Many boys are disoriented in modern education—not because they lack ability, but because their God-given design is overlooked. This session presents a hopeful, research-grounded model for forming boys through classical Christian education. Highlighting the practices of West Christian Prep, we will explore how movement, story, competition, mentorship, and spiritual formation work together to shape young men who love truth, embrace responsibility, and grow in wisdom, stature, and grace.

Colonel (ret.) R. Travis Koch is the Founder and Head of School at West Christian Prep, an all-boys classical Christian school in West Houston. A 1995 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, he holds master’s degrees in management and strategic leadership. Col. Koch served 24 years in the U.S. Air Force as an F-15C and F-22 instructor pilot, accumulating over 2,000 flight hours and dozens of combat missions. He commanded the 43d Fighter Squadron, the Air Force’s sole F-22 Schoolhouse, and later led the 3d Operations Group, overseeing 563 Airmen and 59 aircraft valued at over $9 billion. After retiring, he consulted for defense industry firms and served as Director of Leadership at the George & Barbara Bush Center for Scholars and Leaders at Houston Christian High School. He has also been a Young Life leader, guest pastor, and boys lacrosse coach. Travis and his wife Amanda have two sons, John and Andy.