Ms. Tori Cates (THS, '08)

She grew up in Tomball ISD, built meaningful relationships with teachers and mentors along the way, and now spends her days helping students discover just how much they are capable of.

Tori Cates, Advanced Academics Specialist at Oakcrest Intermediate
Tomball High School, Class of 2008

Tomball High School: Class of 2008
Tomball ISD schools attended:
Decker Prairie Elementary • Beckendorf Intermediate • Tomball Junior High

High school activities:
Cougar Pride Band • Softball

Finding Her Calling

After graduating from Tomball High School, she attended Oklahoma Christian University for her undergraduate degree and later earned her graduate degree from Lamar University.

Her respect for educators and desire to make a difference led her to a career in education.

“I have always had a deep respect for teachers and the work they do. I wanted a career where I could make a difference while still giving me the flexibility to prioritize my family and be present for my own kids.”

For her, education is about more than academics. It's about creativity, relationships and giving students the opportunity to discover what they can accomplish.

“I love that education gives me the opportunity to be creative, build relationships, and give kids the chance to be curious, think creatively, and discover just what they are capable of.”

Now: Tomball ISD Educator

Current role: Advanced Academics Specialist at Oakcrest Intermediate
Tomball ISD experience: 14 years
Education experience: 15 years

Previous roles in Tomball ISD:
Math/Science Teacher at Northpointe Intermediate • Math Teacher at Oakcrest Intermediate

She began her Tomball ISD career as a Math/Science teacher at Northpointe Intermediate, followed by four years teaching math at Oakcrest Intermediate. Today, she serves students as an Advanced Academics Specialist.

Why Tomball?

For her, Tomball ISD has always felt like home.

“Tomball has always felt like home to me. I grew up here, went through Tomball ISD from elementary school through high school, and had teachers and mentors who made a difference in my life.”

Returning to the district gave her the opportunity to give back to the community that helped shape her.

“I love being part of a district that continues to grow while still maintaining that strong sense of community.”

One word to describe Tomball ISD: Community

“Having grown up in Tomball ISD and now having spent the last 14 years working here, I've experienced that sense of community from both sides. There is a genuine feeling that people know each other, support each other, and care about doing what is best for kids.”

Beyond the Classroom

When she's not working with students, she enjoys baking sourdough, quilting and watching her kids play sports.

She loves creative hobbies that allow her to slow down and make something with her hands.

If she weren't an educator, she might be creating a different kind of community space—a cozy coffee shop and bookstore with great food, shelves full of books and a comfy couch where people could stay awhile.

And there may even be a little culinary inspiration behind the dream—she once seriously considered going to culinary school!

Something Students Might Be Surprised to Learn

She's a creative person outside of school who loves making things from scratch. That creativity is also part of what she brings to her work with advanced learners.

“I love giving students the opportunity to be curious about the world around them, think outside the box, and explore their own ideas and dreams.”

From a Tomball ISD student who grew up learning from teachers and mentors to an educator helping today's students discover their own potential — her journey is what Student2Staff is all about!