Alexander Graham Elementary School Teacher Honored as ‘Symetra Hero in the Classroom’

Symetra, Gallagher Benefit Services and the Chicago Bears honored Alexander Graham Elementary School teacher Maggie Bodanyi as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Nov. 15 during a surprise assembly. Bodanyi is a 7th and 8th grade reading and language arts instructor at the pre-K–8 open enrollment school, located in Chicago’s Canaryville neighborhood.

Ms. Bodanyi’s Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award nomination noted that she “Finds incredible ways to engage students by applying reading and writing techniques to rap lyrics and pop culture films. Her unique approach had helped her students learn in a way that interests them prior to attempting more difficult and curriculum-required content. This allows her to connect with her students in a way that many teachers cannot.”

Bodanyi is one of 16 K–12 teachers in the Chicago area who will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2016 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 Bears home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at Soldier Field. Bodanyi will be recognized at the Nov. 27 game when the Bears take on the Tennessee Titans.

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/Bears.

About Symetra

Symetra Financial Corporation is a diversified financial services company based in Bellevue, Washington. 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.