Rufus M. Hitch Elementary School Teacher Honored as ‘Symetra Hero in the Classroom’

Symetra, Gallagher Benefit Services and the Chicago Bears honored Rufus M. Hitch Elementary School teacher Katherine Bremner as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Sept. 14 during a surprise school presentation attended by special guest Staley, the Bears' mascot. Bremner teaches 3rd grade at the PK–8 school, located in the Norwood Park neighborhood.

“Katie Bremner is an exceptional teacher who continually modifies her teaching style to meet the specific needs of each child. She helps her students understand that success and failure come in many forms and that it's okay to be proud of their differences, interests and unique skills. Through open discussion, clear feedback and communicating with emotion, she shows students that challenges are simply stepping stones to their future success,” said Nicholas Ravelingeen, the parent of a Hitch student. “If Ms. Bremner could be a teacher at every school, we would have more children in the world willing to tackle challenges head on, with conviction and the drive to be that much better. Her practices need to be recognized and emulated!”

Ravelingee nominated Bremner for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

Bremner 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 2017 NFL season. Teachers are recognized in front of their students and peers at surprise in-school presentations, and they receive a $2,000 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. Bremner will be recognized at the Sept. 24 game when the Bears take on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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.