McKnight Middle School Teacher Honored as ‘Symetra Hero in the Classroom’

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored McKnight Middle School teacher David Huff as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Nov. 3 during a surprise school assembly. Huff is a technology education instructor at the Renton middle school.

“David Huff really is helping create our future’s leaders and innovators. Whether they are in one of his technology classes or in the robotics club, his students have a genuine enthusiasm for learning and a real understanding of where it can take them in the future—from college to careers,” said Susan DeBartolo, the parent of a McKnight Middle School student. “Mr. Huff gives his students a precious glimpse into what they can accomplish. He does it in a way that is exciting for the students, where they end the day just wanting even more to learn. I have had kids in the Renton school district for 12 years, and Mr. Huff’s devotion to helping and encouraging students to learn is unparalleled. He is the epitome of a teacher who goes the extra mile.”

“Mr. Huff is an amazing teacher in the classroom, but he also spends countless hours volunteering his time as the mentor and coach to the McKnight robotics team and club,” adds Michele Hintz, also the parent of a student. “Three years ago, McKnight Middle School didn't have a robotics club. Because of student interest in the subject, Mr. Huff got a club up and running. The team has done exceptionally well in a very short time competing against more well-established middle school and high school clubs. In the process, they have learned amazing skills in programming, coding, construction, engineering, design, problem-solving and teamwork. The robotics team’s motto is ‘gracious professionalism.’ Mr. Huff expects this from his students—and models it every single day.”

DeBartolo and Hintz nominated Huff for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

Huff 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 2016 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. Huff will be recognized at the Nov. 20 game when the Seahawks take on the Philadelphia Eagles.

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.