Each year three exceptional teachers in each state are recognized by the National Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) for their outstanding commitment to teach Americanism and patriotism to their students. The VFW annually recognizes each state's top classroom elementary, junior high and high school teachers who teach citizenship education topics—at least half of the school day in a classroom environment—and promote America’s history, traditions and institutions effectively.
The VFW’s National Citizenship Education Teacher Awards (Teacher of the Year) include the following items:
Please review the new rules and eligibility requirements for the 2026-2027 year here.
Download the 2026-2027 entry form here and fill it out.
Application forms and nomination packets are due to your local VFW Post by October 31st. Nomination packet should include the following: 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.) and a head-and shoulder photo of themselves, if available.
Note: Nominations can be submitted by self-submission, fellow teachers, supervisors, family members or other interested individuals.
