2026–2027 contest is open! | Deadline October 31, 2026 | Paper application

🍎 Teacher of the Year: Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Program provides VFW Post 1533 with the ability to recognize outstanding educators who help students understand America’s history, traditions, citizenship and the role America’s veterans have played in shaping our nation. 

⏰ Don't miss the deadline: October 31, 2026 | Applications must be submitted by the deadline. Don’t wait until the last minute to recognize an outstanding educator.

🏆 Know An Outstanding Teacher? Nominate them for Teacher of the Year. A great teacher can have a lasting impact on students, families and the community. If you know an educator who deserves recognition, we encourage you to nominate them.

Who can enter? Teacher of the Year is open to educators in the follow grade levels:

2. Review the requirements and complete the 2026 entry form: Download, review, and complete the 2026 Teacher of the Year application. Download here

3. Submit the nomination: Nominations must be submitted to VFW Post 1533.

👩‍🏫 For Educators & Schools: Help us recognize outstanding teachers. Share this opportunity with your school community.

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Other VFW Youth & Education Programs. Two annual contests providing students an opportunity to reflect on America, its history, and their own experiences in American society—and to express their ideas in their own words. We encourage you to share these opportunities with students, parents, faculty, and other educators.