Schools
Jefferson teacher named Woodridge VFW Teacher of the Year
Joe Wechman recognized as exceptional teacher for his outstanding commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to his students
Joseph Wechman, social studies teacher at Thomas Jefferson Junior High School in Woodridge School District 68, was awarded the Smart/Maher VFW Citizenship Education Teacher Award by Woodridge VFW Post 1578 on Wednesday, December 6. The VFW Teacher of the Year award contest recognizes exceptional teachers for their outstanding commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to their students.
“Mr. Wechman is an extremely patriotic teacher, who has touched the hearts and lives of many Jefferson students and the Woodridge community. Mr. Wechman has done a tremendous job of educating students of what it truly means to be an American,” Jefferson Principal Justin Warnke wrote in his nomination letter. “He creates experiences for students to examine and question whether freedom is really free, and the responsibilities and rights of being an American citizen. I cannot think of a more deserving teacher for the award of VFW Teacher of the Year.”
Representatives from Woodridge VFW Post 1578, school staff, district administration, and members of Mr. Wechman’s family were in attendance for the presentation of this award.
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When asked about being named Woodridge VFW Teacher of the Year, Mr. Wechman said, “I am extremely honored and humbled by the VFW award. My goal has always been to guide students into becoming civic minded and socially responsible. And I am grateful for the continued support of the community and the district.”
As the Woodridge VFW Post 1578 Teacher of the Year, Mr. Wechman’s nomination will now advance to the district level.
