Mexico Middle School music teacher Sarah Murdock has been selected as the local winner of the 2025 Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award, presented by VFW Post 3772 and the VFW Auxiliary Post 3772.

The annual award honors educators who help students understand America’s history, traditions, civic responsibility, patriotism, and flag etiquette, as outlined in the national program. The VFW Citizenship Education program believes that teachers care deeply about America and its children, sharing “they’re concerned about the perpetuation of America’s noblest traditions and highest ideals.”

The four judging categories included: citizenship, innovation, resources, and passion.

VFW identifies and recognizes America’s best educators who instill a sense of national pride in students. While nominees often come from civics-related subjects, Sarah earned this recognition for the way she weaves patriotic and American music into her teaching, helping students connect arts education with national pride and community values.

At a small ceremony hosted by the local VFW, Sarah received a commemorative plaque along with $500 from VFW Post 3772 and $500 from the VFW Auxiliary Post 3772 in support of her work with students.

Sarah will now advance to the next level of competition as part of the VFW’s statewide judging process.