John Wortman, a Forest Area School District teacher and member of the Warren County School District Board of Education, is pictured.

A Warren County School District board member and Forest Area School District teacher is being honored by Penn State University.

John Wortman,, a tenured social science and Gifted Support teacher at West Forest, has been named the recipient of Penn State University’s 2024 Outstanding Teaching Award. Presented by the College of Education and its Alumni Society, the award recognizes outstanding educators who excel in teaching methodologies, subject matter expertise, and the ability to inspire students.

Wortman was nominated by Amanda Hetrick, Forest Area School District superintendent who is also a member of the Pennsylvania State Board of Education.

“This award is given to an individual in the teaching profession who has demonstrated excellence in their use of teaching methodologies, knowledge of subject matter, and ability to inspire students,” wrote Dean Kimberly A. Lawless of Penn State’s College of Education in a letter.

Wortman teaches seventh through 12h graders civics, United States history, American government, economics, psychology and the History of the Holocaust. He also leads summer school programs and enrichment opportunities for students in Tionesta and Marienville. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Wortman serves as the varsity golf coach, director of the Drama Club, and co-advisor for the immersive learning experience program.

Wortman’s influence extends into educational leadership as well. In 2023, he was elected to the Warren County School District Board of School Directors, where he serves as the chairperson of the Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology Committee, which allows him to shape curriculum and instruction policies.

Wortman earned his bachelor’s degree in secondary education (social studies) in 2015 and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction (social studies) in 2020.

Both Wortman and Hetrick have been invited to attend the Penn State Alumni Society Awards Banquet on April 5 at Toftrees Resort in State College, where Wortman will formally receive the award.

“Mr. Wortman’s passion for teaching and his commitment to his students and community exemplify the excellence we strive for in education,” Hetrick said.