Cupertino Middle School Teacher Named 'Symetra Hero in the Classroom'

Symetra, Wells Fargo and the San Francisco 49ers honored Cupertino Middle School teacher Judson Sickler as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Nov. 18 during a classroom presentation. Sickler is a physical education (P.E.) instructor at the middle school.

“I heard Judson Sickler speak at a workshop for P.E. teachers, and I was very impressed with his passion for making a difference in the lives of his students,” said 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.” Rand-Hawkins nominated Sickler for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“Jud takes the time to produce videos of his lessons so every student can watch his lessons ahead of time. This is very helpful for students who want to work ahead or who need to go back as a refresher until they understand the lesson,” said Rand-Hawkins. “I was so impressed with Jud’s video lessons and how he inspires his middle school students to become responsible individuals.”

Sickler is one of 16 K–12 teachers in the San Francisco Bay Area who will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2014 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 49ers home game and a special pre-game experience at Levi’s Stadium. Sickler will be recognized at the Nov. 23 game against the Washington Redskins.

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 at 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.