Showing posts with label heroes in the classroom. Show all posts
Showing posts with label heroes in the classroom. Show all posts

Parkwood Elementary awarded $20,000 grant from Symetra

Friday, June 19, 2020

Parkwood Elementary
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools


Symetra Life Insurance Company recently awarded Parkwood Elementary a $20,000 MVP Award grant as part of its Heroes in the Classroom program.

Parkwood was eligible to apply for the grant program because it had one or more teachers who were selected by Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks as Heroes in the Classroom during the 2019-2020 school year. Earlier this school year, Parkwood teachers Carla Salmon and Renee Iverson were honored as part of that program.

The ability to apply for the MVP Award grant came at the right time for Parkwood, according to Principal Ann Torres. 

“As part of our ongoing work around race and equity, we engaged in an audit of who we saw reflected in our school and classroom libraries, as well as in the artwork and posters in our school,” said Torres. 

While 55 percent of Parkwood students are students of color, and 27 percent speak a language other than English as their primary language, they found that the percentage of books and artwork that represented or featured a main character who was a person of color was low.
“After we looked at the results of the audit, a strong desire emerged to improve our libraries and art to better represent the diversity of our student body,” said Torres.

From this sprung the “I See Me!” project that they developed to apply for the MVP Award grant. “I See Me!” leverages Parkwood’s existing race and equity work by taking it directly to students and affirming their identities in a positive, impactful way. 

The MVP Award grant will equip all 22 classrooms and the school library with books, play materials and artwork that reflect racial diversity to help ensure that Parkwood students see themselves reflected in the stories they read and materials they study.

“Positive self-concept is an important thing for everyone to have in order to reach their dreams,” said Torres. 
“And all too often, students of color do not see themselves positively represented in books, toys or artwork in our communities, including schools. The goal with this project is for students to be affirmed and validated in materials and resources that positively reflect the diversity of our community.”

The grant funds for Parkwood’s “I See Me!” project will be used to purchase books for their classroom and school libraries that reflect the diversity of their school. They will also purchase copies of “What Does It Mean To Be White? Developing Racial Literacy” by Robin DiAngelo for a staff book study. Additionally, posters and artwork will be purchased to display their school community’s culture throughout the hallways and classrooms of their school.

“Symetra is proud to act as a catalyst for innovative programs that benefit our local schools by building both academic skills and crucial relationships within the broader school community,” said Sharmila Swenson, AVP, Public Affairs at Symetra. 
“Together with our program partners, we applaud educators like the teams at Parkwood Elementary School who recognize the varied, diverse voices that make up a school community and respond with unique programs that actively promote inclusion and empower young learners.”


Read more...

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks head back to school by honoring two Parkwood Elementary teachers

Saturday, August 31, 2019

Carla Salmon (left), Parkwood Elementary School Principal Ann Torres (center),
and Renee Iverson (right).

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks kicked off the 14th season of Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® yesterday with a first for the teacher-recognition program, simultaneously honoring not one but two teachers from the same school in Shoreline.

Parkwood Elementary School kindergarten teacher Carla Salmon and third grade teacher Renee Iverson thought they were attending the regular district staff meeting that precedes a new school year for Shoreline Public Schools.

Carla Salmon (left) and Renee Iverson (right) learn more about
what their Symetra Heroes in the Classroom honors entail.

Both were curious when Superintendent Rebecca Miner deviated from the agenda to invite Parkwood Elementary School Principal Ann Torres to help her introduce two surprise guests — and stunned when Symetra Public Affairs AVP Sharmila Swenson and Seattle Seahawks Partnership Activation Manager Emily Sikma announced their names.

Iverson and Salmon are two of the 16 K–12 teachers that will be honored for educational excellence by the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2019 NFL season.

“The difference Renee Iverson has made in our daughter’s life and in those of the students who have been fortunate to have her as a teacher simply cannot be overstated,” wrote district colleague Curtis Campbell in his nomination. 
“My wife and I will often refer to Mrs. Iverson as the ‘child whisperer’ because she has an innate ability to connect with each student she works with to develop a trusting relationship and understand each child’s needs and strengths. She leverages those relationships, along with her exceptional teaching knowledge, to support students reaching their true potential.”

Superintendent Rebecca Miner (red jacket) reacts


Parent Annie Culliton applauded the dedication and imagination Carla Salmon brings to the classroom in her nomination. 

“Kindergarten is a tricky age. I've never seen a more equipped teacher than Carla, who fosters and nurtures individuality, creativity, diversity, teamwork and confidence in young minds. Society will be much better served having more teachers like Carla mold these minds at an early age, setting them on the path of loving school as a goal above all else,” wrote Culliton. 
“I'm excited to see a brighter future because of the foundation and passion Carla is building in our future leaders because she sees the big picture and is coloring it in one day and child at a time.”

“High 5” for Renee Iverson on her way down to the floor
to accept her Symetra Heroes in the Classroom honors.


Both teachers will receive $2,000 from Symetra for classroom supplies and two tickets to the Seattle Seahawks season-opening game with the Cincinnati Bengals on September 8.

Since 2006, Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® has celebrated 264 K–12 teachers across the Puget Sound and contributed $640,000 for schoolbooks, classroom supplies and equipment, and in support of innovative student programming.

Symetra Life Insurance Company is a subsidiary of Symetra Financial Corporation, a diversified financial services company based in Bellevue, Washington. In business since 1957, Symetra provides employee benefits, annuities and life insurance through a national network of benefit consultants, financial institutions, and independent agents and advisors.



Read more...

Lane Loland named Symetra Hero in the Classroom

Friday, December 1, 2017

Lane Loland (center) is presented with the Hero in the Classroom Award
 by representatives from the Seahawks and Symetra.

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Shorecrest High School teacher Lane Loland as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Dec. 1, 2017 during a surprise presentation during an all-school assembly. Loland is an athletic coordinator and social studies teacher at Shorecrest

“Simply put, Lane Loland is a Shorecrest legend — he is our ‘Mr. Holland.’ A 30-year veteran of teaching, he has taught every range of course and student. He has also coached and served as our athletic director,” said Lisa Gonzalez, principal at Shorecrest High School. 
“Mr. Loland expects the best from his students and sets high standards. Whether in the classroom or on the athletic field, he helps every student be their best, and he does so with tremendous care, poise and dignity.”

Gonzalez and several teaching colleagues nominated Loland for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“Before becoming a teacher, Mr. Loland was an attorney. He made a conscious choice to switch careers and teach, serving our young people and bettering the community in the process. Students want to do well by him and the staff trust and respect him completely,” said Gonzalez. 
“It is very difficult to summarize all that Lane Loland has contributed to Shorecrest, from AP scores (his kids rock the AP U.S. History exam) to ensuring that our sports programs are valued, supported and centered on the right things. 
"He is truly our ethical center—and he is retiring at the end of this academic year. Please help us honor him and all that he has done for the Shorecrest community.”

Loland is one of 16 K–12 teachers across the Puget Sound area that will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2017 NFL season. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations, and they receive a $2,000 donation for classroom books and supplies.

In addition, they receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Loland will be recognized at the Sunday, December 3rd game when the Seahawks take on the Philadelphia Eagles.

Teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent. The winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills.

More information about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom available here



Read more...

Shoreline Public School’s Jennifer Broadstone honored as a Hero in the Classroom by Symetra and Seahawks

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Jennifer Broadstone in front of “her” customized locker in the Seahawks locker room with Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tyler Lockett, a surprise guest.


Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks celebrated the 16 Puget Sound-area teachers recognized as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® during the 2016 NFL season at an April 28 luncheon at CenturyLink Field.

Among the honorees was Jennifer Broadstone, the occupational therapy and physical therapy team lead for Shoreline Public Schools, who was joined at the reception by Rebecca Miner, district superintendent, and Scott Irwin, director of Secondary Student Services.

The event was held in the Coach’s Loft and included a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, including a stop in the Seahawks locker room, where each teacher discovered a personalized locker.

Inside were a copy of the Seattle Times ad honoring them, a commemorative 2016 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom booklet and Seahawks items.

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tyler Lockett (#16) made a surprise appearance — sharing a story about the impact two middle school teachers had on his life, signing autographs, and posing for photos.

Shoreline Public Schools guests (l to r): Superintendent Rebecca Miner; Scott Irwin; and 2016 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom honoree Jennifer Broadstone.


The Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program recognizes teachers in front of their students and peers at in-school presentations, and they receive a $1,000 donation for classroom books and supplies.

Ms. Broadstone received her Heroes award during a presentation at Echo Lake Elementary School last December. She was nominated by district colleague Barbara Bender, who wrote, 

“Jennifer Broadstone works with students across the Shoreline school district who have physical challenges that interfere with their ability to access their education. 
"Over the course of her career as a school-based physical therapist, she has worked with hundreds of students, families, teachers and administrators. 
"Teachers and administrators rely on Jennifer for her knowledge of a student’s physical disabilities and how best to modify activities and environments so that he or she can be fully integrated into school programs. 
"Parents often rely on Jennifer to help them better understand their child’s condition or special equipment needs. Students love Jennifer because she is a cheerleader for them, and they have fun with her as she encourages them to go as far as they can go in spite of their physical limitations.”

Heroes honorees also receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Ms. Broadstone attended the Seahawks’ December 24, 2016 match-up against the Arizona Cardinals.

Learn more about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom and how to nominate a teacher here



Read more...

Jennifer Broadstone is Symetra Hero in the Classroom

Friday, December 16, 2016

L-R: Jennifer Broadstone is presented $1,000 for her school, personalized jersey,
tickets and sideline passes for an upcoming Seahawks game
by Symetra’s Kira Moses and Seattle Seahawk’s John Pleas
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Jennifer Broadstone as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” during a presentation at Echo Lake Elementary School on December 16, 2016.

Broadstone is the occupational therapy and physical therapy team lead for Shoreline Public Schools.

“Jennifer works with students across the school district who have physical challenges that interfere with their ability to access their education. Over the course of her career as a school-based physical therapist, she has worked with hundreds of students, families, teachers and administrators,” said district colleague Barbara Bender in her letter nominating Broadstone for the award.
“Teachers and administrators rely on Jennifer for her knowledge of a student’s physical disabilities and how best to modify activities and environments so that he or she can be fully integrated into school programs. Parents often rely on Jennifer to help them better understand their child’s condition or special equipment needs. Students love Jennifer because she is a cheerleader for them, and they have fun with her as she encourages them to go as far as they can go in spite of their physical limitations.”

Broadstone is one of 16 K–12 educators across the Puget Sound area that will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2016 NFL season. 

Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations, and they receive a $1,000 donation for classroom books and supplies. In addition, they receive tickets and sideline passes to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field.

Broadstone will be recognized at the December 24 game when the Seahawks take on the Arizona Cardinals.

Individuals may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent. The winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills.

More information about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is available here



Read more...

Shorewood high school teacher Colleen Kiyonaga honored as “Symetra Hero in the Classroom”

Saturday, May 7, 2016

From left: Shorewood teachers Colleen Kiyonaga; Mark Owen; Jill Owen and Paul Villanueva.
Photo courtesy Symetra

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® teacher-recognition program, hosting an April 29 luncheon at CenturyLink Field honoring the 16 Puget Sound-area teachers recognized for educational excellence during the 2015 NFL season.

Among the honorees was Shorewood High School’s Colleen Kiyonaga.

The Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program recognizes teachers in front of their students and peers at in-school presentations, and they receive a $1,000 donation for classroom books and supplies.

Ms. Kiyonaga was presented with her Heroes award during a surprise classroom presentation last October. She was nominated by colleague Wendy Jordan, who wrote, “Colleen Kiyonaga fosters a classroom culture of respect and tolerance. She teaches what she loves—food and culture. 
"By sharing her own Japanese-American heritage, she encourages students to explore and share their own cultures. The result is a collaborative teaching style that is empowering.”

Heroes honorees also receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Ms. Kiyonaga attended the Seahawks’ Oct. 18, 2015 match-up against the Carolina Panthers.

Also welcomed at the program’s milestone anniversary festivities at CenturyLink Field were past ‘MVP Award’ winners, including Shorewood’s Jill Owen and Paul Villanueva. Both Owen and Villanueva were honored in 2010 as Symetra Heroes; together, they went on to write a proposal for a “Sea 3D” program, which won a $10,000 MVP Award grant

(Every school with a Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient in a given program year is eligible to submit an MVP Award proposal. Nominated programs are evaluated on a range of criteria, including innovation, feasibility and demonstrated need.)

  Seattle Seahawk DeShawn Shead (#35) greets Colleen Kiyonaga
 in the Seahawks locker room
Photo courtesy Symetra

The April 29 event was held in “the CLink’s” Verizon Lounge, which offered both a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the field and an unexpected peek at a Seattle Sounders practice session. The reception was followed by a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, including a stop in the Seahawks locker room, where each teacher discovered a personalized locker. Inside were a copy of the Seattle Times ad honoring them, a commemorative 2015 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom booklet and Seahawks items.

  Colleen Kiyonaga tries on Seattle Seahawk DeShawn Shead’s Super Bowl ring
Photo courtesy Symetra

Seattle Seahawk DeShawn Shead (#35) made a surprise appearance -- signing autographs, posing for photos and sharing his Super Bowl XLVIII ring with each teacher.

Learn more about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom or how to nominate a teacher here.



Read more...

Shorewood High School teacher honored as Symetra 'Hero in the Classroom’

Saturday, October 17, 2015

Colleen Kiyonaga honored as
Hero in the Classroom

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Shorewood High School teacher Colleen Kiyonaga as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on October 13, 2015 during a surprise classroom presentation. 

Kiyonaga teaches family and consumer science at Shorewood.

“Colleen Kiyonaga teaches what she loves — food and culture. She shares her own Japanese-American heritage and encourages students to explore and share their own cultures. Through a class called ‘Cuisines and Cultures,’ Colleen shares Japanese food traditions. I often see her lugging two or three loads of utensils and specialized food items into class so her students can experience them firsthand,” said Wendy Jordan, a teaching colleague. 
“Colleen has no fear of learning new teaching strategies, new technologies or new information in general. During her ‘Foods and Nutrition’ or ‘Cuisines and Cultures’ classes, she is always openly asking students and other teachers who may be in the classroom to share information regarding the cooking task at hand. In such a diverse classroom, there are many cultures present and her collaborative teaching style is empowering.” Jordan nominated Kiyonaga for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award. 
“Colleen is excellent at fostering a classroom culture of respect and tolerance. She has a kind, gentle manner and is thoughtful in her words to students. Her voice is calm and slightly quiet, so students listen carefully to hear her and respond with instant attention and respect. It is an incredible situation to watch,” said Jordan.

Colleen and Shoreline Superintendent Rebecca Miner

Kiyonaga is one of 16 K–12 teachers across the Puget Sound area that will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2015 NFL season. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations, and they receive a $1,000 donation for classroom books and supplies. In addition, they receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Kiyonaga will be recognized at the Oct. 18 game when the Seahawks take on the Carolina Panthers.

Teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent. The winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills.

More information about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is available here.  



Symetra Financial Corporation (NYSE: SYA) is a diversified financial services company based in Bellevue, Wash. In business since 1957, Symetra provides employee benefits, annuities and life insurance through a national network of benefit consultants, financial institutions, and independent agents and advisors.



Read more...

Symetra and Seattle Seahawks Host 16 “Symetra Heroes in the Classroom” including two from Shoreline schools

Monday, March 23, 2015

014 Symetra Heroes Recipients
Photos by Corky Trewin

Recipients at CenturyLink Field Celebration 
Two Shoreline School District teachers among 2014 honorees

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored the 16 Puget Sound-area teachers who were recognized as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® during the 2014 NFL season, at a special celebration at CenturyLink Field on March 20.

Among the 2014 honorees were two Shoreline Public Schools teachers: 
  • John Herold — Meridian Park Elementary School
  • Bill McMurray — Kellogg Middle School

Jim Pirak, Symetra SVP, Marketing, and Mike Flood, Seattle Seahawks VP, Community Relations and Special Projects, hosted a luncheon in the Coach’s Loft, welcoming the teachers, their school principals and special guests, including Shoreline Public Schools Superintendent Rebecca Miner.

Following lunch, the teachers received an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, which included taking in a view of the field from the press box. The festivities wrapped up in the Seahawks locker room, where each teacher was surprised with a “customized” locker complete with nameplate. Each teacher’s locker’s contents included a plaque commemorating his or her “Heroes” award and a copy of the March 20 edition of the Seattle Times, which featured a ¼-page ad saluting all 16 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom recipients.

Seahawks Linebacker Brock Coyle was a special guest, joining the teachers, principals and guests in the players’ locker room.

“You’re here for these kids and you teach these kids. But truly know and understand the impact you can have on young kids’ lives because truly with me, it’s the case,” said Coyle, who made the team last year as a rookie free agent from the University of Montana. 
“You guys are a huge influence in young people’s lives and, honestly, I look up to people like you because you guys are really the people who make the difference in the community and in life.”

Read more about the 2014 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom teachers’ visit with Coyle on the Seattle Seahawks website: Brock Coyle on Symetra Heroes: ‘They’re the important ones’

Shoreline Public Schools’ Symetra Heroes in the Classroom Profiles:

Teacher:         John Herold (Kindegarten)
School:            Meridian Park Elementary School, Shoreline
Principal:       David Tadlock
Nominator:    Parent of a student
Game:             Oakland Raiders (Nov. 2)

“John Herold is a perfect example of a teacher that leaves a lasting impression on his students. He not only challenges students to be responsible, respectful kindergarteners, he also makes learning the most exciting thing in the whole wide world for them,” said Ann Yee, a Meridian Park Elementary School parent. “All three of my children have had Mr. Herold as their Kindergarten teacher, and my older children still remember all of the positive comments he made. He has a way of making each and every five-year-old in his classroom feel like a superstar.”

Teacher:         Bill McMurray (7th Grade Science, Basketball coach)
School:            Kellogg Middle School, Shoreline
Principal:       Lisa Gonzalez
Nominator:    Teaching colleague
Game:             New York Giants (Nov. 9)

“Bill McMurray is the ultimate hero both in and outside of the classroom. For more than 30 years, he has taught and coached with a consistent passion and energy I’ve seldom seen replicated,” said Nathan Courtney, a teaching colleague at Kellogg Middle School. “Bill goes about everyday with an upbeat and positive attitude that naturally rubs off on all those lucky enough to know him. He teaches his students to love science and life by leading science sing-alongs, making personal connections to content and relating science to current world events.”

One of the things that I have learned in my 10 years teaching middle school is that sometimes the teaching content is secondary. Middle school can be a challenging time for many students, but when a student is lucky enough to have Bill as their science teacher or coach, they soon find out that they have an adult in their life who truly cares about them and wants them to succeed.”

About Symetra Heroes in the Classroom®
Since 2006, 200 Puget Sound-area teachers have been honored as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations. They receive tickets to a Seahawks home game, where they are acknowledged during on-field presentations at CenturyLink Field. In addition, Symetra makes a $1,000 donation to each teacher Hero’s school for classroom books and supplies. Teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent. The winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills. More information about the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program here.



Read more...

Echo Lake Elementary School Teacher Honored as ‘Symetra Hero in the Classroom’

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Echo Lake teacher Allison Bowhay poses in her Seahawks shirt


Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Echo Lake Elementary School teacher Allison Bowhay as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Sept. 16, 2013 during a school assembly. Bowhay teaches sixth grade at the Shoreline elementary school.

“Allison Bowhay has a unique way of reaching her Echo Lake Elementary sixth graders. She goes beyond the required class lessons by teaching life lessons, so that students are prepared for middle school, where they’ll shoulder more responsibility,” said Addele Wells, the parent of a former student. “Whether gifted or with learning issues, Mrs. Bowhay has the ability to connect with each student. Her sixth graders leave her class with respect, good citizen skills and a sense of accomplishment. She is the kind of teacher that stays with you for years.”

Wells nominated Bowhay for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.
“During maternity leave for her first child, Mrs. Bowhay took the time to return to Echo Lake Elementary to attend the sixth-grade graduation and say goodbye to her students. It really touched me as a parent to have her there as her class moved up to middle school,” said Wells. “Through her attendance, Mrs. Bowhay demonstrated how much she cares for the minds and hearts of all of her students. She wanted to reassure each child on that special day that they made a difference in her life and would be missed. She is inspirational to the parents and students alike.”

Symetra's Tracy Wort presents Allison Bowhay
with Symetra Heroes in the Classroom plaqu

Bowhay is one of 16 K–12 teachers across the Puget Sound area who will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2013 NFL season. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations, and they receive a $1,000 donation for classroom books and supplies. In addition, they receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Bowhay will be recognized at the Oct. 13 game when the Seahawks take on the Tennessee Titans.

Teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent. The winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills.



Read more...

Shorecrest High School Teacher Honored as ‘Symetra Hero in the Classroom’

Friday, September 20, 2013

Stephanie Rietman in her Seahawks jersey
being honored at a home game

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Shorecrest High School teacher Stephanie Rietman as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Sept. 13, 2013 during a school assembly. Rietman teaches Algebra and Calculus school.

“Ask anyone who has had Ms. Rietman, and they will tell you that not only is she genuinely nice and encouraging, she makes math fun! She consistently shows students she really cares by coming in early, staying late and sometimes missing lunch in order to give extra help,” said D'Angela Pritchett-Rowe, a former student of Rietman’s. “Ms. Reitman always comes up with a way to explain difficult concepts. Even if just one student doesn't understand something, she will take the time to work with them individually so that we can all be on the same page. Strict about deadlines and grade values, she also is understanding and empathetic of our needs as busy teens.” Pritchett-Rowe nominated Rietman for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“Ms. Rietman’s passion for math shows through her teaching,” said Pritchett-Rowe. “She often cracks math jokes in class in order to get everyone engaged, and it really works. She has taught all of her students to appreciate math — and learning in general — more than they did before they had her. She makes all of us genuinely excited to go to school.”

Stephanie Rietman "Hero in the Classroom" and
Superintendent Sue Walker

Rietman is one of 16 K–12 teachers across the Puget Sound area who will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2013 NFL season. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations, and they receive a $1,000 donation for classroom books and supplies. In addition, they receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Rietman was recognized at the Sept. 15 Seahawks–San Francisco 49ers game.

Teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent. The winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills.

More information about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom.

About Symetra
Symetra Financial Corporation (NYSE: SYA) is a diversified financial services company based in Bellevue, Wash. In business since 1957, Symetra provides employee benefits, annuities and life insurance through a national network of benefit consultants, financial institutions, and independent agents and advisors.




Read more...

Five Shoreline Public Schools teachers among 2012 honorees at CenturyLink Field celebrations

Tuesday, May 28, 2013


Shoreline Public Schools’ 2012 Heroes in the Classroom standing in front of their personalized locker in the Seattle Seahawks locker room (left to right)Lori Henry, Kellogg Middle School; Frank Kleyn, Highland Terrace Elementary School; Damon Oliveto, Shorewood High School; Laurie Pearson, Lake Forest Park Elementary School; and Mary Thurber, Einstein Middle School. Photo by Larry Gill.


On Friday afternoon, May 24, 2013, Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored the 24 Puget Sound-area teachers who were recognized as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® during the 2012 NFL season, at a special celebration at CenturyLink Field. 

Among the 2012 honorees were five Shoreline Public Schools teachers:

  • Mary Thurber — Einstein Middle School
  • Damon Oliveto — Shorewood High School
  • Frank Kleyn — Highland Terrace Elementary School
  • Lori Henry — Kellogg Middle School
  • Laurie Pearson — Lake Forest Park Elementary School

Jim Pirak, Symetra SVP, Marketing, and Mike Flood, Seattle Seahawks VP, hosted a luncheon in the Coach’s Loft, welcoming the teachers, their school principals and special guests, including Shoreline School District Superintendent Sue Walker.

Following lunch, the teachers received an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, which included taking in a view of the field from the press box. The festivities wrapped up in the Seahawks locker room, where each teacher was surprised with a “customized” locker complete with nameplate. Each teacher’s locker’s contents included a plaque commemorating his or her “Heroes” award and a copy of the May 24 edition of The Seattle Times, which featured a ¼-page ad saluting all 24 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom recipients.

Kellogg Middle School Lori Henry
with Seahawk Russell Okung
Photo by Larry Gill

Seahawks Left Tackle Russell Okung was a special guest, joining the teachers and guests in the players’ locker room. Okung shared a very personal story about his fourth grade teachers Mrs. Howell and Mrs. Cook. “Those two teachers, they believed in me,” he said. “They took me aside and they took that extra step to get me right. They had a level of belief in me that I didn’t have in myself. The patience they showed in me paid off.” [Read more about the 2012 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom teachers visit with Okung on the Seattle Seahawks website.

About Symetra Heroes in the Classroom®
Since 2006, nearly 150 Puget Sound-area teachers have been honored for educational excellence as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations. They receive a $350 Office Max gift card for classroom supplies and tickets to a Seahawks home game, where they are acknowledged during on-field presentations at CenturyLink Field. In addition, Symetra makes a $1,000 donation to each teacher Hero’s school.



Photo (left to right) Lori Henry, Kellogg Middle School and 2012 Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Frank Kleyn, Highland Terrace Elementary School and 2012 Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Mike Van Orden, Highland Terrace Elementary School principal; Damon Oliveto, Shorewood High School and 2012 Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Laurie Pearson, Lake Forest Park Elementary School and 2012 Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Bill Dunbar, Shorewood High School principal; Aimee Miner, Lake Forest Park Elementary School principal; Mary Thurber, Einstein Middle School and 2012 Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Stephanie Clark, Einstein Middle School principal; Sue Walker, superintendent, Shoreline Public Schools. Photo by Larry Gill.

Teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent. The winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills.

More information about the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program and how to nominate a teacher, 


Read more...

Lake Forest Park Elementary School teacher honored as ‘Symetra Hero in the Classroom’

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Laurie Pearson of Lake Forest Park Elementary
Hero in the Classroom
Photo courtesy Symetra Financial

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Lake Forest Park Elementary School kindergarten teacher Laurie Pearson as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” during a surprise assembly at the school on Dec 18, 2012.

“Walk into Laurie Pearson's schoolroom and you immediately become aware that it isn’t like other kindergarten classrooms. Sure, there are bright colors, freshly painted artwork, books and centers to stimulate young minds, but what you really notice is the atmosphere. Her room is full of positive energy,” said Erin Randall, a parent of one of Pearson’s former students. “There is something special about Laurie that makes her a little more noticeable than other teachers. Her magic, charisma and exuberance for life capture your attention, whether you’re a student or an adult entering or walking past her doorway.”

Randall nominated Pearson for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“A child enters Laurie Pearson's classroom as a five-year-old and leaves as an amazing student and citizen,” said Randall. “Her students are problem-solvers and advanced readers when they leave her in June. She is nurturing, yet fosters independence and self-confidence. She treats children with equanimity, yet every child feels special in her presence. She is encouraging and teaches each child to perform at his or her best and to be proud of their accomplishments. Laurie empowers kids and helps them feel confident voicing their thoughts and advocating for themselves. Her influence on her students stands out when you see them as first-graders. They start the new school year ready to listen and eager to learn.”

Pearson is one of 24 K-12 teachers across the Puget Sound area who were honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2012 NFL season. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations, and they receive a $1,000 donation for classroom books and supplies. In addition, they receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Pearson was recognized at the Dec. 30 game when the Seahawks took on the St. Louis Rams.

Teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent.

The winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students' lives; to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills.

More information about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom.


Read more...

Lori Henry: Hero in the Classroom

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Lori Henry—Kellogg Middle School
Photo courtesy Symetra

Physical Education instructor Lori Henry was celebrated as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Nov. 2, 2012 during an assembly at Kellogg Middle School—and recognized at CenturyLink Field on Nov. 11, 2012, when the Seahawks played the New York Jets.

“Lori Henry has been a teacher at Kellogg Middle School for over 15 years — remaining in the community in which she grew up to serve its kids and families — and she is a star in every sense. As a P.E. teacher, Ms. Henry inspires and motivates her students to do their best by teaching them how to face their fears, set goals and reach new heights,” said Lisa Scott, principal at Kellogg Middle School. “In Ms. Henry’s class, kids know they will have fun and be treated with respect, and that she expects them to be model citizens.”

Lori responds to the crowd at Kellogg Middle School
Symetra’s Chris Katzmar Holmes
and the Seahawks’ John Pleas flank her.
Photo courtesy Symetra

Scott was one of several individuals, including a colleague and former Symetra Heroes in the Classroom recipient, parent and several students, who nominated Henry for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“We know that our students do better in school when they are engaged in meaningful activities after school and when they have positive adult role models in their life. Ms. Henry makes sure they have both, and our middle school is a vibrant community as a result.”

Read more...

Damon Oliveto of Shorewood to be honored as a Hero in the Classroom

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Damon Oliveto, Shorewood teacher
honored as Hero in the Classroom


Damon Oliveto, marketing and business education teacher at Shorewood High School, has been selected as a Symetra Hero in the Classroom. Representatives of Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks presented him with the award at a ceremony in his classroom Tuesday.

Damon will receive two tickets to the Seahawks home game against Minnesota on Nov. 4, a VIP sideline experience at CenturyLink Field, $350 for classroom supplies, as well as recognition at school and on field during game day. In addition, Shorewood received a check for $1,000 from Symetra to benefit school programs.

Hero selection is based on a teacher's ability to balance the core curriculum with students' individual needs; build trust among students, parents and the community; and invest in their students' long-term success.

“As a teacher, Mr. Oliveto gives an immeasurable amount of his time to aiding his students,” his nomination by a colleague read in part. “From staying after school, coming in early, and taking all the time necessary to ensure his students can master course material, Mr. Oliveto, or Mr. O as most students refer to him, goes above and beyond on a daily basis, because it is his calling to do so.”

Damon teaches AP Economics, Financial Algebra and Marketing at Shorewood and is the advisor to the school’s DECA club. He worked as a manager for Key Bank before joining the Shorewood staff in 2005.

“Mr. Oliveto is the reason I chose to pursue a career in marketing,” wrote a former student. “From the moment I applied for college I knew what I wanted to do because Mr. Oliveto provided me the knowledge and understanding of marketing and inspired me to pursue something I have grown to love. I owe much of my academic success, both in high school and college, to Mr. O and his will and determination to continually help me in my pursuits. Mr. O was and still is my Hero in the Classroom.”

Twenty-four King County area teachers will be selected as 2012 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom for their outstanding leadership and instruction.

For more information and to nominate a teacher today, visit the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom Web site.


Read more...

Frank Kleyn: Hero in the Classroom

Wednesday, October 10, 2012


Frank Kleyn, teacher-librarian at Highland Terrace Elementary in Shoreline, has been selected as a Symetra Hero in the Classroom. 

Frank was surprised with the award, presented by Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks, at a school assembly.
“What sets Frank Kleyn a part as a librarian is his undying dedication toward seeing that every kid in our school finds a book that they like to read,” wrote a colleague in nominating him for the award. “He uses a great sense of humor, many colorful displays, an amazing Book Fair, and many other ways to hook kids into reading.”

He uses his own time to run the Global Reading Challenge program at Highland Terrace, in which teams of kids read the same books and then compete in a "Knowledge Bowl/Jeopardy" type format answering questions about the books they read.

“Mr. Kleyn also has created an incredible website that allows kids, parents, and teachers to easily access all the materials our Highland Terrace library has to offer,” his nomination read.

Frank joined the Highland Terrace staff in 1999 and became the school’s teacher-librarian in 2002.

Twenty-four King County area teachers will be selected as 2012 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom for their outstanding leadership and instruction. Frank will receive two tickets to a Seattle Seahawks home game, a VIP sideline experience at CenturyLink Field, $350 for classroom supplies, as well as recognition at school and on field during game day. In addition, Highland Terrace received a check for $1,000 to benefit school programs.

Hero selection is based on a teacher's ability to balance the core curriculum with students' individual needs; build trust among students, parents and the community; and invest in their students' long-term success.


Read more...

Nominate a Shoreline teacher as a Hero in the Classroom

Wednesday, August 22, 2012


Do you know a Shoreline teacher who deserves recognition for his or her hard work and dedication in the classroom? Nominations for the 2012 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom are now open.

Twenty-four King County area teachers will be selected for their outstanding leadership and instruction. Winners will receive two tickets to a 2012 Seattle Seahawks home game, a VIP sideline experience at Qwest Field, $1,000 for classroom supplies, as well as recognition at school and on field during game day.

Hero selection is based on a teacher's ability to balance the core curriculum with students' individual needs; build trust among students, parents and the community; and invest in their students' long-term success. The sooner the nominations are submitted, the more opportunity your favorite teacher has to be a winner!

For more information and to nominate a teacher today, visit the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom website.


Read more...

Symetra Financial and Seattle Seahawks host 24 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom Recipients at CenturyLink Field celebration

Wednesday, May 23, 2012


Symetra Financial and Seattle Seahawks honor teachers from Shoreline School District
Photo by Larry Gill. See end of article for names and titles of those pictured

On Friday afternoon, May 18, 2012, Symetra Financial and the Seattle Seahawks honored the 24 Puget Sound-area teachers who were recognized as “Symetra Heroes in the Classroom” during the 2011 NFL season, at a special celebration at CenturyLink Field. 

Among the 2011 honorees were 9 Shoreline School District teachers, including:
  • Ali Airhart—Syre Elementary School
  • Tracy Anderson—Meridian Park Elementary School
  • Michael Callahan—Cascade K-8 Community School (formerly Room Nine Community School)
  • Anne Marie Culver—Kellogg Middle School
  • Diana Dillard—Shorewood High School
  • Jennifer Etter—Shorecrest High School
  • Kay Law—Ridgecrest Elementary School
  • Therese Russell—Brookside Elementary School
  • Marybeth Scherf—Lake Forrest Park Elementary School


Symetra CEO Tom Marra and Seahawks Vice President of Community Relations Mike Flood hosted a luncheon in the Coach’s Loft, welcoming the teachers, their school principals and special guests, including Seattle Public Schools Interim Superintendent Susan Enfield and Shoreline School District Superintendent Sue Walker.


Syre Elementary School second grade teacher—and 2011 Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient—Ali Airhart reacts to her “personalized” locker in the Seattle Seahawks locker room. Photo by Larry Gill.

Following lunch, the teachers received an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, which included taking in a view of the field from the press box. The festivities wrapped up in the Seahawks locker room, where each teacher was surprised with a “customized” locker complete with nameplate. Each teacher’s locker’s contents included a plaque commemorating his or her “Heroes” award, a hardcover book that captured moments from the 2011 classroom presentations,  and a copy of the May 18 edition of the Seattle Times, which featured a salute (p. C3) to all 24 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom recipients.

Seahawks Defensive End Red Bryant was a special guest speaker. Bryant shared a very personal story about Sue Brooks, an English teacher at Jasper High School in Texas. “As for a teacher who had an impact on my life, there’s no question, her name is Sue Brooks,” Bryant said. “The impact that she had on my life gave me the opportunity to be before you guys right now.” [Read more about Bryant and Sue Brooks.

Background-Symetra Heroes in the Classroom Program
Twenty-four K-12 teachers across the Puget Sound area were honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2011 NFL season. Teachers from the Seattle, Shoreline and Renton public school districts were recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations. In addition, they received tickets to a Seahawks home game and were acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field.

Teachers are nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent. The winners are selected based on their ability to balance the core curriculum with students’ individual needs; build trust among students, parents and the community; and invest in their students’ long-term success.

MVP Award
In addition to honoring exceptional teachers on and off the field, each of the schools represented by a 2011 teacher Hero was eligible for an MVP Award, which provides funding to enhance learning via an innovative student achievement program. Three $10,000 grants were awarded at the end of the 2011 football season to Dimmitt Middle School in Renton, Meridian Park Elementary School in Shoreline and Roxhill Elementary School in West Seattle.


Group photo: STANDING, left to right, Tom Marra, Symetra CEO; Sue Walker, superintendent, Shoreline School District; Tracy Anderson, Meridian Park Elementary School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Amy Jessee, principal, Meridian Park Elementary School; Diana Dillard, Shorewood High School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Michael Callahan, Cascade K-8 Community School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Marybeth Scherf, Lake Forest Park Elementary School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Jennifer Etter, Shorecrest High School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Craig Degginger, public information officer, Shoreline Schools; Jim Pirak, Symetra SVP, Corporate Marketing.

KNEELING, left to right, Ali Airhart, Syre Elementary School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Lisa Gonzalez Scott, principal, Kellogg Middle School; Anne Marie Culver, Kellogg Middle School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Trinh Pham, principal, Cascade K-8 Community School; Aimee Miner, principal, Lake Forrest Park Elementary School; Therese Russell, Brookside Elementary School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; and Bill Dunbar, principal, Shorewood High School. Photo by Larry Gill



Read more...

Meridian Park Elementary wins $10,000 award from Symetra / Seahawks Heros in the Classroom

Thursday, January 5, 2012

From left, Seattle Seahawks President Peter McLoughlin,
Symetra Executive Vice Presidents Jon Curley and Rich LaVoice,
and Meridian Park Principal Amy Jessee.


Meridian Park Elementary School in Shoreline has been awarded a Heroes in the Classroom "MVP Award" from Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks. Through the award, the school will receive a $10,000 grant to fund an innovative student achievement program.

The Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program honors teachers in the Seattle, Shoreline and Renton School Districts for educational excellence throughout the NFL football season. 

Twenty-four teachers, including nine from Shoreline, were recognized as Symetra Heroes in 2011, making their respective schools eligible to compete for an MVP Award. The winning programs were selected by a committee of representatives from Symetra, the Seahawks, the Alliance for Education and the three school districts.

Meridian Park Elementary School will use the grant to establish a new Creation Station and Learning Center to promote hands-on exploration of math and science concepts.

By creating an extended learning center that is specifically focused on math and science, Meridian Park intends to build a program that can have an impact on every student, and help improve state standardized test scores along the way. 

The Creation Station project will integrate and enhance the school's science and math curriculum by promoting hands-on, real-life learning experiences in a special classroom where kids can play educational games, use microscopes and build with Legos and robotics kits. All of the materials, lessons and educational games used will be fully aligned to each grade level's academic expectations and curriculum for Washington's math and science standards.

"For students to love learning about math and science, they need to feel a connection to it and feel inspired by hands-on learning opportunities," said Amy Jessee, principal of Meridian Park Elementary School. 
"The Creation Station and Learning Center will provide an innovative, fun and challenging way for students to achieve mastery in science and mathematical concepts through project-based learning. It takes us beyond classroom textbooks and links to other curricular areas such as writing, social studies and social-emotional learning. 
"We believe the Creation Station will have life-long ramifications in terms of preparing our students for the real world, inspiring both our at-risk students to make a tangible connection to math and enriching the learning experience of our Highly Capable program students."

Along with Meridian Park, also receiving MVP Awards were Dimmit Middle School in Renton and Roxhill Elementary in Seattle. The schools, represented by a principal or staff member, were honored by Seahawks President Peter McLoughlin and Symetra Executive Vice Presidents Jon Curley and Rich LaVoice during an on-field check presentation at halftime of the Seahawks’ final regular season home game on December 24.

In addition, Kellogg Middle School in Shoreline will receive a $2,500 grant from Symetra to support its efforts to close the achievement gap through student and family engagement.

Shoreline's 2011 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom were Jennifer Etter (Shorecrest), Therese Russell (Brookside), Anne Marie Culver (Kellogg), Ali Airhart (Syre), Diana Dillard (Shorewood), Kay Law (Ridgecrest), Tracy Andersen (Meridian Park) Michael Callahan (Room Nine Community School), and Marybeth Scherf (Lake Forest Park).

For more information about the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program, visit their webpage.  




Read more...
ShorelineAreaNews.com
Facebook: Shoreline Area News
Twitter: @ShorelineArea
Daily Email edition (don't forget to respond to the Follow.it email)

  © Blogger template The Professional Template II by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP