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EagleFest marked a milestone this year as the Second Baptist School community gathered for the 20th annual celebration, one that will not soon be forgotten.

The day began with the traditional EagleFest parade as students made their way onto the athletic fields, class by class, under gray skies and a light sprinkle, with parents and families watching from the stands. Midway through the parade, as the younger grades were still making their way in, the skies opened up. What followed was a quick and memorable shift as students, faculty and families made their way to the E Gym, where the day continued without hesitation.

Inside the gym, the final group in the parade, seniors alongside their PK buddies, took their lap. It was a moment that captured the full SBS journey from beginning to end. For many in the Class of 2026, EagleFest has been part of their SBS story since their earliest days on campus. What began years ago as a small child’s parade came full circle as they now participated as seniors, waving to friends, family and teachers who have been part of their journey.

Class by class, students took the floor for the traditional Blue vs. Gold competitions. From tug-of-war to dodgeball and everything in between, the games were marked by enthusiasm, determination and a strong sense of camaraderie. Cheers echoed throughout the gym as students rallied behind their teams, building momentum that carried through the entire day. In the end, GOLD claimed the 2026 victory, securing a long-awaited win.

Even with adjustments to the schedule, the spirit of the day did not waver. Students showed up fully, cheering, competing and making the most of every moment, a clear reflection that the heart of EagleFest was present.

EagleFest is a day our community looks forward to each year, but its impact extends far beyond a single event. Through the generosity and participation of SBS families, EagleFest directly supports the B. Jane Hursey Faculty Endowment Fund. Because of that continued investment, SBS is able to recognize and retain outstanding faculty and staff in meaningful ways, including milestone service gifts that honor long-term commitment, along with a catch-up effort to recognize those who reached these milestones in recent years as well as retired faculty from that same time frame. This year alone, that impact exceeds $500,000, a direct investment in the people who shape the student experience every day.

Twenty years in, EagleFest continues to do what it was created to do: bring the community together in a way that is both meaningful and lasting. This year was a clear reminder that even when plans change, what matters most does not.

Thank you to the EagleFest Chairs and their committees, the Office of Advancement, and the many parent, faculty and staff volunteers whose work made this day possible.

Each spring, Interim Term invites upper school students at Second Baptist School to step outside of the traditional classroom and engage in meaningful learning opportunities across the country and around the world. Whether practicing new cooking skills, experiencing professional theater at Houston’s Hobby Center or swimming with sea turtles in the Galapagos Islands, Interim Term broadens students’ perspectives through hands-on learning experiences.

Through local courses, students serve, create and form connections with peers and teachers that stay with them long after the week is over. Students learn practical skills through classes like College Dorm Cooking, which teaches students to prepare meals using only appliances found in a college dorm room. Other courses, like Serve Houston, immerse students in the community as they spend the week serving local organizations such as the Houston Food Bank and Kids’ Meals. For the second year in a row, Second Baptist School was recognized as a Top 50 Onsite Volunteer Group by Kids’ Meals, a testament to the character of these students and their genuine heart for service.

In addition to local course offerings, Interim Term’s diverse travel opportunities challenge students to step out of their comfort zones and explore new parts of the world. One group of students traveled to Boston, where they explored one of America’s oldest cities and relived history on the Freedom Trail. Other students traveled to Guatemala and spent the week building houses for families in a mountainside village. Lizzie Baker ‘27 reflected on how this trip showed her “the joy that so many people are able to have in difficult circumstances,” reminding her that true joy can only be found in the Lord.

Whether students travel or stay local, Interim Term reflects Second Baptist School’s commitment to helping students grow academically, spiritually and socially. Upper School Student Life Coordinator Jennifer Daniels emphasizes that, whether through travel, service or experiential learning, “Interim Term creates opportunities for students to grow in independence, deepen relationships and see how their learning connects to real life.”

From on-campus courses to international travel, Interim Term enriches the curriculum at Second Baptist School as students apply the knowledge they’ve gained in a practical way, deepening their understanding of themselves and the purpose God has for them.

Interim Term 2026: Course Offerings

Off-Campus Experiences:

• Boston
• Cayman Islands
• Galapagos Islands
• Guatemala
• Ireland
• Southern College Tour
• Texas College Tour

On-Campus Courses:

• College Dorm Cooking
• Crochet 101
• Houston Day Trips
• Internships
• Jane Austen
• Kung Fu Master
• Paint & Print with a Purpose
• Performing Arts at Night
• Personal Finance
• Powerlifting
• Script to Screen
• Serve Houston
• Yearbook

Spring Swing at Second Baptist School delivered a full day of excitement, from early morning traditions to a packed crowd under the lights. Students, families and faculty came together to celebrate spring sports and cheer on the Eagles.

The day began with familiar favorites as student-athletes welcomed lower school students at morning carpool, followed by senior autograph signings during lunch. By the afternoon, the entire school gathered in the E Gym for a lively pep rally celebrating spring sports. Performances from the cheerleaders and Golden Girls energized the crowd, while the senior boys’ dance once again proved to be a highlight. The fun continued with the annual hot dog eating contest, where Coach Nick Mascoli defended his title, finishing 11 hot dogs to remain the reigning champion.

As the school day ended, Spring Swing shifted outdoors. The junior varsity baseball team opened the evening on the field, setting the tone for a full slate of competition.
Varsity softball faced Houston Youth Christian Academy and showed flashes of offensive strength at the plate. Ella Darby ‘26, Peyton Walsh ‘26 and Cammy Shepherd ‘28 each delivered home runs, highlighting the team’s fight throughout the game. Despite the effort, the Eagles fell 16-5.

As the sun set, the crowd packed Michael Stephens Baseball Field for the varsity baseball matchup against Fort Bend Christian Academy. What followed was one of the most memorable games of the season.

The Eagles found themselves in an early battle, tied 2-2 after the first inning before falling behind 6-2 heading into the bottom of the fifth. With momentum slipping, KJ Johnson ’26 delivered a turning point with a grand slam, tying the game 6-6 and reigniting the dugout and the stands.

From there, the game remained tight. Both teams traded runs, carrying a 9-9 tie into the bottom of the seventh. With the crowd on its feet, Christian McCleary ‘26 stepped up and doubled, driving in the winning run and sealing a 10-9 victory for the Eagles.

The walk-off moment captured what Spring Swing represents: competition, perseverance and a community fully invested in the success of its students.

Spring Swing 2026 once again showcased the strength of the Second Baptist School community. More than a day of events, it continues to be a tradition that brings students, families and faculty together around shared moments on and off the field.

Spring Swing Photo Album
 

A championship can define a season. Back-to-back championships define a program. Second Baptist School varsity men’s basketball claimed its second consecutive TAPPS 5A State title, adding a fifth championship to a growing legacy.

This year brought a different kind of challenge. With a target on their backs, the Eagles stepped into every game knowing they would get their opponent’s best. “This year was a lot different than last year,” said Will Goolsby ‘27. “Everyone wanted to knock us off, and that’s why this one feels even more special.” That mindset fueled a season built on discipline, unity and a shared commitment to finish what they started.

The team’s resilience showed up in defining moments throughout the season. A comeback victory in the Private School Classic championship, after trailing by 15, became a turning point and reinforced what the group was capable of when they stayed composed and played together. From there, the Eagles built momentum, stacking key wins and growing stronger with each challenge.

For younger players, stepping into a championship culture required trust and humility. “When I first joined the team, I was a bit reserved,” said Kaiden Smith ‘28. “But everyone treated each other like brothers, so I was able to fit right in and trust the team with everything.” That bond carried onto the biggest stage, where the team relied on each other when it mattered most.

In the state championship game, Smith faced a moment that could have sidelined him. Instead, it revealed the heart of the team. “I was scared I wouldn’t be able to play the rest of the game,” he said. “But I thought about everything we went through to get there. I knew I needed to be out there with them and for them.”

That selfless mindset has defined this group. “It took a lot of preparation and dedication to win back-to-back championships,” said Reese Alston ‘27. “We were the team being hunted, and we still persevered.” With their faith in Christ guiding them and a strong community behind them, the Eagles approached each game with purpose, representing something greater than themselves.

Beyond the trophies, the experience has shaped the players. “Winning these championships has shown me how much work it takes to achieve something you want,” Goolsby said. “It makes you appreciate the journey as much as the end goal.”

With five state titles now in program history and two secured in consecutive seasons, Second Baptist basketball continues to build a legacy marked by excellence, perseverance and faith. And as the celebration settles, one thing is clear—the standard has been set, and the Eagles are not finished yet, continuing to pursue excellence in a way that honors Christ.

State Basketball Photo Album