Los Altos High School Teacher Named 'Symetra Hero in the Classroom'

Symetra, Wells Fargo and the San Francisco 49ers honored Los Altos High School teacher Mark Shaull as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Nov. 21 during a surprise school presentation. Shaull leads the high school’s Choral Department.

“Mark Shaull’s 30 years of dedication to the vocal music program at Los Altos High School has helped thousands of students learn to love singing. His commitment to excellence has allowed his choirs to take top honors both at home and in international choir competitions abroad. Mr. Shaull is a teacher who cares deeply about his students, instructing them in much more than music — he teaches them how to conduct themselves as ambassadors of our country when he takes them on international concert tours every year,” said Kim Nero, the parent of a Los Altos High School student. “Every year, Mr. Shaull takes talented vocal music students and elevates their performing skills until his choir demonstrates true excellence. Although he is demanding and often asks a great deal of his students, they feel honored and valued by him, and they continually rise to meet his challenges. The pride they feel when they succeed far beyond what they’d thought was possible is visible on their faces at every performance.” Nero nominated Shaull for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“Mr. Shaull’s students learn what it feels like to work for a musical genius who strives for excellence in every single performance. He brings his choirs to elementary schools and elder care facilities, sharing the joy of music throughout our community. Last spring, Mr. Shaull led the choir to a first-place win in a choir competition in St. Petersburg, Russia. Students learn the value of working hard and that a commitment to practice yields great rewards!”

Shaull 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. Shaull was recognized at the Nov. 27 game against the Seattle Seahawks.

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.