Sierra Heights teacher named ‘Hero in the Classroom,’ will attend tonight’s Seahawks game

Published 1:39 pm Monday, December 2, 2013

Sierra Heights Elementary School teacher Michelle McLaughlin was named “Symetra Hero in the Classroom” for educational excellence.

Symetra and the Seattle Seahwaks presented the award to McLaughlin during a surprise classroom presentation. McLaughlin received a $1,000 check to use for classroom materials and tickets to a Monday night Seahawks game where she will be acknowledged during an on-field presentation at Century Link Field.

“What sets Michelle McLaughlin apart as a teacher is her interest in her students in and out of school,” Tina Powell, the parent of a former student who nominated McLaughlin for the award. “She seeks to understand them and their individual needs so she can help them develop the skills they need to succeed in life, not just in her classroom.”

Sixteen area teachers will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during this NFL season. Nominations can be submitted by students, parents, school staff or others. Winners are selected based on their ability to make a difference in students’ lives, to go above and beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities and to help students build life skills.