Symetra Honors Benjamin Franklin Elementary School Teacher

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Benjamin Franklin Elementary School teacher Becky Kjolso as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Oct. 24 during an afternoon assembly at the K–5 school in Kirkland. Seattle Seahawks mascot Blitz was a special guest at the surprise ceremony to celebrate the 3rd grade teacher.

“Known in some circles as the ‘Kid Whisperer,’ Becky Kjolso is a stand-out at Franklin. She is the teacher you cross your fingers for and hope your child is placed in her class,” said Riley Frazier. “My son was still in 2nd grade the first time I stepped into Ms. Kjolso’s classroom. It was palpably different from others I’d visited, with a wonderful energy. Each and every child was smiling and happy, while still remaining respectful and in control—no small feat with a room full of 7- and 8-year-olds! I had more opportunities to see her work with her students once she became my son’s 3rd grade teacher and watched her mold her class into a wonderfully happy group that excelled both academically and socially.”

Frazier nominated Kjolso for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“Becky Kjolso is that most precious of resources, a teacher that cares deeply for her students,” said Frazier. “Just as she took a little extra time to help my son with some classroom challenges, I've talked to other parents that have appreciated the personal investments she made with their children. I am incredibly grateful for what she did for my son and believe she should be recognized for this and the countless other young lives she’s had an impact on in her teaching career.”

Kjolso 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 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 Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Kjolso will be recognized at the Oct. 29 game when the Seahawks take on the Houston Texans.

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 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.