
Celebrating Black History Month
February 2024
We celebrate individuals who have chosen to teach and mentor students. President Biden's 2024 Black History Month theme "African Americans and the Arts" list of fields include performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, music, culinary, and other forms of cultural expression.
Befitting for acknowledgment is the namesake for the Foundation, Grace Fort Gouldsby, along with her husband and fellow teacher, Rev. Isaac C. Gouldsby, Sr.
The Gouldsby teaching duo, who devoted their lives to empower students beyond the class room, began teaching in the 1940's during the time of segregated schools and society. The couple, and parents to 10 children, instilled what was intended to be life-long principles so those they touched would pursue life purposefully, to be impactful, and strive for excellence in all endeavors, despite the challenges. Both taught close to 50 years continuing during the time of school integration, helping youth, fellow teachers (Black and White), elected officials, and clergy navigate decision making in a manner that was humane and with courage to do well.
The spirit of key influences in this year's theme reigns from not only celebrities but also from school teachers who were matriarchal in the lives of students in their formative years who have expressed their gratitude for the tireless encouragement and commitment that no child be left behind. Our country has benefitted from the gifts bestowed via the arts and we express our gratefulness for the contribution of all teachers who nurtured those talents.
Hats off to Servant leader teachers across the nation. We salute you!
Devotion to Excellence in Education
Grace, shown below with her 1954 third grade class in Hooks, Bowie County, TX, began her teaching career at the historic Center Point School in Pittsburgh, TX, which was a boarding school known for its premier education that educated students from cities and towns across the country.
Helping the future grow one mind at a time!
The annual scholarship is awarded to a meritorious high school graduate to assist in furthering his/her education. The recipients of the award exhibit excellence in leadership and scholarship. Donations are tax deductible and go directly into the Scholarship Foundation. The experience, energy and dedication that Grace Fort Gouldsby brought to the field of education greatly enriched our children, our community, and our overall quality of life, and the Scholarship Foundation is one way of continuing her life-long commitment to quality education and quality life.
Email: gfgsfoundation@gmail.com
Website: gfgsf.org