Without our nation’s veterans, America wouldn't be the great nation it is today. Our youth deserve to learn about our rich history, traditions and the role of our veterans in creating and shaping America.
Each year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars selects elementary, middle, and high school teachers to participate in the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher program.
Please review the new rules and eligibility requirements and download the 2025 entry form to nominate a teacher you know. Teacher nomination entries must be received at a local participating VFW Post by the Oct. 31 deadline.
Last Year's Winners are:
Tim
Smiddy, a fifth grade teacher at Staunton Elementary School in
Staunton, Illinois, has been selected to receive its 2025 Smart/Maher
VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award at the elementary
school level. Sponsored by VFW Post 1241 in Staunton, Tim was chosen for
his passion and work promoting patriotism and a respect for our
nation’s veterans and military service shown through his annual hourly
program called the Patriot Club. He spends months organizing the
program, training his students to aptly perform the responsibilities of a
color guard, every year growing and expanding the program to ensure the
service and sacrifice of all local military members and veterans are
remembered and honored.
Christie
Wingo, a middle school science, technology, engineering and math
teacher at Colorado Springs Christian School, in Colorado Springs,
Colorado, has been selected to receive its 2025 Smart/Maher VFW National
Citizenship Education Teacher Award at the middle school level.
Sponsored by VFW Post 7829 in Monument, Colorado, Christie was chosen
for her continued efforts to prepare responsible citizens while
encouraging a strong passion for STEM and fostering an atmosphere that
values hard work, collaboration and bettering their community.
Nicole
Petrosillo, a high school teacher at West Milford Township High School
in West Milford, New Jersey, has been selected to receive its
Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award at the high
school level. Sponsored by VFW Post 7198 in Hewitt, New Jersey, Nicole
was chosen for the energy and dedication she brings to her classroom,
along with the many veteran-centered projects she oversees throughout
the year. From her work as the War and Remembrance Ceremony Committee
leader and coordinating care packages for deployed K-9s and military
members, to ensuring her annual curriculum has connections to World War
II, PTSD and the effects of war, her dedication to honoring America’s
service members, veterans and instilling civic-mindedness is a proven
facet of her teaching method.
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