Pat Purvis, fourth grade teacher at Neveln Elementary, has been selected as the state winner of the Veterans of Foreign Wars National Citizenship Education Teacher Award in the elementary division.

Purvis, who is retiring from teaching after this school year, was the sole nominee in the city and moved on to win in the region. She will now compete at the national level.

She will be recognized as the state winner at the State VFW Convention in June.

Purvis was nominated by Neveln Principal Jean McDermott this past fall.

Purvis said she starts out the school year with the Pledge of Allegiance around the flag pole to prepare the students for the material they will cover in the coming year. In fourth grade, students learn more about the United States government, geography and immigration.

Last year, Austin teacher Michael Veldman won the national competition.

The VFW gives out the award as a way to show teachers its appreciation for their work in the classroom.

Cari Quam can be reached at 434-2235 or by e-mail at :mailto:cari.quam@austindailyherald.com