Denny International Middle School teacher Jonathan Moor was honored Dec. 17 by Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom”

Moor is an eighth-grade Algebra instructor at the school.

“Jonathan Moor is a hero to both students and staff,” said Aimee Schulte, a teaching colleague at Denny International Middle School. “The year before Jon came to our school, a little more than one-third of eighth-grade math students were meeting state standards on standardized tests. Due to Jon’s tireless work, more than 80 percent of students met or exceeded standards this past spring. He has even designed and created his own material in response to students who were struggling to learn with some of the provided curricula, effectively addressing the diverse learning needs of our student population. Jon’s energy in the classroom creates a positive and fun environment for students to learn and reach their full potential.” Schulte nominated Moor for the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom® award.

“Jon spends countless hours doing all he can to improve learning for students, communicate with families, collaborate with teachers, mentor student-teachers and build relationships with the community,” said Schulte. “I work with him on a daily basis, and I could not be more honored to know such an incredible person and teacher. He makes a real difference in the lives of each of his students and is a true hero in education.”

Moor is one of 16 K–12 teachers across the Puget Sound area that will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2014 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. Moor was recognized at the Dec. 28 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.