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Second Baptist School is honored to welcome the Jones family to our community for the 2024-2025 school year. Drawn to the Christian family atmosphere, George and Latasha Jones immediately noticed how welcoming everyone was, and how it made them feel—along with the added excitement of SBS football!

Faith and Academics—A Top Priority
For the Jones family, finding a school that integrates Christian values into academics was a top priority. “It was very important to find a school that integrated Christian values in academics, and SBS was at the top of the list,” they shared.

A Supportive Community
The transition to a new school took time, but the SBS community was there to support them along the way. “The SBS football community really made us feel welcomed this season,” they said. A standout moment was the bus ride with other parents to San Antonio to support the boys during their playoff run—an experience that solidified their sense of belonging. Throughout the year, other parents continued reaching out to offer support and encouragement, further confirming their decision to join SBS.

Faculty Who Make a Difference
Beyond the classroom, SBS College Guidance stood out as a defining feature. “The counseling services are truly helpful in preparing the students for college. Mrs. St. Denis and the other counselors were amazing.”

Academic, Social and Spiritual Growth
Since joining SBS, the Joneses have seen their sons grow in multiple ways. “The boys have grown so much academically, socially, and spiritually this year,” they shared. A particularly proud moment was Jordan’s induction into the Second Baptist National Honor Society, a reflection of both his hard work and the school’s commitment to excellence.

Walking in Truth
This year’s theme, Walk in Truth, has been a meaningful reminder for the Jones family as they navigated their transition to SBS. Though change can be challenging, they have found reassurance in knowing their students are in the right place. “I couldn’t imagine them going anywhere else,” they shared, grateful for a school that encourages students to grow in faith and character.

The unmistakable sound of Deep in the Heart of Texas filled the E Gym as little cowboys and cowgirls galloped in on stick horses, greeted by an eager audience of parents, grandparents, and friends. More than just a beloved tradition, Hoedown is a joyful celebration of faith, Texas pride and community, bringing generations together through song, dance and heartfelt worship.

For over three decades, SBS pre-kindergarten and Bridge students have donned their best western digs to share Texas fun facts, sing lively songs and showcase their square-dancing skills. Hoedown is more than a performance—it's a learning experience that builds confidence, fosters teamwork and instills biblical values.

For SBS alumna Jenny Blades ‘06, Hoedown is more than a tradition—it’s a family legacy. She watched her daughter Emmy perform two years ago, her son Archer this year and in two years, her youngest, Sawyer, will take the stage. “It feels like just yesterday that I was square dancing in Hoedown, and now I get to watch my children experience the same tradition. I know firsthand how amazing SBS is, and that’s why I bring my family here. It’s not just about the education—it’s about the Christ-centered foundation that shapes them for life.” This sentiment was shared by several other alumni parents in the audience, watching their own children carry on the tradition they once participated in.

PK4 teacher Sami Killion shared, “Our students learn the Word of God and the history of our great state through music and dance. The weeks leading up to Hoedown are filled with energy and anticipation, and the impact lasts far beyond the performance.”

Lower School Bible Teacher Ashley Corbin echoed this sentiment, adding, “Hoedown instills a heart of gratitude in our students. Through songs and prayer, they learn to thank God for His provision—our land, animals, food and the many blessings He has given us. It’s a beautiful reminder to be thankful for the place we call home.”

This year’s Hoedown was no exception, featuring spirited renditions of Texas classics, a joyful walk along ‘The Lonesome Trail,’ and the Cowboy Prayer, a heartfelt moment of gratitude for God’s provision.

For many young students, Hoedown marks their first experience performing in front of an audience, making it a key milestone in their SBS journey. As students stood before a packed gym to recite John 3:16, their voices rang loud and proud—a beautiful reminder of the foundation of faith SBS instills in even its youngest students.

Lower School Music Teacher Meredith Hall reflected, “Hoedown is more than just a performance—it’s an opportunity for our students to build confidence as they proclaim God’s goodness through worship. There is nothing sweeter than hearing our youngest Eagles boldly sing about trusting God and knowing He is good.”

She also emphasized how the SBS arts program helps students grow as future leaders, adding, “The arts at SBS have a strong legacy of using the talents and gifts God has given us to glorify Him—both on stage and in life. I am honored to help lay that foundation and begin their journey through the arts.”

And in the words of our closing songs—God is good, and God bless Texas!

Hoedown Photos Here

Second Theatre Company brought classic holiday cheer to the stage with this year’s upper school musical, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Based on the beloved 1954 film, this timeless production follows two World War II veterans-turned-entertainers as they join forces with a sister act to put on a festive show in Vermont--discovering love and the true meaning of Christmas along the way.

Under the direction of Cindy Blades and Claire Westmoreland, students dedicated months to bringing this heartwarming story to life. With dazzling choreography, stunning vocals and iconic musical numbers, the audience was transported to a 1950s inn brimming with nostalgia and joy.

Featuring beloved songs like Blue Skies, I Love a Piano, and, of course, White Christmas, the production showcased the dedication and talent of the SBS performing arts students. From intricate dance numbers to heartfelt solos, the show captured the spirit of the season and the pursuit of excellence in the arts.

Two students, in particular, exemplified this dedication: Nic Schweers ‘26 and Chatham Carlson ‘25. Nic, who played the role of Phil Davis, has performed in several STC productions, but this role challenged him in a new way—tap dancing. After being cast as Phil, he spent the summer taking tap lessons, refining his skills for the show. His hard work paid off in the breathtaking number performed alongside Olivia Shoemaker ‘25, who played Judy Haynes.

Meanwhile, Chatham Carlson '25 stepped into a leadership role as student choreographer, running multiple choreography rehearsals and teaching dance numbers to her fellow castmates. Her guidance and dedication ensured that every routine—from the experienced dancers to the newest beginners—was executed with precision and energy.

White Christmas brought warmth and joy to the SBS community with exceptional performances and impressive technical execution. This production was a true celebration of classic Broadway, a standout moment of the season, and a testament to the passion and talent of the Second Theatre Company.

White Christmas Photos

This week, Second Baptist School presented its annual upper school musical, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Mrs. Westmoreland, the music director, was a key contributor to the production. With 18 years of teaching experience at SBS, she has guided countless students through the process of putting on a show, helping them grow as performers and individuals.

For Mrs. Westmoreland, the most rewarding part of leading students in the musical is seeing their growth from the first rehearsal to opening night. “I love seeing where they start and how much confidence they gain,” she said. “By the time they step on stage, they know their part so well, and it’s amazing to watch them grow throughout the process.”

Beyond the music and choreography, Mrs. Westmoreland loves how the musical allows students to surprise their teachers and peers. “It’s so fun when teachers come up to me after a show and say, ‘I can’t believe that was them on stage!’” she shared. “Maybe the student is shy in class, but on stage, they transform into a completely different person.” Moments like these are what make her passionate about musical theatre.

This year’s show was especially challenging, but she embraced the challenge as an opportunity for growth. She also had extra support from two student music directors, Kambell Crites '27 and Jacqueline Lunsford '25. “Having students step up in leadership roles has been incredible,” she said. “They’ve really taken ownership of the show and helped make it what it is.”

As White Christmas comes to a close, Mrs. Westmoreland is proud of all that her students have accomplished. Through her expertise and guidance, each cast member put on a great performance, building confidence, discipline and trust in the process. Her dedication to the arts program at SBS continues to inspire students year after year, making each show unforgettable.

- Sarah Cela '26 | Communications Fellow

The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Art Competition is a highly anticipated event each year, showcasing the creativity and dedication of SBS art students. Participants from all division-levels submit their artwork, with selected pieces advancing to the city-wide competition.

A turquoise ribbon signifies eligibility for Best of Show or a medal. This year, SBS students excelled, with Kamryn Price ‘32 and Amanda Woody ‘29 being awarded gold medals for their artwork. Additionally, Alyssa Zang ‘27 earned Best of Show, one of the most coveted awards in the entire Houston competition, recognizing her artwork as one of the best among thousands of entries citywide.

From bold strokes to intricate details, these students poured their hearts into each piece, demonstrating the power of art to inspire, challenge, and create beauty. Their achievements reflect both their individual talent and the strong support of the SBS arts program.

2025 Rodeo Art Winners

Lower School
Brianna Gill '37 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Beau Stewart '37 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Olivia Keener '35 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Caden Moorehead '35 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Murphey Martinkewiz '34 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Hattie Husser '34 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Caroline Dalton '33 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Arlo Lin '33 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)

Middle School
Kamryn Price ‘32 – GOLD MEDAL
Ethan Farias ‘32 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Dylan Day ‘32 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Claire Reeves ‘32 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
June Kirklin ‘31 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Alice Kate Allison ‘31 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Kennerly Correll ‘31 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Amanda Woody '29 – GOLD MEDAL 
Elyse Chan '29 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Nathan Drinnon '29 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)

Upper School
Alyssa Zang '27 - BEST OF SHOW
Charis Chambers '26 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Ella Peterson '27 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Samantha Ballie '27 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)
Kensington Knop '28 - Teal Ribbon (Finalist)

View Rodeo Art Photos Here