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. The purpose is to recognize teachers who promote civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism. Examples are teachers who plan field trips to city
hall or organizes community volunteer projects; or an instructor who
invites veterans into the classroom to discuss their military experiences; or a teacher who fosters the development of democratic values and beliefs
through special projects.
The award process starts with the local VFW posts and works it way through the District to State and the National Headquarters.Last year, two amazing educators represented VFW Post 9676 and Los Lunas with pride! Our very own John Gabaldon took 2nd place in the state for the 9-12 division, and Victoria Nielsen took 1st place in the state for the K-5 division, representing not only Los Lunas but all of New Mexico on the national stage.
Who is Eligible?
- All current certified/licensed teachers in grades K-12 are eligible. - Prime candidates are teachers who promote civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism.
- Previous national VFW winners are ineligible.
- Nominations can be submitted by the teachers themselves, fellow teachers, supervisors, family members or other interested individuals.
What Do the Winners Receive?
- Winners at each level will receive a monetary donation to support them and their students at the Post, District, Department (State), and National levels.
-The national awards include a $1,000 Smart/Maher award for each of the top K-5, 6-8, and 9-12 teachers for professional development expenses.
- A $1,000 award for each winning teacher's school.
- Commemorative plaques and an all-expense-paid trip to the VFW National Convention.
What is Needed to Nominate?
- The official entry form signed.
- 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.).
-A head-and-shoulder photo if available.
All entries competing at the Post level must be received by midnight, Oct. 31, 2026.
1.) Download the 2026-2027 official entry form:https://vfw-org-hqagarhxahbybyd9.z01.azurefd.net/.../Teac...
2.) Submit your packet to VFW Post 9676
Send your completed forms and documents to Email: vfw9676@gmail.comorn-Person Drop-off: Bring your packet to our Post Home during our monthly meetings on Wednesday, September 9th, 2026 at 7 PM or Wednesday, October 14th, 2026 at 7 PM.Go to our facebook page for more information on Post 9676 past participation and how to get started.
Our programs support our service members while they are on the front line, as they are being discharged and long after they return. Your donation will be immediately directed to the VFW programs where your support is most urgently needed.
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