On Tuesday October 16, 2001 a surprise assembly was held at Portland High School with School Department and City official gathered. A spokeswoman from the Milken Foundation announced that English teacher, Ted Tibbetts, was selected to receive a Milken Family Foundation Award of $25,000.

The Milken Award is presented each year to outstanding teachers in each state. Mr.Tibbetts was cited not only for his outstanding teaching but also for his work as a coach of football, wrestling , tennis,and as advisor of the Shakespeare Club.

Ted has a remarkable ability to reach his students. His approach of using performance as a means of teaching Shakespeare brings the literature alive. A group of Portland High students inspired by Ted formed a Shakespeare club that produces plays that have been widely acclaimed.

Ted credited the teachers and administrators of PHS for their collegiality which has helped to make him a better teacher. He also praised the students of PHS for their self-directed leadership.