Teacher Named 'Hero in the Classroom' at Lake Forest Park Elementary

Laurie Pearson, a kindergarten teacher at Lake Forest Park Elementary School, has earned a Hero in the Classroom Award from Bellevue-based Symetra Life Insurance and the Seattle Seahawks.

The award recognizes 24 Seattle-area teachers for outstanding leadership and instructional skills during the Seattle Seahawks season, and includes $1,000 for the school and $350 from Office Max for supplies.

Pearson, who teaches an all-day kindergarten class, was surprised last month with the award presentation at the Shoreline school. She also received two tickets to a Seahawks regular-season game--her favorite player is quarterback Russell Wilson.

Teachers are nominated in the award program by current or former students, parents, co-workers or school district staff.

In giving her the award, Symtra noted: “Laurie Pearson nurtures her students and encourages self-confidence. Her charisma and exuberance for life catches the attention of everyone who enters her classroom. Her lessons meet the needs of each skill level. Laurie treats students with equanimity, and they each feel special in her presence. She is encouraging and teaches students to perform their best and be proud of their accomplishments.”