May Head of School Update & Hurricane Watch Newsletter

Greetings, First Baptist Community!

As we approach the close of another school year, there’s a particular kind of energy stirring on campus: equal parts focus, fatigue, and fulfillment. May calls us to dig deep, to steady ourselves, and to finish the race with faith and determination. In moments like these, I’m reminded of the words from Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” It’s a timely reminder that the good work we pour into our students, our classrooms, and our community, even when it feels like we’re running on empty, will yield a harvest far richer than we can imagine. This spirit of perseverance is visible in every hallway: students showing grit and growth as they prepare for exams, teachers giving their best to finish the lessons of the year, and families cheering from the sidelines with prayer and support. Together, we are not just finishing a semester, we are cultivating a legacy of character and excellence.

Many of you have inquired about our anticipated weight room expansion, and I want to share an update. SeamonWhiteside is actively managing the permitting process on our behalf, and we are grateful for their diligence. However, we are currently experiencing significant delays related to municipal permitting, and while this has been frustrating, we remain hopeful. At this time, it appears construction may not begin until September. The good news: once we receive the green light, the timeline for the build itself should be swift. The added building will be immediately behind our main gym, between the two oak trees, and will house our weights and workout equipment, and provide storage for athletic equipment and materials. This project was supposed to be timed to coincide last summer with the new classrooms project, but it was met with delays due to the nature of the project being outdoors, instead of inside the existing building. Thank you for your continued patience and prayers as we work toward this important improvement to our athletic facilities.

As the academic demands of May crescendo, so too do the beloved traditions that define life at First Baptist School. Hallways begin to hum with anticipation, not just for summer, but for the meaningful moments that close the year with reverence and joy. You’ll hear music from Kindergarteners practicing for their first cap-and-gown walk, a moment that brings smiles and tears for parents, in equal measure. You’ll see teachers straightening award certificates and students waiting anxiously in the sanctuary pews with the chance to be recognized for their hard work, hearts full of hope and humility. Seniors begin to walk a little taller, yet bearing the weight of their final days at FBS with a sacred blend of excitement and reflection. Graduation gowns will soon rustle across the sanctuary floor, marking a passage that is as much about legacy as it is about achievement.

These aren’t just events on the calendar—they are rituals of memory and mission, a reflection of the deep roots and soaring aspirations that make our school community so special. Thank you for being part of this beautiful season. May we all remain steadfast in our calling to do good, knowing that the seeds we plant today are preparing a harvest of purpose and promise.

We invite you to stay up-to-date with current events by following First Baptist School’s social media and our school webpage. #WeAreFB

Be Blessed!

Dr. Justin Mitchell

Head of School