Planting Seeds for the Future: Jaden and Shero’s Commitment to Education
When Jaden Cao and Shero Li first considered where their son Cameron would begin his education, they weren’t looking for just any school, they were looking for a place that reflected their values, vision and hopes for the future.
After speaking with friends and alumni, including graduate Justin Poy ’87, they found what they were looking for in TFS. “We loved the global perspective, the vibrant multicultural community and the emphasis on languages,” said Jaden. Now, just a few months into their TFS journey, Jaden and Shero have made a generous contribution to the future of the school: a $250,000 gift to support Can’t Wait! La campagne pour TFS and the largest expansion of our campus in over 20 years.
A Foundation Rooted in Connection
Shero, who attended an international school in China and later worked in media, knows the value of language and perspective. “I want Cameron to think globally, to approach problems with an international lens.”
Their outlook is shaped by lived experience. Both Jaden and Shero understand what it means to move beyond borders, to learn through language and to connect across cultures. They see those same possibilities unfolding for Cameron, who, at just two and a half, is already coming home speaking French, much to Jaden’s surprise. “I have no idea what he’s saying!” Jaden laughs. “My friend speaks French, and they’ll have a full conversation.”
Beyond language learning, what is most meaningful to the family is seeing their son grow and build relationships with others. “He’s learning to play, to share, to be part of a team,” says Shero. “He’s our only child, and TFS has become his first little community.”
Giving Back, Looking Ahead
Jaden’s inspiration to give stems from his father, who, after growing up in a rural village without access to an education, later built two schools in his hometown. “I saw the impact of my father’s generosity, and I want to do the same, for my child and for others.”
Their gift to TFS will help bring new life to the school, and Cameron will grow right alongside it. “Currently, he’s in Jardin d'éveil. But we know he’ll move to the Junior School, then the Senior School, and ultimately every part of this campus. One day, he’ll walk into that new building. And we’ll know we helped make it happen.”
Jaden and Shero imagine a future where Cameron is confident, curious and ready to meet the world. “We know that Cameron is benefiting from the generosity of families before us. We want to do the same for the next generation,” said Shero.
Their gift is an investment in the next chapter and for every child who will walk the halls of TFS in the years to come.
