Lake Forest Park Elementary School teacher honored as ‘Symetra Hero in the Classroom’

Laurie Pearson of Lake Forest Park Elementary
Hero in the Classroom
Photo courtesy Symetra Financial

Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks honored Lake Forest Park Elementary School kindergarten teacher Laurie Pearson as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” during a surprise assembly at the school on Dec 18, 2012.

“Walk into Laurie Pearson's schoolroom and you immediately become aware that it isn’t like other kindergarten classrooms. Sure, there are bright colors, freshly painted artwork, books and centers to stimulate young minds, but what you really notice is the atmosphere. Her room is full of positive energy,” said Erin Randall, a parent of one of Pearson’s former students. “There is something special about Laurie that makes her a little more noticeable than other teachers. Her magic, charisma and exuberance for life capture your attention, whether you’re a student or an adult entering or walking past her doorway.”

Randall nominated Pearson for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“A child enters Laurie Pearson's classroom as a five-year-old and leaves as an amazing student and citizen,” said Randall. “Her students are problem-solvers and advanced readers when they leave her in June. She is nurturing, yet fosters independence and self-confidence. She treats children with equanimity, yet every child feels special in her presence. She is encouraging and teaches each child to perform at his or her best and to be proud of their accomplishments. Laurie empowers kids and helps them feel confident voicing their thoughts and advocating for themselves. Her influence on her students stands out when you see them as first-graders. They start the new school year ready to listen and eager to learn.”

Pearson is one of 24 K-12 teachers across the Puget Sound area who were honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2012 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. Pearson was recognized at the Dec. 30 game when the Seahawks took on the St. Louis Rams.

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.