Rocky River High School AP Seminar students collaborate on a group project.
Rocky River High School teacher Jennifer Forshey has been recognized by the Federal Bar Association’s newly founded Civics Initiative, which was created to recognize the educators throughout the nation that contribute the most to civics education.
Students, teachers, and colleagues nominated outstanding teachers who go above and beyond in teaching civics, government or social studies for the Excellence in Civics Education Award. Twenty-two teachers from across the country have been awarded the Federal Bar Association’s Excellence in Civics Education Award for 2017.
Federal Bar Association President the Hon. Michael Newman and Treasurer Maria Vathis congratulated Mrs. Forshey, “Civics education is a critical component of our world today. Your superior dedication to civics education has not gone unnoticed and is greatly appreciated. We thank you for offering your time and energy to the many students whose lives you have impacted, and the many colleagues you have inspired. We hope you continue your tremendous work educating the next generation, and we look forward to watching your future accomplishments.”
Rocky River High School Principal Rob Winton nominated Mrs. Forshey for the award:
Ms. Jennifer Forshey brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her classroom. Having worked in the White House under both the Clinton and Bush administrations, she has a unique perspective on the inner workings of government which aid her students in their study of Civics.
Currently, Ms. Forshey is in her tenth year in education and in her second year at Rocky River High School. Since joining our team, she has taken on the tasks of teaching academic level U.S. History and has taken the lead on Advanced Placement Seminar. The latter course is part of the College Board's A.P. Capstone program (A.P. Seminar and A.P. Research) and introduces students into a team model concept that focuses on project based learning.
Ms. Forshey has worked extensively with the surrounding community, even bridging a Skype session with Professor John Yoo-author of the Torture Memos under President Bush-to discuss whether torture is ever permissible and the underlying implications it has when applied. This wonderful educational opportunity was assisted by the Cleveland Bar Association President, and current Rocky River City School District Board Member, Rick Manoloff.
Through these innovative pathways, Ms. Forshey is able to provide all of her students with differentiated, individualized, and personal experiences and would be an excellent recipient of a Federal Bar Association award.