Teacher of the Year
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.
The VFW Teacher of the Year award contest recognizes three exceptional teachers for their outstanding commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to their students. Each year, a classroom elementary, junior high and high school teacher whose curriculum focuses on citizenship education topics — for at least half of the school day in a classroom environment — can be nominated for the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award. Winners receive:
- A $1,000 award for professional development expenses.
- A $1,000 award for his/her school.
- Two award plaques: one for the teacher, the other for his/her school
- Voice of Democracy Entry Form – Gain access to this year’s theme, rules and entry form
- Voice of Democracy Brochure – Help spread the word about our VOD competition
- National Scholarship Award List – View a complete listing of national scholarships awarded
- Score Sheet – The official Voice of Democracy judges’ score sheet
- Post, District and Department Reports – The official VFW reporting and summary on the Programs Dashboard Tool
- Department VOD Report Instructions – Everything you need to know on forwarding your VOD winner to national
- VOD and Patriot’s Pen Scholarship Donor Criteria – If you’re interested in sponsoring a scholarship, here’s what you need to know
- Competition Announcement Press Release – Fill in the blanks and send to your local media
- Voice of Democracy Winner Press Release – Fill in the blanks and promote your local winner
- Public Service Announcement Script – Ask local TV and radio stations to promote the program