Heavener Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8403 has awarded Heavener history teacher Terry W. Riggs as their local teacher of the Year under the VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award.

Post Commander Donald Bosley explained, “Mr. Riggs will receive an award certificate, nomination to the District 3 competition, and a cash award. He is recognized by his peers as an exceptional teacher in the field of history. He teaches Oklahoma History, U.S. History and Government at Heavener High School.

His projects with students have included field trips to hear once in a lifetime speakers such as, Mikhail Gorbachev at East Central University, General Colin Powell at Oklahoma City University, and former U.S. President William Clinton at University of Oklahoma.”

“Mr. Riggs has furthered his education in Advanced Placement training in U.S. History and U.S. Government with the University of Tulsa, and earned a Bachelors of Science degree along with a Secondary Associates degree in Social Studies at Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Oklahoma. He has also received an Associates of Science in Pre Secondary Education at Carl Albert State College, Poteau, Oklahoma.”

“He is a very dedicated history teacher that goes above and beyond in his efforts for students, helping many over the years receive educational scholarships. Mr. Riggs is most deserving of this recognition and we wish him continued success in the District and State competitions.”

For more information on this annual program, contact Committee Chairman Mike Kennerson at 918-658-5790 or visit the national website at www.vfw.org/Community/Teacher-of-the-Year/