Mr. Forde: The Student Wellbeing Superfan

Many students at SHS drag their feet between classes, anxiously awaiting the last bell at 2:46 PM so they can finally take a breath and get out of school. However, some students’ days are made that much better by the humorous ways of SHS teacher Jamie Forde.

A 1988 graduate of SHS, Forde is known for his caring attitude and the hilarity he brings into every class. Working at Scituate High for the past 15 years as a mathematics teacher, Forde may be recreating his high school years, which he refers to as the “best six years” of his life. According to Forde, he now enjoys being able to “annoy children regularly and get paid for it.” 

Growing up in Scituate, Forde said he “didn’t have a ton of inspiration.” However, he said his high school math teacher, Mr. Cedrone, gifted him with many of his teaching habits now–including his strong relationship with students. “He wanted you to do better,” Forde said, “I loved that guy.” Forde continues to push students academically in class, always willing to give students a tough time, all with a kind heart. 

Although Forde says, “I am probably the most like non-superfan ever,” he coaches the JV boy’s soccer team, stepping down from the varsity program due to his workload. While he may not be cheering on students at Friday night football games, Forde continually looks out for any student who walks in his door. He puts the wellbeing of students before math problems and recognizes the “type of bond, connection, and credibility” created with students from the beginning. 

When asked about having Forde for a teacher, junior Mackenzie Voelger said, “He pushes me to do better, but is always there for me when my better isn’t good enough. He is one of the greatest people I know.”

Junior Carly Prudente agreed, saying the motivation he brings isn’t just “in school but all aspects of life.” “He made me feel like life has more meaning than just blindly going through the day, by constantly sharing personal experiences that were relatable,” she said.

Voelger added that “everyone goes through hard times,” and Forde would help students get through their rough patches by showing his success that came from similar times in his life.

Recalling how the teaching profession “chose” him, Forde says he went into education so he could “do something good” with his life. Helping students with their lives while simultaneously gifting them with sound math education, Forde is clearly doing something good at SHS.