Biology teacher Ford Morishita's students at Clackamas High School learn not only about science, but the impact of law on science as well. Through a program called Teaching Controversial Issues through Law-Related Education, Ford teaches students about the nature of controversy and the difference between debate and dialogue. He also uses 3d molecular modeling in his biotechnology classes, enabling his students to understand the complex structure of proteins and showing them how to design a protein model that tells the story of its function. After 33 years of teaching, . Ford served teo years as Regional Science Specialist/Science Coordinator for ESD112 in Vancouver, Washington, Mr. Morishita has served as past president of the Oregon Science Teachers Association and served on many committees including the National Academy of Science (NAS) Teacher Advisory Council, and consensus study panels regarding merits of National Board Certification Program, and Testing Teacher Candidates. Currently he serves as a member of Chalkboard Project Advisory Board, which engages in education policy surrounding teacher quality and leadership. In addition to the Milken Educator Award, Mr. Morishita's honors include the 1994 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching, the 1994 Outstanding Biology Teacher Award from the National Association of Biology Teachers, and 1997 Oregon Teacher of the Year from the Council of Chief State School Officers. In 2008, Ford was designated as National Associate by the National Academy of Science.
Now that I have retired from teaching, I am able to devote more time to science education initiatives and leadership issues. This time has afforded me opportunties to give back to the community I was raised in. And as I search for the right "fit" for how I may contribute, I do know that teacher leadership is a major concern. Currently, teacher expertise and "wisdom of practice" are needed to help advise and improve instructional practice. However, not all teachers are asked to fulfill this role in their own school/district. I intend to contribute my time and expertise toward resolving some of the barriers which prevent local teachers the opportuntiy to serve in this capacity.
1978 Lewis and Clark College, B.A.
MAT Lewis and Clark College-1982
