Grace Gates, ITA for 3rd Grade, is currently in her 25th year at TFS. When she first began, she was a kindergarten ITA, then moved to 2nd grade, followed by 1st grade, before settling into 3rd grade, where she has been the longest.
Before joining TFS, Mrs. Gates began her journey working with young learners at the Early Childhood Learning Center (the former preschool of St. Francis), where she spent five years nurturing our youngest students. Today, she reflects proudly on 30 years of working with children, a milestone shaped by dedication and deep love for the TFS family.
Mrs. Gates graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies. She earned a paralegal certification, which sharpened her attention to detail and organizational skills. It was during those years at Pitt that she met her husband, and 37 years later, they’ve built a family that now includes three daughters and four grandchildren.
More than just a workplace, TFS is intertwined with Mrs. Gates’ faith and her identity. After worshipping at St. Francis for nearly 35 years and serving the school for almost 30, she describes the Franciscan spirit as integral to her life. Weekly school Mass is a special joy for her; watching students sing, pray, and actively express their faith is a highlight she never tires of witnessing.
“Working at TFS means a great deal to me,” shares Mrs. Gates. “When I hear about the remarkable accomplishments of students, both past and present, I feel proud, and it reminds me how fortunate I am to be part of TFS.”
A typical day for Mrs. Gates is anything but typical. She steps in wherever she’s needed, offering calm guidance and quick problem-solving. One moment she’s making copies or prepping materials, the next she’s answering questions, providing a bit of “medical triage” for bumps and scrapes, redirecting students, or supervising lunch and recess so teachers can collaborate. Mrs. Gates shares that with every task, big or small, “my goal is to lend a helping hand.”
Outside of school, her life is intentionally whole. When she’s not spending time with her family or grandchildren, she can often be found reading (usually starting a new book the moment she finishes the last), sewing, running her small accessory business, or designing her next woodworking project with power tools in hand. Whether it’s fabric, thread, lumber, or stories on a page, she loves creating.
“Overall, I thrive on staying busy, both at work and at home,” shares Mrs. Gates. “Keeping active and engaged in meaningful tasks gives me a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment.”
As we celebrate Mrs. Gates’ remarkable dedication, we are reminded of how fortunate we are to have someone who pours so much love and intention into our community. Her steady presence, joyful spirit, and willingness to serve others inspire us daily. TFS is a better place because Mrs. Gates is part of it.