Oklahoma Bible Academy is a middle and secondary school whose purpose is to integrate God’s Word into every aspect of life and learning, in order to present a biblical worldview to each student, and equip them for God’s purpose for their life.

Jay Mendenhall has been a teacher and coach at OBA for 18 years.  He graduated from the University of Oklahoma and attended the Southwestern Bible and Theology Seminary in Fort Worth earning a degree in teaching and counseling.  Mendenhall is husband to Gina and a Dad to four girls, 15. 14. 12 and eight. He readily admits to not winning very many family votes.

Mendenhall has taught and coached at OBA all eighteen years at the school.  He teaches Bible and wants to help students learn about the Bible and how it applies to life.  He talked about the Bible not being just a list of rules but a way to develop a personal relationship with God. He has coached a variety of sports (football, slow and fast pitch softball, basketball). He has served where the school needs him and is currently interim Athletic Director.

I talked with OBA Headmaster Andy Wilkins about Mendenhall and he immediately talked about influence and effectiveness. He has influenced many students through his Bible class, chapel and coaching. OBA believes that education not only involves imparting knowledge but building character. Wilkins finds it fun to provide the opportunities for Coach Mendenhall to make a difference every day.

I asked Mendenhall what advice he would give a ninth grader entering school.  He talked about the importance of working hard, preserving and giving your best.  He quickly added the importance of growing a personal relationship with God.

I inquired about a special memory. Mendenhall paused a moment and told me about a time about ten years in. He realized the culture at OBA and wanted to become a ‘brick in the wall” to make OBA’s outreach more meaningful. The mission of OBA goes back 113 years and it is more important than personal wealth and job status.

Jay Mendenhall is a teacher and coach making a difference each and every day.