John W. Garvy Elementary School Teacher Honored as ‘Symetra Hero in the Classroom’

Symetra, Gallagher Benefit Services and the Chicago Bears honored John W. Garvy Elementary School teacher Eric DeWitt as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Sept. 7. Chicago Bears mascot “Staley” participated in a surprise presentation to the physical education and health instructor at the K–8 school, located in Chicago’s Union Ridge neighborhood.

“Mr. DeWitt leads many different programs at Garvy Elementary School, ranging from college day to field day. You’ll find him organizing everything from educational field trips to fitness step challenges,” said Rick Sible. “Mr. DeWitt also finds time to be a mentor and role model for many male students. He goes above and beyond to make sure all of his students are emotionally and physically safe and engaged. Teachers like Mr. DeWitt do everything for their students and seek nothing in return. These are the teachers who need to be celebrated and put in the spotlight.” Sible nominated DeWitt for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

DeWitt 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. DeWitt will be recognized at the Sept. 19 game when the Bears take on the Philadelphia Eagles.

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.