As increasing numbers of 403(b) retirement plan providers exit the market, teachers and educators are left with fewer retirement savings options at a critical time. To support this essential market, Symetra recently unveiled its Savings for Schools initiative, a new program that builds on our long history of success in the 403(b) and tax-sheltered account (TSA) business. Savings for Schools represents our latest effort to advance retirement preparedness among K-12 school teachers and educators.

The initiative focuses on providing much-needed 403(b) retirement plan tools, education and resources to help struggling school districts offer meaningful savings solutions amid complex new regulations and a difficult economy.

To support this effort, Symetra is enhancing 403(b) product development and expanding distribution to provide more education and outreach directly to school districts nationwide. The company has expanded its team of 403(b) experts to offer plan design and compliance coaching for participating districts. Along with Scott Bartholomaus and Joanne Henderson, and internal wholesaler David Smith, Symetra has welcomed Ernest Jordan, who will work with districts and advisors to develop plans.

Savings for Schools also features a new Web site, www.symetra.com/savingsforschools, where districts can access a variety of online resources designed to help guide them through the 403(b) planning process. The Web site's ABCs of 403(b)s section includes valuable information on navigating new regulations, Frequently-Asked Questions with answers to some of the most common participant inquiries, tips for streamlining plan administration and other useful plan content.

"We will continue working alongside our TSA partners to help America's teachers and educators achieve the retirement they deserve," said Al Close, senior vice president of General Agency and Advisor distribution at Symetra. "Savings for Schools reflects our long-standing commitment to making a positive difference in public education and builds on our proud legacy in the 403(b) market."

Symetra has over 30 years experience serving the education retirement market, and manages 403(b) and tax-sheltered account plans on behalf of schools across the country. The company helped found the National Tax Sheltered Accounts Association, the nation's only independent, non-profit association dedicated to the 403(b) marketplace.

You can help Symetra provide a valuable service to our educators and further strengthen your relationships in this essential market. To learn more about Symetra's Savings for School initiative, go to www.symetra.com/savingsforschools, or contact our dedicated 403(b) retirement team.