Americanism - This program is all about promoting patriotism. Members foster love of America
by teaching young people and new citizens about our heritage. Each year, Auxiliary members
present flags to schools and civic clubs, hold essay contests in schools, participate in parades
and other displays on holidays, hold POW/MIA awareness ceremonies, get out the vote
programs, patriotic parades, citizenship classes, etc.
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.
- An all-expenses-paid trip to attend a VFW conference to receive their award.
