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Premera Blue Cross and Seattle Storm Celebrate Washington Educators

On September 1, 2025, Premera Blue Cross, a major not-for-profit health insurance provider in the Pacific Northwest, joined forces with the WNBA's Seattle Storm to honor a selection of exemplary educators from Washington at a special Back-to-School game. This initiative, known as the Premera All-Stars program, aimed to recognize educational staff who make a significant difference in student lives, ranging from teachers and paraeducators to bus drivers and school counselors.

Eric Trott, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Premera, emphasized the importance of diverse teams both in schools and sports. He remarked, "A school, like the Storm basketball team, thrives on the strengths of a diverse team. This year's lineup of All-Star educators reflects the incredible depth of talent in our schools. Their dedication reminds us that every role matters, and every student deserves a champion."

At the Storm's game against the Los Angeles Sparks, the five honorees were recognized on the court. Each received not only the appreciation of the crowd but also a custom Storm jersey and a generous $1,000 donation for their respective school districts. This year’s recipients included a fifth-grade teacher, a counselor, a coach, a special education instructional assistant, and a behavioral health specialist.

One notable All-Star, Brandin Chapman, a behavioral specialist at Kamiak High School in Mukilteo, has been impactful in her unique approach. With a background in mental health counseling, she has transformed the detention room into a supportive environment. Instead of merely assigning students to detention, Chapman engages them in conversations, assists with homework, and encourages them to learn and improve.

"Brandin goes above and beyond to connect with the most challenging students assigned to her resource room," commented one nominator. Notably, her meticulous record-keeping revealed inequities in how detentions were distributed, prompting efforts to reform the school's disciplinary system.

Another impressive recipient, Priscilla Ponce, who serves as a counselor and coach at Glacier Middle School, noticed an overwhelming interest in volleyball among students, far exceeding the capacity of the school team. Rather than turning eager participants away, she organized a volleyball clinic that incorporated social and emotional learning into the practice.

"Ponce came up with a volleyball clinic that centered on social and emotional skills, thus merging students' interests with crucial adolescent life skills," reflected a nominator. The clinic proved highly successful, providing many students with a chance to foster teamwork while enriching their sportsmanship.

The collaboration between Premera Blue Cross and Seattle Storm represents a commitment to shine a light on individuals making a meaningful impact in Washington's educational landscape. Through the Premera All-Stars program, these partners acknowledge the dedication and leadership of school personnel, aiming to promote student success and strengthen communities across the state.

Rooted in its mission to support wellness in the community, Premera Blue Cross continues to invest in initiatives that celebrate educators and provide resources that enhance student engagement and achievement. As one of the leading health plans in the region, Premera serves over 2.5 million individuals and businesses, continually striving to improve access to quality healthcare services.

In summary, the recognition of these All-Star educators serves not only as an award for those honored but as a reminder of the vital roles educators play in shaping future generations. Their relentless efforts, creativity, and commitment to student success embody the essence of what it means to be an All-Star in education.