North Barrington Elementary School Teacher Honored as 'Symetra Hero in the Classroom'
Symetra, Gallagher Benefit Services and the Chicago Bears honored North Barrington Elementary School teacher Sara Jirasek as a "Symetra Hero in the Classroom" on Nov. 22, during a surprise assembly. Jirasek is a special services instructor.
"Many of Sara Jirasek's students face extraordinary challenges. Some experience learning difficulties, others have emotional setbacks; most are performing below their actual grade level. Thanks to Sara's dedication to meeting every child's needs no matter how difficult, her students demonstrate remarkable academic growth each year," said Principal Austin Johnson. "Sara's love and compassion for her students goes beyond the classroom. She fosters individual relationships, using creative methods to let students know they are appreciated and loved-whether it's a note of encouragement written on an assignment or placed on a desk as a random act of kindness." Johnson nominated Jirasek for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.
"Sara's friendships with her students continue after they leave her classroom. As students enter middle school, Sara continues to check in with them to see how they are adjusting. Parents of former students send her regular updates due to the deep connections made while their children were part of her class," said Johnson. "Sara is a phenomenal educator, positive leader, supporter and friend to all those around her. North Barrington Elementary School and Barrington 220 School District are extremely lucky to have her on staff."
Jirasek is one of 16 K-12 teachers in the Chicago area who 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 Bears home game and are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at Soldier Field. Jirasek will be recognized at the Dec. 4 game when the Bears take on the San Francisco 49ers.
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/Bears.
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.