Kjell Mattson had no idea he was in for the surprise of a lifetime during Tuesday morning’s assembly at Puesta del Sol.
Known as “Senor Mattson,” the fourth-grade teacher was honored by Bellevue-based Symetra and the Seattle Seahawks for his ability to reach students in a way few others have, being named the one of this year’s Heroes in the Classroom.
Of the award, Mattson said he was honored, but felt somewhat guilty, saying “I feel there’s so many other teachers that deserve it. It’s a privilege working with young people and helping them guide their future.”
Math, social studies and literacy — Mattson teaches each of the subjects in Spanish with patience and caring, said Lisa Wada, a parent who nominated Mattson for the award. She said her son couldn’t have succeeded without Mattson’s teaching.
“He’s enthusiastic and engaged with the students no matter what’s going on,” she told The Reporter.
For his work, the Seattle Seahawks gave the teacher two tickets for the Dec. 28 home game against the St. Louis Rams and field pass where he and his yet-to-be-decided guest access to interact with players. Symetra also awarded Mattson a check for $1,000 to spend on his classroom.
“It this really happening?” Mattson said. “I never come to work expecting anything like this. I kept telling myself not to faint.”
Seattle Seahawks linebacker Bobby Wagner also recorded a personalized message of thanks for Mattson’s work.
The teacher said he couldn’t do his job without the school’s “hardworking and passionate staff and the supportive community.”
First-year principal Jonathan Shearer said Mattson had all the attributes you look for in a teacher and applied his strengths to his instruction in the classroom.
“I immediately noticed he’s a teacher that prioritizes strong relationships with his students,” Shearer said. “He has a wonderful tone and tempo, which is vital in a Spanish emersion class.”
Mattson joins Elayne Grueber, of Sammamish High School, and Susan Muller, of Medina Elementary School, as the other Bellevue School District educators honored by Symetra this year.
Symetra spokeswoman Diana McSweeney said teachers may be nominated by their principal, district staff, student or student’s parent.
Winners are selected based on each’s ability to make a “real difference” in student’s lives, to those that go above and beyond their day-to-day responsibilities and those who help students build life skills.
Based on what Wada had submitted and what other parent’s had said about Mattson’s ability to maximize student interaction and participation, he made an ideal choice for the award.
