Mount Si High School language arts teacher Toni Canady received a Symetra Heroes in the Classroom award by Symetra Financial Corporation and the Seattle Seahawks, during a surprise classroom presentation Oct. 31.

Canady is one of 16 teachers across the Puget Sound area to be honored this year for K-12 educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® program during the 2017 NFL season. She was selected from among nearly 400 nominations submitted this year to the awards program.

Nominees each receive a $2,000 donation for classroom books and supplies, plus two tickets to a Seahawks home game, a pre-game VIP sideline experience, a custom jersey and they are acknowledged during an on-field presentation at CenturyLink Field. Canady was honored at the Nov. 5 game.

“Toni Canady works primarily with at-risk youth, but she offers structure, guidance, love, concern, friendship and compassion to every Mount Si student, whether they are in her class or not,” said colleague Eric Mitchell, who nominated her. “Mrs. Canady is well-respected by her students and peers alike for her tireless efforts and her refusal to accept anything which is negative. She works across disciplines with other teachers who are willing to collaborate to find ways to help students succeed in their other classes by bringing that work into her class. In so doing, she provides additional scaffolding and support. Mrs. Canady also works with parents and administrators to identify as many additional resources as she can.”

Teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, a student, or a 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.

The Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program was developed in 2006 and is fully funded by Symetra, working with NFL partners, to recognize exceptional local educators. For more information, visit: www.SymetraHeroes.com/Seahawks.