Mercer Island High School teacher Jan Sayers, honored by Symetra, and the Seattle Seahawks as a ‘Hero in the Classroom,’ was part of post-Superbowl celebration with the Seahawks earlier this month.

The 16 Puget Sound-area teachers who were recognized as Symetra ‘Heroes in the Classroom’ during the 2013 NFL season, were recognized at a special celebration at CenturyLink Field on March 14. Among the 2013 honorees was Ms. Sayers, an English teach at the high school. Sayers also teaches Applied-Technical Communications and Business Law.

The Seahawks hosted a luncheon and a tour at the stadium. The festivities wrapped up in the Seahawks locker room, where each teacher was surprised with a “customized” locker complete with nameplate.

Seahawks linebacker, K.J. Wright, was a special guest, joining the teachers and guests in the players’ locker room. Wright, brought along the Lombardi Trophy for guests to admire.

Ms. Sayers was nominated by Bobbie Stern, the grandparent of several of Sayers’ students. “Four of my grandchildren have had Jan as their honors English teacher at Mercer Island High School, and her extraordinary influence has affected them academically as well as personally,” said Stern. “With her passion for teaching and learning, Jan has a remarkable ability to empower her students to rise above their own expectations by lovingly inspiring them to achieve success.”

Symetra also donated $1,000 to each winner for classroom supplies.