VFW Post 2667 presented awards for the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award to
3 Teachers at the Elementary Level. Congratulations to all.

1st Place Winner was Andrea Chitwood, Music/Chorus Director at Canongate Elementary School. She has served in this capacity at Canongate since 2012 and previously in several schools in Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas. Ms. Chitwood graduated from Anderson University with a Bachelors Degree in Music Education/Vocal, Choral. She was selected as the Canongate Elementary School Teacher of the Year in 2015 and serves as coordinator for the schools Veterans Day, Canongate Sing-a-long and Songs of the Seasons programs. The Canongate Elementary School Chorus, led by Ms. Chitwood, have been featured performers of the National Anthem at Truist Park, Home of the Atlanta Braves since 2013. Ms. Chitwood was nominated for this award by her Principal Mr. John Vaughn.

2nd Place Winner was Cynthia Lanier, 4th Grade English Language Arts/Social Studies teacher at Arbor Springs Elementary School. Ms. Lanier starts every class day with the Pledge to the Flag and emphasizes the need for students to comprehend the meaning of why they recite the pledge and how it relates to citizenship. Ms. Lanier was nominated by Principal Dr. Stephanie Golden.

3rd Place Winner was Staci Culbreth, Music teacher at Arbor Springs Elementary. She is also a professional musician who plays in many regional orchestras in Georgia and her favorite concerts are those involving veteran recognition. Ms. Culbreth’s concert performances give her the opportunity to demonstrate democratic values and patriotism, while the school programs allow for the passing of these important ideals to her students and future citizens. Ms. Culbreth was nominated by Principal Dr. Stephanie Golden.