A Valentine teacher is receiving statewide recognition. Karen Keller has been named the VFW Nebraska Middle School Teacher of the Year. The award recognizes educators who promote civic responsibility, patriotism and an understanding of American history.

Inside Keller’s classroom, students aren’t just reading about history — they’re living it. Recently, her fifth graders reenacted the First Continental Congress, stepping into the roles of colonial leaders debating the possible future of a young nation.

“They won’t remember it just by reading,” Keller said. “If they act it out, if we have dramatizations and tangible items, the more modalities students use, the more likely they are to remember.”

Keller is known for immersive, hands-on lessons. Earlier this school year, she guided students through the creation of a Native American Heritage Museum after they researched tribes and their histories.

“I want my students to understand the ‘why,’” Keller said. “When I was in school, we memorized facts to pass a test. But if we don’t know why things happened and what the effects were, none of that really means anything. If there were bad things in history, we don’t want to repeat them. If there were good things, we want to emulate those people who were good role models.”

Those efforts caught the attention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

“She really goes into detail with history,” said Rex Gallino, VFW state senior vice commander and Post 5138 quartermaster adjutant. “Every year she brings students to the memorials at City Hall and has the kids question us and ask us about our military service.”

Valentine Middle School Principal Jeff Sayer said Keller’s teaching extends far beyond textbooks.

“Karen Keller is an outstanding teacher. She has a lot of experience,” Sayer said. “It’s not just textbook stuff. It’s real life situations. Kids learn about economics. They learn about the government.”

For Keller, the recognition is meaningful — but she credits her colleagues and the school district.

“I feel honored and humbled,” she said. “I love my team and working for Valentine Community Schools. Our administrators are fabulous, and I couldn’t ask for better coworkers.”

A team that Keller believes is truly making a difference.

“I teach because I want to help make a difference for our youth and our community and our society,” said Keller. “This is where I’m planted. This is where I make the difference, and I want my students to be thinkers and problem solvers. To know that that’s recognized and appreciated means a lot.”

A recognition for a teacher who goes beyond the textbook in teaching the next generation about history to make a brighter future.