Challenger Elementary School Teacher Honored as 'Symetra Hero in the Classroom'

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Challenger Elementary School teacher Ellen Ferrin as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Nov. 5 during a surprise classroom presentation. Ferrin is a second-grade instructor at the Issaquah school.

“Ellen Ferrin is a most vibrant, gifted and animated teacher — able to give her full attention with equanimity and patience to both the fast and slower learners in her classroom. Each child is made to feel important and successful as she cultivates a love of learning by inspiring her students to ask questions and become free thinkers,” said Janet Millian, a parent of former students at Challenger Elementary School. “I love that Mrs. Ferrin stays positive but firm and maintains a great sense of humor. She goes above and beyond normal classroom hours, taking her class on Saturday field trips and searching out great books to hook her students into reading. Her enthusiasm encourages her students to become life-long learners.” Millian nominated Ferrin for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“Mrs. Ferrin’s students are made to feel special and taught that anything is possible if you put forth your best efforts. My daughter and son thrived in her classroom as kindergartners,” said Millian. “My children have both graduated from college and my daughter also graduated from law school this year. Throughout all those years, they have remained in touch with Mrs. Ferrin. Aside from us parents, Mrs. Ferrin has been their biggest supporter as they pursued their higher education.”

Ferrin 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 2014 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. Ferrin will be recognized at the Nov. 9 game when the Seahawks take on the New York Giants.

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.