The culture at Forest Grove High School is reliant on the hardwork and dedication of the entire student body, as well as key staff members who facilitate involvement in clubs and school spirit. One of the front runners in student involvement during the 2017-2018 school year has been Robert Kirkman: teacher and facilitator of a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities. After only one and a half years, Kirkman has impacted the Forest Grove High School culture through his unique (and never boring) teaching strategies and dedication to all aspects of his school involvement.

Last school year, I was moved into Mr. Kirkman’s sole second semester psychology class, and along with the other students in the small social studies room, I regarded Kirkman as one of my favorite teachers.The 2016-2017 school year was Kirkman’s first in the Forest Grove School District, following a move from Chico, California with his wife and son. During that year, he taught mainly at CALC (Community Alternative Learning Center), along with both a first and second semester AP Psychology class. According to Mr. Kirkman, teaching at CALC reinforced his desire to “[develop] strong relationships with students… and create relevant classroom experiences.” Now a full time teacher at FGHS, he is currently teaching AP Psychology, Yearbook, and Freshman Seminar.

When I asked Mr. Kirkman what activities he proctors outside of school, I was shocked. Many of us have likely seen posters around the school advertising different clubs, but you’d be surprised to know that four of our clubs are currently advised by Kirkman: K-Pop club, Badminton club, Yearbook club, and Vik Crew. He previously advised League of Legends club as well. Not to mention, Kirkman coaches JVII Boys Basketball in his “free time.” This rigorous full time teaching and club-advising schedule seems very time consuming, however he wants “students to get the most, the best, experiences from their high school years at Forest Grove High School”. This dedication to the futures and current experiences of students has allowed Kirkman to be regarded as a very important member of the FGHS community.