Einstein MS teacher is latest Seahawks Heroes in the Classroom honoree

Photo: Marcia Garrett, center, with two members of the Sea Gals following the announcement of her selection as a Seahawks Hero in the Classroom at Einstein Middle School.

Marcia Garrett, science teacher at Einstein Middle School, is the latest Shoreline School District recipient of the Heroes in the Classroom program sponsored by the Seattle Seahawks and Symetra Financial.

Symetra Heroes in the Classroom is a community program that recognizes Shoreline, Renton and Seattle teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season.

Garrett was honored by Symetra and the Seahawks at a special event in her classroom on September 23 and was recognized prior to the Seahawks home game against the San Diego Chargers on September 26. She received a team jersey; two tickets to the Seahawks game and on-field passes; and a $350 Office Max gift card for classroom supplies.

Garrett was nominated by an Einstein co-worker who wrote in part: "She is an outstanding professional who is continually learning and growing as an educator, helping other teachers develop professionally, offering leadership in the school, improving student learning, enhancing the curriculum and building connections with the community."

With Garrett's leadership, Einstein has created the Edible Schoolyard at the school, securing grants and adding raised garden beds, a greenhouse, compost bin, and rain catchment basins. Students raised vegetables and celebrated their first harvest at the end of the school year.  (See story: The Edible Schoolyard).

Twenty-four teachers from the three districts will be selected and honored in their classrooms and on the field during Seahawks home games this season.

In addition, Symetra and the Seahawks will make a $10,000 donation to three participating schools following the 2010 season. Funds will be designated to support a specific student achievement program at each school.

Nominations of teachers can be made at Seattle Seahawks/Symetra Heroes in the Classroom website.