HCA Florida Healthcare and Marion County's Public Education Foundation honor First 'Thank a Teacher' recipient

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital CEO Alan Keesee recognized Collins during a ceremony at the school on Sept. 25. Joining him for the presentation were Marion County School Board Chairwoman Nancy Thrower and other board members as well as PEFMC representatives.

“Teachers are among our community’s vital public servants, working tirelessly to educate our children and put them on a path to a brighter future,” said Keesee. “HCA Florida Ocala Hospital is proud to recognize Michaela with this first ‘Thank a Teacher’ award and honor her as a representative of the excellent work educators do in classrooms throughout our community.”

Collins was selected from a pool of nominees compiled and judged by previous winners of the Golden Apple Award, the highest honor given to public school teachers in Marion County.

Chairwoman Thrower said, “This event was incredibly heartwarming and meant so much — not just to the recipient but the entire staff and community as well. HCA Florida Healthcare is such a tremendous partner and makes such a difference.”

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 their stories about a particular teacher's inspiring actions, supportive words, creative lessons, or just their overall positive impact.

Teachers selected as a result of nominations from the public will receive $250 and a special email containing those heartfelt messages. Learn more about the “Thank a Teacher” program and the nomination process.