SBS Dads Club Fall Breakfast

“Fathers have a unique influence on their families and we want to engage that influence at Second Baptist School.” 

These encouraging words from Dr. Chris Hobbs, our new director of institutional advancement, opened the inaugural gathering of the school year for Dads Club last Friday. Nearly 80 SBS dads gathered to hear from campus leaders about the biblical purpose of fatherhood and to experience firsthand this new extension of our caring community. A core value of SBS, the caring community is intentionally extended through Dads Club with encouragement, inspiration and biblical foundation. 

The crowd of dads enjoyed breakfast together while listening to insights from Head of Upper School Jon Konzelman on a variety of SBS programs and divisions. Konzelman highlighted the increased academic achievement and excellence in upper school. He also brought special attention to the recently graduated Class of 2021, who set a school record by receiving over 11 million dollars in college scholarships, more than 400 college acceptances and has some exciting soon-to-be-released news about National Merit Scholars. There was much to share! 

“SBS students produced an 85% passing rate on the academic advanced placement tests. When you consider that the national average is about 55%, it is clear that our students are receiving an incredible education and producing at an elite level academically,” said Konzelman as he addressed the audience of SBS dads.

Head Football Coach Terry Pirtle engaged the group with insights into coaching football, leading teams and the achievements of Eagles football. Coach Pirtle specifically mentioned the tremendous blessing the Athletic Center provides for Eagles football with its state-of-the-art facilities. Since the 2016 opening of the Athletic Center, the Eagles record is 41-12. The Eagles have only lost one game on the Woodway campus since 2018. 

“It’s a special thing to turn on the TV on a Saturday afternoon and see eight SBS Eagles playing college football for some of the best programs in the country. It’s more special to know that they love their high school coaches and we love them,” said Pirtle.

Chris Volke, current SBS dad and the Dads Club coordinator, addressed the audience on the value of the club and how it provides important community connections for SBS fathers to leverage their influence for the benefit of the school and students. Volke described the process of membership, the opportunities to connect and serve and insights he believes make the Dad’s Club a crucial addition to the SBS community. 

“Our children need to see us involved and connected to their experience at SBS. If they see that partnership between us and the school, they will really thrive.” said Volke.

Stay tuned for information on the next Dads Club event!