BILLINGS - The state chapter of the Veterans of Foreign wars honors a Billings teacher for teaching patriotism to her students.

Darcene Butler teaches her students at Independent Elementary School the normal 6th grade curriculum and then some. Patriotism is very important to her and she passes that on as well.

"My father was in the military, now my brothers are in the military, so I've developed an empathy for veterans." Her class does community service for the homeless, they write letters to service men and women over seas and honor local veterans.

"We're going to do KISS. Keep Individual Soldiers Supplied. And for Valentine's Day we're going to send candy to them," says student Taylor Gottula. And for all her work, veterans are now honoring Ms. Butler.

The VFW is awarding her teacher of the year in Montana for grades 6-8. The winner is supposed to be someone who promotes citizenship education in the classroom. And if you ask Ms. Butler's students, they'd tell you their teacher definitely qualifies.

"They sacrifice a lot, they leave friends and family at home and they risk their lives every day," says student Annie Nessan. Many of her students say that Ms. Butler has given them a newfound respect for service men and women.

Ms. Butler says when it comes to education, character building is just as important as the daily curriculum. And that's what she's trying to impart to her 6th graders.

"I think building character is very important. Making sure they're becoming independent and can think for themselves and that they understand what the values of a true citizen are."

Ms. Butler will receive her award this Saturday in Helena.