In a celebration fit for the classroom hero she is, Martina Sayan of Lake Weir High School received the prestigious “Thank a Teacher” award on October 31. HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital, in partnership with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County (PEFMC), teamed up to spotlight this standout educator.
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital CEO Alan Keesee presented Sayan her award, with Marion County School Board members and PEFMC representatives present at the event. Keesee stated, “HCA Florida Ocala Hospital is honored to recognize Martina for her efforts to positively impact our community’s next generation,” and emphasized the “Thank a Teacher” program as an important part of their partnership with the Public Education Foundation and Marion County Public Schools.
The “Thank a Teacher” award honors teachers chosen from a pool of nominees reviewed by former Golden Apple Award winners, Marion County’s highest honor for public school teachers.
Marion County School Board Vice Chairwoman Lori Conrad expressed gratitude for the program, saying, “I’m incredibly grateful and excited for the ‘Thank a Teacher’ program. I love that it provides an opportunity to highlight the amazing work of our educators here in Marion County, while also celebrating the school community.”
PEFMC Executive Director Meghan Magamoll added, “We are truly appreciative of the partnership with HCA Florida Healthcare for providing this opportunity for parents, community members, and students to nominate and acknowledge educators who have a positive influence on students’ lives every day. Teachers deserve praise all year long, not just during the dedicated ‘Teacher Appreciation Week,’ and this is our chance as a community to come together and Thank A Teacher.”
Throughout the 2024-25 school year, students, families, and staff members are encouraged to share stories of teachers’ inspiring actions, supportive words, and positive impact, reminding us all that teachers’ contributions deserve recognition year-round.
