TEMPLE, Texas — Kennedy-Powell Elementary School fifth-grade teacher Gary Rutkowski has been honored by VFW Post 1820 as part of the post’s dedication to promoting patriotism and investing in future generations.
Rutkowski was recognized with the post’s 2025-2026 Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award. Rutkowski was also notified that he was the VFW District 14 honoree and will now move on to the state level of competition. He was presented with a cash award and a certificate by VFW Post 1820 Senior Vice Commander Steven Porter during a brief celebration at Kennedy-Powell on Thursday (December 11). The Smart/Maher Award honors teachers who strive to educate students about the rich history, traditions, and role of veterans in creating and shaping America. Rutkowski is a United States Army veteran and is in his sixth year of teaching in Temple ISD.
“Gary Rutkowski is a selfless leader who embodies service in every sense of the word,” Jill Owen, principal of Kennedy-Powell Elementary School, said of Rutkowski’s honor. “He goes above and beyond to ensure our staff and students feel valued, and he quietly cares for our building so it remains a safe and welcoming place for all. His high expectations – for himself and for our kids – make him an exceptional educator and a deeply deserving recipient of the VFW Teacher of the Year Award.”
According to Porter, Rutkowski is the first VFW Post 1820 local winner to advance beyond the district level and into the state round of the competition. The state winner will be announced on January 26th. The VFW recognizes three exceptional teachers – one each from the elementary, middle school, and high school levels – as Smart/Maher National Teachers of the Year. The award was established in 1999 and is named after former VFW National Commander John Smart and retired VFW Quartermaster General Larry Maher.