Symetra, Seahawks Celebrate Ben Franklin Teacher

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks celebrated the 16 Puget Sound-area teachers recognized as Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® during the 2017 NFL season at an April 27 luncheon at CenturyLink Field. Among the honorees was Becky Kjolso, a third-grade teacher at Ben Franklin Elementary School in Kirkland, who was joined at the festivities by Ben Franklin principal Jimmy Cho.

The event was held in the Coach’s Loft and also included a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, including a stop in the Seahawks locker room, where each teacher discovered a personalized locker. Inside were a copy of the April 27 Seattle Times ad honoring them, a commemorative 2017 Symetra Heroes in the Classroom brochure and Seahawks items. Seattle Seahawks running back C.J. Prosise (#22) made a surprise appearance—sharing stories about the impact teachers have had on his life, signing autographs, and posing for photos.

The Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program recognizes teachers in front of their students and peers at in-school presentations, and they receive a $2,000 donation for classroom books and supplies.

Ms. Kjolso received her award in October 2017 during surprise school presentation. She was nominated by a Ben Franklin parent, who wrote: “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. Ms. Kjolso is that most precious of resources, a teacher that cares deeply for her students. 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.”

Heroes honorees also receive tickets to a Seahawks home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Ms. Kjolso attended the Seahawks' Oct. 29, 2017 match-up with the Houston Texans. To learn more about Symetra Heroes in the Classroom or how to nominate a teacher, visit www.SymetraHeroes.com/Seahawks.