Showing posts with label symetra financial. Show all posts
Showing posts with label symetra financial. 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.”


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Symetra Week of Service’ Volunteers give back at Hopelink Food Bank in Shoreline

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Symetra volunteers at Hopelink
Photo by Larry Gill

Nearly 500 employees from Bellevue-based Symetra mobilized around the Puget Sound region — and across the country — in support of local communities during the sixth-annual “Symetra Week of Service,” held July 7-11.

Wearing vivid blue ‘Symetra Volunteer’ T-shirts, employees logged nearly 1,900 hours over five days to help clear trails, landscape, stock foodbanks, assemble emergency preparedness kits, tutor kids, paint, clean and organize on behalf of 34 nonprofit organizations—23 around the Eastside and in the Greater Seattle area.

Photo by Larry Gill at Hopelink

Hopelink’s food bank facility in Shoreline drew an enthusiastic crew of Symetra volunteers. Collectively, five employees contributed 15 hours of manpower on July 10 — helping to clean, sort food donations and stock shelves.
“Giving back to the communities in which we live and work is part of the fabric of Symetra and a core value our employees have wholeheartedly embraced,” said Tom Marra, Symetra president and CEO. “This much-anticipated annual tradition gives us a chance to connect with our colleagues, join forces to help our nonprofit partners who do so much good and make a positive impact in our communities through hands-on service.”

Symetra Week of Service began in 2009 with 130 employees in the company’s Bellevue headquarters volunteering at seven area projects. Since the program’s inception, Symetra employees have contributed nearly 8,300 Week of Service hours.

To see more of Symetra’s 2014 Week of Service volunteers in action, visit Facebook. Learn about the company’s community programs here.


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Three Shoreline teachers honored in celebration at CenturyLink Field

Friday, March 21, 2014

Stephanie Rietman from Shorecrest High School (center)—with Seattle Seahawks Linebacker K.J. Wright taken in the Seahawks locker room. Also in the photo is another Shorecrest Math teacher, Emily Slack (right), as well as the Lombardi Trophy. (Photo credit: David Putnam)


Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored the 16 Puget Sound-area teachers who were recognized as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® during the 2013 NFL season, at a special celebration at CenturyLink Field on March 14.

Among the 2013 honorees were three Shoreline School District teachers:
  • Shereen Allen — Cascade K-8 Community School
  • Allison Bowhay — Echo Lake Elementary School
  • Stephanie Rietman — Shorecrest High 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 School District Superintendent Sue Walker.

Shoreline Schools Superintendent Sue Walker, pictured with linebacker
K.J. Wright, was a special guest at the event.
Photo by David Putnam
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 14 edition of the Seattle Times, which featured a ¼-page ad saluting all 16 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom recipients.

Seahawks Linebacker K.J. Wright was a special guest, joining the teachers and guests in the players’ locker room.

Wright, who brought along the Lombardi Trophy, offered some advice for the teachers with students who have designs on becoming NFL or NBA players.

“Just tell them, ‘Just make sure you get your degree,’ ” Wright said. “Because, for example, my last semester of college I had the opportunity to leave so I could go train in like Florida or somewhere; or stay and train at my school and get my degree. I chose to stay. I worked out and I got my degree at the same time. You never know what will happen, so get your degree. If you make it to the NFL, that’s just a bonus. But the education that will last you a lifetime.”

[Read more about the 2013 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom teachers visit with Wright on the Seattle Seahawks website: From One Hero to a Group of Symetra Heroes.]

About Symetra Heroes in the Classroom®

Since 2006, more than 180 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. For more information about the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program, visit the website.


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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.




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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.


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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.”

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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.


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Michael Callahan of RNCS, Symetra/Seahawks Hero in the Classroom

Friday, December 9, 2011

Michael Callahan, Hero in the Classroom

Michael Callahan, art, design and technology teacher at Room Nine Community School in Shoreline, will be honored as the Dec. 12 Shoreline School District recipient of the Heroes in the Classroom award sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Michael was surprised with the award at an assembly at the school on Tuesday.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season. Michael is the eighth Shoreline teacher to be honored this season, joining Jennifer Etter (Shorecrest), Therese Russell (Brookside), Anne Marie Culver (Kellogg), Ali Airhart (Syre), Diana Dillard (Shorewood), Kay Law (Ridgecrest) and Tracy Andersen (Meridian Park).

Michael has taught at Room Nine Community School since 2005.

He will be recognized at the Seahawks home game against the St. Louis Rams on Monday night and will receive a team jacket, two tickets to the game and on-field passes, and a $350 OfficeMax gift card for classroom supplies.

Michael was nominated by a parent, who wrote in part: "Mr. Callahan brings joy to the classroom for all students. He taps into the children's idea of fun and brings it to life through both artistic and technical projects that are both engaging and exciting. His enthusiasm always comes through, and the students know their time in Michael's classroom will be the highlight of their day."

In addition to the awards before each home game, Symetra and the Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2011 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.




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Tracy Andersen of Meridian Park, Seahawks/Symetra Hero in the Classroom

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Tracy Anderson, Meridian Park, Hero in the Classroom
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Tracy Andersen, third grade teacher at Meridian Park School, will be honored as the Dec. 1 Shoreline School District recipient of the Heroes in the Classroom award sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Tracy was surprised with the award at a ceremony in the library at Meridian Park.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season. Tracy is the seventh Shoreline teacher to be honored this season, joining Jennifer Etter (Shorecrest), Therese Russell (Brookside), Anne Marie Culver (Kellogg), Ali Airhart (Syre), Diana Dillard (Shorewood) and Kay Law (Ridgecrest).

Tracy is in her fourth year at Meridian Park and previously taught in the Renton and Highline School Districts. She will be recognized at the Seahawks home game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday night and will receive a team jacket, two tickets to the game and on-field passes, and a $350 Office Max gift card for classroom supplies.

Tracy was nominated by a colleague, who wrote in part: “Students come to Ms. Andersen with all levels of need and somehow, in her magic kingdom, she manages to meet the unique needs of so many. Her lessons have clear purpose and are always focused on an academic standard and core learning need. Her lessons are lively, students are engaged and constantly pushed to participate and voice their ideas. Tracy’s students thrive because she believes in them and keeps the bar high.”

In addition to the awards before each home game, Symetra and the Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2011 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.

For more information, visit the Seattle Seahawks/Symetra Heroes in the Classroom website, 


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Kay Law honored as Hero in the Classroom at Seahawks game

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Kay Law in the Ridgecrest Library
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools


Kay Law, third grade teacher in the Highly Capable program at Ridgecrest Elementary School, was honored as the November 27 Shoreline School District recipient of the Heroes in the Classroom award sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Kay was surprised with the award at an all-school assembly at Ridgecrest.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season. Kay is the sixth Shoreline teacher to be honored this season, joining Jennifer Etter (Shorecrest), Therese Russell (Brookside), Anne Marie Culver (Kellogg), Ali Airhart (Syre) and Diana Dillard (Shorewood).

Kay has taught in Shoreline Schools since 1973, most of that time with the Highly Capable program. She began her career at North City, and subsequently taught at Horizon View, Brookside, Sunset, Meridian Park and again at North City before moving to Ridgecrest in 2007.

She was recognized at the Seahawks home game against the Washington Redskins Sunday and received a team jacket, two tickets to the game and on-field passes, and a $350 Office Max gift card for classroom supplies.

Kay was nominated by a group of Ridgecrest parents, who wrote in part: "Mrs. Law has an incredible amount of enthusiasm, knowledge, and passion for teaching. She brings positive energy to the classroom that is contagious and instills a love for learning. She is able to understand students' academic strengths and weaknesses and tailor each students learning accordingly."

In addition to the awards before each home game, Symetra and the Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2011 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.


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Anne Marie Culver of Kellogg chosen as Symetra Hero in the Classroom

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Anne Marie Culver, Shoreline Teacher
Anne Marie Culver, science teacher at Kellogg Middle School, will be honored as the October 30 Shoreline School District recipient of the Heroes in the Classroom award sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Anne Marie was presented with the award at an all-school assembly on Friday, October 21.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season.

Anne Marie has taught at Kellogg since 1997. She will be recognized at the Seahawks home game against the Cincinnati Bengals and receive a team jersey, two tickets to the game and on-field passes, and a $350 OfficeMax gift card for classroom supplies.

Anne Marie was nominated by Kellogg Principal Lori Longo, who wrote in part: "Ms. Culver teaches the whole child, stretching young minds to become flexible in their thinking and critical in their analysis of content. She uses visual and verbal cues, integrates technology at a high level and brings parent volunteers into to the classroom all to support students in reaching their full potential."

In addition to the awards before each home game, Symetra and the Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2011 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.

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


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Therese Russell of Brookside chosen as Seahawks/Symetra Hero in the Classroom

Friday, October 28, 2011

Therese Russell, Shoreline Teacher
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools
and Symetra Financial
Therese Russell, special education teacher at Brookside Elementary School, was honored as the October 2 Shoreline School District recipient of the Heroes in the Classroom award sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Therese was presented with the award in her classroom on Monday, September 26.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season.

Therese has taught at Brookside since 2007 and previously at Ridgecrest, Lake Forest Park and Echo Lake. She was recognized at a Seahawks home game and received a team jersey, two tickets to a Seahawks game and on-field passes, and a $350 Office Max gift card for classroom supplies.

Therese was nominated by a Brookside parent, who wrote in part: "Mrs. Russell educates the whole student, helping to ensure each child is healthy, safe, engaged, supported and challenged. She is never without an outward expression of caring and warmth towards her students, even at the most challenging moments."

The announcement was made in her classroom.
Photo courtesy Symetra Financial
In addition to the awards before each home game, Symetra and the.Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2011 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.

For more information and to nominate a teacher, visit the Seattle Seahawks/Symetra Heroes in the Classroom Web site


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Shorecrest High School teacher Jennifer Etter honored as ‘Symetra Hero in the Classroom’

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Jennifer Etter - Hero in the Classroom

Symetra Financial and the Seattle Seahawks honored Shorecrest High School teacher Jennifer Etter as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on September 23, 2011 during a special school assembly. Etter is a ninth-grade teacher at Shorecrest.

“Jennifer Etter successfully combines what teens need to learn in school and in life in a classroom environment of mutual respect, where learning is cool. I admire a teacher who can turn on a light in a teen’s brain, all the more remarkable when the subjects are English, grammar, Shakespeare and poetry,” said Susan Garber Yonts, the parent of two of Etter’s students. 
“Ms. Etter lays out a difficult coursework syllabus, but her investment in her students is clear. These are freshmen girls and boys, who over the course of the year walk out of her class as they should — a little exhausted, a lot challenged and proud of their accomplishments.” Garber Yonts nominated Etter for the Symetra Hero in the Classroom award.
“Jennifer Etter demands and receives excellence,” adds Garber Yonts. “She instills a sense of confidence at a time when self-esteem and self-confidence are hard to come by and equally cherished. She does this at the entry-level of high school so that the kids understand early that their investment is in themselves, not her, and is something that will pay off for the remainder of their high school years and into their adult lives.”

Etter is one of 24 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 2011 NFL season. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations, where they receive tickets to a Seahawks home game. They also are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. 

Etter was recognized at the September 25 Seahawks game when the Seahawks took on the Arizona Cardinals.

Teachers may be 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.

In addition to honoring exceptional teachers on and off the field, each of the schools represented by a 2011 teacher Hero is eligible for an MVP Award, which provides funding to enhance learning in Seattle-area schools. Three $10,000 grants will be awarded at the end of the 2011 football season.


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.


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Symetra Financial and Seattle Seahawks Host 24 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom recipients at Qwest Field celebration

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Photo by Larry Gill.  See end of article for names.
On Friday afternoon, May 13, Symetra Financial and the Seattle Seahawks honored the 24 Puget Sound-area teachers who were recognized as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” during the 2010 NFL season, at a special celebration at Qwest Field.

Among the 2010 honorees were 11 Shoreline School District teachers, including:
  • Nathan Courtney – Kellogg Middle School
  • Dede Ford – Syre Elementary School*
  • Bethany Ibach – Parkwood Elementary School
  • Marcia Garrett – Einstein Middle School
  • Kathy Hitchner – Ridgecrest Elementary School
  • Mollie Merkley – Meridian Park School
  • Kristin Mesler – Parkwood Elementary School
  • Jill Owen – Shorewood High School
  • Mark Owen – Highland Terrace Elementary School
  • Kathryn Pihl – Echo Lake Elementary School
  • Paul Villanueva – Shorewood High School*
(*Not featured in the photograph)

Symetra CEO Tom Marra and Seahawks President Peter McLoughlin hosted a luncheon in the Coach’s Loft, welcoming the teachers, their school principals and special guests, including Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Susan Enfield, Shoreline School District Superintendent Sue Walker and Alliance for Education Development Officer Kevin Boyce.

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 their “Heroes” award and a copy of the May 13 edition of The Seattle Times, which featured a quarter page ad saluting (p. C3)  all 24 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom recipients by name.

Seahawks Running Backs Coach Sherman Smith was a special guest speaker. Smith, a Seahawks alumni player and a former Redmond Junior High School teacher, spoke to the group about the profound impact they have on children’s lives.
“I want to congratulate all of you because I really understand what you do, and you guys are difference-makers,” Smith said. “You have all the qualities we look for in our players. You’re focused. You’re passionate. You’re dedicated. You’re responsible. You’re dependable. You’re accountable. You’re convicted about what you do.”

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 2010 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 Qwest 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.

In addition to honoring exceptional teachers on and off the field, each of the schools represented by a 2010 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 2010 football season to Thurgood Marshall Elementary School in Seattle, Shorewood High School in Shoreline and Lakeridge Elementary School in Renton.


[Photo STANDING, left to right, Tom Marra, Symetra CEO; Sue Walker, superintendent, Shoreline School District; Laura Ploudre, principal, Parkwood Elementary; Kristin Mesler, Parkwood Elementary School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Marcia Garrett, Einstein Middle School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Sue Porter, director of Teaching & Learning, Shoreline School District; Jill Owen, Shorewood High School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Cinco Delgado, principal, Ridgecrest Elementary School;Amy Jessee (black jacket), principal, Meridian Park School; Kathy Hitchner, Ridgecrest Elementary School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Paul Shanahan, principal, Echo Lake Elementary School; Mollie Merkley, Meridian Park School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Mike VanOrden, principal, Highland Terrace Elementary School; Jim Pirak, Symetra SVP, Corporate Marketing.

KNEELING, left to right, Bethany Ibach, Parkwood Elementary School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Kathryn Pihl, Echo Lake Elementary School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Mark Owen, Highland Terrace Elementary School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; Lisa Scott, assistant principal, Kellogg Middle School; Nathan Courtney, Kellogg Middle School and Symetra Hero in the Classroom recipient; and Bill Dunbar, principal, Shorewood High School.]



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Shorewood wins $10,000 Symetra/Seahawks MVP Award for math program

Friday, January 14, 2011

 Photo courtesy Seahawks and Symetra: (left to right): Seahawks President Peter McLoughlin; Shorewood High School Principal Bill Dunbar; and Symetra CEO Tom Marra.
Shorewood was honored by Seahawks President Peter McLoughlin, Symetra CEO Tom Marra and Symetra Executive Vice Presidents Jon Curley and Dan Guilbert during an on-field check presentation at the Seahawks’ final regular season home game on Jan. 2, 2011.

From Symetra Financial and Shoreline Schools
Symetra Financial and the Seattle Seahawks have announced that three Puget Sound-area schools, including Shorewood High School in Shoreline, have won 2010 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom "MVP Awards." Through the award, each school will receive a $10,000 grant to fund an innovative student achievement program.

The Shorewood High School program will help students better understand the complexities of geometry through three-dimensional modeling. The other winning schools were Thurgood Marshall Elementary in Seattle and Lakeridge Elementary in Renton.

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 were recognized as a Symetra Hero in 2010, making their respective schools eligible to compete for an MVP Award. The winning programs were selected by a committee composed of representatives from Symetra Financial, the Seahawks, the Alliance for Education and the three school districts.

Shorewood has been recognized by Newsweek Magazine as among the top 5 percent of public high schools in the nation. After two decades of working with an integrated math curriculum, Shoreline switched to a traditional math sequence last year, and new state graduation requirements stipulate that students in the Class of 2013 and beyond pass geometry.

The Sea 3-D Program will supplement and enrich the curriculum with materials designed to help students master challenging geometric concepts like three-dimensional geometry. Classroom sets of reusable three-dimensional model-building materials will be distributed, and some of the components also will be used to support the school's science and art curriculum.

"Three-dimensional geometry is very difficult to understand when you can only imagine what a polyhedra looks like," said Bill Dunbar, principal of Shorewood. "Through the Sea 3-D program, Shorewood students will be actively engaged in building and manipulating models that allow them to explore these complex concepts and expand their intellectual curiosity."

The schools, represented by their principals, were honored by Seahawks President Peter McLoughlin, Symetra CEO Tom Marra and Symetra Executive Vice Presidents Jon Curley and Dan Guilbert during an on-field check presentation at the Seahawks' final regular season home game on January 2.

Eleven Shoreline School District teachers were honored as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom for their outstanding instructional and leadership skills during the Seahawks regular season. They are:

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

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Seattle Seahawks CB Roy Lewis Honors Parkwood Teachers as ‘Symetra Heroes in the Classroom’

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Bethany Ibach  (left) and Kristin Mesler  (right).  Photo courtesy Symetra.

Symetra Financial and the Seattle Seahawks honored Parkwood Elementary School teachers Bethany Ibach and Kristin Mesler as “Symetra Heroes in the Classroom” Tuesday during a special school assembly. 

Seattle Seahawks Cornerback Roy Lewis greets Parkwood Elementary School students. Photo courtesy Symetra
 Seahawks cornerback Roy Lewis made a surprise appearance at the Shoreline school, where Ibach teaches first grade and Mesler teaches third grade, delighting both the teachers and the 430 students on hand. Tom Marra, president and chief executive officer of Symetra Financial, joined Lewis for the presentations.

Bethany Ibach was nominated for a Symetra Hero in the Classroom award by Parkwood Elementary School principal Laura Ploudre, who cited Ibach’s passion for teaching, her successful first-grade blended program, and her resilience following a recent battle with a brain tumor. “Bethany’s true talent lies in taking the natural energy of six- and seven-year-olds and directing it toward engaging, hands-on learning activities that result in outstanding student achievement. While she recognizes each student’s individual struggles or needs, she lovingly holds them accountable to give their best effort. She is the ‘warm demander’ who says, “I know you can do this!”
Kristin Mesler is an extremely talented, skillful teacher who gives her students an outstanding education in academics as well as unconditional love, an acceptance of diversity and a window into the joy of learning,” said co-worker Dianne Hertzberg, who nominated Mesler. “Her mainstream third-grade classroom successfully blends eight special education students, giving each child, of every ability, the chance to learn from others.” The school’s PTA also recently honored Mesler as 2010 Teacher of the Year.
(left to right) Tom Marra, CEO, Symetra Financial; Bethany Ibach, Parkwood Elementary (1st Grade); Roy Lewis, Seattle Seahawks Cornerback; and Kristin Mesler, Parkwood Elementary (3rd Grade) Photo courtesy Symetra.

Ibach and Mesler are two of 24 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 2010 NFL season. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations. In addition, they receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at Qwest Field. Mesler will be recognized at the Dec. 19 game when the Seahawks take on the Atlanta Falcons, and Ibach will be honored at the Jan. 2 game against 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 balance the core curriculum with students’ individual needs; build trust among students, parents and the community; and invest in their students’ long-term success.

In addition to honoring exceptional teachers on and off the field, each of the schools represented by a 2010 teacher Hero is eligible for an MVP Award, which provides funding to enhance learning in Seattle-area schools. Three $10,000 grants will be awarded at the end of the 2010 football season.  More information about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is available at their website.

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 advisers.

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Kellogg teacher to be honored as Seahawks/Symetra Hero in the Classroom

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Nate Courtney. Photo courtesy SL Schools
Nate Courtney, social studies teacher at Kellogg Middle School, will be honored as the December 5 Shoreline School District recipient of the Heroes in the Classroom program sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season.

Nate will be recognized prior to the Seahawks home game against the Carolina Panthers. He will receive a team jersey, two tickets to the Seahawks game and on-field passes, and a $350 Office Max gift card for classroom supplies.

Nate was nominated by Kellogg Principal Lori Longo, who wrote in part: "Nate is a fabulous mentor for youth. He continually models positive decision making, encouraging students to achieve their personal best in academics, athletics, social situations and all aspects of life. He is an outstanding teacher with the capacity to reach and challenge a wide range of students."

In addition, Symetra and the Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2010 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.

For more information, visit the Seattle Seahawks/Symetra Heroes in the Classroom website,

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Husband and wife are Heroes in the Classroom

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Mark Owen of Highland Terrace and Jill Owen of Shorewood

Mark Owen, fifth grade teacher at Highland Terrace Elementary, and Jill Owen, math teacher at Shorewood High School, will be honored as the November 28 Shoreline School District recipients of the Heroes in the Classroom program sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season.

Mark and Jill will be recognized prior to the Seahawks home game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Mark and Jill will each receive a team jersey, two tickets to the Seahawks game and on-field passes, and a $350 Office Max gift card for classroom supplies.

Mark Owen was nominated by Highland Terrace Principal Mike VanOrden who wrote in part: "every interaction Mark has with students, parents and community members is positive and affirming. It is obvious that he cares about the success and well-being of each of his students and, as a result, people want to do their best when they are with him."

One example of Mark's dedication to children has been his work establishing and maintaining the Math Olympiad program at Highland Terrace, which has the highest participation rate in the District. He is also in charge of the school's safety patrol, training more than 70 students a year to work before and after school.

Mark nominated his wife Jill for the Heroes award. "She is there for them (her students). They know her door is always open and she will do whatever needs to be done to inspire, reassure, and reteach. Wear her hear on her sleeve is what she is all about and I think they work a bit harder than they normally would to give back to her through their effort and hard work."

In addition, Symetra and the Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2010 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.

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Meridian Park teacher honored as Seahawks/Symetra Hero in the Classroom

Monday, October 11, 2010

Mollie Merkley.  Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools.
Mollie Merkley, Title I teacher at Meridian Park Elementary, is the third Shoreline School District recipient of the Heroes in the Classroom program sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season.

Merkley was surprised by Symetra and the Seahawks at a special assembly at Meridian Park on October 4 and will be recognized prior to the Seahawks home game against the Arizona Cardinals on October 24. She received a team jersey; two tickets to the Seahawks game and on-field passes; and a $350 Office Max gift card for classroom supplies.
Merkley was nominated by a Meridian Park co-worker who wrote in part: “Mollie has been a role model for teachers and a master teacher of students of all ages as our Title I teacher. Her philosophy as a teacher has always has always included teaching the whole child, encouraging lifelong problem-solving skills and participating in the classroom community. Students who come to her class develop listening, attending, participating and effort skills as their needs are met and they experience success.”
Twenty-four teachers from the three districts will be selected and honored in their classrooms and on the field during Seahawks home games this season.

In addition, Symetra and the Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2010 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.

Nominations of teachers can be made at Seattle Seahawks/Symetra Heroes in the Classroom website


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Einstein MS teacher is latest Seahawks Heroes in the Classroom honoree

Monday, September 27, 2010


Photo: Marcia Garrett, center, with two members of the Sea Gals following the announcement of her selection as a Seahawks Hero in the Classroom at Einstein Middle School.


Marcia Garrett, science teacher at Einstein Middle School, is the latest Shoreline School District recipient of the Heroes in the Classroom program sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season.

Garrett was honored by Symetra and the Seahawks at a special event in her classroom on September 23 and was recognized prior to the Seahawks home game against the San Diego Chargers on September 26. She received a team jersey; two tickets to the Seahawks game and on-field passes; and a $350 Office Max gift card for classroom supplies.

Garrett was nominated by an Einstein co-worker who wrote in part: "She is an outstanding professional who is continually learning and growing as an educator, helping other teachers develop professionally, offering leadership in the school, improving student learning, enhancing the curriculum and building connections with the community."

With Garrett's leadership, Einstein has created the Edible Schoolyard at the school, securing grants and adding raised garden beds, a greenhouse, compost bin, and rain catchment basins. Students raised vegetables and celebrated their first harvest at the end of the school year.  (See story: The Edible Schoolyard).

Twenty-four teachers from the three districts will be selected and honored in their classrooms and on the field during Seahawks home games this season.

In addition, Symetra and the Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2010 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.

Nominations of teachers can be made at Seattle Seahawks/Symetra Heroes in the Classroom website.

Read more...
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