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 Winners are:
Kathy Fechter is sponsored by Brown-Johnson Post 792, Montpelier Vermont for grades K-5. She teaches grades 3 –5 at White River Valley School, Bethel Campus. She educates her students on the importance of community services. Her students have made and donated cookies, pies, and pizzas to the local food shelf annually.
She has been joyfully teaching for 6 years, having left behind a dull existence as a lawyer. She loves classroom games, read-aloud, hands-on learning, and connecting kids to their community through service.
To see more information on her entry click here
Deborah Velto is sponsored by Carl M. Dessaint Post 1034, Brattleboro Vermont for grades 6-8. She teaches middle school Civics and Social Studies at Kurn Hattin Home for Children in Westminster Vermont. She has been a key organizer for their annual Veterans Day Program teaching our youth patriotism and honoring veterans each year. She believes strongly in helping students find their voice and feel empowered to make positive changes in the world around them. Deborah lives in Southern Vermont with her husband, two children, and three dogs. They love to be active and spend a lot of time outdoors exploring the world around them.
To see more information on his entry click here
