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

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Sammamish High School teacher Elayne Grueber as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” on Aug. 28, 2014 during a faculty meeting. Grueber is an Engineering and Physics instructor at the high school.

“Elayne Grueber is an excellent teacher who inspires students to be passionate about science, technology and math. A former professional engineer, she decided to become a high school science teacher after raising her children. She now leads a a wonderful enginnering program at that connects students to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) professionals in the area,” said Kim DeGallier, a parent of a Sammamish High School student. “Ms. Grueber brings both her knowledge and experience to her classroom and makes a sometimes tedious and challenging subject alive and meaningful for all of her students. Her goal is to inspire students to gain real-world engineering experience and open minds to the great possibilities the engineering field offers.” DeGallier was among several parents and students who nominated Grueber for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“I remember when Ms. Grueber personally invited me to take engineering because she thought I’d have an aptitude for it — and because she believes in the importantace of young women exploring opportunities in the science and technology fields,” said Cindy Hu, a former student of Grueber’s. “I’m now pursuing my growing interest in engineering thanks to Ms. Grueber’s enthusiasm and support.”

Grueber 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. Grueber was recognized at the Sept. 4 game when the Seahawks took on the Green Bay Packers.

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.