TEMPLE, Texas — Two Temple Independent School District students and one TISD teacher were honored by VFW Post 1820 on Wednesday (December 4). The honorees were recognized as part of the post’s dedication to promoting patriotism and investing in future generations.
Temple High School senior Genevieve Allen was recognized as the local winner in the Voice of Democracy essay competition. Allen submitted a video and written essay on the theme of “Is America Today Our Forefathers’ Vision?” She received a $500 scholarship and a plaque in recognition of her selection.
Travis Science Academy eighth grader Na’Avaryah Leverette was honored as the local winner of the Patriot’s Pen essay competition. Leverette authored an essay on the topic of “My Voice in America’s Democracy.” She won a $200 scholarship and was also presented with a plaque.
Temple High School history teacher Angie Diaz was recognized with the post’s 2024-2025 Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award. That award honors teachers who strive to educate students about the rich history, traditions, and role of veterans in creating and shaping America. Diaz was presented with a $300 cash award and a plaque.
“Temple is truly blessed to have such a strong partnership with our local VFW,” said Dr. Bobby Ott, superintendent of schools for Temple ISD. “For years, they have provided our teachers and students opportunities for scholarships and awards. We had excellent participation from our students and teachers in the essay competition over the topic of voice and democracy and I suspect their entries will advance even further than the local level. I’m truly proud of them all.”
The post also recognized several other Temple ISD students for their participation in the competition. The awards were presented by VFW Post Commander Jimmy Douglas, Senior Vice Commander and chairman of the post’s scholarship program Steven Porter, and Junior Vice Commander Alphonso Dudley.
Allen, Diaz, and Leverette all now advance to the district level competition. The district winners will be selected January 17th. District winners move on to the state level and there is also a national competition with scholarship awards ranging up to $35,000.