New Manchester High School Teacher Honored as 'Symetra Hero in the Classroom'

Symetra, SunTrust and the Atlanta Falcons honored Manchester High School teacher Steve Robinson as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Nov. 18 during a surprise school assembly. Robinson is a Social Studies instructor at the Douglasville high school.

“Mr. Robinson has a unique ability to talk to and engage students on their level. He has a special place in many students’ lives, as his own experiences and life lessons have given him the tools to help others get through tough times and struggles,” said Shawnte Fields, a former student. “Mr. Robinson’s connection with students sets him apart — he is trustworthy and a great leader. Students respect Mr. Robinson because through him they understand that it is possible to get to college, to have a great job and to do it ethically.” Fields nominated Robinson for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“Mr. Robinson has gone above and beyond to make each of his students feel accepted, smart and important,” said Fields. “He shows genuine love for every student and will bend over backwards to help those in need — on countless occasions, he has spent his own money for things like college application fees, athletic gear (so a student could participate in after-school activities), and lunch money. Mr. Robinson has been a mentor for thousands of students over the course of his teaching career. He has worked so hard helping others, it is time for him to be acknowledged and recognized for not only changing my life but thousands of others.”

Robinson is one of 16 K–12 teachers in Georgia who 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 Falcons home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Robinson was recognized at the Nov. 29 game when the Falcons took on the Minnesota Vikings.

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/Falcons.

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.

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