Fostering a sense of civic duty and patriotism in her high school students is why St. Amant High School social studies teacher Abbie Tucker won an award from the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Tucker is the 2025-2026 VFW Smart/Maher Citizenship Education Teacher of the Year Award winner for the 9th-12th Grade Division.
The award is sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Department of Louisiana, and VFW Post 3693.
Teachers awarded are recognized for promoting civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism.
“I was very surprised and truly honored to receive the award,” Tucker said. “It was pretty surreal to win.”
Tucker is going into her 14th year in education.
She teaches AP Government and Politics, civics, and is the school’s Rho Kappa club’s sponsor.
Rho Kappa is a national honor society for high school juniors and seniors that recognizes excellence in social studies curriculum.
“Our club motto is ‘Committed To Making A Difference,’” Tucker said. “Our club tries to do that by participating in numerous events throughout the year.”
Some of those club events have included working with the Ascension Parish Clerk of Court to train students to be future election commissioners, attending Louisiana Supreme Court cases, volunteering at the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank and traveling to Washington.
The chapter also participates in various community service projects such as hosting a voter registration drive.
Joey Cernich, VFW Post 3693 commander, said Tucker stood out among entrants because of her outstanding enthusiasm to promote patriotism and civic responsibility.
“Her commitment goes beyond the classroom,” Cernich said. “Abbie has worked hard to ensure her students receive a patriotic curriculum and understand the importance of honoring our nation’s symbols.
“Her efforts in teaching students the proper way to retire worn and damaged American flags showed a deep respect for our flag, our veterans, and the traditions that represent our country.”
Cernich said Tucker inspires the next generation with a “true sense of patriotism and civic responsibility.”
For Tucker, teaching is a way to both help her community and mentor future generations.
“Growing up, I've always had a passion for helping people,” Tucker said. “I wanted to be someone who could make a positive difference in the lives of young people I encounter.
“Over the years, teaching hasn't just involved teaching academic content but has evolved into inspiring students to become informed citizens, helping students to believe in themselves and reach their full potential.”
St. Amant High School Principal Christina Carter said Tucker provides opportunities in and out of the classroom that instill in students the importance of making a difference in their community.
“She has been a tremendous advocate for students learning about civic duties in multiple ways,” Carter said. “She works hard to provide opportunities for students beyond her classroom to engage in their community and to see the inner workings of government through field trips and guest speakers.
“Abbie is so deserving of this recognition. She works hard balancing work and home responsibilities and anything she does is done at the highest standard. She has made such a difference on our campus.”
Tucker’s civic enthusiasm spreads not only to students, but to other teachers as well.
“Abbie strives to inspire her students by creating a classroom environment where her students feel valued, supported, and encouraged,” fellow St. Amant High School civics teacher Jessica Kling said. “She builds their confidence by setting high expectations while providing the guidance and encouragement they need to succeed.
“Abbie inspires me and others daily by leading with positivity, and she is always willing to share ideas. She always celebrates my successes and offers encouragement during challenges.”
Tucker believes choosing to be a teacher is challenging yet rewarding.
“Being a teacher is more than a career to me; it truly is a calling,” Tucker said. “What keeps me coming back each year is simple: the students. Every day I get to teach is an opportunity to make a lasting impact and help shape the next generation of leaders and citizens.”
Tucker, who is married with three sons, enjoys living and working in Ascension Parish.
“I have lived in Gonzales my entire life,” Tucker said. “I absolutely love it here. I think what makes St. Amant so great is the incredible sense of community that exists.
“We are more than just a school; we are a family. Our community consistently comes together to celebrate traditions, our students and our teachers and all support staff. The unwavering commitment of our community truly makes our school an extraordinary place to learn, grow and succeed.”