Axalta and the Philadelphia Eagles honored nine Philadelphia-area teachers for their outstanding drive, innovative teaching methods, and the use of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in their classrooms.

The Axalta All-Pro Teachers program honors exceptional fifth through 12th grade STEM educators across the Greater Philadelphia region. Each teacher received a donation toward continuing STEM education in their school, four tickets to an Eagles game, a personalized Eagles jersey and football, and was automatically nominated for the 2021 Axalta All-Pro Teacher of the Year.

“Education is the cornerstone of success, so it’s vital to create opportunities for students to engage with STEM subjects,” said Robert Bryant, Axalta’s CEO. “We recognize that teachers are the linchpin to educate and inspire tomorrow’s scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. Axalta is proud to partner with the Philadelphia Eagles to honor these local teachers.”

Sarah Fryling, a technology and STEM teacher at Smithville Elementary School in Galloway, New Jersey, and one of the honorees, was recognized as the 2021 Axalta All-Pro Teacher of the Year. Fryling was nominated by Janessa DiOrio, who said, “Sarah is one of the most passionate educators I have ever worked with. She brings STEM to life by thinking outside the box and being creative with how she reaches our students. For example, when we went all virtual due to Covid-19, she figured out a way to engage students at home and made sure they could still complete engaging STEM assignments. She is always pushing the idea that anyone can accomplish their dreams; they just have to believe they can.”

“The Philadelphia Eagles congratulate all of the 2021 Axalta All-Pro Teachers, including Sarah Fryling who has earned the well-deserved honor as Axalta All-Pro Teacher of the Year,” said Tracy Foster, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships, Philadelphia Eagles. “Each year, the Axalta All-Pro Teachers program shines a spotlight on these amazing individuals who continue to make a difference in the lives of their students, both in and out of the classroom. We are proud to partner with Axalta on a program that celebrates these unsung heroes for their commitment to STEM education, their students, and the region throughout.”

The 2021 Axalta All-Pro Teachers are:

• Adam Bastidas – Northampton Area Middle School;
• Kevin Bradley – Valley Forge Military Academy;
• Brian Endlein – Odessa High School;
• Joseph Faye – St. Athanasius School;
• Sarah Fryling – Smithville Elementary School;
• Taren Harmon – Gauger-Cobbs Middle School;
• Shannon Hill – Darby Township School;
• Dr. Mark Wilson – Allentown Central Catholic High School; and
• Emma Shapiro – Strawberry Mansion High School.