VFW annually recognizes the nation’s top classroom elementary, junior high, and high school teachers who teach citizenship education topics regularly and promote America’s history and traditions effectively. Teachers who promote civic responsibility, flag etiquette, and patriotism are prime candidates for this award. For example, do you know a teacher who plans field trips to city hall or organizes community volunteer projects? Maybe you know an instructor who invites veterans into the classroom to discuss their military experiences. Perhaps you are familiar with a teacher who fosters the development of democratic values and beliefs through special projects. If you know of such a teacher, honor them with the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award.

This year's Department Winner is:

Kelsey Kenyon is sponsored by Bennington County Post 1332, Bennington Vermont for grades K-5.

Kelsey Kenyon, a second-grade teacher at Shaftsbury Elementary School in Shaftsbury, VT was chosen for her commitment to honoring America's
history and traditions, and for standing up and fighting against the banning of the Pledge of Allegiance at her school, while helping to get a district-wide
practice in place where the Pledge will be recited daily for those who wish to participate. In addition to that, she has her class create a large collaborative flag drawing that they then give to the veterans at the Vermont Veterans Home. Kelsey graduated from Roger Williams University in Bristol, RI, and believes in creating a safe and exciting environment in the classroom, where learning is looked at in a positive light.

  To see her resume click here