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 complete the 2023 entry form and brochure to nominate a teacher you know. Teacher nomination entries must be received at a local participating VFW Post by the Oct. 31 deadline.
Looking to share updated information and materials on VFW's Voice of Democracy, Patriot's Pen and Teacher Award programs? Share our National Scholarship Brochure (coming soon) with the students and educators in your community.
And the 2023 Teachers of the Year are ...

Kelly Garey, a retired Navy veteran and second grade teacher at Van Buren Elementary School in Caldwell, Idaho, has been selected to receive its 2023 Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award at the elementary school level. Sponsored by VFW Post 3886 in Caldwell, she was chosen for her dedication to fostering patriotism, passion for serving her country and local community, and for her continued efforts to organize field trips, activities and services to help her students learn about and recognize America’s veterans and their military service. Garey, a native of Meridian, Idaho, whose careers in the Navy Reserves and education has spanned more than 30 years, uses her military experience to help her students and community understand why veterans serve, the true spirit of freedom and the rich history of our nation’s flag. From expanding STEM access beyond the classroom and spearheading drug prevention programs to establishing programs that connect students with the military and veteran communities, her work ethic and passion are as strong today as they were when she started her teaching career 33 years ago.
Javier Martinez, a Marine Corps veteran and high school history teacher at Kaneland High School in Maple Park, Illinois, has been selected to receive its 2023 Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award at the high school level. A native of Elburn, Illinois, and sponsored by VFW Post 5819 in Lemont, Illinois, he was chosen for the passion and innovation he brings to his classroom, his efforts toward the development and enrichment of his student’s character, and for his dedication to bringing history to life. A 10-year veteran of the Marine Corps, Martinez’s military service provides valuable insight when teaching his students the fundamentals of our democracy, the significance of our nation’s history, and the role their civic responsibility plays in the success and future of our nation.