Yang is one of two teachers in Southwest Washington this year to be honored with this award for civic engagement and patriotism

Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. (VFW) recognized Alice Yang, art teacher at Cape Horn-Skye Elementary and Canyon Creek Middle School in Washougal, as a Smart/Maher Teacher of the Year at an assembly on January 17, 2023. Yang is one of two teachers in Southwest Washington this year to be honored with this award for civic engagement and patriotism.

VFW District Commander Dana Difford, Post 4278 Adjutant Bob Hitchcock, District Auxiliary President Marjorie Stetson, Post 4278 Commander Sonny Liston, Post Member Gary Andreas, and Auxiliary Member Susan Bennett presented Yang with two VFW Teacher of the Year awards. Yang was awarded the Smart/ Maher Teacher of the Year for VFW Post 4278, then advanced to the regional level and was awarded the Smart/ Maher Teacher of the Year for VFW District 6. District 6 encompasses the Southwest Washington region.

“We award the Teacher of the Year recognition to teachers who get students engaged in good citizenship and patriotism,” said Hitchcock. “Alice Yang is concerned about the younger generation and makes sure that they follow their dreams.”

Students from Cape Horn-Skye Elementary and Canyon Creek Middle School gathered at a combined assembly to honor Yang. Applause erupted as VFW representatives announced that the Washougal art teacher earned the awards. 

“Mrs. Yang’s elementary and middle school students are so energized to celebrate their teacher,” said Dr. Mary Templeton, superintendent of Washougal School District. “The sense of community that Alice Yang builds in the classroom is reflected in moments like this. Yang exemplifies Washougal School District’s mission to know, nurture, and challenge all students to rise.”

Information provided by Washougal School District.