The VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in the future generation through its Voice of Democracy Contest and Teacher Awards.The Voice of Democracy is an audio-essay program. It allows high school students to express themselves in regard to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.Each year, nearly 40,000 ninth-12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of $2.1 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.The national first-place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school.A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$16,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins a minimum scholarship of $1,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.While the application deadline for the 2018-19 competition has passed, the rules and eligibility requirements in preparation for next year’s competition opens mid-April every year.The 2018-19 theme was: Why My Vote Matters.Liberty Christian Academy’s seniors Katelyn Chemin and Madison Dames were recognized at the District 9 meeting. Chemin won the Winfield VFW Post and received second place at the district level.Dames won the Troy VFW Post and received third place. A plaque and scholarship were awarded for their efforts.TeachersThe VFW also annually recognizes the nation’s top elementary, junior high and high school teachers who teach citizenship education topics regularly and promote America’s history and traditions effectively.The award recognizes teachers who show an outstanding commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to their students.Liberty Christian Academy’s fourth-grade teacher Elizabeth Colbert was selected as the St. Charles VFW Post winner and went on to be selected as the Teacher of the Year for District 9.Liberty Christian Academy’s High School teacher, State Rep. Bryan Spencer, was selected as the Hawk Point winner and went on to be selected as the Teacher of the Year for District 9.Colbert’s students demonstrated their knowledge of state and local government and the importance of getting involved to make a difference.This is the second year Colbert has received the recognition.“I am deeply honored to be recognized for the work I have done with the amazing young people in my classroom who have developed such a strong interest in our nation’s history,” said Colbert. “It’s a blessing to have kids who genuinely want to learn about what it means to be a good citizen, and I am very thankful to have the opportunity to promote their interest.”Spencer’s students explore different career pathways. His lessons with the Military Pathway involves the student’s looking into the pros/cons of joining the military, comparing the different branches, opportunities with Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC), meals ready to eat (MRE) food critic lab, one-day boot camp and guest speakers from recruiters and those who have retired from the military.This is the fourth year Spencer has received the recognition.“This award is exceptionally meaningful to me as someone who cares deeply about our nation and the next generation who will one day take over the reins of leadership. As a teacher, I place a strong emphasis on helping our young people to become not only successful in their professional lives, but also to be active and conscientious citizens who work to improve the world around them,” he said.Colbert and Spencer each received a plaque and cash prizes for their efforts and will advance to the state level for consideration for an opportunity for an all-expenses paid trip to attend the VFW National Convention.