Juanita High School Teacher Honored as 'Symetra Hero in the Classroom'

Bellevue-based Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Juanita High School teacher Michael Bailey as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Sept. 18 during a surprise classroom presentation. Bailey teaches chemistry at the Kirkland high school.

“Mr. Bailey challenges every student to use critical thinking to approach different questions. He works hard to make sure every single student understands the subject, even if that sometimes means slowing the lesson down for others — and he always finds creative ways to relate his life experiences to chemistry,” said Jacky Chen, a Juanita High School student. “While Mr. Bailey also likes to joke around, he is not afraid to let students know if they’re slacking off. He does his very best to prepare us for his upcoming tests and formative assessments. He’ll sacrifice his lunch break to help students who need help or create study sessions with AP Chemistry students on Saturdays.”

Chen nominated Bailey for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

Bailey 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. Bailey 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.