Audra Bates was born and raised in Atkinson, Illinois. Inspired by her grandmother, Audra dreamed of being a teacher from a very young age. After high school, she attended Lewis University and received a degree in Elementary Education. Following her college graduation, she taught junior high students in the Chicago suburbs for two years before moving to Dixon.

After marrying her husband, Rob, in 2011, Mrs. Bates began teaching at St. Anne School in Dixon. In her eleven years there, she taught both junior high and third grade students. In 2022, her family followed God’s prompting to move to Faith Christian School. Audra has a passion for teaching and is so grateful to be able to do that in a school where Christ is the center of and reason for everything that is done.

While not at school, Mrs. Bates enjoys spending time with her family, including her children—Lauren and Ryan, being involved with various ministries at Bethel Church in Dixon, baking, and enjoying time with friends.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:6-7