Theodore "Ted" Forté

Dr. Theodore “Ted” Forté passed away on Jan. 23, 2023, following an extended illness. Ted was a gifted educator who was instrumental in building Carolton Oaks School into the Norfolk Collegiate we know today.  

 

Foremost an instructor of music and physical education, Ted’s legacy far exceeds the classroom. During his time at Carolton Oaks (1958-1965), he was instrumental in the growth and development of the student experience, having instituted the first homecoming, holiday dance, field day and extracurriculars. Ted coached basketball, started the junior varsity team and launched the tennis and baseball programs. In 1960, he unveiled the school’s alma mater, and in 1962 he became the first director of student activities. He also served as a guidance counselor for the school’s first graduating class. All of this while teaching music and physical education. 

 

Ted went on to work in Norfolk Public Schools and later became an educational consultant and coach. He was also involved in Old Dominion University's Teacher Preparation Program. In addition to working with generations of students and teachers, Ted used his musical talents to serve as the organist and choir director of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Norfolk.

 

Ted is survived by his sister, Mary Josephine Powers of Moss Point, Mississippi; his daughter, Alexandria Forte-Nijssen; and granddaughter, Alexandra Elizabeth White ’11, her husband Robert Adam White; and "adopted" daughter Mary Nolte Ruffin (Louis). 

 

Please keep Ted’s family in your thoughts and prayers during the very difficult days ahead.