BRAD LANE HAS BEEN A RESPECTED FIGURE IN THE LIVES OF SECOND BAPTIST SCHOOL STUDENTS FOR OVER A DECADE AS A TEACHER AND A COACH.
He's taken a new position as the dean of students as of the 2019-2020 school year, and he's enjoyed growing into the new role. VYPE caught up with Lane, who is a pillar inside the SBS community as coach, parent, and dean.
VYPE: Tell us about this new position; what adjustments have you had to make?
LANE: As an educational leader, I play an important role in helping our students develop personal character and successful life habits. As a Christian school, we want our students to impact the world for Jesus Christ and equip them to think critically, live biblically and lead courageously. I am blessed to walk alongside our students as they reach their divine potential. I've grown so much as a leader. I've grown so much in terms of leadership. I've always felt I was cut out for this, and this role has really pushed me.
VYPE: How has it been being out of the classroom?
LANE: I was a little reluctant at first. I thought that working outside the classroom would not give me a way to maintain my relationships with students. Coaching gives me that outlet, but honestly, this role has actually expanded my ability to influence kids and develop positive relationships.
VYPE: How is being the dean of students similar to coaching?
LANE: It's really not too different. When I am coaching, I have to give clear and direct instructions to student athletes. That comes easily to me. Part of my responsibilities as dean of students includes student discipline. Whether in athletics or the classroom, students can make choices that affect their ability to experience success. My job as a coach and a dean is to walk alongside them, help shape and guide their thinking, and provide support through conversation or actions.
VYPE: What is a win for you as the dean of students?
LANE: A win is seeing students grow and learn. It's having deep and intentional conversations with them, building relationships, and then seeing their maturity and understanding develop. When students embrace that Jesus Christ has a plan for them, that's a gold medal!