In recognition of her unwavering dedication to education, community service, and patriotism, Elizabeth Ramos has been named the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 539 Teacher of the Year, as well as the VFW State of Oklahoma Teacher of the Year for 2025.
Elizabeth was awarded $100 from VFW Post 539 for her local recognition and an additional $250 for earning the state-level honor. Her commitment to serving others and teaching young minds has made a profound impact, particularly through her leadership with Frontier City Kids, a religious and patriotic youth group based in Schulter.
— A Commitment to Service
Since 2021, Elizabeth has played a pivotal role in guiding Frontier City Kids, an organization devoted to helping others through various service projects. Under her leadership, the group has actively collaborated with VFW Post 539 to honor veterans and assist the community. Some of their most notable contributions include:
• Flag Placement and Retrieval: The kids assist in placing flags on the graves of fallen soldiers and ensuring their proper collection.
• Feed the Vets Program: Every 90 days, they participate in providing food assistance to 125 veterans in Henryetta and surrounding towns, donating approximately $75 worth of groceries per veteran.
• Community Outreach: Frontier City Kids embodies its motto, “If you see a need, take the lead,” by giving bags to foster children, creating gift packages for nursing homes, and raising funds to feed the homeless.
The Frontier City Kids program serves as a scoutlike youth curriculum, offering learning opportunities that align with VFW values such as patriotism, character building, life skills, and community service. The program provides over 1,200 individual badges in nine core areas, ranging from agriculture and health to science, technology, and outdoor survival skills.
— A True Leader in the Community
Elizabeth’s passion for empowering young people extends beyond her work with Frontier City Kids. She has a long history of volunteering and coaching, ensuring that children in her community have access to enriching experiences.
• Henryetta Youth Football Association (20202024): As a board member and cheer coach, she organized volunteers, ran concession stands, managed game-day logistics, and stepped up to coach cheerleading when needed.
• Schulter Schools 4-H Leader (2019-2023): She introduced students to a wide range of activities, including archery, sewing, and cupcake wars, providing them with opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have.
• Schulter School Softball Head Coach & K-12 Teacher: Her role as an educator and coach has helped shape the next generation of students through both academics and athletics.
— Recognition from the VFW
During the award ceremony, Schulter School Principal Jay Fox was also honored by VFW National Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt for his support of the VFW Teacher of the Year program.
Elizabeth’s selection as both the VFW Post 539 Teacher of the Year and the VFW State of Oklahoma Teacher of the Year is a testament to her tireless commitment to education, youth mentorship, and community service. Her dedication to instilling strong values in young people ensures a brighter future not only for her students but also for the community as a whole.
Her ability to lead by example and inspire the next generation has made a lasting impact, proving why she is truly deserving of this honor.
For more information on VFW Post 539 or to get involved, contact VFW Post 539/DAV Chapter 20 Veteran Service Officer Tricia Bear at 479-414-0952 or ladymarine100@yahoo.com.
