Educator Receives National Civic Education Award

Posted on 08/19/2025

Congratulations to Mr. Phillip Wrigley, a dedicated educator at Topeka High School, who has made history as the first Kansan ever to receive the American Civic Education Teacher Award (ACETA)!

Each year, only three teachers nationwide are chosen for this prestigious honor, which recognizes educators with exceptional expertise in teaching about the U.S. Constitution, U.S. Congress, and public policy.

Mr. Wrigley’s passion for civic education and his commitment to empowering students with knowledge about government and democracy has left a lasting impact on countless Trojans. We are incredibly proud that he represents Topeka Public Schools on the national stage!

The award is presented annually through a partnership between the Center for Civic Education, the Center on Representative Government at Indiana University, and the National Education Association. The program shines a spotlight on civic education and elevates the teaching profession by celebrating those who inspire future generations to be active and informed citizens.

Phillip Wrigley receives National Award

Engage students in the highest quality of learning • Prepare students for responsible, productive citizenship • Inspire excellence for a lifetime

We Support Equal Opportunities

The Topeka Public Schools, Unified School District No. 501 is committed to affirmative action and equal opportunity. No person shall, on the basis of age, race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability, national origin or ancestry be denied lawful access to any appropriate educational service, program, or activity provided by the school district. For students, the Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 compliance coordinator is the General Counsel for the district. For employment, the EEO/AA and Title VII compliance officer is the general director of human resources. Compliance coordinators may be contacted at 624 S.W. 24th Street, Topeka, KS 66611-1294, (785) 295-3000. The clerk of the Board of Education has been designated to receive and redirect or handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, regulations, and procedures. The clerk may be contacted by calling (785) 295-3059 or by writing to 624 S.W. 24th Street, Topeka, Kansas 66611-1294.