15-04-2025
Colorado Springs teacher selected for VFW Top Award
(COLORADO) — A middle school teacher from Colorado Springs has been selected to receive a 2025 Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award.
Christie Wingo, a middle school science, technology, engineering, and math teacher at Colorado Springs Christian School, was selected to receive the award at the middle-school level. Each year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) selects elementary, middle, and high school teachers to participate in the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher program.
The program was launched by the VFW to recognize classroom teachers for their 'outstanding' commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to their students.
Wingo was sponsored by VFW Post 7829 in Monument. According to the VFW, Wingo 'was chosen for her continued efforts to prepare responsible citizens while encouraging a strong passion for STEM and fostering an atmosphere that values hard work, collaboration, and bettering their community.'
As a member of the Space Foundation's International Teacher Liaisons Group, Wingo uses space-related educational programs and practical resources in the classroom. Wingo also works to bolster education on cybersecurity, biomedical engineering, machine learning, and robotics.
Wingo is also working on bringing hands-on projects to the school to further inspire her students.
'The VFW is proud to recognize outstanding educators like Christie who inspire civic responsibility and patriotism in our youth, ensuring the pillars of our democracy are not forgotten,' said VFW National Commander Al Lipphardt. 'Beyond academics, she inspires critical thinking, a deep respect for democracy, and helps foster curiosity. Her influence extends far beyond the classroom, helping to cultivate a generation that values integrity, civic duty, and the power of informed decision-making — essential qualities for those who will guide our nation forward.'
Two other teachers from Illinois and New Jersey were also recognized. Wingo and the other two national recipients will be presented with a $1,000 award for professional development and $1,000 for their school during the 126th VFW National Convention in Ohio on Aug. 9-13.
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