Cupertino Middle School Teacher Honored at Levi's Stadium Celebration

Symetra and the San Francisco 49ers honored the 16 Bay Area teachers who were recognized for as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® during the 2014 NFL season, at a special celebration at Levi’s Stadium on May 15.

Among the program’s 2014 honorees was Cupertino Middle School teacher Judson Sickler.

Symetra Community Relations Manager Tracy Wort and Tyson Banks, with the 49ers’ Corporate Partnerships office, hosted a luncheon in the North Trophy Room, welcoming the teachers and special guests.

Following lunch, the teachers received an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, which included a trip to the visitors’ locker room, where each teacher was surprised with a “customized” locker complete with nameplate.

Former 49ers Defensive End Dennis Brown was a special guest, speaking to the honorees about the importance of education and mentoring, and also sharing stories about some his favorite teachers.

Judson Sickler, a Physical Education instructor, was nominated for his Symetra Hero in the Classroom award by Deborah Rand-Hawkins, a teaching colleague. “Jud has a vision for every student in his P.E. class to become a proficient mover — one who demonstrates strong character and collaborates effectively. He teaches students to become responsible for their own learning, helping them build cooperative learning skills they can use to teach one another in the classroom. He also teaches them to make healthy lifestyle choices. He sets the example for his students to go above and beyond what is expected of them and inspires them in the process.”

About Symetra Heroes in the Classroom®
Since 2011, 64 Bay 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 49ers home game, where they enjoy a special pre-game experience at Levi Stadium. Judson Sickler attended the 49ers’ match-up against the Washington Redskins on Nov. 23, 2014.

In addition to the 49ers home game tickets, 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 www.SymetraHeroes.com/49ers.

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. For more information, visit www.symetra.com.