

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

2001 R B ory

rewton

rorybrewton@hotmail.com

Peter Warden

peterwarden@gmail.com

A baby Eagle! Lily Bambrick Reimer’s daughter Abigail Dublin Riemer just celebrated her first birthday on April 28.

Laura Terrell Lalani had her

first child, Emma Grace in March 2010. She and her husband Kary live in Waco, where their family loves visiting them and going to also attended UT and they are living in Houston. Congratulations! allison.zimmerman@weil.com

Joshua Whatley married Alison

Wisdom earlier this year. The two met at a local Montrose coffee shop, where Alison was a barista.

After a couple of months the two became friends and Josh took her on their first movie date. They

Celebrating! Jennifer McKenzie Welker, Deborah Hotze McInnes, Andrea Little Gentle, Rachel Bibb, Rory Brewton ...................................

2002 K H ristin

endee

khendee@aol.com

Jackie Wahl

jackie.wahl@colorado.edu

Baylor football games. Scott Terrell will be a senior this fall at Second

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A l u m n i U p d at e s were married on October 9, 2010 in Houston. The groomsmen were Mark Storey, Chris Jacobe, Fernando Barrera, Sam Whiteside and Glenn January (honorary because he couldn’t make it due to football season). All classmates of Josh. Alison actually had a fellow Eagle, Allison Lee (2004), as one of her bridesmaids. The couple resides in the Montrose area of Houston where they can be found reading at various coffee shops and eating half-price cake on Monday nights at Empire Cafe. ...................................

2003 B J radley

ackson

bradleyjax@gmail.com

Mary Margaret Porter

marymargporter@gmail.com

Will Dowell, recently married to Allison Turpin Dowell, is now working in Dallas for the non-profit organization Behind Every Door, which operates under the idea that every door within an apartment community has an individual or family behind it, each with a story – and often with significant needs and challenges. By serving and blessing these individuals and families, they will have an impact in an individual apartment, then an entire apartment community, and ultimately transform a neighborhood. http://www. behindeverydoor.net/ After a year at the Acton School of Business, Walker French graduated from the program this spring. The Acton School of

Lauren and Timmy LeVrier Business is an accelerated MBA program that prepares future “master” entrepreneurs to create purposeful careers and follow their professional “calling,” while living meaningful lives. walker.french@ gmail.com

Bradley Jackson is a movie

maker! He has participated in many projects, including contributing his film Your Future Husband to the Nikon Festival in the category for a film under 140 seconds, and the winner was announced at Sundance. He also works for Compass Learning, an educational film company. Shown

with SBS classmates Josh Riley, Hannah Noble, and Kristen White. bradleyjax@gmail.com

trained all fall for the Houston half marathon and did a fantastic job! Timmy’s sister Katie LeVrier (2010) also ran the race, as well as Annabel Stephan (2005). laurenlevrier@gmail.com ...................................

2004 C B asey

rewton

cabrewton@davidson.edu

Rebecca Hickman

r.s.hickman@tcu.edu

John Tyler

johnnyt@tamu.edu As far as Texas folk rock goes, Brother of Pearl is the next band to watch. Formed this January with alumni Josh Hallman as the fiddle guy, Tyler Richards on guitar, and Matt Schwab playing banjo, they have played in notable venues including Fitzgerald’s and Firehouse Saloon in Houston and at Stubbs BBQ in Austin. The three musicians met in school at the University of Texas, but when Josh first got a call to join the group, he turned his friends down because of his daunting course load as a full time medical student at Baylor

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Alumni Networking Lunches Would you like for us to come to your area?

Email sbsalumni@secondbaptistschool.org and we can set up a luncheon!

Houston Alumni Networking Lunch

S

BS Alumni gathered together for a networking lunch at Cadillac Bar and Grill, a favorite restaurant of many in Houston. The SBS Office of Alumni Relations enjoys hosting lunch for young professionals working in Houston, who are always pleased to get together with old classmates. Before blessing the meal, Head of School Dr. Jeff Williams said, “Our alumni are a huge priority, and we want to know how we can best serve you to continue the Second Baptist School legacy and to remain a part of your lives.”

It is also a treat for alumni to see past teachers, such as Becky Larkin and Carol Ware, who are more than happy to reminisce with their now-grown students.

“Sitting between Debbie Westbrook Turner (1999) and Brett Warren (1999) was such a treat. Their witty banter back and forth made me laugh and I couldn’t help but think they acted more like brother and sister because they were so comfortable around each other,” Mrs. Larkin said. “I also loved seeing George Giannukos (2001), I have known him since he was three years old!”

The networking lunches are also a time to hear feedback about the school and to plan future events that alumni will enjoy. Keeping in touch with SBS is important to so many alumni who made lifelong friends and big decisions, even coming to Christ, through the School.

Alumni in attendance: Kirk Craig, Alex Sims, Austin Fatheree (1996), Reagan Fincher (1997), Mike Turner (1998), Deb Westbrook Turner, Brett Warner, Will Bradley, Justin Kates, and Amir Radfar (1999), Kristin Papp and Jenna DaDetro (2000), Elizabeth Jensen and George Giannukos (2001), Adam Selwyn, Ashlea Moore Taylor, Hannah Noble, and Blake Skidmore (2003), Jonathan McKenzie and Alex Monzón (2004), Elizabeth Suffield (2005)

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A l u m n i U p d at e s College of Medicine. Josh initially said he had no time, but it was not long until he was fiddling in front of live Texas audiences. In Brother of Pearl’s first four months, they wrote fifteen songs which are lyric, harmony, and folk-driven and most of them feature a three-part harmony or fiddle solo. The group is heavily influenced by bands such as The Eagles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and The Band from the 1970’s as well as Ryan Adams and the Cardinals out of Nashville. In the summertime, the band will continue writing songs and playing shows in Austin, Dallas and Houston. So far, Josh is learning the art of balancing medical school and folk rock and is still going strong! hallman@bcm. edu www.brotherofpearl.com

After meeting through mutual friends in Dallas, Patrick Coddou is engaged to Jennifer Leftwich.

The two plan to be married this August and then Jennifer will move to Fort Worth to start teaching middle school math at a brand new school for girls called the Young Women’s Leadership Academy.

office in downtown Dallas.

Having interviewed, she was chosen to work in the marketing department because of excellent recommendations from the head buyer and vice president of the Designer Dresses and Coats Department. She will now be analyzing, planning, and marketing special events for NM. Jessica graduated from Texas A&M University with a business degree and has gained two years of experience in the buying department. Now she will coordinate between buyer and

Raana Arjomand graduated

from The University of Texas at Austin in 2009 with a B.A. in Public Relations, Global Business Foundations, and Pre-Med. She is currently working at Clear Channel Broadcasting and studying for the MCAT in July. rarjomand@gmail.com

Mark Bahorich and his wife,

Lauren, are excited to announce the birth of their new daughter,

Patrick will continue with his career at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, where he is an Engineer on the F-35 program. Best to the happy couple! patrick.coddou@gmail.com

Lynn Dudinsky is joining the

ranks of the highly educated by participating in the PhD microbiology program at Texas A&M University. Gig ‘Em! ldudinsky@gmail.com

Anna Kathryn Prestage has an

exciting job working in Singapore as an English reading and writing teacher for young local children.

Her work is through “I Can Read” and she says in her first few months there she is loving it. akprestage@ gmail.com

Jessica McCoy Lawson has

Madeline Louise on November 30, 2009. She joins big sister, Kate!

been promoted! She works for Neiman Marcus in the corporate

customer needs and be equipped to advise the top executives at Neiman Marcus on special promotions and events. Her new position is a challenging, exciting opportunity for her career in the high-end retail industry. Shown with fellow ’04 graduate Gracie Simmons. Jessica_lawson@neimanmarcus.com ..................................

2005 R D obert

oty

rdoty87@yahoo.com

Elizabeth Suffield

desuffield@gmail.com

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A

First Annual Alumni Baseball Game

new tradition has begun at SBS – the Alumni Baseball Game!

The first annual alumni baseball reunion at SBS was fun for the whole family! On a beautiful Saturday in February, alumni baseball players came out to play a game on their old stomping grounds. The teams, divided by odd and even graduating classes, represented almost every age of athlete since the baseball program began at SBS. Coaches Jeff Schroeder and David Dixon kept the game interesting by announcing plays and sharing hilarious stories about past players during their high school career.

Coach Schroeder kept the crowd in stitches when he reminded everyone of old nicknames and dugout jokes, even playing the song “Dream Weaver” when Jamie Weaver was warming up to pitch.

The SBS Burger Daddies served up delicious hamburgers and snacks for the fans in the stands, which included wives, children and parents of the players. It was such a treat for alumni parents to reconnect with friends who shared many hours cheering on their team in the stands. Coach Schroeder pointed out that he always could count on hearing Laura Kates from the bleachers, who replied with a hoot and holler for her son Jason, up at bat. The day could not have been more of a success, and judging by the competitive spirit of the players, there will be a necessary rematch at next year’s game. Thank you to everyone who came out to play and support Eagle Alumni Baseball, and especially to SBS Coaches for inspiring a group of athletes in their youth and maintaining those relationships for many years past graduation.

White Team (Even Graduating Years): Charles Bacarisse, Jimmy Ogg, (1982); Kirby Atwood (1994); Alex Sims (1996); Brandon Knox, Patrick Hotze, Chris Earnest (1998); Gabe Howe, Nick Little, and Gage Shields (2000); Chris Seckinger and Kyle Reynolds (2002); Russell Dixon, Chris LeVrier, Brook Black (2004); Reagan Reynolds (2006); Ross Seaton (2008).

Head Coach: Craig Moritz (1982) Assistant Coaches: David Little and Tim Seckinger.

Blue Team (Odd Graduating Years): Dave Wells, Jack Perry, Larry Laird (1995); Jeremy Donalson, Kevin Andrews, and Jason Kates (1997); Jamie Weaver, Jacob Saour and Jonathan Wilson (1999); Charlie McCorvey, Glen Oskin and Holden Perry (2001); Tim LeVrier and Daniel Giltner (2003); Bryant Palmerton and David Towery (2005); Tommy Orth and Chris Duncan (2009). Head Coach: Mark Cady Assistant Coaches: Ron Towery, Steve Pohlman, and Tim LeVrier, Sr.

Save the Date for the 2011 Alumni Baseball Game – Saturday, February 5!

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A l u m n i U p d at e s Annabel Stephan is living

in New York City and works in content development for ESPN. She works closely with a creative team that will establish a project called “The Year of the Quarterback.” YQB will explore what it takes to become an elite QB – from High School to College

master the Italian language.

She also made use of her time by studying English Literature.

She is currently living in Houston and seeking out performance opportunities at theatres in Houston, in Los Angeles and in Italy.

Maegan Toups is working in

Houston for Swift Oil and Gas in marketing and recruitment.

She spends her free time with friends and keeps up with sorority sisters form Texas A&M. She ran

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

2006 J L enny

ong

jenny_long@baylor.edu

Brooks Shanklin

brooks_shanklin@baylor.edu ..................................

2007 M D allory

ixon

malloryd313@yahoo.com

Paul Thompson

pbt8807@yahoo.com ..................................

2008 C H hristina

ayes

christina7006@aol.com

Sarah Holland to Pro. Stephan says she plans to show how no two paths to the top are alike, as each star QB has taken a different road to the elite level with a combination of skill, determination, happenstance, and in some cases, pure luck.

YQB will also dig deep into the controversies around the star position from the big contracts, to recruitment, to issues of race in the most high profile position in sports. Stay tuned to ESPN sports to view some of Annabel’s creativity onscreen! annabelstephan@gmail.com

Tiffany Smith has a B.A. in Theatre Performance from Chapman University in California.

In college she traveled to Florence, Italy to continue her studies and

Seh2990@comcast.net

Jacob Plagens

jnplagens@gmail.com

Ross Seaton

seatonross@gmail.com ..................................

2009 H D ailie

a half marathon this spring in New Orleans and volunteered on the Directions and Assistance Committee for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo – way to go Maegan! Shown finishing the race, and with her good friend and coworker Rachel Twining ‘05. maegantoups@gmail.com

urrett

hailied90@gmail.com

Sarah Mayes

sarahkmayes@aol.com

Tyler Lohse

tylohse@gmail.com ..................................

2010 S D hannon

odds

shannondodds@comcast.net

Josh McKenzie

mckenzie.jsm@gmail.com Summer 2010 89

A l u m n i U p d at e s

Second Generation Breakfast at SBS

T

he Third Annual Second Generation Breakfast was a wonderful time for SBS alumni who are also current parents of SBS students. The breakfast, which was hosted in the Deacons’ Parlor on Thursday, March 25, was filled with happy children chattering away with their parents and friends.

Long-time teacher and staff member Carol Ware came to mingle with her very grown up students, and recalled a time when the school did not even offer complete high school curriculum. That was several years ago, and now as our school continues to grow and develop more outstanding programs in education and technology, it also makes a point to value the alumni and faithful families who make SBS such a great place.

At the intimate breakfast with plenty of coffee for the adults and sugary treats for the kids, Doug Daniels ‘89 gave a gracious prayer over the group, and the whole party then gathered for a picture that is featured below. In a casual setting, the children of the alumni were able to spend time with other classmates, creating the multigeneration relationships through the school.

The breakfast was a delight, evident by the fact that every last donut and cup of chocolate milk disappeared before the first bell rang when all the students skipped off to class!

Alumni Parents with SBS students in attendance included: Mary White (1983), Charles Durrett (1986), Laurie Carl and Kimberly Thode (1988), Becca Schwinger and Doug Daniels (1989), Holly Brown (1990), James Patterson and Kirk Craig (1996).

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The Last Word

By Brenda McManus (pictured with husband Charlie, Dean of Middle School)

C-E-L-E-B-R-A-T-E! Read that word again! It’s powerful! As you read it, was there a sensation within you that surfaced as a smile, a memory, a feeling, or perhaps an approaching event? Some connect the word celebrate with summer! To verify that, just ask a student!

Summer is a time when many celebrate READING! Of course, reading isn’t a “seasonal” activity, but for some, books and summer go hand in hand. There seems to be more time and more occasions during the summer to actively celebrate a love for reading!

When planning a trip, whether it’s far or near, does your “packing” list usually include a book for your beach bag, a couple of paperbacks to read in the car or on the plane, or a variety of titles for the children? And admit it, many of you also pack a book light so you won’t waste a moment of reading time even if the person sitting next to you is trying to sleep!

SBS students also gathered a variety of books in anticipation of enjoying a good read while spending time by the pool, at the beach, or while in transit to a fun destination! A few of their summer reads will be from the required summer reading list, but many of the students also have a stack of additional books they’re saving for their own summer reading celebration!

When I read the word celebrate and related it to the words summer and reading, I must admit that it awakened multiple sensations and memories!

As a child, I loved to read! Summer brought not only more time to read, but it also brought visits from . . . the Bookmobile!

Being from a small town, we did not have a public library, so the Bookmobile was our summer link to BOOKS! I can’t help but smile as I remember the pure joy I felt as I climbed aboard a bus loaded with books waiting for me to explore! My senses came alive as I saw hundreds of colorful books packed in an unusual place (a library on wheels) and could smell that unique aroma of the books blended with a little exhaust. It seemed as though I could hear every book calling my name as I had such a hard time selecting only a few each visit! I’m again smiling as I imagine those of you who probably have never heard of a Bookmobile!

As a youngster, I enjoyed the familiar children’s books by Dr. Seuss and H. A. Rey as well as the popular fairytales. Mysteries became my genre of choice for several years as I couldn’t get enough of Nancy Drew, Trixie Beldon and The Bobbsey Twins. Nancy Drew is still a very popular series, Trixie Beldon was reintroduced a few years ago, and The Bobbsey Twins made a come back for a while! In junior

high, you would’ve thought I was studying to be a nurse as I had an insatiable appetite for books about nurses and candy stripers!

Then, Mr. Platt, my ninth grade English teacher, introduced me to classic novels and my fascination with the classics and unforgettable characters began. It started with Pip, Miss Havisham and Estella from Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations and Silas Marner and Eppie in George Eliot’s Silas Marner. These classics are still a springboard into the classics for today’s students. Reading during my college years was full of surprises! One of the novels that still stands-out to me is A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess. I’m not sure if it’s because the novel was considered unique and a little controversial (“out there” was a description we used at the time), or if it was because my professor was a cross between a hippie/ flower child and an intellectual who dressed in wild satin attire that posted many vibrant colors, and many considered her to be “out there”!

Eclectic! That is a term that is often used in unison with design, art, philosophy, style, etc. I would describe my current reading tastes as eclectic! I love many of the classic children’s books as well as some of the amazing new ones, especially when I’m reading them to my grandchildren while they’re snuggled beside me. Books for tweens are also on my favorite’s list. Two of the ones that immediately pop into my mind are Independence Hall by Roland Smith and The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart. Youth fiction has a lot of GREAT titles like The Last Thing I Remember by Andrew Klavan, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and The Gallagher Girls series by Ally Carter that has been compared to an updated Nancy Drew. Some of my personal favorites are The Restoration Series by Terri Blackstock (Last Light is book 1), Redeeming Love and the Mark of the Lion Trilogy by Francine Rivers, Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, Kiss by Ted Dekker and Erin Healy, and Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. There are so many more I would like to mention, but I can’t end my “fav’s” list without mentioning that I am a romantic and LOVE books by Jane Austen and about Jane Austen. I also love biographies and bio-novels about a variety of other people including George Washington, C.S. Lewis, and Einstein to name a few.

Whether your favorite genre is mystery, non-fiction, thrillers, etc., I hope one of the ways you’ll celebrate summer is by reading a page-turner of your choice! You might want to visit your local library (students can browse the shelves on Tuesdays at the Woliver-Anderson Library at SBS), or explore goodreads.com and/ or shelfari.com where lovers of books gather to share and discuss a variety of titles.

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Seniors 2010

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Dates to remember 2010-2011 August 2010

School Year

6 Summer Packet Forms Due 18 First Day of School – Noon dismissal Convocation/All School Parent Coffee 26 SBS All School Open House

September 2010

6 Labor Day Holiday 9 MS Extreme Eagle Pep Rally 15 Second Fund Thank You Breakfast 17 LS Cheer Clinic 24 Alumni Parents Reunion Homecoming/Reunion Weekend 29 Late Start Day

October 2010

2-3 US Fall Drama 5 SBS College Day 11 Fall Holiday 20 Noon Dismissal 21 Fall Fine Arts Showcase 22 Distinguished Speaker Luncheon 28 1st Grade Grandparents Program

November 2010

10 Late Start Day 19-21 MS Musical 23 All School Thanksgiving Service 24-26 Thanksgiving Holidays

December 2010

6 Instrumental Christmas Concert 7 Choral Christmas Concert 17 Noon Dismissal 20-1/3 Christmas Holidays

January 2011

4 First Day of Spring Semester 7 Flight Night/Alumni Basketball Game 17 All School Service Day 17-18 US Student Leadership University 19 Late Start Day 25-28 Book Fair 31 Reenrollment Deadline

February 2011

4 Alumni Speaker Series 5 Alumni Baseball Game 9 Noon Dismissal 11 Grandparent Valentine Breakfast 17-18 PK/Bridge Holiday/Testing

March 2011

2/28-3/11 US Interim Term 14-18 Spring Break 24 Second Generation Breakfast 25 Spring Swing 30 Late Start Day

April 2011

15 EagleFest 20 Late Start Day 22 Good Friday School Holiday 28-5/1 US Musical

May 2011

5 Instrumental Spring Concert 10 Vocal Spring Concert 13 8th Grade Graduation 17 Summer Reading Book Sale Uniform Resale 20 Last Day of School – 11 AM Dismissal Class of 2011 Graduation Summer 2010 93

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PAID Permit #2901 Houston, TX

Second Baptist School 6410 Woodway Drive Houston, Texas 77057-1671 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!

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2010 Interim Term