Forest Hills honors National Merit students, receives STEM award and Foundation grants

The Forest Hills Board of Education recognized students and teachers at its Sept. 25 meeting.

School leaders presented National Merit commendations and semifinalist recognitions from Anderson and Turpin high schools. Presenters praised students’ academic achievement and invited honored students and families forward for certificates.

Separately, district representatives announced Forest Hills received a Governor’s Thomas Edison Award for excellence in STEM education for the 2023–24 school year; principals and the department chair were asked to come forward for recognition. A list of teachers who contributed to STEM programming and supported student participation was read aloud and the board recommended issuing commendations.

The Forest Hills Foundation for Education reported it has begun awarding fall teacher grants and announced $112,000 in teacher grants to be distributed across district schools in the coming weeks. The foundation also previewed fundraising events, including a Distinguished Alumni luncheon and a ‘‘Denim and Diamonds’’ fundraiser in November; registration information will be posted on social media.

Superintendent remarks reinforced district performance: Forest Hills earned a 5‑star state report card, placing among the top 11% of Ohio districts, with four of five categories marked as significantly exceeding state standards and 100% in early literacy third‑grade measures. The superintendent and board members commended teachers, administrators and foundation donors for student supports and program growth.