Rain or Shine, 20 Years Strong

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.