My students have been involved with the Patriot's Pen for several years. They passionately write about patriotism and what it means to them.
In November 2021, Kailin Odens's essay placed 1st in the District 7 Patriot's Pen competition. Her essay moved onto state competition.
In November 2021, Addison Haase and Jenna Vitek placed as the top two individuals for the local VFW Voice of Democracy competition.
In April 2021, Addison Haase received 2nd place in the VOD (Voice of Democracy) essay contest for District 7 VFW. The top three students in District 7 were invited by Jerome Seiner, from Wagner, to present their essays at the annual spring meeting. Addison and the other two individuals received monetary rewards for their essays. Congratulations to these students!
In February 2017, Kate Kruse received 3rd place in the state of South Dakota for her Voice of Democracy essay and Colin Kruse received 4th place in the state of South Dakota for his Patriot's Pen essay. Congratulations to both!!
On February 3, 2015, Tracy Kruse was awarded 1st place for her Patriot's Pen essay (in the state of South Dakota)! Her essay was then sent to Washington, D.C. to be judged nationally; her essay was selected 3rd in the nation!! She received a $3,500 prize for her essay. Congratulations, Tracy!!! The Yankton Daily Press & Dakotan printed an article on her winning, click on the following link to read: http://www.yankton.net/community/article_79e16cfe-b403-11e4-b23c-bf83045ac736.html
In February 2012, Kate Kruse was selected as the 1st place recipient of Patriot's Pen for the state of South Dakota. Her essay went on to national competition and placed 9th overall. The state of South Dakota has not had an individual place in the top ten for many years. What an accomplishment for Kate!!
In November 2013, I was chosen as VFW's District 7 Teacher of the Year. I am deeply honored to receive this award.
Kate Kruse accepting her 1st place plaque in Pierre, SD.
Some of Kate's awards.
Tracy Kruse, me, and Kate Kruse at the 2013 VFW Dinner.
