St. Louise School Teacher Honored as 'Symetra Hero in the Classroom'

Bellevue-based Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored St. Louise School teacher Cherie McIntosh as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Sept. 11 during a surprise assembly. McIntosh teaches second grade at the K–8 school in Bellevue.

“St. Louise School is full of caring, supportive and intelligent teachers. Even in that environment, Cherie McIntosh stands out as a role model for both children and parents with her loving attitude and positive approach to education,” said Mari Sullivan, the parent of a St. Louise School student. “Mrs. McIntosh is an advocate for every child in her classroom, enabling students to feel supported and loved throughout the day. She focuses on the academic strengths of each child and turns learning challenges into opportunities to try new teaching methods.”

“When my son started second grade at St. Louise, I knew from the start that he was going to have a very special year,” said Julianne Read. “Mrs. McIntosh sends letters through the mail to her students at significant points and holidays during the year. My son was so excited to go to the mailbox and find a letter for him! My son’s confidence and academic skills increased significantly over the course of the school year, and I fully attribute that to Mrs. McIntosh’s gentle coaching and genuine care for her students. She is a gem, and St. Louise is so lucky to have her!”

Sullivan and Read nominated McIntosh for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

McIntosh is one of 16 K–12 teachers across the Puget Sound area that 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 Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. McIntosh will be recognized at the Sept. 27 game when the Seahawks take on the Chicago Bears.

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/Seahawks.

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.