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.
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 2025 Teachers of the Year 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.