Teacher Feature | Mr. Villanueva

In his third year at Second Baptist School, Mr. Oscar Villanueva has transitioned from teaching freshman bible to now teaching senior bible, a pivotal class in a student’s final year of high school. His passion for teaching is deeply rooted in his strong belief in the authority of Scripture, and he sees this senior year of Bible study as an essential time to equip students with the confidence and knowledge to stand for Christ in a world that often challenges their faith. “I am always energized to engage our seniors with the glory of God’s Word,” he shares, viewing this opportunity as a chance to help students embrace a faith they can live out beyond the classroom.

In the classroom, Mr. Villanueva uses interactive and competitive activities to make learning both thought- provoking and fun. Through structured debates and game-based lessons, he creates an environment where students can dig deeply into their faith, helping them to answer the question: “Why do I believe what I believe?” He explains, “This is intended to help students discover and defend a faith that is authentically theirs and not just something that has been handed down to them.”

Mr. Villanueva’s journey to SBS was inspired by the school’s commitment to nurturing a genuine relationship with Christians in each student. Reflecting on his past teaching experience, he recalls how he wasn’t able to openly share his faith, as many students came from various religious backgrounds. “This broke my heart,” he says, I yearned to tell them about Christ.” At SBS, he now finds joy in helping students develop their growing faith.

Since joining SBS, Mr. Villanueva has been most impacted by the “authentic sense of community and family that exists within the walls of SBS.” He speaks warmly of the “prayers, encouragement, love, and support” that he feels from students, parents, and colleagues. “I am continuously impressed by how the mission and values of SBS are exemplified in interactions that I have had or witnessed during my time at this wonderful school.” For Mr. Villanueva, teaching at SBS allows him to serve and inspire the next generation of Christian leaders.

- Sarah Cela '26 | Communications Fellow