TFS - Canada's International School

2024-2025 IMPACT REPORT TFS 2024-2025 IMPACT REPORT 11 Born in Iran, Sania brings a global perspective to parenting and education. "When we found TFS, it checked every box. It gives them the gift of communication across cultures, and that's a lifelong skill," she says before adding, "Co-ed was also important to us. Children need to learn to socialize across genders. My son is lucky to have his sisters, but schools like TFS give every child that opportunity." Now with four children—two daughters already attending, one son enrolled for next year, and a newborn possibly joining in the not too distant future—Sania says having them at the same school, even if in different branches, is a source of comfort. "Even though they're not in the same building, just knowing they're together gives them a sense of connection." For Sania, the TFS experience goes well beyond academics. At the heart of it all, is community. "I love how involved I get to be," she shares. With a background as an educator she had a strong grasp of where to help and lent a hand wherever needed as a class representative and part of the Parents' Association. "From pizza lunches to swim days, I always feel welcome. That means a lot to me as a mom. It gave me a way to use my background as a teacher and be a resource to both families and staff." Her daughters too have found their joy at TFS. "Penelope absolutely adores her teacher, M. Antoine De Henau. She was very shy before, but he brought her out of her shell in such a gentle and effective way. I'm so grateful to him." Older daughter, Vasiliki, has found a passion for art and loves her extracurriculars. "They're engaged, excited and thriving," Sania says. Already involved in a variety of philanthropic endeavors with organizations like Brain Cancer Canada, SickKids Hospital and SOS Children's Villages Canada, their deep sense of belonging at TFS is one of the main reasons the family felt compelled to support the ambitious expansion of the school through the Can't Wait! campaign. "When we heard about the vision, we were immediately drawn in," Sania recalls. "We believe so much in the power of environment to shape a child's education and experience. When a school invests in its physical space, it sends a message: 'You matter.' And we want our children—and all the children here—to know that," she adds. "This new space isn't just about new walls, it's about bringing kids together and helping them feel inspired. When children feel proud of where they learn, greatness follows. Our hope is that this new expansion becomes a hub of joy and growth. A place where kids can feel seen, valued and excited to come to school." Sania and Bill view their gift as an extension of the values they live by. "We believe in giving back. We care deeply about community, and we want our children to see that in action," she says. "This was an opportunity to show them kindness is not just something you say, it's something you do. And what better way to do it than in their school where they learn every day?" As for the campaign, Sania hopes her family's story inspires others to give. "Whether it's big or small, every contribution matters. It's about believing in something larger than yourself," she says. "TFS has our full support and we're proud to be part of building its future." Education and language plays a central role in the Tserpes family. Between English, Greek, Farsi and French, their household is the definition of multilingual. So when Bill Tserpes, president of Saporito Foods, and his wife Sania, an educator, were first looking for a school for their children, the bilingual education at TFS played a primary role in their decision. The IB program and the fact that it was co-ed also helped seal the deal.

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