Gina Lindberg-Blatterman, a teacher at Ilalko Elementary School, recently received the Washington Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Citizens Education Award.

The state VFW honored Lindberg-Blatterman for her innovative methods of promoting America’s history, traditions and institutions effectively in a classroom environment.

Lindberg-Blatterman, who was chosen from entries submitted by VFW posts throughout the state, will go on to compete at a national level. In July, three national recipients will receive an award, a $1,000 donation for their professional development and another $1,000 for their school, as well an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., to participate in the VFW Legislative Committee Meeting/Voice of Democracy Conference this year.

The VFW recognized more than 1,100, with 49 departments participating, including the District of Columbia and overseas, with more than $208,000 in awards being posted.

“We are very proud of Gina Lindberg-Blatterman and all the teachers who participated in the program,” the VFW said. “Their commitment to teach good citizenship to their students will be of great benefit to their communities as these students grow into informed and involved adults.”