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In August, Mrs. Ana Konuma, middle school science teacher, sought out a unique opportunity to enrich the educational journey of her students. With the upcoming total eclipse passing through Texas in April, she contacted Anthony Yanez of “Anthony’s Weather Lab - KPRC Channel 2 News,” hoping to provide her students the opportunity to take part in a live broadcast. Mrs. Konuma sought to deepen her students’ comprehension of the solar system and the solar eclipse through this once in a lifetime experience. Moreover, she sought to instill a profound awe of God’s handiwork, nurturing a greater appreciation for both science and faith in their hearts and minds.

In the fifth grade space unit, students embraced the opportunity to witness the solar eclipse firsthand. Students marveled at the “perfection and uniqueness” of God’s creation, as Mrs. Konuma emphasized how “the universe is God’s canvas, and the world around us is a testament to this.” Additionally, Mr. Anthony Yanez reinforced the interconnectedness of faith and knowledge in understanding the beauty of God’s creation by enlightening students on the scientific precision behind such celestial events. 

To conclude the experience with KPRC and their solar system unit, three students were pre-selected to participate in giving a weather forecast on live television. Fifth grade students Maddie Gardner ‘31, Mackenzie Dunn ‘31 and Hogan Hermes ‘31 stood confidently in front of their peers and the camera crew, sharing the forecast for Monday, April 8, explaining that “it will be cloudy, but we hope we can still see the eclipse.” We are so proud of their preparation for this moment. Watch their broadcast here! 

Opening up this unique opportunity to the entire school, all students, faculty and staff gathered outside on an otherwise ordinary Monday afternoon to observe this extraordinary event. The middle school forecasters accurately predicted the weather; clouds obstructed the sky. Nevertheless, the school gathered on the athletic green, donned eclipse glasses and gazed into the sky in hopes of catching a glimpse of the sun and moon from beyond the clouds. With anticipation mounting, joy-filled gasps originated from the middle school students as the crescent-shaped sun emerged, filling both students and staff with awe and gratitude. 

The entire school community admired not only the scientific phenomena occurring before their eyes but also at the spiritual truths embedded within. The timely parting of the clouds revealed not only the illumination of the sun peering behind the moon but also the purposeful design of the Creator. Above all, the pausing amidst our normal Monday routines allowed Second Baptist School to appreciate the divine artistry showcased in this celestial event, emphasizing God's meticulous design and care for His creation.

Meet the Valdez family – Raul and Anita Valdez and their children Ace ‘27 and Zach ‘30. 

Choosing Second Baptist School was driven by their desire for an educational environment that aligned with their values and aspirations for their sons' futures. “Having been members of Second Baptist Church West Campus for 8 years, we knew SBS was just what we were looking for, while also offering a strong academic experience," shared Mr. and Mrs. Valdez.

Embracing Community with New Family Events

The transition to SBS was smooth for the Valdez family, thanks to the warm hospitality of the SBS community. "As a new family, there were many events specifically designed to make the process a smooth one,"Anita Valdez remarks, emphasizing the thoughtful initiatives tailored to ease their transition. Embraced with open arms from the beginning, they found themselves enveloped in a supportive network of individuals united by a shared commitment to community and growth.

Impact of Christian Education: SBS Faculty 

Reflecting on their experience, the Valdez family acknowledges the profound impact of the faculty at SBS. “Everyone we have interacted with has been welcoming, and truly invested in our boys.” The genuine care and investment of faculty in their sons' spiritual and academic development have left a lasting impression, enriching their educational journey and fostering a sense of belonging among peers who share their values. 

Fostering Authenticity

At SBS, Ace and Zach are encouraged to be their authentic selves, fostering confidence and self-assurance beyond the classroom walls. This emphasis on holistic development is a significant highlight for the Valdez family, reflecting the school's commitment to nurturing every aspect of their sons' growth.

“My SBS is…”

The Valdezes conclude, “My SBS is rooted in Biblical values that guide the faculty to create an environment for strong spiritual and academic growth that prepares our children for the world outside of its walls.”

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.
‭‭    1 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬ 

What is apologetics? Simply put, apologetics is a “defense of the faith.” The Greek word apologia means “defense,” as a lawyer gives evidence at a trial. Peter states that as believers, we are always to be prepared to give an answer, to give reason for the hope we have in Christ. 

In the face of mounting opposition, today's youth must learn to defend their faith, answer tough questions and face cultural pressures. This begins at home. SBC Bible study teacher Tammy Gibbs gave a compelling presentation on Mama Bear Apologetics, a book and movement aimed at arming parents with the tools to defend the Christian faith alongside their children and navigate the complexities of modern culture with love and truth.

Tammy Gibbs urged parents to “start with the Bible. Arm yourselves with truth.” With the foundation of a biblical worldview, we can teach our children to filter information based on absolute truth. Parents were encouraged to be a safe place for children to ask questions. “We also teach discernment: the skill of understanding and applying God’s word with the purpose of separating truth from error and right from wrong.”

Hillary Morgan Ferrar, from Mama Bear Apologetics, emphasizes, “A mature, informed, discerning worldview does not need to fear the false messages that this world churns out. It has already been trained to identify which aspects to reject.” She calls this the “chew and spit” method in which we take in information, “chew” it, and “spit out” that which is false. 

Tammy Gibbs explained the ROAR Method from Mama Bear Apologetics as a way to teach and practice apologetics with our children:

Recognize the Message.
Offer discernment (affirm good/reject bad).
Argue for a healthier approach.
Reinforce through discussion, discipleship and prayer.

Just scratching the surface on the wide field of apologetics, Tammy Gibbs encouraged parents to read Mama Bear Apologetics and arm themselves with information, tools and insights for real-world application. 

Click here to listen to the entire presentation on Mama Bear Apologetics.