Center Middle School Band Director Christina Smith receives the VFW Post 8904 Teacher of the Year Award for grades 6–8 from (left to right) Post Commander Derrick Roberts, Quartermaster Mary Roberts, and members Simon Stanley and Mike Langford. Photo by Post Adjutant Larry Hume.
November 10, 2026 – Members of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8904 presented Center Middle School Band Director Christina Smith with the Post’s Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher of the Year Award in the grades 6–8 category.
The award recognizes educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching citizenship, patriotism, civic responsibility, and community involvement. As the Post-level winner, Smith will now advance to represent Post 8904 at the District level of the competition.
The presentation was made by Post Commander Derrick Roberts, Quartermaster Mary Roberts, and Post members Simon Stanley and Mike Langford. Post Adjutant Larry Hume took the accompanying photograph.
Smith has previously partnered with the Post in community events, including directing the Center Middle School eighth-grade band during local Patriot Day observances. The Post congratulates her on this recognition and wishes her continued success as she represents the Post at the next level.
The Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award, established in 1999, annually honors outstanding K–5, 6–8, and 9–12 teachers across the country for their commitment to instilling national pride and civic values in their students. Local winners advance through District and Department (state) levels, with national winners receiving cash awards, school grants, and recognition at the VFW National Convention.
