Meridian Park teacher honored as Seahawks/Symetra Hero in the Classroom

Mollie Merkley.  Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools.

Mollie Merkley, Title I teacher at Meridian Park Elementary, is the third 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.

Merkley was surprised by Symetra and the Seahawks at a special assembly at Meridian Park on October 4 and will be recognized prior to the Seahawks home game against the Arizona Cardinals on October 24. 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.

Merkley was nominated by a Meridian Park co-worker who wrote in part: “Mollie has been a role model for teachers and a master teacher of students of all ages as our Title I teacher. Her philosophy as a teacher has always has always included teaching the whole child, encouraging lifelong problem-solving skills and participating in the classroom community. Students who come to her class develop listening, attending, participating and effort skills as their needs are met and they experience success.”

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,