McPherson Teacher Receives VFW's Top National Honor

A McPherson teacher has earned one of the nation's top honors for citizenship education. Tammy M. Gipson, a middle school science, social studies and religion teacher at St. Joseph Catholic School, has been selected to receive the 2026 Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award at the middle school level, the Veterans of Foreign Wars announced April 13.

Sponsored by VFW Post 2715 and its Auxiliary in McPherson, Gipson was recognized for her innovative approach to bringing history and civic duty to life in her classroom — from hosting veterans and military families to discuss the meaning of Veterans Day and establishing a "Veteran's Wall of Fame," to organizing mock elections and displaying a piece of the World Trade Center from 9/11.

Her students also participate in Meals on Wheels, blood drives, and various community fundraisers throughout the year. "I am honored, humbled and surprised," said Gipson.

Established in 1999, the award recognizes exceptional teachers for their commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism. Gipson will receive $1,000 for professional development and $1,000 for her school during the 127th VFW National Convention in Reno, Nevada, July 25–29, 2026. Teachers may be nominated for the 2027 award at vfw.org/TeacheroftheYear.

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