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.
POST LEVEL AWARDS
(To Be Determined)
Elementary School –
Middle School –
High School –
NATIONAL GRAND PRIZE:
- $1,000 Smart/Maher Award for professional development expenses
- $1,000 award for each winning teacher’s school
- Commemorative plaques
- All-expense-paid trip to the VFW National Convention.
2024
Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award Winners
NO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SUBMISSIONS
POST and DISTRICT WINNER
2024 Teacher of the Year
Coach David Tomasson
Spring Branch Middle School
NO HIGH SCHOOL SUBMISSIONS
HOW DO I ENTER?
Download the Teacher of the Year entry form by clicking on this button.
Use the link below to email and submit your Teacher of the Year entry packet
You may also mail your Teacher of the Year packet to:
VFW Post 12205
2025 Teacher of the Year
P.O. Box 282
Bulverde, TX 78163
WHAT IS THE TEACHER AWARD PROGRAM
Founded in 1899, the VFW highly supports the education of America’s youth. VFW and its Auxiliary have developed a slate of programs dedicated to helping America’s educators. VFW Citizenship Education programs stimulate interest in America’s history, traditions, Americanism, civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism.
Teachers care deeply about America and its children. They’re concerned about the perpetuation of America’s noblest traditions and highest ideals. Wouldn’t you like to see them get the honor they deserve? Now you can.
WHY SHOULD I ENTER?
VFW wants to identify and recognize America’s best educators who instill a sense of national pride in students. The national awards include $1,000 Smart/Maher award for each of the top K-5, 6-8, and 9-12 teachers for professional development expenses, $1,000 award for each winning teacher’s school, commemorative plaques and all-expense-paid trip to the VFW National Convention.
ELIGIBILITY
All current certified/licensed teachers in grades K-12 are eligible. Previous national VFW winners are ineligible. Nominations can be submitted by themselves, fellow teachers, supervisors, family members or other interested individuals.
HOW ARE TEACHERS NOMINATED?
Fill out the official entry form contained on this page and provide a one-page resume as a minimum or up to five pages, including the resume, as a maximum of documentation of their teaching experience (for example: resume, references, news articles, etc.) and a head-and shoulder photo if available. Please submit your completed entry form signed, along with the required documentation to your local VFW Post.
HOW AM I JUDGED?
Citizenship (1-25 points):
On a scale of 1-25, to what extent does the teacher encourage and/or model good citizenship and community involvement?
Innovation (1-25 points):
On a scale of 1-25, how much innovation (new ideas, new tools, new resources, and new approaches) does this teacher utilize in the classroom? Does this teacher’s effort reflect an ongoing desire to stimulate the students with new things?
Resources (1-25 points):
On a scale of 1-25, to what degree has this teacher demonstrated an ability to identify and utilize new and exceptional resources to fund, facilitate and provide materials for his or her classroom? Does this teacher tap into outside agencies, organizations and individuals to acquire materials and expertise in the classroom? As an example – bringing speakers, finding in-kind and monetary donations, or utilizing local opportunities like museums, field trips and local events.
Passion (1-25 points):
On a scale of 1-25, to what degree does this teacher appear to be passionate about the profession of teaching? Are they regularly seeking to upgrade their skills? Do they try and find ways to encourage their students? Do they take a personal interest in their student’s individual success?
DEADLINE
To qualify, all entries must be submitted/ postmarked by midnight Oct. 31.